NewsStateTennesseeCheatham County

Actions

21-year-old Texan drowns while kayaking on Cheatham Lake Thursday

Water
Posted

CHEATHAM COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — A 21-year-old from Tomball, Texas has died after kayaking on Cheatham Lake Thursday.

According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, officers responded to the report of a possible drowning at the lake at around 1:45 p.m. and found that 21-year-old Robert Jarillo was kayaking with his brother who was in his a separate kayak.

Jarillo went out of sight, and upon his brother’s return, he discovered Mr. Jarillo’s kayak had capsized.

Following a 911 call, TWRA responded alongside multiple agencies.

Jarillo was located just after 4 p.m. and was pronounced deceased by the medical examiner. The incident remains under investigation.

According to TWRA, Jarillo was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident.

This marks the 25th boating-related fatality on Tennessee waters in 2025.

Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at kelly.broderick@newschannel5.com.

Repaying your federal student loans may be different in 2026 and beyond

The news surrounding student loan repayment has been ever-changing over the last few years. When it comes to your money, confusion is never a good thing. Thankfully, Robb Coles helps us sort out the path forward. Check out his story for some practical tips and insight behind the latest changes.

- Carrie Sharp