On May 1, 2023, at approximately 1553 hours, Game Warden and Cpl. were notified by GSP dispatch about a group of 4 kayakers on West Point Lake that were needing assistance with getting 3 kayakers out of the water after flipping over. The information I received from GSP dispatch was that their were 4 kayakers that needed assistance, no personal flotation devices (PFD) were being worn, and several of them were in the water. 

While en route, GSP dispatch called and informed me that Troup County Sherriff's Office had made the recovery by vessel. One of the 3 individuals had hypothermic symptoms after rescue efforts were made and was transported to Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center for treatment. Upon arrival to West Ga Medical Center, I met the victim being treated for hypothermic symptoms. Victim was alert and seemed to be in good spirits. 

Victim explained that he and 3 other friends decided to launch kayaks from Anderson Park and paddle West Point Lake at approximately 1045 hours. While paddling, Victim noticed a friend struggling to paddle and flip over in the water. As Victim assisted, he flipped over and now both were starting to panic. One of the other kayakers came over to help pull them back to shore when he also flipped over due to high winds on the lake. As the 3 individuals were in the lake, the other called for help. 

They were able to get in touch with Troup Co. Sherriff's office and wait for their assistance. Troup Co. S.O. made the recovery by vessel. The other 3 individuals were fine with no issues. Victim was treated for hypothermia and seemed to be recovering well. After the kayakers were recovered, Victim did inform me that 3 of the kayaks had sunk and only one was recovered. Victim also told me that each kayak had a PFD and that 3 of the other kayakers had put them on while waiting for help. I asked Victim about the alcohol consumption among the kayakers and he told me that the other 3 drank about 3 beers during a 6 hour span.   

Nothing Further at this time.
Recorded on Body Worn Camera.
05-01-23
West Point Lake
LAGRANGE                      