TWRA investigating fatal boating accident on Norris Lake

CLAIBORNE COUNTY, TN (WLAF)— The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is investigating a fatal boating incident that occurred this morning on Norris Lake.

At approximately 9:03 a.m. EDT on July 21, TWRA game wardens responded to a report of an individual in the water in the Straight Creek area of Norris Lake in Claiborne County.

According to witnesses, a 65-year-old male had been found floating in the water near an unmanned bass boat that was later identified as belonging to him. Members of the Claiborne County Rescue Squad responded and transported the victim to Straight Creek Dock.

TWRA wardens are examining the vessel and will utilize GPS data as part of the ongoing investigation to determine the boat’s activity leading up to the incident.

The victim was wearing an inflatable personal flotation device, which was inflated when he was found in the water.

The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of additional family members. The investigation remains ongoing and this incident marks the 11th boating-related fatality on Tennessee waterways in 2026.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-07/21/2026-4PM)