Couple that drowned at Hampton Ponds in Westfield identified

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Westfield police have released the names of a couple that drowned Monday night on Hampton Ponds while they were trying to save their family pet.

Police Capt. Hipolito Nunez identified the victims as Daniel Cyr, 64, and Patricia Cyr, 61, both of Westfield.

Around 6:30 Monday night, state police say the two were on their pontoon boat when their dog jumped off and went into the water. Daniel Cyr jumped into the pond in an attempt to save the dog, but was having trouble staying afloat, and his wife tried to save him.

Craig LaPierre lives right next to Hampton Ponds. He witnessed the aftermath of this tragedy.

"It didn't look good from what we could see. The people were pulled out of the water, [there were] stretchers....", LaPierre.

It's still unclear how the couple managed to drown, and state and Westfield police continue their investigation. However, Westfield Sgt. Raymond Manos told 22News that the victims were not wearing life jackets.

Police also said the couple's dog survived.