Teen Identified After Kayak Drowning on Pleasant Lake
Wright County deputies recovered the overturned kayak and identified the victim, a development that highlights the dangers of solo fishing from small boats.
Overview
- An 18-year-old man fell from a kayak while fishing on Pleasant Lake and went under; deputies later found an overturned kayak near the lake's north-side public access and dock.
- Wright County Sheriff's Office dive-team members located and recovered the man and law enforcement identified him as Cameron Mertens of Watkins.
- Multiple people were fishing on the lake and witnesses told deputies the victim had been about 75 to 100 yards from the dock when he fell from the kayak.
- Authorities have confirmed the recovery and identification but have not released details on what caused the incident or whether any charges or further inquiries are planned.
- The case highlights safety risks for anglers using small boats and may prompt local reminders about life jackets, boating safety, and emergency response preparedness on small lakes.