Skip to Main Content

Press Release

Press releases may contain information regarding programs, policies, regulation, rules, or fees of DWR and are current at the date of release. Information beyond that date is subject to change. Please contact DWR for further inquiries.

For Immediate Release

September 18, 2022

Contact:

Paige Pearson
[email protected]
804-370-0044

Lake Chesdin Boat Accident – Double Fatality

Richmond, VA — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) are investigating a fatal boating incident that took the lives of two boaters on Lake Chesdin. The accident occurred near Oxford Drive in Dinwiddie County. Preliminary reports indicate two vessels collided causing the operator and passenger of each vessel to be ejected into the water. Two individuals were rescued by a good samaritan and the other two boaters did not resurface. No lifejackets were worn.

The incident is under further investigation by the Virginia Conservation Police Boat Accident Investigation Team. The Department of Wildlife Resources is the state boating agency for the Commonwealth of Virginia and is accredited by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

No matter what time of year you go boating, always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Also, have a plan to reboard your boat in case the unexpected happens and you end up in the water.

To learn more about boating laws in Virginia and information on boating, boating education and water safety, please visit: dwr.virginia.gov/boating. Remember, everyone wants to have a safe, enjoyable day on the water. Do your part by wearing your life jacket and taking a boating safety education course.

ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET. IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.

PLEASE DO NOT DISREGARD SAFETY MESSAGES. THEY ARE THERE TO PROTECT YOU!