Family demands clarity and accountability in connection with the death of a teenager in a popular bathing quarry

The family of the 17-year-old who died in a popular bathing quarry is demanding a private investigation and autopsy to provide clarity about the investigation and responsibility for his death.

“There are a lot of unanswered questions,” Sylvester Seward, father of Emmanual Seward, told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS.

According to witnesses, Emmanual jumped from a 10-foot cliff at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve in Waite Park on Tuesday and never got back up.

Investigators say multiple county sheriff’s dive teams responded and found the teen in more than 30 feet of water. Early in the investigation, the Midwest Medical Examiner concluded Seward died from accidental drowning.

“(There are) no lifeguards, no security cameras. This park is in a forest in a very remote area. There have been repeated drowning deaths in this park. So why is this park still open?” asked Seward’s sister, Princess Seward.

In addition to safety concerns, the family believes the park should be closed. Seward is the third drowning accident to occur there in recent years.

Stearns County officials say staff and deputies patrol the park daily. They add that there are signs near swimming areas warning of the dangers and that people are always advised to wear life jackets. However, lifeguards are not present.

As his family demands answers about his death, Seward’s baseball team speaks in a eulogy about his trademark smile and energy – and says he will miss them.

“My son was a very nice guy,” said Seward’s mother, Cecelia Brownell, adding, “I need justice for my son and I need help.”