Following Tuesday’s fatal boating accident on the Holston River below the TVA John Sevier Fossil Plant near Rogersville, the TWRA has released the identities of the victim and others involved.
Arvil Eugene Teaster, 65, from Rogersville was killed in the incident when he was swept into the water after the boat he was fishing from became swamped by the force of the water flowing over the dam. The boat’s other occupant, Scott R. Flinchum, 27, also of Rogersville, was rescued by fishermen occupying two nearby boats. Mr. Flinchum was transported to Hawkins Co. Memorial Hospital and is expected to be released on Wednesday.
The TWRA and families involved are very grateful for Keith Tolley and Ketron Couch, both of Irwin, and Jerry Bussell and Ed Schick, both of Rogersville, for rendering aid to the victims. Hawkins Co. Wildlife Officer Chris Seay said, “By assisting the victims, it’s very likely that they saved the life of Mr. Flinchum and did all they could do for Mr. Teaster. We cannot thank them enough for their acts of courage.” The TWRA is also appreciative of the great response from Hawkins Co. Rescue, Hawkins Co. EMS, Hawkins Co. EMA, and the Hawkins Co. Sheriff’s Office.
According to Hawkins County Wildlife Officer Chris Seay, around 4 p.m., the two men were fishing from a boat below the dam at the John Sevier Fossil Plant when the boat was apparently drawn into the dam causing it to swamp or capsize. Both occupants went into the water Mr. Teaster lost his life. Two nearby fishermen were able to rescue Mr. Flinchum and recover Mr. Teaster.
As a reminder to all boaters as the season begins, the TWRA strongly encourages all boaters to wear life jackets on any body of water and to make sure they are worn correctly and sized properly. Additionally, life jacket wear is mandatory for all boaters from the boat ramp at John Sevier Fossil Plant up to the dam. Boaters should also use extreme caution while operating a boat near any dam or spillway as hazardous conditions exist.
The accident remains under investigation by the TWRA.