Lake Geneva boat capsized, 3 children dead after storm hits area

LAKE GENEVA, Wis. – Three children died on Geneva Lake after a boat capsized during severe weather that caused “massive damage” across Walworth County on Friday afternoon.

Boat sinks in storm

What we know:

The Geneva Lake Police Department said 10 people – six adults and four children – were on a boat trying to get to safety when severe wind and waves overwhelmed the boat, it took on water, capsized and sank.

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The six adults and one of the children were rescued from the water, police said, while three of the kids were missing when emergency responders got there. Those three children were found and later died despite life-saving attempts. All four of the children were wearing life jackets when the boat capsized.

Emergency response on Geneva Lake after storms lead to calls for water rescue on July 3, 2026.

Walworth County storm damage

What we know:

Walworth County Undersheriff Tom Hausner said a strong storm caused “massive damage” when it hit southern Walworth County at around 12:10 p.m. A wave of 911 calls came in for reports of downed trees and power lines, vehicles crushed and people trapped in collapsed structures.

The sheriff’s office said an emergency call-in of all off-duty deputies took place, and mutual aid from surrounding counties and state agencies was requested, to respond to life-safety calls.

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Downed trees and power lines blocked roads and delayed emergency response efforts across the county. Hausner said the town of Geneva and Lake Como areas “sustained massive damage” in particular.

The City of Lake Geneva declared a state of emergency. Donian Park and Oak Hill Cemetery are closed until further notice due to dangerous conditions, while Flat Iron Park and Library Park will be closed through the evening to clear debris.