This canoe trip was a yearly event and many canoes go down the river in two groups.  Vessel #1 was in front of everyone else in first group.  The current was pushing them very quickly down the river.  Once they saw camp, operator tried to steer the canoe towards shore.  In doing so, the canoe capsized and both occupants fell in the water.  Neither could swim very well.  Passenger tried to grab PFDs but they floated down the river.  He then tried to grab a paddle, but it also floated down the river.  Passenger could hold on the canoe till he was rescued, but operator could not and went downstream further and under water.  
All other people in other canoes started looking for him.  Once found, they dragged him to shore and started CPR till rescue squad arrived on scene.  Operator was transported to Bay Area Medical Center.  He was pronounced deceased at 5:00 pm by doctor.
Everyone had been drinking a lot.  Operator had been highly intoxicated before he drowned.
Lake Township                 