Two people have been arrested on charges of tampering with physical evidence following the drowning death of an 18-year-old at a North Texas lake, though authorities say the teen’s death has been officially ruled an accident.
The Dallas Police Department announced that Lucas Roper, 19, and a juvenile suspect were arrested after investigators alleged they concealed evidence following the death of Daniel Erving, who drowned earlier this year.
According to an arrest affidavit, Erving, Roper and the juvenile had climbed onto a railroad bridge and jumped into the water below. Investigators allege Erving struggled after entering the water and ultimately drowned.
Police claim that instead of immediately preserving the scene, Roper and the juvenile fled in Roper’s vehicle, allegedly taking Erving’s cellphone and clothing with them. Detectives allege the pair later discarded the items to conceal evidence, leading to the felony charges.
The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office determined Erving’s cause of death was drowning and ruled the manner of death accidental, following an autopsy and review of the investigation.
“The Dallas Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Daniel Erving,” department spokesperson Erika M. Brown said. She added that detectives carried out a comprehensive investigation involving witness interviews, evidence collection and coordination with the medical examiner.
Despite the ruling, Erving’s family has strongly disputed the conclusion. They have publicly called for murder charges, alleging there are unanswered questions surrounding the circumstances of the drowning and the actions of the two suspects afterward.