UTA PhD student drowns in floodwaters

ARLINGTON, Texas - A University of Texas Arlington graduate student has been identified as the man who drowned after he was swept away by floodwaters Friday night.

Alan Amaya, 23, was getting his PhD in mathematics and had been working as a graduate student. He played soccer during undergrad and was a member of the UTA club soccer team.

UTA police said around 11:15 p.m. Friday they were notified of a possible drowning in a creek on the west side of campus. The Arlington Fire Department swift water rescue unit recovered Amaya's body just before 2 a.m.

A statement from the university states there was "significant flash flooding" in that area at the time, and the investigation into his accidental drowning is ongoing.

Amaya's lifelong friend, Andrea Gutierrez from his hometown of El Paso, said he was above all else a Christian, often preaching to youth.

"He loved everyone like Jesus would love them, and it was just amazing to see," she said

UTA police released the following statement:

“UTA extends its condolences to family and friends of the victim at this difficult time.  UTA appreciates the assistance and dedication of the Arlington Fire Department in supporting UTA in the recovery operation.”