First responders in Albany County successfully rescued 12 individuals after a boat capsized on Lake Hattie on the evening of June 22, County 10 reports.
The group, which included eight adults and four children, was in the water attempting to swim to shore when emergency crews arrived.
According to the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, the call came in at 6:33 p.m., prompting a joint response from the Sheriff’s Office, Laramie Fire Department, and Big Laramie Volunteer Fire Department. Lake Hattie, located about 27 miles southwest of Laramie, was experiencing strong winds at the time of the incident, making conditions on the water challenging.
Upon arrival around 6:58 p.m., deputies observed two separate groups of people struggling approximately 50 to 75 yards from the shore. Some individuals were still near the capsized boat, which had drifted toward the lake’s center.
Emergency personnel quickly entered the water to assist. Two adults and three children were rescued from one group, while the Albany County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) rescue boat recovered three additional adults and two children from near the boat. All individuals were brought to safety.
On-site medical teams from the Laramie Fire Department treated several individuals for exhaustion and symptoms of hypothermia. No serious injuries were reported.
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the coordinated efforts of all responding agencies and emphasized the importance of water safety.
“We’re proud of our deputies and grateful for the support of our partners… Most of all, we’re thankful that everyone made it home safely,” the release stated.
