Remembering the Duck Boat Tragedy: One Year Later
A once-popular attraction in Branson, Missouri turned into a scene of heartbreak when 17 lives were lost in a duck boat accident on Table Rock Lake. One year later, the community reflects on the events that unfolded and the lives forever changed.
Read “A CLOSER LOOK: The Duck Boat tragedy and the events that followed” on KNWA Fox24
On the morning of July 19, families visiting Branson were eager for another day of vacation fun. Photos taken just before the tour show smiling faces as passengers boarded the boat, unaware of the looming tragedy. At 11:20 a.m., the National Weather Service issued a severe weather watch for southwest Missouri.
Later that evening, at approximately 6:55 p.m., 29 tourists and two captains boarded Stretch Duck 7 for what would be the final Ride the Ducks tour of the day. The amphibious vehicle, originally designed for military use, was built to navigate both land and water. But conditions on Table Rock Lake were deteriorating rapidly.
Shortly after the boat entered the water, it became clear the situation was dangerous. No passengers were seen wearing life jackets, and witnesses reported not seeing anyone swimming when the vessel sank. At 7:09 p.m., the first 911 call was made as strong waves overwhelmed the boat.
Panic set in as the vessel’s overhead canopy reportedly collapsed, trapping passengers inside and making escape nearly impossible. Ultimately, 17 people were killed, including members of multiple families. Seven more sustained injuries, and eight declined medical treatment at the scene.
First responders worked tirelessly through the evening to rescue survivors and recover victims. The events of that day deeply impacted the Branson community, which came together in the face of tragedy.
“This is who Branson is,” said one local. “When it comes down to the human spirit, everybody is on the same page—taking care of each other.”
Following the disaster, Ripley Entertainment, the company that owns Ride the Ducks, suspended all duck boat operations. It has since settled, or is in the process of settling, more than half of the lawsuits filed in connection with the incident. Many of those lawsuits involve the loss of nine members of the Coleman family from Indiana. Three employees, including the boat’s captain, now face federal charges.
The tragedy remains a somber reminder of the risks involved with amphibious vehicles and the importance of accountability and safety on the water.
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