Tragedy Strikes Little Muskego Lake: 10-Year-Old Dies in Boating Accident, Sparking Safety Calls

Last Updated on June 9, 2025

Tragedy Strikes Little Muskego Lake: 10-Year-Old Dies in Boating Accident, Sparking Safety Calls

A tragic boating accident on Little Muskego Lake claimed the life of a 10-year-old child on Saturday, June 7, at approximately 10 a.m. The incident, which occurred near Idle Isle Park, has prompted widespread grief and renewed discussions about boating safety on Wisconsin's waterways. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Key Takeaways

A 10-year-old child died after a boating accident on Little Muskego Lake.
The incident involved a 74-year-old man operating a boat that collided with a stationary vessel.
The child was a fourth-grader at Ronald Reagan Elementary School, with the school year having just concluded.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Muskego Police Department are jointly investigating the crash.
Community members and boating enthusiasts are emphasizing the critical importance of vigilance and safety on the water.

Details Of The Incident

The collision took place when a boat operated by a 74-year-old man, with one other person on board, struck a stationary boat occupied by three individuals, including the 10-year-old victim. Emergency services, including the Muskego Police Department and Tess Corners Fire Department, responded to the scene. The injured child received immediate medical attention and was transported to a local hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries. No other significant injuries were reported among those involved.

Community Reaction And Safety Concerns

The news of the child's death has deeply affected the community. Ronald Reagan Elementary School in New Berlin, where the child was a fourth-grader, shared a heartfelt message with families, expressing profound sadness and announcing a GoFundMe to support the grieving family. The timing of the tragedy, just one day after the school year ended, has added to the sorrow.

James Bauer, a Waukesha resident with experience in the boating industry, emphasized the critical nature of boating safety. "Boat safety is crucial—it's essential to pay attention to your surroundings because boats don’t have brakes like cars do," Bauer stated. He added that the incident would make him "extra cautious" in his future boating practices. Camila Gonzalez, a seasonal visitor to Little Muskego Lake, echoed these sentiments, urging vigilance: "You need to always stay vigilant, keep your eyes on the wheel, and pay attention to what’s ahead of you."

Ongoing Investigation

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is leading the investigation into the accident, with assistance from the Muskego Police Department. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the specific circumstances that led to the crash, nor have they indicated whether drugs or alcohol were contributing factors. The investigation aims to determine the cause and contributing factors of the incident. This marks the fifth fatal boating accident in Wisconsin this year and the first in Waukesha County.