Colorado teenager dies in Virginia lake; investigation shows electrical charge in water contributed to death

A tragic accident occurred over the Fourth of July weekend that claimed the life of a promising young athlete. Jesse Hamric, an 18-year-old from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, was spending time with friends at Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia when he perished in the lake’s electrically charged waters.

According to witnesses, Hamric, like others that day, jumped into the lake to cool off. However, his friends immediately noticed that something was wrong, as they also felt the electric shocks in the water. They immediately rushed to pull the young man out of the water and tried to revive him with CPR. Rescue workers also arrived and took Hamric to the hospital, but unfortunately he did not survive.

Investigations revealed that stray electricity from a nearby dock was charging parts of the lake. Although no direct cause could be determined, Hamric appears to have been seriously injured by exposure to the electrical currents. Two friends who helped rescue him also suffered minor injuries.

Jesse was known as a star athlete and positive role model in his hometown of Colorado. He had just graduated from Steamboat Springs High School, where he excelled on the football and baseball teams. Family members described Hamric as someone who always brought joy and light to others. He was the son of the school’s principal and was admired by many classmates and community members. After this tragedy, fundraisers were held to establish a foundation in his honor to promote courage and compassion.

This unfortunate incident reminds us of the potential electrical hazards near bodies of water near private docks or other structures. When celebrating with loved ones, be sure to take safety precautions in recreational areas with electrical and water hookups. Jesse Hamric seemed to be enjoying the holidays with his friends, but unfortunately lost his life under unexpected circumstances. He will be greatly missed by all who knew this promising young man.