Keena Frizzell died on Monday. He was 23. Photo from Facebook

Friends and family are mourning the passing of Keena Frizzell, a young member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe of New Mexico who died at the age of 23.

Frizzell died in an accidental drowning early Monday morning. He had tried to swim across a lake near the reservation and didn't make it.

"We appreciate the kindness and prayers from everyone that loved Keena," the family said in a statement to the Ruidoso News. "It is a devastating loss for our family. He is very loved by all of us and we miss him dearly. His fun loving nature, big smiles and big hugs will forever live in our hearts."

Frizzell was an employee of the Inn of the Mountain Gods and Casino, the tribe's gaming facility. He is being laid to rest tomorrow.

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Keena Frizzell leaves legacy of loyalty, strength and humor (The Ruidoso News 7/2)