Storm Related Boating Incidents

To:	Media
From:	Green Lake County Sheriff
Re/Event:	Storm Related Boating Incidents  #191905
Date/Time of Incident:	Thursday, June 27th, 2019, 4:18pm
Address:	Emerald Shores Area, Oakwood Ave., Big Green Lake
	Green Lake County, Wisconsin
Date of Release:	06/27/2019      1-1

  While under a severe thunderstorm warning, the Green Lake County Sheriff’s E911 Center received two calls concerning citizens in distress on Big Green Lake.

   At approximately 4:18pm, a citizen reported a sailboat overturned out in Big Green Lake nearing the South Shore in the Town of Green Lake.  The reporting party advised that other boaters were in the area, however, no confirmation could be obtained to ensure that everyone was off of the sailboat or out of the water.  At about the same time, a second report came in concerning a young male on a kayak who was not accounted for.  Sheriff’s staff traveled to the area’s while a patrol boat was launched.

   A short time later, the youth on the kayak was reported as found and safe and the sailboat was now reported to be up against the rocks and shore off of Oakwood Avenue.  Winds were estimated to be between 50-60 mph which made access to the area difficult.

   At approximately 4:45pm, the Sheriff’s boat arrived on the scene of the sailboat and determined that no-one was on board.  The sailboat was left for recovery at a later time.

   While the sailboat incident is still under investigation, the Sheriff’s Office has learned that a 76 year old Illinois male became caught up in the storm when his sailboat overturned.  The male was in the water for over 10 minutes when rescued by another boater who has yet to be identified.

   No injury was reported as a result of these two incidents and no charges are expected.

   Sheriff Podoll wishes to thank the Green Lake / Brooklyn Fire Department who supplied two firemen to ride on the Sheriff’s Boat and assist with any rescue if needed.

Release Prepared by:  Chief Deputy Mark Putzke