Multiple drownings, water rescues at Falls Lake, Jordan Lake this weekend
Crews responded to multiple water rescues at both Jordan Lake and Falls Lake on Sunday.
While some of the victims were able to be saved, there were drowning deaths at both lakes – mere hours apart.
Officials with the Northern Wake Fire Department had a strong message about water safety for the community – pleading for people to use life jackets when out on the water.
Jordan Lake drowning: Group 'loses sight' of man swimming in lake near his boat
A drowning victim on Jordan Lake, whose name has not been released, was swimming in the lake near his boat in the area off Poe's Ridge Boat Ramp when his group lost sight of him. His body was later recovered by deputies with the Chatham County Sheriff's Office.
Falls Lake drowning: Canoe tips over, spilling three people into the lake
Later that evening, authorities recovered the body of a man on Falls Lake.
Authorities say his canoe tipped over on the lake with three people inside. The two other people in his canoe were found safely, but the man was missing.
A massive search was underway for hours as crews searched for the missing man.
The victim's identity has also not yet been released, but he was described as a 35-year-old Hispanic man by the Northern Wake Fire Department.
Falls Lake rescue: Three people injured in boating accident
Earlier that same day, three people were injured in a boating accident and another boat had to be rescued from the water.
It appears none of the three incidents are connected.
Authorities plead: Wear life jackets
Authorities are asking people who are on Falls Lake to make sure they are wearing a life jacket, especially if you're not a strong swimmer.
"Life jackets are life savers," said a spokesperson with the Northern Wake Fire Department. "Our thoughts are with the family of the victims at this difficult time."
All of this weekend's rescues and deaths come less than a month after another drowning following a boat crash.
"Unfortunately, too often people are just unprepared," said the spokesperson.
Officials strongly encouraged the use of life jackets and water safety, especially when out on our large recreational lakes.
