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Accident Database: Accident #279

River: Kentucky River
Location: Lock 7 Dam near Pleasant Hill, KY
Water Level: Medium
Difficulty: IV
Accident Code(s): Lowhead Dam
Injury Code(s): Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal
Age: 25
Experienced/Inexperienced: Inexperienced
Private/Commercial: Private
Boat Type: Raft
Number of Occupants: 1
Number of Victims: 1
Hazard Codes: Hydraulic/Keeper Hole
Summary:

 

 

MAN DROWNS AT KENTUCKY RIVER DAM

 

 

 

 

DESCRIPTION: Kevin McLean, 25, was rafting with friends on the Kentucky river near Pleasant Hill, Kentucky on March 3 when the river's current swept them over the Lock 7 dam. Two companion escaped injury; the victim was recovered downstream and pronounced dead at the scene.

 

 

 

 

SOURCE: Associated Press via Ken Johnson

Detailed Description:

ANALYSIS: Dams kill many unwary paddlers each year, and are not usually runnable. I have to wonder if warning signs were in place this early in the year, and whether the high water levels common at this time contributed to the death.

 

 

Report Status: Completed