A heroic father who jumped into a Los Angeles lake to save his autistic son died after becoming trapped by a water fountain.
Juan Andrade, 55, drowned on April 14 after saving his 14-year-old son Kevin at a park in Lincoln Heights, just minutes from their home, according to KTLA.
His wife, Michelle, told the outlet that Andrade was on an emergency phone call when their son fell into the water and began struggling.
The boy was pulled from the lake by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) at approximately 6:30 p.m.
The father of three, who jumped in after him, remained submerged until 30 minutes later, when officials discovered him at the bottom of the lake, the outlet reported.
Life-saving measures were performed, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Medical professionals at the hospital told Andrade's wife Michelle that her husband drowned after his leg got caught in the lake's fountain.
'He got close to my son, and he was trying to push my son out of the water, but unfortunately, he passed away before that happened,' Michelle told CBS News.
According to the outlet, Andrade was the main caretaker of his son.
'My dad would take him around walking because my brother's favorite thing is walking, going to parks, stores, meeting people,' his daughter Ruby said.
Her sister Esmeralda added that their father was willing to sacrifice himself for any of his children because of how much he loved them.
A GoFundMe has been set up on behalf of Andrade's family to help cover funeral costs and hire a professional caretaker for Kevin, which has raised $20,000 so far.
'He was a beloved husband, family member, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched everyone who knew him,' described a fundraiser on the page.
'Juan was always there to lend a helping hand or share a warm smile, and his absence is deeply felt by all who loved him.'
'I have a lot of pain in my heart. I know I'm going to miss him. He's gone forever,' Michelle told ABC7.
Several users online gave their condolences to Andrade's family and highlighted that he died as a hero.
'My deepest condolences to the family. Rest in peace, and the perpetual light shine upon him,' one user wrote.
'That's a heroic death. Bless his heart,' another added.
'This man died a hero!! So sorry! Many Prayers,' a third wrote.
