Accident Database

Report ID# 278

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  • Caught in Low Head Dam Hydraulic
  • Does not Apply
  • One Boat Trip

Accident Description

DAMS CLAIMS TWO JERSEY PADDLERS

May 21, 1989: Muscoenetcong River, N.J. Louis Gelato, 29, paddling with two friends in a 17 foot canoe, drowned after an attempted run of a dam near Riegelsville. All three were caught in the reversal; one was pronounced dead at the scene after being washed one mile downstream; another companion was hospitalized in critical condition two days later.

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

COMMENTS: This incident further illustrates the danger of low-head dams.

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