The body of a man who went missing in a Lancaster County lake has been recovered.
Officials closed Pawnee Lake after the 31 year old Lincoln man went missing Friday. Authorities say Travis Wilkins was being pulled on a tube by a jet ski when the tube capsized. Another man and a four year old were also riding on the tube. Those two were able to safely reach the shore, but only the four year old was wearing a life jacket.
Wilkins' body was recovered just after sundown on Saturday. An autopsy will be conducted.
A number of emergency and law enforcement crews were on hand to assist Nebraska Game and Parks officers with search and recovery efforts. Crews assisting with the search included, the volunteer fire and rescue departments in Malcolm and Raymond, Lincoln Fire Department, United States ATV Search and Rescue, the Salvation Army, Lancaster County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska State Patrol and Midwest Specialty Divers.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds anyone who visits a lake this summer to keep the following in mind:
- Wear a Life Jacket – Children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a United States Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. People being towed by a boat on skis, a tube, or other similar device also must wear a life jacket.
- Avoid Alcohol – Boat operators can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence is a criminal violation and is enforced actively in Nebraska.
- Have All Required Safety Equipment – This will help boaters be prepared if an emergency occurs. Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats. For a list of what is required on a boat, check out the 2018 Boating Guide at OutdoorNebraska.org.
- Be Wary of Surroundings – The best boat operators constantly are looking around for other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel
- Take a Boating Safety Course – Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1985, who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course. Find classes and register at OutdoorNebraska.org.