Two members of the Iowa State crew club are dead after the boat they were rowing capsized during practice, plunging the five team members into frigid waters Sunday night, USA Today reports.
The team was practicing on Little Wall Lake, a 239-acre lake with a depth generally around 6 to 9 feet, but as deep as 13 feet in some areas. The weather at the lake on Sunday was windy, with average windspeed at 20-25 m.p.h. The water was choppy with a reported temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit.
Two members of the crew were able to swim to the shores of the lake, while a third was picked up by a kayaker. Rescuers found the body of the fourth Sunday night, while the body of the second victim was not discovered until Monday. The three surviving rowers had been treated at a local hospital and released.
“The Iowa State community is heartbroken to learn of this tragic accident at Little Wall Lake,” Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen said in a statement. “At this time, we are focused on providing support to club members, their families and friends. We ask that everyone keep them in their thoughts during this very difficult time.”