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Accident Database: Accident #454

River: Eagle
Section: Near Ankorage
Location: Whirlpool Rapids above a section of shoreline thick with strainers.
Water Level: Medium
Difficulty: II
Accident Code(s): Swim Into Tree
Injury Code(s): Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal
Experienced/Inexperienced: Experienced
Private/Commercial: Private
Boat Type: Kayak - Unknown
Number of Occupants: 1
Number of Victims: 1
Hazard Codes: Natural Strainer or Sieve
Detailed Description:

Geno Schumar, a strong Class IV-V kayaker, met death in the Class II waters of a local run. The accident occurred on the Eagle River near Anchorage, AK on July 2, 1997. Schumar was playing in a whirlpool in a rapid above a section of shoreline thick with strainer hazards. He flipped, bailed out, and got to shore along a steep cut-bank. After attempting to climb the slippery clay bank he slipped back into the water and was carried into a strainer. A friend, who could not get to Schumar in time to help, yelled for him to get back in the main current where it would be safer. But Schumar did not do so, and washed downstream into a strainer. After attempting to reach him without success, his friend left the area to summon help. His body was recovered several miles downstream.

 

 

SOURCE: Danny L. Crow, posting to rec.boats.paddle

 

 

Conclusions:

ANALYSIS: (Walbridge) Easy rivers cannot be taken lightly, especially when serious hazards like strainers are present.

 

Report Status: Completed