Life Jackets Credited with Saving Two Fishermen After Boat Capsizes on Oneida Lake

Godfrey Point, NY – July 27, 2025 - According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a potentially tragic boating incident on Oneida Lake was averted thanks to life jackets—and a pair of good Samaritans.

At approximately 2:25 p.m., the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Unit responded to a distress call reporting a capsized vessel near Buoy 117, off Godfrey Point. Upon arrival, deputies learned that a good Samaritan had already pulled one of the boat’s occupants from the water and onto their vessel. A short time later, a second good Samaritan located and rescued the second occupant, who had also been adrift in the water.

The individuals rescued were identified as Joseph Davis, 77, and Brian Palmer, 66, both of whom had been fishing that morning in a 16-foot Starcraft vessel. Investigators determined that around 8:30 a.m., the boat began to take on water and partially capsized due to mechanical failure and rough lake conditions.

Remarkably, both Davis and Palmer spent more than five hours in the water before being discovered. Both men were wearing life jackets, which Sheriff Maciol emphasized were crucial in preventing a tragedy.

“This incident could have ended very differently if not for their life jackets and the quick actions of the individuals who stopped to help,” said Sheriff Maciol.

After being brought ashore, Davis and Palmer were evaluated by EMS personnel as a precaution. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted on the scene by the Cleveland Fire Department, Sylvan Beach Fire Department, and Vineall Ambulance.

Authorities extended a special thank-you to the courageous good Samaritans whose swift actions made all the difference.