March 04, 2015
Four family members from Northeast Philadelphia drowned over the weekend while vacationing in the Dominican Republic, 6abc reports.
The victims included newlyweds Kajal and Kush Patel and Kush's two cousins, brothers Shivang and Jay Patel.
The couple were on vacation with 10 other family members near Punta Cana Sunday. While they were swimming off the east coast, Kajal reportedly called for help. The three men tried to save her, but the strong currents swept them all away.
"I couldn't believe it. I still can't believe. I still think they are coming back. It's been two days and it doesn't get easier, we just keep thinking about it," cousin Punit Patel told 6abc.
Family gathered at the Northeast Philadelphia home of Kush Patel's father Tuesday, but others remain in the Dominican.
Investigators reportedly said the victims were in a prohibited area.
Kush's father Sumant Patel said his 27-year-old son and his wife were married in November.
