Man electrocuted in lake while visiting friends on Fourth of July, officials say

HUDDELSTON, Va. (WDBJ/Gray News) – One person was electrocuted and two others were hurt Thursday at Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia, about an hour southeast of Roanoke.

According to the Smith Mountain Lake Marine Fire and Rescue Department, fireboats were dispatched around 4 a.m. to the Craddock Creek Marina for reports of a drowning at a dock.

Officials said a man from Colorado was transported to a hospital, where he died.

Two others were injured but were walking around by the time first responders arrived.

Deputies said the man who died had jumped in the water. When the other two noticed he was in distress, they jumped in the water to help, but they immediately felt shocked.

Deputies said the electrocution was related to stray voltage at a dock.

The fireboat crew tested the water and confirmed electricity was found.

The dock is at a private residence and the homeowner has been notified. Officials said an electrician needs to fix the issue.

The death remains under investigation by the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said the victim was visiting friends with his family.