Accident Database

Report ID# 832

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  • PFD Not Worn or Present
  • Does not Apply
  • Inexperience
  • One Boat Trip

Accident Description

On July 4th Richard DeLaurenzo and his wife capsized while paddling through Class II Shohola Rapids on the Upper Delaware River. This river, which forms the border between Pennsylvania and New York, is very popular with first-timers. According to the National Park Service Morning Report neither paddler was wearing a life vest. Their canoe hit a rock and ejected them both. They attempted to hold onto their canoe as they floated downstream, but Mr. DeLaurenzo lost consciousness and let go. Bystanders pulled him ashore and began CPR, but their efforts were in vain.

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