Body Recovered In Posey County After Man Falls Into Lake

Last updated on Wednesday, July 4, 2018

(POSEY CO.) - Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a possible drowning after a 77 year old Posey County man fell from his boat into the water.

77-year-old Dennis Happel of Wadesville got a fishing hook stuck in his hand after trying to unhook a bass he had caught. While trying to do this, he fell into the water. His wife was unable to save him and called 911 at approximately 10 a.m. Tuesday morning for assistance.

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Public Safety Divers with the Perry Township Fire Department and Indiana Conservation Officers recovered Happel at 11:55 a.m. in ten to twelve feet of water.

The incident occurred on a small lake owned by Happel and there were no life jackets on the boat or near the water to assist him.

The boat being used was a small boat, approximately ten feet in length. No foul play is suspected.

Responding agencies included the Wadesville Fire Department, Marrs Township Fire Department, Perry Township Fire Department, Griffin Fire Department, Posey County Sheriff's Office, Posey County EMS, Posey County Coroner's Office and Indiana Conservation Officers.

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