A Powell man, Ralph Miller, age 51, lost his life in a boating accident on Norris Lake last Friday, as reported by WVLT. The incident occurred when the boat, carrying 10 people, struck exposed rocks near the Cove Creek area around 10 p.m. This tragic event marks the fourteenth boating-related fatality in Tennessee this year, a figure reflected in details from WBIR.

In response to the accident, various local emergency services responded, including the Campbell County Rescue Squad and the Campbell County Fire Department. Tragically killing Miller, six of the passengers were reported injured, with two requiring airlift evacuation to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, according to a release from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency seen on Knox News.

Miller was remembered by friends for his amiable nature and long-standing presence within the community. "If the world had more Ralph Miller’s in it, it would be a lot better place," Stephen Stooksbury told WVLT. The same interview has a friend reflecting on Miller’s life and time together from childhood to adulthood. Miller, a recent worker in sales, leaves behind a wife and three children.

The other accident survivors, leaving a huge hole in the hearts of those who knew him, Stooksbury reported, are expected to make a full recovery. To support the Miller family during this time, initiatives are underway where donations can be made through a link provided by WVLT.