In a remarkable turn of events, a diver has found a GoPro camera containing footage of a man’s last moments, two years after his tragic death. Richard Ragland, a 22-year-old who drowned under a waterfall just before his 23rd birthday, had his final moments captured on camera.

Richard had been swimming with friends at Foster Falls State Park in Tennessee when he went under the waterfall and never resurfaced. Despite being a strong swimmer, the force of the waterfall proved too much for him. His parents were left devastated and park rangers sent them a drive that was supposed to contain footage of their son. However, upon opening the parcel, they discovered that its contents had been stolen.

It wasn’t until later that Richard’s parents received an unexpected call from a diver named Rich Aloha. Rich had found Richard’s GoPro camera while diving in the area and was able to retrieve the SD card, which unbelievably was still intact and functional.

Describing the experience as out-of-body, Rich went through the footage and realized that he had found the missing footage of Richard’s final moments. Determined to return the camera to its rightful owners, he researched how to get in touch with the family and arranged a meeting.

“I’m glad I found it, personally, because I try to do the right thing and get the item back to the rightful owner,” Rich said.

The McCrear family expressed their gratitude towards Rich for his efforts in providing some closure regarding their son’s tragic accident. Although they haven’t watched all of the footage on the card, what they have seen shows Richard enjoying life to the fullest.

“For him to go through his efforts to do his research, make numerous phone calls, he didn’t give up until he got in touch with us and that means the world to us,” says Robin, Richard’s mother.

This heartwarming story of a diver’s determination to reunite a grieving family with precious memories serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and the impact it can have on those who need it most.