James and Elmer Crumbley die in tragic Lake Cunningham drowning
Fatal Lake Cunningham drowning deaths of James and Elmer Crumbley – Obituary
In a heartbreaking incident at Lake Cunningham, two men, James and Elmer Crumbley, drowned on Wednesday morning while attempting to launch their fishing boat.
This marks the second and third drownings in the area within just five days, following the death of another individual on Saturday night.
Omaha Police have identified the victims as James and Elmer Crumbley. Just days before this tragedy, Ali Zolfaghari Sichani, a UNO graduate student, also drowned after entering the water while rafting.
Omaha Fire Battalion Chief Coby Werner noted that while drownings are a yearly occurrence, the frequency and proximity of these recent incidents are unusual. Chief Werner emphasizes the importance of water safety and the necessity of wearing a life vest. “Spending time on the water is a great way to enjoy the summer, but please ensure your safety by knowing your limitations and always wearing your life vest,” he advised.
These incidents represent the first drownings of 2024 in the Omaha area. Drownings can occur unexpectedly, as was the case with Sichani, who was rafting with friends when he disappeared, and the Crumbleys, who were launching their boat.
Brook Bench, Executive Director of the Lake Cunningham Development Trust, mentioned that it has been years since the lake experienced any fatalities. He cautioned that the lake’s conditions can change rapidly.
“The wind can pick up suddenly, making the lake appear calm one moment and rough the next. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience and hope to avoid further tragedies,” Bench said.
Both Bench and Chief Werner stress that wearing a life vest is essential for anyone spending time on the water.
Fatal Lake Cunningham drowning deaths of James and Elmer Crumbley – Obituary In a heartbreaking incident at Lake Cunningham, two men, James and Elmer Crumbley, drowned on Wednesday morning while attempting to launch their fishing boat. This marks the second and third drownings in the area within just five days, following the death of another…
Fatal Lake Cunningham drowning deaths of James and Elmer Crumbley – Obituary In a heartbreaking incident at Lake Cunningham, two men, James and Elmer Crumbley, drowned on Wednesday morning while attempting to launch their fishing boat. This marks the second and third drownings in the area within just five days, following the death of another…