New details released in Lake Geneva boating tragedy that killed 3 children

LAKE GENEVA, Wis. (WGN) — New details are shedding light on a boating tragedy that claimed the lives of three children Friday afternoon on Lake Geneva as powerful storms swept through the area. Just after noon, a storm system that officials described as “sudden and severe” moved across Wisconsin. According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts reached an estimated 90 to 100 mph, toppling hundreds of trees and damaging several buildings. The City of Lake Geneva Fire Department said crews responded to over 75 storm-related calls between noon and 7 p.m. As the storm intensified, a privately owned 25-foot 2024 Nautique P25 carrying 10 people was trying to reach safety. The boat was being operated by a 47-year-old man who investigators said had extensive boating experience. “Unable to find safe harbor, the operator relied on his training and experience, turning the vessel directly into the wind,” Geneva Lake police said. Police said the boat was struck by at least two large waves that crashed over the bow, causing it to take on a significant amount of water and begin tilting to one side. “The vessel was then struck by an additional large wave to its side, causing it to roll, capsize, and send all 10 occupants into the water. After capsizing, the vessel quickly sank below the waterline,” police said. Other people on the lake called for help, and first responders rescued seven individuals from the water, including six adults and one child. The remaining three children, ages 10, 7 and 6, were later found inside the sunken boat in about 32 feet of water. Despite life-saving efforts, all three were pronounced dead. Their preliminary cause of death is consistent with drowning. Those rescued were identified as: Investigators said the passengers were from Batavia and Wheaton, Illinois, and Fontana, Wisconsin. Police also said all of the juveniles aboard the boat were wearing properly fitted life jackets. “The Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency extends its deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. Out of respect for the family enduring this horrendous event, the names of the individuals involved are not being released at this time,” police said in a statement.