Three children die after boat capsizes during storm in Wisconsin
A boat carrying 10 people capsized on Geneva Lake during a sudden storm, killing three children. One child and six adults were rescued. A state of emergency was declared due to storm damage.
Three children died and seven others were rescued after a recreational motor boat capsized on Wisconsin's Geneva Lake during severe weather on Friday afternoon, according to local police. The boat had 10 people on board, including four children, and was attempting to reach safety as conditions worsened amid an intense, sudden storm.
First responders initially rescued one child and six adults, but three children were reported missing. They were later recovered but pronounced dead despite life-saving efforts. Officials confirmed all four children were wearing life jackets. Police stated the incident serves as a reminder of how quickly severe weather can develop on waterways and urged boaters to monitor forecasts and seek safe harbor immediately.
The identities of the victims have not been released as the investigation continues. Lake Geneva officials declared a state of emergency due to the storm's intensity. Damage was widespread, with high winds downing trees and power lines, damaging buildings. Undersheriff Tom Hausner reported numerous 911 calls about damage and people trapped, noting that response was delayed by fallen power lines and debris. At least one person suffered minor injuries from a falling tree.
The storm struck as much of the United States experiences extreme heat heading into the Fourth of July weekend, which marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. An estimated 250 million people are expected to face dangerous heat levels nationwide.
