Autopsy Reveals Mysterious Cause of Death in 7-Year-Old Girl Who Fell from Boat

Tragic Incident Highlights Dangers of Carbon Monoxide on Boats

An 11-year-old girl who died after falling off a boat from a Wisconsin lake had been sitting too close to the engine and was poisoned by carbon monoxide, according to an autopsy. This rare occurrence is often referred to as the "station wagon effect." The tragic event took place around 4 p.m. on July 27 on Lake Alexander in Lincoln County. The young victim, identified as Maisy Livingston, fell overboard and lost her life. Her body was recovered from the lake approximately four hours later.

The initial autopsy indicated that carbon monoxide toxicity contributed to her death, leading to drowning. The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office confirmed in a press release that Maisy "is believed to have suffered sudden loss of consciousness due to carbon monoxide toxicity, which caused her to fall out of the boat."

Three other individuals on the boat were also treated for carbon monoxide toxicity and are currently in stable condition in local hospitals. Authorities are urging boaters to be aware of this risk, even in open air, as engines can emit harmful gas into the surrounding air, even if not in an enclosed space.

Following the tragic accident, heartfelt tributes poured in for Maisy, with her family describing her in an obituary as having a "fun-loving spirit" and being a "true joy to all who knew her, and her absence leaves a deep ache."

There is no suspicion of foul play or negligence. While it's not a common occurrence, the sheriff's office has documented numerous incidents where boats moving at slow speeds for extended periods allowed carbon monoxide to accumulate in and around the watercraft. This can happen even in open-air boats without an enclosed cabin area.

Boaters should stay alert to wind conditions and be aware of this potential danger. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and can be deadly. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness and even death.

Maintaining proper ventilation throughout the boat, especially in enclosed spaces like the cabin, is vital and something all boat owners should be aware of. On larger boats with generators that vent toward the rear, CO can accumulate near the swim deck or water platform. This buildup can be deadly within seconds. CO can collect in the air space below the stern deck or around the swim deck, creating a serious risk for anyone in these areas.

When boats are moving slowly or idling, CO can accumulate in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces such as the cabin, cockpit, bridge, aft deck, and even open areas. Wind blowing from the back of the boat can push exhaust gases (and CO) into areas where people are present, increasing the risk of poisoning. Boats with a high bow angle, those that are overloaded, or those with openings that draw in exhaust can also experience increased CO buildup.

Key Safety Tips for Boaters

• Stay Alert: Be aware of wind conditions and how they might affect the movement of carbon monoxide.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure that all enclosed spaces on the boat are well-ventilated.
• Avoid High-Risk Areas: Stay away from areas near the engine, swim decks, and stern decks where carbon monoxide can accumulate.
• Regular Maintenance: Check the boat’s engine and exhaust system regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and what to do in case of exposure.

This incident serves as a reminder of the hidden dangers that can exist on the water. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, boaters can help prevent similar tragedies from occurring.