A 54-year-old Roanoke man drowned Tuesday afternoon in Smith Mountain Lake after jumping into the water for a swim and failing to resurface. Authorities have identified the victim as James Lavender. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) confirmed his death and is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the Penhook area of the lake in Franklin County around 3:40 p.m. on June 10 following reports of a boating emergency. According to officials, Lavender had been fishing with four other individuals when he decided to go for a swim. Witnesses said he swam only a short distance from the boat before he began to struggle and ultimately went under. He was not wearing a life jacket at the time.
Despite the rapid response from Smith Mountain Lake Fire and Rescue, as well as the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Lavender could not be saved. His body was later recovered from the lake. Authorities have not yet determined whether medical issues, water conditions, or other factors may have contributed to the drowning. The DWR stated the incident remains under active investigation.
Lavender’s death is the second water-related emergency reported on the lake that same day. In a separate incident near the Moneta area, another man was pulled from the water and airlifted to a hospital. His condition has not been released, and investigators are still gathering details about that case. Officials have not found any connection between the two incidents.
Following these events, state and local agencies are reminding the public about the importance of water safety, especially during the busy summer season. Life jackets, kill switches, and emergency preparedness can make a critical difference in avoiding tragedy. Even experienced swimmers are encouraged to use flotation devices, particularly when boating or swimming in deep or unfamiliar waters.
The Roanoke community is mourning the sudden loss of James Lavender, whose afternoon on the water turned fatal within moments. No information has been released about funeral services or memorial plans. As the investigation continues, officials hope that increased awareness and adherence to safety measures will help prevent similar accidents in the future.
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