An accident on a New Hampshire lake unfortunately led to the death of a Boy Scout attending camp on July 7, 2023. The tragedy serves as a sad reminder that boating accidents can happen anywhere on the water in the summer, and even the calmest outings can turn dangerous or deadly in an instant the way this Boy Scout boating accident tragically did.
Boy Scout Boating Accident in New Hampshire
New Hampshire State Police reported the young victim, who was a member of a group of campers at a Boy Scout camp, was killed on Friday on Manning Lake in Gilmanton, a town about 20 miles northeast of Concord, New Hampshire. A preliminary investigation determined the boy was involved in a boating accident while on the lake, according to USA Today.
At around 2:15 p.m., first responders received a 911 call about an accident involving a young child injured on a boat, according to a statement from troopers. Sadly, troopers said, “the young scout” was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Boston Globe reported the boy’s family identified him as Keoni Hubbard, 11, of Lexington, Massachusetts. He was visiting the camp for the week from out of state.
‘Our Hearts Are Forever Broken’
“We are heartbroken to confirm the death of a Scout yesterday following a tragic accident on Manning Lake in Gilmanton,” the Boy Scouts of America Daniel Webster Council in New Hampshire said in a statement.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the Scout’s family and ask everyone to please join in keeping this young man and his loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
“Our hearts are forever broken by the loss of our Keoni,” the Boy Scout’s family said in a statement.
“Beloved by his family and friends, Keoni’s spirit and empathy for others resonated with all who love and admire him. Keoni was simply the best – a selfless child who truly found joy in the happiness of others. Our family appreciates the support of the community and respectfully asks that you respect our privacy as we mourn the unimaginable loss of our beloved Keoni.”
Boating Safety Tips
The details of what happened to the young Boy Scout are not clear, but anytime you’re out on the water, there are a few safety tips you should keep in mind to potentially avoid a similar tragedy.
Before ever taking passengers out, the owner of any boat should be sure to properly maintain their vessel to make sure it’s safe for use. They should also be aware of any laws pertaining to the body of water they’ll be navigating, particularly regarding any traffic rules.
When it comes to any water sports or recreation, you should always wear a properly fitted life jacket. In case of an accident, a life jacket will likely keep people ejected from a boat – or those who have to leave a boat as a result of an accident – afloat until help arrives.
In addition, knowing how to swim is an important skill that anyone participating in a boat outing should have. Previously taking basic swimming lessons could make all the difference for you and your loved ones in a boating accident.
Knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be a lifesaving act in emergency situations. Before venturing out on the water, consider taking a CPR class to learn this skill. You may never need it, but you don’t ever want to be in a position where you wish you knew it.
Finally, always avoid alcohol and drugs while operating a boat. The use of either can greatly increase the chance of accidents and drowning, the same as driving drunk can raise your chances of being in a DUI accident. There are too many variables out on the water to take the risk.
Boating Accident Lawyers
If you or someone you love has been injured in a boating accident, you may need the assistance of a personal injury lawyer. In Arizona, Phillips Law Group can help.
Contact Phillips Law Group today to schedule a free initial consultation if you need legal advice following a boating accident. Our team is available via the form on this page 24/7, or you can give us a call at (602) 222-2222 to get in touch. We hope you’ll never need our services after a boating accident, but we are always here to help if you do.
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