GEORGIA, ATLANTA: Another man has died at Georgia's Lake Lanier under seemingly inexplicable circumstances. Thomas Milner, 24, jumped into the water from his family's nearby dock on Thursday, July 27. Shortly after, he began screaming for help, appearing to be electrocuted from within the lake itself.
Reports indicate that family friends attempted to rescue Milner but were unsuccessful. A neighbor arrived with their boat, and one of its occupants jumped in to bring him ashore. This person reported feeling a burning sensation, possibly due to electricity, upon entering the water.
A diver briefly left the water to turn off a nearby power box and then returned to retrieve Milner. According to bystanders, Milner's uncle performed CPR until emergency medical teams arrived. Milner was soon rushed to Northside Forsyth Hospital but eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Who was Thomas Miner?
According to Atlanta News First, Martha Milner, Thomas' mother, said her son was "gentle and kind and loved the lake." Thomas, also known as Shepard or Shep, was 24 years old and the youngest of three children. Growing up at the family's lake property, he developed a strong love for water activities and was an adept swimmer. Thomas enjoyed riding the jet ski, swimming, and relaxing on the dock, accompanied by his favorite music, his mother noted.
Thomas, who had a diverse taste in music, often played the role of DJ during family vacations and gatherings. His mother remembered that he was also a talented OneWheel rider who frequently explored the Greenway to connect with nature. He had been working at Carrabas at the Collectio for almost a decade at the time of his death.
Martha also remembered her son's intelligence, noting he would engage in insightful conversations with her PhD friends on various subjects. "Most of all, Shepard was gentle and kind, loving and accepting. He didn’t care what your beliefs were; politically, racially, sexually. Everyone was equal in his eyes. Shepard was known for his quirkiness, his humor and his dedication," Martha added.
How was Milner electrocuted?
The grieving mother also stated that their lake property's dock, less than three years old, was equipped with electricity by a licensed electrician. Boaters, including Chris Morris, expressed their sadness upon hearing about the tragic death on Sunday, July 30.
“It’s a freak accident,” he said.
Lake Lanier officials have previously warned the public about the risk of "electric shock drowning" caused by electric currents in the water, possibly stemming from faulty outlets. Additionally, a dam close to the location generates substantial power for the surrounding counties.
Over the years, Lake Lanier has been associated with numerous fatalities, dating back to the '50s, leading authorities to caution people to swim in the lake at their own risk.
