Lincoln teen who drowned while swimming in Holmes Lake is identified

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The 16-year-old boy who drowned while swimming in Holmes Lake has been identified.

Ali Al-Baaj was an incoming junior at Lincoln North Star High School, Lincoln Public Schools said Friday in an email sent to parents.

North Star Principal Megan Kroll said counselors will be available at the school.

SEE ALSO: 16-year-old’s body found at Holmes Lake after water rescue call

The Lincoln Police Department said Al-Baaj was with family members when he decided to go swimming. He then disappeared in the water.

LPD said first responders found Al-Baaj about an hour after the call for help.

The Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department allows nonmotorized boats and fishing in the lake, but swimming is prohibited.

Lakegoers said it is rare to see people swim there.

“I come here pretty frequently to walk around,” Dawn Knott said. “I haven’t seen anybody wade in the water or swimming.”

LPD said the investigation is ongoing.