Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating the death of Dale E. Pugh, 68, Rochester, which occurred today at approximately 10:43 a.m.

Investigating officer Jon Cook stated that Pugh and an 83-year-old friend were fishing from a boat in a channel on the southwest side of the lake when Pugh partially stood up and then fell into the water and did not resurface.

Pugh’s friend jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue Pugh to no avail. The friend then swam back to his boat, which had floated some distance away and called out to a nearby fisherman. The nearby fisherman dialed 911 and came to Pugh’s friends assistance.

Rochester City Fire Department scuba divers entered the water at approximately 12:03 p.m. and made the recovery of Pugh’s body at approximately 12:20 p.m. The Fulton County Coroner’s office has the body and a cause of death has yet to be determined at this time.

Neither occupant of the boat were wearing a personal flotation device. In addition to the Rochester City Fire Department assistance, the Rochester City Police Department assisted at the scene as well.

Indiana Conservation Officers strongly encourage wearing a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device when in, on, or near the water.