Three children died Saturday when a boat capsized on Geneva Lake during severe weather, according to multiple local news reports. The incident occurred as damaging storms swept through the Chicago area and southern Wisconsin, hitting during a busy tourism weekend.
The storms brought widespread damage and a massive power outage to Walworth County, with authorities describing the situation as 'bad'. The fatalities occurred as the strong winds and rough waters overwhelmed the vessel on the popular lake. Witnesses and first responders were quickly on scene.
While the exact ages and identities of the victims have not been released, all three were children. NBC 5 Chicago reported the storm struck during a holiday weekend when Lake Geneva is typically crowded with tourists and boaters. FOX6 News Milwaukee confirmed the capsizing as part of a broader destructive weather system.
The deaths mark a tragic turn during what was already a dangerous weather day across the region. Power restoration efforts began immediately, and local officials urged residents to stay off the roads and away from damaged areas pending safety assessments.
The Walworth County medical examiner's office is leading the investigation into the capsizing and will determine if any criminal or safety violations contributed to the tragedy.