Man dies in boating accident on Kentucky lake, brother charged

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. – A man is behind bars after a fatal boating accident in Laurel County.

According to a uniform citation, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Resources responded to a call around 4:55 p.m. Tuesday near Marsh Branch Boat Ramp at Laurel River Lake.

Officials say they received a call about a boating accident. The Laurel County Coroner’s Office has confirmed one person, John Peace, had died.

Upon arrival, officials say they made contact with 53-year-old Don Peace of Corbin, along with two other witnesses.

Officials say all three individuals confirmed Don Peace had been operating the boat at the time of the accident.

The citation states officials a preliminary breath test was conducted on Don Peace after they noticed the strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from all three individuals.

Don Peace was arrested and charged with operating a boat/watercraft while intoxicated or under the influence, first offense, and vehicular homicide under the influence of alcohol.

Don Peace remains at the Laurel County Detention Center.