Last month, eight people died when a boat capsized on California’s popular Lake Tahoe, and none of them were wearing life vests, according to a preliminary report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The accident occurred on June 21 during a strong and sudden storm. The 28-foot (8.5-meter) gold-colored Chris-Craft boat overturned in 10-foot (3-meter) waves. Of the 10 people on board, 8 died. Among them were four members of a family celebrating a birthday.
Weather changed suddenly
According to the NTSB report, the group departed around 12:00 p.m. in calm weather. Within two hours, the wind picked up and waves formed. Around 2:30 p.m., hail began to fall and the boat ended up sideways to strong waves.
“The boat started taking on water, and some passengers tried to bail it out. But a large wave fully overturned the boat,” the report said.
Only two survived
After the capsizing, two people were rescued. One was wearing a life vest, the other was clinging to one. None of the deceased were wearing vests.
Tourists on the shore witnessed the incident and immediately called police. No distress signal was sent from the boat.
Accidents on the lake are rare, but risks remain
According to South Lake Tahoe police lieutenant Scott Crivelli, drownings and other accidents happen every year on the lake, but incidents with so many fatalities are rare. On average, six people die on the lake each summer.
Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
