EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. – While many of the details are not available at this time, a review of Saturday’s tragic overturning of a boat at D.L. Bliss State Park was provided on Monday by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office (EDSO).
EDSO PIO Sgt. Kyle Parker told a gathered group of media at Camp Richardson that the conditions on Lake Tahoe on June 21 were calm and sunny, and that quickly changed with a fast-moving storm that lasted about an hour. There were 10 passengers on a 27-foot Chris-Craft when it overturned in high waves, sending all passengers into the choppy and cold lake. Six of those passengers were found deceased soon after, two were transported to area hospitals, and two were missing. Both of those victims were found deceased after searches on Sunday and Monday. At this time, no details of who owned the boat or the identities of those on board have been released by EDSO.
In the meantime, Parker wanted to stress that each person who recreates, whether it’s on the trails, slopes, or water, needs to learn how to handle their situations safely and be prepared.
“Don’t be afraid to recreate, but be cautious and safe,” said Parker. “Be your own first responder.”
“This was a tragic and unfortunate incident,” said Parker of the overturned boat. He added that even the EDSO boat that was on the lake at the same time was damaged by the waves and storm.
He asked that everyone living around and visiting Lake Tahoe be aware of their surroundings and be mindful of all safety practices.
EDSO is continuing its investigation into the tragedy, and it is unknown at this time if passengers were wearing life jackets during the storm.
South Lake Tahoe Mayor Tamara Wallace was also at Camp Richardson to meet some members of the media.
“Tourists are our visiting family, and we are devastated that we lost so many lives,” said Wallace. “People need to be aware that the lake is unique with its size, depth, elevation, and unpredictable weather.”
