75-Year-Old Man Drowns in Lake Lanier Fishing Accident

Authorities say the victim fell into the water while trying to dislodge his fishing lure.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of a fishing lure lying on a dark, wet surface, the metal hooks and treble reflecting a faint glimmer of light, conceptually illustrating the dangers of recreational fishing.A somber reminder of the risks anglers face when fishing near deep waters.Gainesville Today

A 75-year-old man from Pickens County, Georgia has died after falling into Lake Lanier while fishing on Friday morning. According to the Hall County Sheriff's Office, Ronald Lamar Kirk and his 89-year-old uncle were on a boat when Kirk's fishing lure got stuck on a dock. As Kirk tried to free the lure, he slipped and fell into the water. His uncle attempted to pull him to safety but was unable to. Kirk was later pulled from the lake unresponsive and was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Why it matters

Lake Lanier is a popular recreational destination in Georgia, but it has also seen its share of tragic drowning incidents over the years. This latest fatality highlights the importance of water safety and the risks that can come with outdoor activities like fishing, especially for elderly individuals.

The details

Authorities say Kirk and his uncle were fishing on a boat in the 3200 block of Arrowhead Drive in Gainesville when Kirk's fishing lure became stuck on a nearby dock. As the 75-year-old tried to dislodge the lure, he slipped and fell into the lake. His 89-year-old uncle attempted to pull him back to land but was unable to. Deputies were called to the scene around 9:45 a.m. and found Kirk unresponsive in the water. He was pulled from the lake and transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, April 10, 2026 around 9:45 a.m.

The players

Ronald Lamar Kirk

A 75-year-old man from Pickens County, Georgia who drowned in Lake Lanier after falling into the water while fishing.

Kirk's 89-year-old uncle

The victim's uncle who was also on the boat and tried unsuccessfully to pull Kirk back to safety after he fell into the lake.

Hall County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the scene and investigated the drowning incident.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

The state agency that is conducting its own investigation into Kirk's death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources will continue its investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ronald Lamar Kirk's drowning death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of water safety, especially for elderly individuals engaging in outdoor activities like fishing. It also highlights the risks that can come with recreating on lakes and waterways, and the need for vigilance and preparedness when enjoying these natural resources.