Monday I was sent to cover the tragic drowning of 5 young people at Castlewood State Park. We were there when the last two bodies were recovered, and the final scope of this tragedy began to take shape. This morning I heard the comments made by one woman, stating what a risk it was to take this group of kids to a river, because it's something they had no experience with. I agree the group needed closer supervision, or at least life jackets. Did you know there is no state law in Missouri requiring life jackets for people entering a river? It only applies to boats, and of course then it only requires that children actually strap them on. It would be tough to enforce, even it it was a law. I also interviewed a State Water Patrol officer who stated you should never go into the water after someone unless you are trained in lifesaving techniques. But consider this - the kids who went in to that river Sunday were trying to save brothers, a sister, and a friend. What would you do? Could you stop yourself from trying to do anything possible to save that life? I know if it was one of my children, I wouldn't hesitate. It may not be the smart answer, but it's honest.
Leave a comment