Multiple Drownings Reported in Montana, Georgia, Oakland County Over July 4 Weekend

Over the July 4 holiday weekend, multiple drowning incidents occurred across the United States, highlighting the dangers of water activities during this period. In Montana, two people drowned in separate incidents at the Boulder River and Stillwater River, with one victim identified as 21-year-old Aiden Lueken. In Georgia, a 15-year-old boy drowned in the Ocmulgee River, and a 4-year-old girl died following a pontoon boat accident on Lake Oconee. In Michigan's Oakland County, two men died in separate drownings within 12 hours: 49-year-old Jason Dwane Brookshire, who was not wearing a lifejacket and where alcohol was suspected, and 86-year-old Gerald Vernus Burge, who had dementia. Authorities emphasized the tragic nature of these incidents and reiterated the importance of safety precautions around water. Rescue teams and law enforcement continue to investigate these cases while urging the public to remain vigilant during water activities.