DNR SAYS 15-YEAR-OLD DROWNS AT STONEWALL JACKSON LAKE

(05/31/2010)
By Hoy Murphy, WV-DNR

A Saturday drowning is being investigated at Stonewall Jackson Lake, according to the WV DNR.

At 4:40 p.m. Lewis county 911 received a call about a possible drowning at the marina on Stonewall Jackson Lake.

Numerous agencies responded to the call, and immediately began the rescue efforts.

Initial information indicated that the victim had possibly received an electrical shock while attempting to climb the swim ladder back onto the boat.

Multiple agencies conducted an exhaustive search and rescue effort.

At 9:25 p.m. the victim, a 15 year old juvenile male from the Bridgeport area, was recovered at a depth of approximately 34 feet of water.

The ongoing investigation being conducted by DNR Law Enforcement indicates that three juveniles were swimming in the rear area of the boat which was docked at the marina.

One of the juveniles had exited the water and was standing on the back of the boat observing the other two swimming.

The victim made contact with the ladder and indications are that he received a possible electric shock and released his hold on the ladder and slipped under the surface of the water.

The other juvenile in the water appears to have also received a shock, but was able to exit the water.

That juvenile was transported to a local hospital and was treated and released later in the evening.

Conservation Officers are awaiting results from the Medical Examiners office.