Authorities Recover Body Of 8-Year-Old Boy From Oologah Lake

The body of an 8-year-old boy has been recovered from Oologah Lake, Rogers County authorities say.

Deputies say he was last seen about 4 p.m. on Sunday at a public swimming area near Hawthorn Bluff campground.

Firefighters and OHP lake patrol also searched for the boy, whose body was recovered from the lake about 6 p.m.

Officials say the boy was not wearing a life jacket and they don't know exactly how long he was in the water before drowning.

The child's family was gathered around the beach all night, in an incredibly emotional state as they struggle with the news. One of the boy's family members walked with deputies and firefighters as they escorted the body to a waiting ambulance. We saw the man faint, and while he was down received medical attention.

"It's been very stressful, very stressful situation," OHP Trooper Brian Gage said. "No easy way of handling the loss of a child."

A witness said he watched as the recovery team searched the water with sonar-equipped boats and a scuba diver.

Another boy who was swimming at the time said he was shocked when authorities cleared the beach.

"They said 'there's a missing child, and we need everyone out of the water immediately,'" Landon Brown said. "That just scared all of us."

Authorities say it has been a busy -- and now tragic -- holiday weekend so far and they cannot stress enough that everyone should be wearing a life jacket.