Fisherman Drowns In Chattahoochee River

DULUTH, GA -- A fisherman has drowned after entering the Chattahoochee River in Gwinnett County to free a tangled fishing line.

Firefighters responded shortly before 5 p.m. Friday to a report of a man missing in the river near Medlock Bridge Park. Rescue teams from Gwinnett County and Johns Creek fire were deployed, as well as a helicopter from the Gwinnett County Police Department.

U.S. Park Service rangers also responded to the scene.

At about 5:40 p.m., the p0lice helicopter was able to locate a body from the air and directed a Johns Creek rescue boat to it. The victim's body was found in about 10 feet of water. Rescuers began advanced life-support measures, but saw no signs of life.

According to Gwinnett Fire & Emergency Services spokesman Capt. Tommy Rutledge, the man was at the river fishing with his two brothers when he entered the water to free a tangled line. He waded out to a rock and was swept away by a swift current as he tried to cross back to the riverbank, he said.

Witnesses said he went under water and never resurfaced. Water generation from Buford Dam was happening at the time and current strength and water levels were increased at Medlock Bridge.

As of Sunday morning, authorities had not publicly identified the victim, pending notification of family members. The body was turned over to the Gwinnett Medical Examiner's Office for positive identification and cause of death determination.

"This is a very tragic incident and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends," Rutledge said.

Firefighters are reminding river patrons to check the water generation schedule at Buford Dam and avoid being on the river during generation times and until water levels recede. They are reminded to stay alert to changing river conditions and wear life jackets.

"The river can quickly change from tranquil to turbulent and catch anyone unsuspecting off guard," Rutledge said.

File photo courtesy Gwinnett Fire & Emergency Services