Tragedy on Dale Hollow Reservoir: 35-Year-Old Christopher Berry Dies in Boating Accident
CELINA, Tenn. — A peaceful night of fishing turned into a heartbreaking tragedy early Wednesday morning as a boating accident on Dale Hollow Reservoir claimed the life of 35-year-old Christopher Berry.
According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), Berry was enjoying a camping trip with close friends and had taken their Allison bass boat out on the water for a solo night fishing excursion. The group had been camped near Sewell Bend, in the vicinity of First Island—an area known for its serene beauty and popular fishing spots.
At approximately 12:50 a.m. CDT, Berry reportedly lost his footing and fell overboard. Despite immediate efforts from nearby campers and responding agencies, Berry could not be located in the darkness of the night.
TWRA officers, utilizing sonar equipment and other advanced search tools, launched a recovery operation. After several hours of searching, Berry’s body was located in 72 feet of water and was recovered at around 8:30 a.m., bringing a somber end to an extensive and emotionally charged search.
His remains were transported to the Nashville Medical Examiner’s Office for further examination, as is standard protocol in cases of water-related fatalities.
The TWRA confirmed that Berry was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident—an unfortunate factor that continues to contribute to many similar incidents across the state each year.
“This is a deeply saddening event,” said a TWRA spokesperson. “Our hearts go out to Christopher Berry’s family and loved ones. We are once again reminded of the importance of life jacket use, especially during night excursions when visibility is low and water conditions can be unpredictable.”
The tragic loss of Christopher Berry marks Tennessee’s 12th boating-related fatality in 2025, underscoring an alarming trend that continues to challenge water safety advocates and officials. The TWRA has ramped up its public awareness campaigns urging boaters to wear life jackets, especially when fishing alone or operating boats in the dark.
Berry’s friends and family are now left to mourn the untimely loss of a man remembered by many as adventurous, warm-hearted, and deeply connected to the outdoors. In social media tributes and community posts, those who knew him described him as a loyal friend and passionate angler who found joy and solace on the water.
“Chris was the kind of person who brought people together,” one friend wrote. “He loved nature, loved fishing, and loved being out there under the stars. None of us ever expected a night like this to end so tragically.”
Local officials are also reminding boaters that summer months bring increased water traffic and encourage extra caution during all recreational activities on Tennessee’s lakes and rivers.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the accident, Berry’s passing serves as another sobering reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature—and the critical importance of safety precautions.
The community of Celina and the broader Dale Hollow region is grieving the sudden loss of one of their own. In the coming days, a memorial is expected to be organized to celebrate Berry’s life and legacy.
The TWRA urges anyone with questions about boating safety or regulations to visit their website or contact local wildlife officers for guidance.