Victim #1 and witness #1 were on a Kayak trip that originated at Oswego Lake and was scheduled to terminate at Harrisville Pond.  The two bodies of water are connected by the Oswego River. Victim #1 had rented his kayak from Mikes Canoe and Kayak Rental , who also provided transportation to Oswego Lake.Vessel #1 is a 9 foot long plastic sit-in Kayak.Witness # 1 provided his own kayak.  Recent heavy rains created strong current in the river with poor water visibility.  Both men departed Oswego Lake at approximately 1100 Hrs and were to be picked up at 1430 hrs at Harrisville Pond.  Witness #1 stated that victim #1 was an inexperienced kayaker and having some difficulty with the strong current.
 
Both men were kayaking together for over an hour.  While navigating a bend in the river, they observed a large tree had fallen from the East bank and stretched across the River.   The top of the tree appeared to have been removed by a Chain saw, providing a small passage long the west side of the river.  Victim #1 tried to maneuver toward the opening and was pushed into the tree by the current.  Victim #1 and vessel #1 were pushed under the tree by the strong current and became stuck in the submerged branches of the tree.  Witness #1 attempted to rescue victim #1.  Two other kayakers arrived and assisted.  Witness #1 stated that he was feeling under the tree and eventually felt the foot of victim #1.  The three pulled the victim until he surfaced, still wearing his PFD. They were unable to bring him to shore.  He was placed on top of the tree.  Victim #1 as not breathing and did not appear to have a pulse.  CPR was initiated, and 911 called.  Another group of kayakers (off duty fireman) arrived on scene and began to assist. Victim #1 was moved to shore and resuscitation attempts continued.  Victim was placed in a canoe and transported to waiting First Aid units.  Victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Bass River