The preliminary cause of death for 18-year-old Carson Hughes, who went missing at an Indiana state park and was found in Versailles Lake, has been revealed as probable cold-water drowning, with no signs of injury. The final autopsy report and cause of death are pending toxicology results, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
The body of 18-year-old Carson Hughes, who was reported missing on Friday at Versailles State Park in Indiana, has been found in the lake. His vehicle was discovered unlocked with keys inside near the boat ramp, and his kayak was found on the water nearby. Indiana Conservation Officers recovered his body in six feet of water, and an exact cause of death is pending autopsy results. Multiple agencies from Ohio and Indiana assisted in the search and recovery operation, including civilian volunteers.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is asking for information regarding an illegal dump of shingles on private property near Jasper, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and contact them.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is participating in the annual Operation Dry Water campaign from July 1 to July 3 to combat impaired boating, with alcohol use being the leading cause of boating accidents and deaths. The campaign aims to educate boaters about the dangers of impaired boating and promote safe practices such as enrolling in boater education courses and wearing life jackets. Last year, 794 impaired operators were removed from waterways nationwide during the Operation Dry Water weekend.