Douglas Lake Drowning Victim Recovered

The body of Daryl Lee Smart, 50, of Asheville, North Carolina resurfaced on Douglas Lake this morning about 7:20 a.m. as rescue crews were launching their boats to continue the recovery effort.  The victim’s body was recovered approximately 300 feet from the Nina Creek Access Area boat ramp.  Investigators say his body will be taken to Jefferson Memorial Hospital and an autopsy has been requested. 

Mr. Smart went missing yesterday afternoon around 12:30 after jumping into the lake from a pontoon boat with Kristen Kirby of Canton, NC.  The couple was attempting to get their dog to jump into water with them when a gust of wind caused the boat to separate from them. 

TWRA reminds anyone swimming to wear a personal flotation device and keep one near them at all times. TWRA also sends condolences to Mr. Smart’s family and extends their gratitude to all of the rescue crews and agencies who assisted with the search.