Families of men who died in Topock drowning seek financial assistance

The loss of a husband or father — especially if that man is barely older than 30 — is an ordeal that many families might have trouble even imagining, let alone preparing for. But this month, the families of two Indian immigrants are asking for help as they move on from a recent tragedy on the Colorado River.

For Tempe resident Anoop Gankidi, 31, and Milpitas resident Venkata Mukkaala, 32, an Aug. 3 boating excursion should have been an opportunity for adventure and recreation in the area of Topock Gorge. But as area temperatures exceeded 110 degrees, the two men left their boat with three of their companions and entered the water to cool off. Within minutes, however, Mukkaala, Gankidi and one of the other members of their party began to struggle while attempting to stay afloat. ×

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