The body of a 30-year-old Michigan man was found Saturday afternoon at Cherokee Lake near Bean Station following recovery efforts by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and other local county and city rescue personnel.
Andrew Ehrman of Plymouth, Mich., went missing Friday evening after he and several friends aboard a pontoon boat decided to go swimming.
“The friends decided to stop for a swim and soon after entering the water it became apparent that the high winds were creating an unsafe environment for swimming.
The four individuals in the water decided it would be best to swim back to the boat and get out of the rough conditions” said Sgt. Roy Smith.
It appears the pontoon drifted away from the swimmers, while the four were attempting to make their way back to the vessel and the boat operator attempted to get closer to them.
“Three of the swimmers were able to climb back on board, but unfortunately Mr. Ehrman could not get back and disappeared below the surface,” said Sgt. Smith.
Alcohol does not appear to have played a role in this accident, however, Sgt. Smith would like to remind everyone to always wear a life jacket.
There have been no charges filed in this case, and the investigation is ongoing, according to TWRA.
“We had great help from local rescue and recovery personnel and first responders,” said Sgt. Smith. “It is sad to see family and friends waiting for closure, and we were able to begin that process quickly, thanks to so many people who gave their time to help find Mr. Ehrman.”