A Sunday evening outing on Broken Bow Lake turned tragic when a 68-year-old passenger went under the water and never resurfaced, according to officials.
The man was pulled from the lake and rushed to McCurtain Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Two other people were on the pontoon boat at the time but were not reported injured.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol identified the victim as Willard Phillips, 68, of Shawnee, according to KTEN. Troopers told the station the pontoon was carrying three people total and that the incident remains under investigation.
Investigation Underway
State troopers and local first responders converged on the scene as they worked to piece together what happened before Phillips went under the water. Officials have not released additional details on what led up to the drowning or how long he was in the water before being pulled out.
Authorities have not disclosed information about possible equipment issues, weather conditions, or whether Phillips was wearing a life jacket.
Recent Drownings Stir Safety Concerns
The death adds to a growing list of water-related tragedies in the Broken Bow area this year. An 11-year-old girl drowned near the lake on June 1, according to KJRH.
Local law enforcement and park operators have repeatedly warned visitors about hidden hazards on Broken Bow Lake and surrounding waterways, including submerged timber, shifting currents, and sudden drop-offs that can catch even experienced swimmers off guard.
Reminders for Boaters and Swimmers
Federal and park safety materials consistently emphasize that wearing Coast Guard-approved life jackets and avoiding alcohol while operating a boat are two of the most effective ways to reduce drowning risk. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers notes that inland lakes can conceal dangerous features close to shore and advises boaters to carry proper safety gear and a reliable way to call for help.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact the Oklahoma Highway Patrol or McCurtain County authorities. Officials did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.
