St. Paul Resident Drowns In Centerville Lake
CENTERVILLE - In a tragic accident, Alvin Carter, 49, drowned while fishing on Centerville Lake with two companions mid-aft ernoon on Friday, Nov. 2. According to Sgt. Jim Plattner of the Anoka County Sheriff 's Department Patrol Division, the St. Paul resident lost his balance when he leaned over the back of the boat to grab his fishing line, and fell into the cold water.
One of Carter's companions went into the water in a rescue attempt but was unable to locate him. In further efforts to bring help, the men drove the boat to seek help. Two hunters boarded the boat to assist in the search.
The victim was located in 6 to 10 feet of water. He was not wearing a flotation device, although reports indicate that life jackets were found in the boat.
"It appeared from the news reports [that] both gentlemen had planned a simple day of fishing on Centerville Lake; it is so unfortunate the day ended with such a tragedy," said Centerville Mayor Mary Capra. "Our sincere sympathy goes out to the victim's family and his friend who tried to save him."
Plattner, a 20-plus-year veteran of the department, said this is the first drowning on Centerville Lake "for quite some time."
And Plattner says that ice season is approaching, which carries its own dangers.
"This time of year, what we have problems with is thin ice.
Keep your kids away from ice and water this time of year," he advised.