1 life claimed, another hospitalized after jetski crash at Lake Thunderbird
Posted on Thursday, May 21st, 2026 at 9:42 pm
NORMAN, OK – One life was claimed, and another was hospitalized after a jetski crash at Lake Thunderbird last Thursday, May 14, Koco5 reports.
Oklahoma Highway Patrol said a 19-year-old man, who was operating a WaveRunner jetski, had made a sudden, sharp turn, causing a crash that sent him and his passenger, a 20-year-old man, overboard.
The 19-year-old man’s body did not resurface and was found a day later, on Friday, May 15, by an emergency diving team. They have since identified the victim as George Gouldsby.
Someone on the shore was able to pull out the 20-year-old man from the water, and EMS crews transported him to a hospital for treatment. Officials did not specify the severity of his injuries, but said he was expected to survive.
Oklahoma Highway Patrol later confirmed Gouldsby and his passenger did not wear lifejackets while on the watercraft.
Brian Corn, a camper at Lake Thunderbird, noted that it was particularly windy that day, making it unsuitable and dangerous to enjoy any sort of water activity. OHP has not specified if the windy conditions also could have played a part in the deadly crash. Still, they continue to investigate.
This information is presented as a way to help keep our community safer and is not meant to be taken as legal advice. However, the Oklahoma boat accident attorneys at the Abel Law Firm have helped clients secure financial compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident involving another vehicle, contact us today for a free consultation.
