An 11-year-old Wisconsin girl who tragically died after falling from a boat is now believed to have lost consciousness due to carbon monoxide poisoning before going overboard.
Maisy Livingston was on Lake Alexander in Merrill, Wisconsin, on Sunday, July 27, when she went missing in the water. On Tuesday, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office released an update revealing that preliminary autopsy results indicate carbon monoxide toxicity was likely a contributing factor in her death.
Authorities said Maisy fell into the lake after losing consciousness aboard the boat. Three others on board were also treated for carbon monoxide exposure and are expected to fully recover.
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“An autopsy was performed on Monday, July 28th,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “Preliminary findings indicated Carbon Monoxide Toxicity to be a likely contributing factor to Maisy’s death.”
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly when it displaces oxygen in the blood, leading to unconsciousness or death with little warning.
The sheriff’s office said no signs of foul play or negligence are suspected at this time, but the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident began around 3:28 p.m. on July 27, when officials received a report of a missing child in the water. Multiple emergency agencies launched a search, and Maisy’s body was located by sonar and recovered by dive teams around 7:03 p.m. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a Monday statement, the Merrill Fire Department said, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this extremely tragic situation. We deeply appreciate the collaboration by fellow first responders during this incident.”
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Officials have issued a safety warning to boaters, emphasizing the dangers of carbon monoxide even on open-air boats, especially when operating at slow speeds for prolonged periods.
“Boaters should remain aware of wind conditions and cognizant of this potential hazard,” the sheriff’s office added. “Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and can be fatal.”
Authorities urge all boaters to ensure proper ventilation and to be alert for signs of CO poisoning to avoid similar tragedies.
