2 Fisherman Found Dead Days Apart After Collision with Tugboat Sent Them Both Overboard

Two Fishermen Found Dead Days Apart After Collision with Tugboat

In a tragic incident on the Tennessee River, two fishermen lost their lives after a boat collision with a tugboat. The events unfolded on the evening of Saturday, August 16, at Riverfront Park in Colbert County, Alabama.

According to reports from NBC affiliate WAFF, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) confirmed that an aluminum fishing vessel collided with a commercial tugboat, causing both individuals on the fishing boat to be thrown overboard. One of the fishermen was discovered deceased at the scene, while the other initially went missing.

The search for the second individual continued until Monday, August 18, when his body was finally located, as reported by WAAY. The victims have been identified as 63-year-old William Michael Sandlin and 66-year-old Edison Kim Wallace, according to authorities.

An acquaintance of the deceased told WAAY that he had been fishing with the two men for over 40 years. Expressing profound sorrow, he mentioned that he would have joined them on that fateful Saturday if he had known about their plans.

The Colbert County Sheriff’s Department (CCSD) issued a statement extending their condolences to the families and friends of the deceased fishermen. They acknowledged the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies and local volunteers who participated in the search and rescue operations.

As details regarding the cause of the collision remain undisclosed, ALEA has not yet responded to requests for comments from PEOPLE. The circumstances surrounding the accident and the sequence of events leading to the collision are still under investigation.

The tragic loss of these two individuals has deeply impacted the community, serving as a reminder of the selfless dedication of first responders and volunteers who bravely step up during times of crisis.

In times of such tragedy, the resilience and support shown by the community are invaluable. The heartfelt gestures of condolence and the collective effort in responding to the incident demonstrate the strength and unity within the region.

The devastating outcome of the boat collision serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with water activities and the unpredictable nature of accidents that can occur even in familiar environments.

As the community mourns the loss of these two lives, the investigation into the circumstances of the collision continues, with authorities striving to piece together the events that led to this heart-wrenching incident. The memory of William Michael Sandlin and Edison Kim Wallace will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished them.

In conclusion, the tragic incident along the Tennessee River stands as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety measures when engaging in recreational activities on the water. The impact of this loss reverberates through the community, highlighting the need for vigilance and caution to prevent such devastating events in the future.