In addition to reports revealing details concerning the tragic passing of a father and his son, their loved ones have spoken out about the incident and a GoFundMe page has been created to help their family.
A father and son tragically drowned during a fishing trip in Virginia, with the heartbreaking incident captured on the father’s cellphone, authorities confirmed. Around 5 p.m. local time, Danny Sumner, 37, and his young son, Donovan Sumner, went fishing at the Rappahannock River in Spotsylvania County on March 22, 2025.
When they failed to return home that evening, Danny’s wife, Madeline Sumner, alerted authorities at 9:45 p.m., according to the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office. After divers entered the river to search for the two, the father and son were found. Major Elizabeth Scott of the Sheriff’s Office said that the family’s pastor, who had gone to the scene to look for the two, discovered Danny’s phone and turned it over to deputies.
The phone contained footage of the moments leading up to the tragedy. In the video, Donovan had just caught a fish, and his proud father was recording the moment.
While celebrating, the child suddenly stepped backward and fell into the river. Danny immediately jumped in after him, but tragically, both drowned.
Authorities are still awaiting the medical examiner’s report, but detectives have ruled out foul play. In the wake of the devastating loss, loved ones are mourning the father and son. Danny, an educator known for his generosity and deep faith, is being remembered as a devoted father and husband.
Donovan, described as a “kind and gentle spirit,” loved playing with his younger brother and had recently learned to ride a bike without training wheels.
A joint obituary dubbed the father and son as “inseparable.” Danny’s former classmates from Paul VI Catholic High School paid tribute to him and Donovan on social media, remembering him as a “gentle giant” and a talented basketball player.
“I’ll never forget his humility, considerate nature and his ability to make us all cheer with genuine pride. Prayers to his family during this awful time,” added the classmate.
William & Mary College, where Danny played collegiate basketball, also honored his memory. A GoFundMe has been created to support his wife and their surviving son, Danilo Sumner, as Madeline now navigates life without her husband and eldest child.
The fundraiser, organized by Madeline alongside a family friend, Ariel Hassan, features a touching family photo of Danny, Madeline, and their two children sitting together on a park bench, smiling under the shade of lush green trees.
The image captures a moment of warmth and togetherness, a heartbreaking contrast to the devastating loss the family is now facing. “Danny was known in his community for being the guy to help without being asked. A devout Christian, he exemplified how to live a Godly lifestyle no matter the setting,” the fundraiser’s description reads.
After shining a spotlight on the wonderful and admirable characteristics both Danny and Donovan had, the campaign highlighted the urgent need for support, as Danny was the sole provider for the family while Madeline stayed home to care for their children.
As of now, the fundraiser has raised $58,347 of its $300,000 goal, with donations continuing to pour in from friends, family, and community members touched by their story. Aside from requesting support via the GoFundMe page, Madeline penned a deeply emotional message on Facebook, expressing the overwhelming pain of suddenly losing the two people she cherished.
“It is now just me and our 2 year old son, Danilo 😔. Even with my strength and faith in the Lord, I just cannot wrap my mind around this one. My baby and my love taken away, like this [sic],” she wrote. Madeline acknowledged the heartbreaking shift in her family’s future. The dreams, aspirations, and life they had built together are now forever changed.
Despite the devastation, she vowed to stay strong for her surviving child. Reflecting on her husband’s final moments, she described his selfless act of trying to save Donovan — the ultimate expression of love.
“My husband and son left in the most honorable way, trying to save each other. My husband gave no thought about saving my son and gave his ALL until the Lord called them both home. God, I don’t know why you left us this cross to bear and with that, I will do my best to carry this knowing that they loved us so much ❤️,” expressed Madeline.
The grieving wife and mother also took a moment to thank the outpouring of support from family, friends, and the community. She expressed gratitude for the calls, messages, prayers, and even a surprise vigil held in honor of Danny and Donovan. The kindness of those around her, she said, has given her the strength to keep going, even in the face of unbearable grief.
“The love and support shown has [sic] been out of this world and we are truly blessed to have each of you in our corner 🧡,” penned Madeline. Ending her message, she stated, “So many have asked how you can contribute, and even though I loathe burdening others like this, I still appreciate your support ❤️. Please either DM me or see the links in the comments, below. God bless…”
As the Sumner family continues to grieve, loved ones have come forward to share heartfelt messages of support. Among them is family friend Melinda Twin, who expressed her sorrow over the heartbreaking loss.
“My heart been [sic] heavy since I heard the news,” she wrote, adding that she is keeping Madeline and all those affected in her prayers. “My family is here for you all,” she added, offering comfort and support during this unimaginable time.
Alongside her message, Melinda shared a touching family photo of the Sumners during the holiday season. Dressed in matching red and plaid Christmas pajamas, Danny and Madeline smiled alongside their two sons, Donovan and Danilo, in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
The image, radiating warmth and love, serves as a reminder of the cherished memories the family created together.
At this time, we wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Madeline, little Danilo, their other family members, loved ones, friends, and the community as they mourn such significant losses. We hope for their healing amid this time of grief. RIP, dear Danny and Donovan.
