Edward Lachapelle dies in fatal Grand Island boating incident

Edward Lachapelle dies in fatal Grand Island boating incident

Fatal Grand Island boating incident death of Edward Lachapelle

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office reported that a boating incident on Grand Island has claimed the life of a Maine man, Edward Lachapelle, who fell into the Niagara River early Saturday morning.

Deputies stated that the 61-year-old victim, identified as Edward Lachapelle from Turner, Maine, went overboard from the stern of his sailboat while it was secured at the Sandy Beach Yacht Club. Authorities received a 9-1-1 call around 12:20 a.m. reporting that the man had fallen into the water and appeared to be struggling.

Emergency crews began a search operation right away. Approximately one hour later, rescuers found Lachapelle’s body more than 100 yards downstream from the point of impact.

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Lachapelle’s identity on Saturday afternoon. The investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing.