18-year-old found dead after boating accident in Sarasota lake

SARASOTA, FL – A young man was found dead after a boating accident at a lake in Sarasota early Friday morning, WFLA reports.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office responded along with the Sarasota County Fire Department after a call came in at about 4:30 a.m. for a marine rescue at Nathan Benderson Park.

Investigators said a paddle boat had malfunctioned in the middle of the lake, and the two people inside jumped out. One of them managed to make it back to shore, but he then called 911 to report his friend was having trouble swimming. The body of the other person was found by deputies in the northern part of the lake at about 11 a.m. He was identified as 18-year-old Jalen Smith.

The sheriff’s office is continuing its investigation into the incident, and said that all indications are that Smith’s death was accidental.

Smith, who recently graduated from Sarasota High School, was a student-athlete who played baseball, football and basketball for his high school teams.

If you have been the victim of a boating or personal watercraft accident on a Florida waterway, contact the experienced Sarasota Boat Accident Lawyers at Kemp Law Group. We will help you explore your legal options and determine the best course of action for securing the financial compensation you deserve. Call us today at 727-835-8327 or respond in our online chat box to schedule a free consultation regarding your individual case.