Kite surfer found dead in Lake Koshkonong
A missing kite surfer from Illinois was found dead on the southeast side of Lake Koshkonong early today.
Jeffrey S. Meissner, 40, of Huntley, Ill., was pronounced dead at the scene by Jefferson County Coroner Pat Theder.
The Rock County Sheriff’s Department described the death as a drowning, but an autopsy is planned.
Authorities received a call at 8:12 p.m. Monday reporting Meissner missing.
Using coordinates provided by the victim’s cell phone provider, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department found the victim’s vehicle about 30 minutes later. Meissner’s green Saturn was parked near W8717 White Crow Road, east of Caracajou Road, on the north central part of Lake Koshkonong.
A witness reported that he last saw the kite surfer on the lake off Carcajou Point about 4:30 p.m., according to the Rock County Sheriff’s Department.
The Lake Mills, Fort Atkinson and Milton fire departments responded with boats, equipment and search teams. The Jefferson County and Rock County boat patrols were also activated.
At 11:15 p.m., teams using thermal imaging devices and spotlights began searching the lake. At 1:25 a.m., they found the sail and board on the southeast side of the lake.
Meissner’s body was found an estimated 30 minutes later in the water near Koshkonong Mounds Golf Course.
Nov 21, 2007 at 5:04 p.m.
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A good hearted man, passionate about his sport was doing what he knows best. He will be missed by ALL. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and family. A co-worker
Nov 21, 2007 at 3:50 a.m.
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Why did it take three hours for them to start searching.
Nov 20, 2007 at 8:31 p.m.
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"I didn't realize people windsurfed on Koshkonong."
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Then you don't realize how many user groups enjoy Lake Koshkonong.
Nov 20, 2007 at 4:50 p.m.
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It's a bit chilly for water sports, isn't it?
Shame....it's sad when people pass so close to the holidays.
Nov 20, 2007 at 12:24 p.m.
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Windsurfing and kite surfing are two different things. Kitesurfing uses big kites to pull you across the water, while windsurfing uses the classic sail attatched to the board. I didn't realize people windsurfed on Koshkonong.
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