Fatal Boating Crash On Lake Winnisquam

TILTON, N.H. – A man is deceased following a crash involving a scull rowing boat and a pontoon boat on Lake Winnisquam. 

At 6:42 a.m. today, July 28, 2024, the New Hampshire State Police Marine Patrol unit was notified of a boating crash on Lake Winnisquam. Marine Patrol officers responded and determined Thomas Mead, 76, of Tilton, had been operating a scull when he was struck by a pontoon boat, operated by a 17-year-old male. 

The operator of the pontoon boat was able to get Mead aboard his vessel and began CPR. Resuscitation efforts were continued by the operator until fire rescue units arrived on the scene. Mead was then transported by ambulance to Concord Hospital – Laconia where he was pronounced deceased.

Agencies that responded to the scene and assisted the New Hampshire State Police - Marine Patrol include the Tilton Police Department, Sanbornton Police Department, Belmont Fire Department, Franklin Fire Department and Tilton-Northfield Fire & EMS.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information that may assist in the investigation is asked to contact Marine Patrol Sgt. Joshua Dirth at (603) 227-2115 or Joshua.E.Dirth@DOS.NH.GOV.