New details on 13-year-old boy who died in boating accident near Frazee

Incident happened at North Central Camp Cherith
Published: Jun. 22, 2023 at 5:13 PM CDT|Updated: Jun. 23, 2023 at 4:26 PM CDT

FRAZEE, Minn. (Valley News Live) - A 13-year-old boy who died after a boating accident in Otter Tail County, Minnesota, was attending a Christian summer camp. The Otter Tail County Sheriff originally said a 15-year-old boy was hit by a boat propeller around 4:15 p.m. Thursday on Lake Six, which is about five miles southwest of Frazee.

They’ve now identified the victim as Benjamin Rennie, 13, of the Andover and Coon Rapids areas.

Sheriff’s officials say two juveniles were riding on an inner tube being pulled by a boat operated by a 27-year-old North Central Camp Cherith employee from Fargo. Both kids fell off the tube, and authorities say Rennie was accidentally struck by the boat as they were attempting to pick him up. Both of them were wearing floatation devises.

The teen was rescued from the water and several first responders were called to the area. The boy was taken from the scene in a helicopter. Life-saving measures were attempted at the scene, but were unsuccessful.

The Executive Director at Camp Cherith, Kendra Mohn, released a statement about the tragic situation saying, “It is with a very heavy heart that I share with you a tragedy that occurred at North Central Camp Cherith this afternoon. At about 4:15 p.m. a camper died in a boating accident. Staff members attempted life-saving care while emergency responders were enroute. I am sad to say, professionals were not able to save the camper’s life. Please pray for this camper’s family and all those grieving after this accident.”

Sheriff’s officials say no criminal charges are expected, and no foul play or alcohol is suspected. The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the OTCSO Water Patrol Division, Vergas Fire and Rescue, Perham Ambulance and Life Link. The investigation is currently ongoing.

“This is just a tragic accident,” says Chief Deputy Reed Reinbold.

According to the Camp Cherith website, activities involving boats at the summer camp include fishing and waterskiing. The camp schedule indicates June 18-23 was “Boys Week 1.″ Girls Week 1 is scheduled to happen June 25-30, and summer camps for kids and families are scheduled to continue through September.