We regret to inform you of the death of Jacob Thomas, 28, of Atlanta, whose body was found in Lake Lanier after he went missing early Sunday morning, September 21, 2014.
At approximately 1:30 AM, emergency personnel responded to calls from Sunset Cove, at the south end of Lake Lanier.
Authorities learned that Mr. Thomas reportedly lost his balance, fell from a dock at Sunset Cove and hit his head on a boat before going into Lake Lanier and not resurfacing.
Rescue personnel from several agencies searched for Mr. Thomas using sonar equipment on Sunday before finding the missing man on Monday morning after the search resumed at 8:30 AM.
Authorities believe alcohol may have been a factor. Foul play is not suspected. The investigation is ongoing.
We extend our condolences to Mr. Jacob Thomas’s family and friends.
Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources offers these tips for swimming safety:
- Parents/guardians, don’t take your eyes off small children. ALWAYS know where they are when around water. DON’T ASSUME SOMEONE ELSE IS WATCHING THEM!
- Always swim with a buddy, never swim alone.
- Know your swimming limits and stay within them. Don’t try to keep up with a stronger skilled swimmer or encourage others to keep up with you.
- Swim in supervised areas only. Drop-offs or other underwater hazards may not be detectable from above the surface.
- Obey “No Diving” signs that indicate the area is unsafe for headfirst entries. Enter feet-first into water rather than headfirst if you don’t know the depth.
- Watch out for the “dangerous too’s” — too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
- Alcohol and swimming don’t mix. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance and coordination especially in and around water. It affects your swimming and diving skills and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
- If you are a marginal or non-swimmer, wear a life jacket.
