Officials believe Cape Fear River boater was tossed by dam undercurrent

On Thursday around 8 a.m., family members said they found 59-year-old Danny Bullard close to where his boat was found, near Highway-42.

Officials believe the undercurrent of the dam tossed him off the boat, into the water.

His disappearance launched a huge search and rescue mission of emergency crews from several counties.

“Over the night, we got in touch with the Army Corps of Engineers. They were able to reduce the water flow from Jordan Lake onto the Cape Fear," said Rik Stevens of the Chatham County Sheriff's Office.

When they reduced the water levels, Bullard was found near the river. Locals out fishing on the river were shocked to hear the news.

According to crews, Bullard was on board a small boat by himself and, according to a report, that boat may have been pulled into the dam's undercurrent.

Bullard was seen in the water around 10 a.m. Wednesday, and he was believed to have been wearing a black life jacket.

“Kind of caught me by surprise. I’ve been coming out here for at least three, four years and I’ve never heard anything like this," said Erick Chavez, who lives in Chatham County.

His death is shedding light on boating safety.

As more people begin to venture outdoors to soak up the sun and enjoy the water, this tragic accident sends a reminder of just how dangerous it can be.

Stevens reminds people in the water to follow safety protocol, such as not going near dams.

"Be careful when boating near dams because there’s a current flow near the exit and entrance to the dam that can suck boats into it," he said.

He said a lot of people like to float near the dam when they are fishing, and it's dangerous.

He also suggested keeping your cellphone in a dry compartment – just in case you do need to call for help.

Chavez warned to be especially careful if you're out on a boat at night.

"And make sure life jackets are on and are fully buckled," said Stevens.