Tragic Water-Related Incidents at Smith Mountain Lake Leave One Dead, One Hospitalized
- BTW21
- 23 hours ago
- 1 min read

Franklin County, VA (BTW21) — A tragic day unfolded at Smith Mountain Lake on June 10 as two separate water-related incidents led to one fatality and another person hospitalized, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
The first incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. when deputies responded to a call near Three Point Isle Drive in Penhook.
A man had reportedly jumped off a boat in an attempt to swim to a dock but failed to resurface.
Search efforts were immediately initiated, and authorities later confirmed that the swimmer was found deceased.
Just 30 minutes later, first responders were called to a second emergency near Halesford Bridge in Moneta.
A man had jumped into the water, prompting another search and rescue operation.
The man was found by emergency personnel, and life-saving measures were immediately initiated at the scene.
He was then airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital for treatment. His condition remains undisclosed at this time.
Both individuals were recovered from the lake, and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has launched investigations into the causes of the two incidents.
The names of those involved have not been released as of yet, and the Sheriff’s Office will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Authorities urge caution when engaging in water activities at the lake, particularly during the busy summer months.