Accident Database

Report ID# 763

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  • Caught in Low Head Dam Hydraulic
  • Does not Apply
  • Solo Paddling

Accident Description

The body of a retired piano tuner was found in the backwash of the Plymouth Dam on Pennsylvania's Schuylkill River. David Moore, 73, had taken up kayaking three years earlier. He was paddling alone on August 11th when the accident happened.

An article in the Philadelphia Inquirer forwarded by Bill Pearlstein stated that Mr. Moore was wearing a life vest. His wife said he knew the area well and always portaged around the dam. There were no witnesses, so we'll never know exactly what happened. His wife became concerned when he did not return at 4:00 p.m. as planned. As darkness fell she notified police. His kayak was never recovered.

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