LAKE GENEVA — Three members of the Lake Geneva Police Department were recognized this past week by Mayor Todd Krause for extraordinary bravery and life-saving service after responding to a capsized boat during a severe storm on July 3.
Chief Edward Gritzner, Lt. Seth Keller, and Officer Theon Ward were honored for their actions in navigating treacherous lake conditions to rescue passengers trapped in the water.
Three children died when the boat they were on capsized in the storm. All three were wearing life vests.
A fourth child and six adults were rescued.
According to the mayor’s proclamation, the severe storm moved onto Geneva Lake beginning at 12:08 p.m. on July 3, bringing straight-line winds approaching 100 mph and generating hurricane-like conditions.
During the peak of the storm, the boat carrying six adults and four children capsized.
Gritzner, Keller, and Ward quickly rushed out in the police department’s new police boat to reach the scene.
Navigating waves exceeding six feet, the officers reached the capsized vessel within about six minutes.
They were the first rescuers on scene and immediately began pulling people from the water.
When they arrived, officers took immediate action to save lives. Despite their efforts, three children tragically died during the incident.
The proclamation issued by Krause commended the officers for their selflessness, courage, and dedication to public service, noting that their actions made a critical difference during the emergency.