FRANKLIN CO., Va. – Update
The victim of a drowning incident at Smith Mountain Lake has been identified as 54-year-old James Lavender, of Roanoke.
On Tuesday, at approximately 3:40 p.m., the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) received a report regarding a boating incident in Franklin County.
Authorities said a group of five individuals was out for a day of fishing when Lavender jumped from the boat to take a swim. After entering the water and swimming for a short distance, he struggled and went under the surface. Unfortunately, his body was recovered later that evening, and it was noted that he was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
In addition to DWR, local emergency responders from Smith Mountain Lake Fire and Rescue and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office were present at the scene to provide assistance.
We will continue to update this article as we learn more
Update:
Both victims in two separate incidents have been recovered at Smith Mountain Lake on Tuesday, according to officials. One of the victims has been confirmed dead.
Officials say that the man who jumped off a boat to swim to a dock near Three Point Isle Drive in Penhook is deceased.
10 News was told the following by investigators on the scene.
“We got a call about a possible drowning that occurred out here on the lake today. We responded along with Smith Mountain Lake Fire and Rescue. Once we arrived on scene, talked to some witnesses, friends of the victim, they advised that he jumped off the boat and attempted to swim to shore. and went underwater at that point. He didn’t resurface. Smith Mountain Lake Fire and Rescue was able to locate him with a diver and recover the victim,” Sergeant Michael Morris, Conservation Police Officer, said.
Investigators say they will not release the name of the victim until they are able to notify their next of kin. This incident is under investigation by the Department of Wildlife Resources.
As for the other man who jumped off the Hales Ford Bridge, authorities said the Smith Mountain Lake Fire and Rescue was able to help get the victim to a dock for Franklin County EMS/Scruggs Rescue. He was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. His current condition is unknown at this time. This incident is currently under investigation by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
10 News will continue to update this story as we receive more information.
Original:
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office told 10 News that they are investigating two separate incidents that occurred at Smith Mountain Lake on Tuesday.
Authorities say they are investigating one incident that occurred in the 200 block of Three Point Isle Drive in Penhook, where a man jumped off a boat to swim to the dock and did not resurface. Units are currently en route.
Authorities are also en route to a separate incident where a man jumped off Hales Ford Bridge in Bridgewater.
This is a developing story and 10 News will continue to update the story as information becomes available.