Center Hill Lake, TN - As Independence Day draws crowds to Tennessee’s lakes and rivers, officials are urging boaters and swimmers to stay vigilant following a tragic boating accident on Center Hill Lake. The incident occurred around 6:00 o'clock Thursday (7/3/2025) evening, just 300 yards from Hurricane Marina. A Brentwood woman lost her life after a devastating encounter with an inboard engine propeller.
Emergency crews responded to the scene to find 57-year-old Mary Beth Foran of Brentwood unconscious beneath the vessel, with a man in the water attempting to rescue her. Investigators say she had jumped from a ski boat when she was fatally struck by the boat’s propeller. Her death marks the 13th boating-related fatality in the state this year.
With the holiday weekend in full swing, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is emphasizing a message of prevention and accountability on the water:
“Operation Dry Water”: A Statewide Crackdown on Impaired Boating
- From July 4–6, TWRA officers will be out in full force, targeting boating under the influence (BUI).
- The enforcement initiative carries a zero-tolerance policy—no warnings, just arrests.
- BUI penalties mirror those for driving under the influence: jail time, fines, and license suspensions.
A Lifesaving Habit: Wear a Life Jacket
- Life jackets remain one of the most critical tools for survival, especially with unpredictable water conditions.
- Many tragedies involve individuals unaware of nearby propellers, changing depths, or hidden currents.
Sobering Statistics on Tennessee Waterways
- 2023: 27 water-related deaths
- 2024: 22 deaths
- Mid-2025: Now 13 fatalities, including Foran’s
- Alcohol continues to be the leading cause of recreational boating deaths.
Tips to Stay Safe This Holiday Weekend
- Always designate a sober boat operator.
- Keep a spotter on board to watch for swimmers and hazards.
- Avoid swimming near engines and propellers.
- Ensure properly fitted life jackets are worn by all passengers, especially kids.
- Skip the stunts—no cliff diving or reckless maneuvers.
This Fourth of July, as fireworks light the sky, remember that water safety starts with smart decisions. A few moments of caution can save lives—and ensure the holiday ends in celebration, not sorrow.
