DNR stresses boating safety following Monday's lake tragedy

UNDATED - In light of this week's deadly boating accident on Lake Lanier, officials with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources are stressing the importance of boating safety... especially after dark.

"You know, we see a lot of accidents during the day, but we see the worst accidents during the night," said DNR Sgt. Greg Colson.

Colson told Fox 5 News there have been three boating fatalities on the lake so far this year, and all three occurred at night and involved boats.

He also said alcohol is often a factor in boating accidents, including the one that took the life of a 9-year-old boy and his 13-year-old brother on Monday night in the Shoal Creek area of Lake Lanier.

Authorities said the driver of the boat that hit the boat those brothers were riding in has been charged with boating under the influence.

"There's no reason for somebody to be on this lake drinking and driving a boat," Colson said. "You see a lot of speed and a lot of people having fun, but if you're responsible with it, you're fine."