Fisherman Dies In Lake Lanier After Falling From Boat

GAINESVILLE, GA — A man died after falling from a boat into Lake Lanier on Friday morning, according to Hall County authorities.

Deputies responded around 9:45 a.m. in the 3200 block of Arrowhead Drive, where a homeowner reported a possible drowning, the Hall County Sheriff's Office said.

When they arrived, authorities said they found the man unresponsive in the lake. They identified him as Ronald Lamar Kirk, 75, of Talking Rock in Pickens County.

Authorities said Kirk had been fishing with his 89-year-old uncle when his lure, or artificial bait, became stuck on a dock.

Kirk had one foot on the dock and the other in the boat when he tried to free the lure, authorities said. He then slipped and fell into the lake, authorities said.

Kirk's uncle tried to retrieve him from the water but was not successful, authorities said. The uncle went to the closest house to call for assistance, authorities said.

A deputy pulled Kirk from the water, and emergency medical workers attempted lifesaving efforts before he was taken to a hospital, authorities said. However, a doctor pronounced Kirk dead at 10:45 a.m.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is investigating the death.

Lake Lanier goes through Buford, Gainesville and Cumming.