Authorities confirm body of boater found this morning on High Rock

Published 10:43 am Tuesday, September 4, 2018

HIGH ROCK LAKE — The body of a Lexington boater who went missing on High Rock Lake was found about 8 a.m. Tuesday, according to Rowan County authorities.

The body of George Goins was found on the shoreline near Crane Creek, authorities said.

Goins, 51, reportedly jumped off a pontoon boat on High Rock Lake on Sunday. He jumped while the boat was moving and was not wearing a life vest. Goins went under and never resurfaced, authorities said.

The Millers Ferry and Liberty fire departments, Rowan County Rescue Squad, North Carolina Department of Wildlife officers, and local law officers assisted with the recovery.

Officials from multiple agencies and jurisdictions had been working since Sunday evening to locate Goins. They worked well into the night Sunday and suspended their efforts about 11:40 p.m. The recovery efforts resumed at 7 a.m. Monday and continued until 6 p.m.

The search area covered more than three square miles and involved more than 14 agencies and 20-plus man hours. Officials said the search included the use of specialized equipment and cadaver dogs.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all effected by this tragic event,” Rowan County officials said.