Tragic Boating Accident on Fontana Lake

A tragic boating accident occurred Saturday on fontana lake resulting in the death of a one-year-old child. According to NC Wildlife Resource Officer Brian Cookston, the accident occurred about 5 p.m. when a boat towing a tube flipped over, dumping the eight occupants of the boat into the water. A nearby boater who witnessed the event was able to retrieve the body of the child, but resuscitation efforts proved unsuccessful. The occupants of the boat were able to swim to safety. According to Wildlife Officer Brian Cookston, all the children involved were wearing the proper flotation devices and there was no evidence of foul play. Cookston added, it was a local family outing that had a very tragic ending and reminds all those using the lake to be safety conscious at all times.