TWRA reports Fishing Fatality on Percy Priest Lake

Rutherford County, TN – The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) reports a fall from a fishing vessel near Jefferson Springs Recreation Area in Rutherford County on Monday morning, October 18th, 2021 results in one man losing his life.

The accident occurred around 10:45am. Two men were in a boat, trolling, moving at a steady slow pace, as they were fishing, when one individual fell overboard.

Interview accounts indicate that Danny Michael Pitts, 56, Rutherford County, lost his balance while attempting to hook a fish and fell into the water. The remaining occupant of the boat attempted to assist Mr. Pitts by throwing floatation devices and turning the boat back in the direction of the victim to attempt a rescue. The 56-year-old disappeared underwater before a rescue could be made.

He was not wearing a lifejacket.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency along with Rutherford County Fire Rescue, Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, Rutherford County EMS, and Rutherford County Emergency Management Agency responded to the emergency.

The victim was located around 1:00pm using side-scan sonar and Rutherford County Fire Rescue divers made a recovery shortly after.