Tameka Foster, the ex-wife of R&B singer Usher, has launched an online petition to drain Lake Lanier on the 11th anniversary of a jet ski accident on the lake that led to her son's death.
Kile Glover, 11, and his father, Ryan Glover, were vacationing at Lake Lanier in July 2012 when Jeffrey Simon Hubbard, 39, of Atlanta, crashed a personal watercraft into an inner tube that Kile was riding on. Kile died several days after the accident. A friend of Kile's who was also on the tube was seriously injured in the incident.
Hubbard was sentenced to four years in prison following a trial in early 2014.
As of noon Wednesday, almost 1,500 people had signed the petition on Change.org.
"The unique circumstances created by the lake's location require a proactive approach to enhance safety measures and prevent accidents," the petition reads. "By acknowledging and addressing these risks, we can foster an environment that prioritizes the well-being of all individuals."
The petition specifically called for the following measures:
1. Drain, clean and restore the lake to remove any potential hazards materials, debris, and potential dangers lurking within the lake to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors.
2. Implement stricter regulations and proper zoning for various water-related activities, ensuring that all users of the lake abide by safety guidelines and regulations.
3. Enhance the enforcement of rules and regulations to prevent avoidable accidents and tragedies.
4. Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the altered current patterns caused by the lake's construction over a city. Utilize this information to implement enhanced safety measures, including designated areas for specific activities and appropriate signage to educate visitors about potential risks.
5. Collaborate with experts in water safety and recreation to develop and implement comprehensive safety protocols, guidelines, and educational programs for lake visitors of all ages.
6. Engage with local communities, visitors, and stakeholders to address concerns, gather feedback, and foster a sense of transparency, empathy, and accountability in ensuring lake safety.
7. Promote responsible water-based recreation while protecting the lake's ecosystem and natural resources.8. Acknowledge and rectify the racial and Confederate associations tied to the lake through educational initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and the promotion of inclusivity and unity. Emphasize the importance of creating an environment that welcomes and respects individuals from all backgrounds.
