I Game Warden on 06/25/23 received a call regarding a report of a possible sunken vessel at Sugar Creek Boat Ramp on Lake Oconee (Waters of the State of Georgia). I arrived at approximately 20:35 hours. The vessel was a now loaded on to a trailer and had been removed from Lake Oconee. After making contact with the owner he advised the incident happened at 19:15 hours and explained what took place. 

Operator and his wife along with their son were on the vessel during the incident. The family was heading in to the Sugar Creek boat ramp when a thunderstorm began to take place. Waves started to swamp the vessel and the bilge pump was unable to displace the amount of water coming into the vessel. 

Operator was able to bring the vessel to the dock at Sugar Creek Boat Ramp but while he was getting his vehicle to remove the vessel, it became fully submerged and was being pushed up against the dock from waves causing damage to the hull on the bow on the starboard side. Nearby witness was able to assist Operator with removing the vessel from Lake Oconee. All occupants were unharmed during this incident.

Lake Oconee
EATONTON                      