A Trumbull man tragically lost his life late Wednesday, July 3, 2024, after his body was pulled from the water at Pinewood Lake, in the Nichols section of Trumbull. The victim, identified as 38-year-old William Krahe, was discovered underwater and brought to shore by emergency responders. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at Saint Vincent’s Medical Center.
The incident unfolded just after 7:00 p.m. when Krahe, who had been at the lake with family members, was swimming near a floating dock anchored a short distance from the shoreline beach. Witnesses reported that Krahe went under the water and did not resurface. Immediate efforts by lifeguards and other swimmers to locate him proved unsuccessful, leading to a rapid escalation in the search and rescue efforts.
Nichols Fire Captain John Plofkin and Trumbull Police Sergeant Robert Harry, a member of the department’s Dive Team, responded swiftly to the emergency. Their expertise and quick action were crucial in locating Krahe at the bottom of the lake. Working together, Plofkin and Harry managed to bring Krahe to the surface and onto their small rescue boat. Once aboard, additional members of the Nichols and Trumbull Center Fire Departments provided critical medical treatment while transporting him to shore.
Upon reaching the shore, Trumbull EMS took over medical treatment and transported Krahe to Saint Vincent’s Medical Center. Despite the comprehensive and coordinated rescue efforts, Krahe could not be revived and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Pinewood Lake and beach area were temporarily closed late Wednesday and early Thursday. Authorities conducted thorough interviews with witnesses on the scene as part of their investigation. Preliminary information from the investigation indicated that the drowning was accidental, providing some clarity amidst the tragedy.
The Pinewood Lake Association, a private community organization in the Nichols section of Trumbull, oversees the property that includes the lake, a small beach, and a clubhouse, spanning approximately sixty acres. Membership to the association is restricted and managed by the organization, reflecting the close-knit nature of the community.
The death of William Krahe has left a profound impact on the Trumbull community, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and safety around water activities. As family, friends, and community members mourn his loss, they also express gratitude for the swift actions of the lifeguards, swimmers, and emergency responders who did everything in their power to save him.
The tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers present in recreational water environments and underscores the importance of safety measures and awareness to prevent such occurrences in the future.
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