Boat capsizes on Geneva Lake, 3 children die
Seven other people were rescued.
LAKE GENEVA, Wis. —
Three children died Friday afternoon after a boat they were on overturned in Geneva Lake in Lake Geneva.
Powerful storms moved through the county early Friday afternoon, causing massive damage to the town and village of Sharon, the town and village of Walworth, Fontana, Linn, Geneva and Lake Geneva.
According to the Geneva Lake police, a private motorboat was trying to get to safety, but it eventually capsized and sank.
Emergency crews responded and were able to rescue six adults and one child from the water. Police said that first responders were told that three children were still missing.
After an intensive search, the three kids were recovered from the lake. Lifesaving measures were performed immediately at the scene and continued while being taken to a hospital. All three were later pronounced dead, police said.
Officials confirmed that all four children on board were wearing life jackets.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency are conducting a joint investigation.
“The Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency and the Wisconsin DNR, extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy,” police said in a news release. “This incident serves as a reminder of how quickly severe weather can develop on area waterways. We strongly urge all boaters to closely monitor weather forecasts, remain vigilant of changing atmospheric conditions, and seek safe harbor immediately when threatening weather approaches.”
Watch: Entire sheriff’s office news conference