Two Texas teenagers face evidence tampering charges after disposing of an 18-year-old’s belongings and deleting communications following his drowning death, despite an autopsy ruling the incident accidental.

Four Days Without Answers

Daniel Erving drowned after jumping from a railroad bridge into Lake Ray Hubbard near Dallas in April. His body remained undiscovered for four days while his companions, 19-year-old Lucas Roper and a 17-year-old minor, fled the scene and concealed evidence. According to arrest affidavits, Roper threw Erving’s clothing into nearby trees while the juvenile discarded his cellphone from the vehicle. Neither teen reported the drowning to authorities or notified Erving’s family.

The Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences ruled Erving’s death an accidental drowning. The autopsy report acknowledges that after Erving became submerged and failed to resurface, the two companions disposed of his belongings and avoided reporting the incident. Police interviewed both individuals, and the report states no current suspicions of foul play exist, though findings may be amended if new information emerges.

Deleted Messages and Discarded Belongings

Roper admitted to detectives during a voluntary interview that he panicked after Erving drowned. According to the affidavit, he confessed to deleting all communications with Erving from his cellphone because he knew an investigation would follow and wanted to avoid trouble. The three had been together at the lake before jumping from the bridge near Miller Road in Rowlett, a Dallas suburb. Investigators allege the cover-up efforts began immediately after Erving disappeared beneath the water.

Erving’s mother, Tameka Erving, challenged the teens’ actions during a July press conference. She questioned why innocent people would discard belongings, destroy evidence, and fail to contact her if they bore no responsibility. She demanded justice for her son, expressing disbelief at their response to the tragedy.

Family Disputes Findings

The Erving family disputes the autopsy conclusions while the investigation remains active. Sean Daridia, the family’s attorney, stated they disagree with the accidental drowning determination because authorities have not completed their inquiry. The family launched an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Daniel’s death. Dallas Police Department leads the case since the death occurred within city limits, with Rowlett Police providing support. Both teens have been charged with evidence tampering, though neither has publicly responded to requests for comment, and it remains unclear whether they have retained legal representation.