The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) released its report on boating incidents over the July 4th holiday, which included a tragic fatality. The TWRA reported that a 57-year-old Brentwood woman lost her life on Center Hill Lake when she jumped from a ski boat and was fatally struck by the propeller. The incident happened last Thursday, marking a sobering start to the holiday weekend.
Despite heightened enforcement efforts during the Operation Dry Water initiative, there were three reported injury incidents across Tennessee. Additionally, TWRA officers made 24 arrests for boating under the influence (BUI). There was also an arrest for public intoxication and one warrant arrest, according to the TWRA's statement. Officers issued several written and verbal warnings related to various compliance issues on the water.
Operated by the TWRA Boating and Law Enforcement Division, the annual statistics reflect a slight uptick in boating-related fatalities, with this year's total so far at 13, compared to 11 at the same time last year. Operation Dry Water, which aims to reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents and fatalities, coincides with July 4th—a peak period for boating activities—when the risks are especially magnified.
The TWRA has been keenly active with their use of a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), which was employed in the recovery of a drowning victim.
