Accident Database: Accident #105

River: Raritan, S. Branch
Section: Town of High Bridge to confluence with North Branch of the Raritan
Location: robert Street Dam in Bridgewater
Water Level: Medium
Difficulty: VI
Accident Code(s): Lowhead Dam
Injury Code(s): Other, Fatal
Age: 23
Experienced/Inexperienced: Inexperienced
Private/Commercial: Private
Boat Type: Open Canoe
Number of Victims: 1
Hazard Codes: Hydraulic/Keeper Hole
Detailed Description:

DAMS CLAIMS JERSEY PADDLER

June 17, 1989: South Branch of the Raritan River, N.J.: Gary Kugler, 23, drowned on an evening cruise at the Robert Street dam in Bridgewater. At about 11 PM the two attempted to land above the dam; he slipped into the water and was washed over the dam. His girlfriend heard him call for help and summoned rescue squads. His body was recovered three days later.

Source: Appalachian Mountain Club (NJ) "Paddle Splashes"

COMMENTS: These incidents further illustrates the danger of low-head dams.

Report Status: Completed