Texas Game Wardens see decline in fatalities, rise in boating accidents over Labor Day Weekend

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — Fewer fatalities, but more accidents.

That’s the word from Texas Game Wardens following the Labor Day weekend.

A press release states that between August 31 and September 2, wardens reported 9 boating accidents on Texas waterways.

There was also one boating-related fatality at Amistad Reservoir near Del Rio, where a fatality also occurred over Labor Day weekend in 2023.

There was one open-water drowning. It happened at Lewisville Lake in Denton County.

Cody Jones, Texas Game Warden assistant commander for marine enforcement released the following statement:

“We are saddened by the loss of life during the holiday weekend and game wardens make every effort to prevent these types of tragedies from occurring. It is concerning that the number of boating accidents increased over the holiday weekend. While the accidents are unfortunate, we hope they’ll serve as a reminder of why taking a boater education course is so important.”

Wardens say they also arrested five individuals for boating while intoxicated and one minor for boating under the influence.

During the same weekend in 2023, wardens responded to five boating accidents, two boating-related fatalities and two open-water drownings.

Officials say they expect to see fewer vessels in Texas waterways now that the Labor Day weekend has passed, game wardens would like to remind boaters that they shouldn’t become lax about safety.

Wear life jackets, operate at a safe speed, being aware of passengers and swimmers before starting the motor, avoid alcohol and follow the rules and regulations in the Texas Water Safety Act.