Tragic Boat Capsizing on Geneva Lake Claims Lives of Three Children

Three children died after a motorboat capsized on Wisconsin’s Geneva Lake during a sudden storm on the eve of the nation’s 250th‑anniversary celebrations, and seven other passengers were rescued, officials said.

The ten‑person recreational boat, carrying four children, sank Friday afternoon as it attempted to reach safety amid rapidly deteriorating weather, according to the Lake Geneva Police Department.

First responders saved one child and six adults. The three missing children were later recovered but were pronounced dead despite life‑saving efforts.

All four children were wearing life jackets, officials noted, highlighting how quickly severe weather can develop on local waterways.

“We strongly urge all boaters to monitor weather forecasts closely, remain vigilant to changing conditions, and seek safe harbor immediately when threatening weather approaches,” the police department said.

Police have not released the victims’ identities as an investigation continues.

Lake Geneva officials declared a state of emergency in response to Friday’s intense storm.

The storm caused widespread damage throughout the popular summer destination, toppling trees and power lines and injuring at least one person who was struck by falling debris.

Local undersheriff Tom Hausner reported numerous 911 calls about damaged structures and people trapped in buildings, noting that some emergency responses were delayed by fallen power lines and debris.

“Power lines are all over the place. We are urging people to stay away,” Hausner said at a press briefing.

The severe weather arrived as much of the United States faced extreme heat ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, with the nation bracing for dangerously high temperatures during the celebrations commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

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