Freeland man dies in boating accident

HOUGHTON LAKE – On July 4, 2024, officers and other first responders were dispatched to a two-boat accident on Houghton Lake in the Long Point area of ​​Lake Township. When officers and rescue personnel arrived, CPR was already being performed on one victim. Additional victims were coming out of the lake.

David Dark, a 68-year-old man from Freeland, later died of his injuries at the scene. Two other victims were treated at Grayling Munson Hospital.

The investigation revealed that a pontoon boat carrying four people was traveling east. A second pontoon boat carrying twelve people was traveling west and both boats collided. There is evidence that a third boat was traveling in close proximity, which may have obstructed the boaters’ view.

Alcohol does not appear to have played a role in this accident.

Thank you to the Michigan State Police, Denton Township EMS, Markey Township Fire Department and EMS, Houghton Lake EMS, and Lake Township Fire Department for their response and assistance during this tragedy. Thank you also to all private citizens who helped render aid and transport victims to shore for EMS.