CROWLEY, TEXAS — The Texas fishing community is mourning the death of Jerry Ross, 69, of Crowley, who died Saturday after falling overboard during a fishing tournament on Lake Fork in Wood County.
The tragic incident occurred early Saturday morning, September 19, 2026, when Ross fell from his vessel and did not resurface.
Jerry Ross Dies After Lake Fork Accident
Texas Game Wardens received a report of a possible water fatality at Lake Fork at approximately 6:15 a.m. Saturday.
Ross had been participating in a fishing tournament when he fell from his boat into the lake.
Despite the response of emergency personnel and search teams, Ross did not resurface.
Game wardens subsequently began an extensive search of the area.
Body Recovered From Lake Fork
Search efforts continued until authorities located Ross using side-scan sonar.
A diver from the Quitman Fire Department subsequently entered the water and recovered his body.
The operation involved multiple agencies assisting with the search and recovery effort, including the Quitman Fire Department, Wood County Sheriff’s Office and Alba Fire Department.
The circumstances surrounding the fall remain under review.
Lake Fork Fishing Community Mourns
Ross’s death has brought sadness to those connected with the fishing tournament and the wider East Texas outdoor community.
Fishing tournaments bring anglers together through a shared passion for the water and the sport, making a fatal accident during an event particularly difficult for those who witnessed or learned of the tragedy.
Ross, 69, was from Crowley, Texas, and was taking part in the tournament when the accident occurred.
What Happened to Jerry Ross?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Jerry Ross |
| Age | 69 |
| Residence | Crowley, Texas |
| Incident | Fell overboard from vessel |
| Location | Lake Fork, Wood County, Texas |
| Date | Saturday, September 19, 2026 |
| Approximate emergency call | 6:15 a.m. |
| Activity | Fishing tournament |
| Search method | Side-scan sonar |
| Recovery | Quitman Fire Department diver |
| Cause of death | Drowning / water-related fatality reported |
| Family details | Not publicly confirmed |
| Funeral arrangements | Not publicly confirmed |
Investigation and Recovery Effort
The response began shortly after the report that an angler had gone overboard.
Game wardens coordinated the search before sonar equipment helped locate Ross beneath the water. A diver then recovered his body.
The participating agencies were thanked for their assistance in the search and recovery operation.
No additional circumstances surrounding the fall have been publicly detailed.
Remembering Jerry Ross
For Ross’s family, friends and fellow anglers, the loss represents a heartbreaking end to what had been a day centered on fishing and competition.
At 69, Ross remained active enough to participate in a fishing tournament at Lake Fork, an activity that brought him onto the water alongside other anglers.
His death serves as a painful reminder of the risks that can accompany boating and fishing, even during organized events.
Further information about Ross’s family, life, memorial service or funeral arrangements may be released as his loved ones make those details public.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information publicly available at the time of publication. Details concerning Jerry Ross’s personal life, family, funeral arrangements and the precise circumstances surrounding his fall may be updated as additional information becomes available. The family and authorized representatives have the sole right to release personal obituary and memorial information. Readers should respect the privacy of those grieving this loss.