A frightening boating incident on Chemong Lake captured the attention of our community this weekend when an unattended motorboat careened out of control before crashing into a residential dock north of Peterborough.
The dramatic scene unfolded Sunday evening, June 28, 2026, when the operator of a motorboat towing an inflatable tube was thrown from the vessel around 6:15 p.m. With no one at the helm, the boat continued running and began circling Chemong Lake while still towing the tube.
Video footage submitted to Global News shows the speeding boat veering sharply into a dock, where it collided with two other boats moored at the property. Witnesses estimate the runaway vessel circled the lake for approximately 20 minutes before the collision finally brought it to a stop.
Fortunately, quick-thinking boaters on the water prevented what could have been a tragedy. Peterborough County OPP report that both the original boat operator and the individual on the inflatable tube were rescued by another person operating a personal watercraft. Both were safely transported to shore.
The collision occurred at a residence on Poplar Point Road in Selwyn Township. The impact was severe enough to finally shut off the boat's motor, ending its uncontrolled journey across the lake.
Despite the dramatic nature of the incident and the damage to property, no serious injuries were reported. The scene serves as a stark reminder of the importance of boat safety, particularly the use of engine cut-off switches that automatically stop a motor when an operator is ejected.
Peterborough County OPP continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. As the summer boating season continues on our local waterways, this event underscores the critical need for proper safety equipment and vigilance on the water.
