A 52-year-old man who went missing while boating in Laurens County, Georgia, has been found dead, according to local authorities.
The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the recovery of the body on Monday. The man, identified as Keith Williams, had been missing since Sunday afternoon. He was last seen near the Ben Hall Lake area around 2 p.m. when he reportedly fell into the water and did not resurface.
Deputies say emergency responders were called to the scene shortly after the incident was reported. Officials from the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and Dublin Police Department joined in the search efforts. The investigation revealed that Williams was on the lake with a group of people when he either slipped or lost balance and fell from a boat.
Despite the group’s efforts to locate him at the time, they were unable to bring him back to the surface. The search began immediately and continued into the evening hours on Sunday. Due to limited visibility and safety concerns, the search was temporarily paused overnight and resumed early Monday morning.
Dive teams and sonar equipment were used during the operation. Around 11 a.m. on Monday, authorities located a body believed to be Williams. The Laurens County Coroner’s Office later confirmed the identity and stated that the family had been notified.
According to officials, there were no signs of foul play. It appears the incident was a tragic accident. The sheriff’s office said Williams was not wearing a life jacket at the time, which may have contributed to the outcome.
This case is a reminder of the importance of water safety, especially during boating trips. Authorities urge everyone to wear proper flotation devices and avoid standing or moving suddenly in boats to prevent falls or imbalance.
Keith Williams was a resident of Laurens County. Friends and family described him as kind, outgoing, and someone who enjoyed spending time outdoors. His sudden death has left the local community in shock.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources continues to assist with the case to ensure all standard protocols were followed. An autopsy may be conducted to confirm the cause of death, although no criminal activity is suspected.
Boating-related deaths are not uncommon in Georgia. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, dozens of such incidents happen each year, many involving the lack of life jackets or other safety measures.
The sheriff’s office also emphasized the importance of calling 911 immediately in the event of a water emergency and refraining from jumping in to rescue without proper training or equipment. Panic and improper handling in such moments can sometimes lead to additional casualties.
Keith Williams’ death comes at a time when water recreation activity is on the rise with the summer season beginning. Local officials are now considering new safety reminders to be posted at lakes and water bodies to raise awareness among the public.
The Laurens County community is offering support to the grieving family, and local churches have shared prayers and condolences on social media. Many who knew Williams shared messages describing him as friendly and helpful, and someone who loved boating as a hobby.
Officials have closed the area around Ben Hall Lake temporarily to the public while cleanup and safety checks are being conducted.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is asked to contact the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office.