Town Creek, AL – Fatal Boating Accident at Wheeler Lake near Cowford Boat Campground

Town Creek, AL (August 1, 2024) – Edward Whitmire, 86, drowned after his boat sank and capsized at Wheeler Lake on Wednesday, July 31. The incident occurred near the boat ramp at Cowford Boat Campground in Limestone County. According to Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey, Whitmire’s boat began to sink as he attempted to exit the lake. Whitmire went underwater about 15 yards from the ramp and did not resurface.

Rescue teams recovered his body around 1:10 p.m. near the spot he went missing. Several agencies participated in the search and recovery, including the Florence Police Dive Team, Limestone County Sheriff’s Office, and the Morgan County Rescue Squad.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the incident and are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.