(Albany County, WY) – The Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Laramie Fire Department and Big Laramie Volunteer Fire Department were paged to Lake Hattie for a report of a capsized boat on June 22nd at 6:33 p.m. Crews reported that 12 people were on board and in distress attempting to get to shore. Eight adults and four children were assisted and some were treated for hypothermia and exhaustion symptoms.
Lake Hattie is located approximately 27 miles southwest of Laramie, or 15 miles southeast of Centennial.
The Albany County Sheriff’s Office released a full statement about the rescue.
—-
On June 22, 2025, at approximately 6:33 PM, deputies from the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Laramie Fire Department and Big Laramie Volunteer Fire Department, responded to Lake Hattie following a report of a capsized boat with multiple individuals in the water.
The initial report indicated that eight adults and four children were in the lake, attempting to swim to shore. While en route, deputies requested the ACSO rescue boat.
Deputies arrived on scene at approximately 6:58 PM and observed two separate groups of individuals struggling to reach the shore, approximately 50 to 75 yards out. The lake was experiencing strong winds, and additional victims were seen near the capsized boat, which had drifted toward the center of the lake. All victims appeared to be in distress and showing signs of exhaustion.
Deputies and Laramie Fire personnel immediately entered the water and successfully reached the two swimming groups, which included two adults and three children. Simultaneously, the ACSO boat was launched, and deputies recovered three adults and two juveniles from the capsized vessel.
All individuals were safely rescued and accounted for. The Laramie Fire Department provided medical care on scene, treating victims for exhaustion and symptoms of hypothermia.
We’re incredibly thankful this situation ended the way it did. Moments like this are a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation, teamwork, and staying calm under pressure. We’re proud of our deputies and grateful for the support of our partners at Laramie Fire, Big Laramie Volunteer Fire, and Laramie Law Enforcement/Fire Dispatch. Most of all, we’re thankful that everyone made it home safely.
As we head into the summer boating season, we strongly urge everyone to wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times while on the water. Life jackets save lives—they provide critical flotation and can mean the difference between life and tragedy, especially in unexpected emergencies. Along with checking weather conditions before you go, wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.