On the serene waters of Lake Cumberland, a vibrant summer evening turned to tragedy on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, as the Russell County community lost one of its own in a devastating jet ski accident. LaDonna Gail Wasson, a 55-year-old resident of the close-knit Jabez community, was identified by the Russell County Coroner’s Office as the victim of the fatal incident that has left the area in mourning.
The tragedy unfolded around 6:00 p.m. CST near the Alligator 1 boat ramp, a popular spot on the sprawling Lake Cumberland. Emergency responders, including Russell County Search and Rescue (RCSAR), were dispatched following reports of a jet ski accident involving a single rider who had fallen into the water and failed to resurface. Witnesses described a chilling scene: the jet ski, still running and in gear, had crossed the lake and struck the bank, its rider nowhere to be seen. As rescue crews arrived, another jet skier alerted them to a figure floating nearby. A marine unit member swiftly entered the water, securing Ms. Wasson and bringing her aboard, but despite their efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene by awaiting EMS personnel.
The loss of LaDonna Gail Wasson has cast a somber shadow over Lake Cumberland, a destination renowned for its beauty but also its hidden dangers. Authorities confirmed that Ms. Wasson was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident, a stark reminder of the critical importance of safety measures on the water. Following the initial recovery, RCSAR crews conducted an hour-long search to rule out reports of a possible second victim, ultimately confirming that Ms. Wasson was the only person involved in the incident.
Russell County Coroner Mark A. Coots, in a heartfelt statement, expressed deep gratitude to the local marina operators, their employees, and community members who rallied together in the wake of the tragedy. Their swift and compassionate efforts aided in locating Ms. Wasson’s family, offering a small measure of solace during an unimaginable time. The coroner’s office has transported Ms. Wasson’s body to the Kentucky Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort, where a detailed post-mortem examination will seek to determine the precise cause of her death.
Lake Cumberland, a jewel of Kentucky’s recreational landscape, attracts thousands of visitors each year, particularly during the bustling summer season. Yet, its popularity comes with risks. Local officials are now urging residents and tourists alike to exercise heightened caution while enjoying the lake’s waters. Personal watercraft like jet skis, while exhilarating, can pose unpredictable hazards, especially in crowded or narrow areas of the lake. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of wearing life jackets, adhering to safety guidelines, and remaining vigilant to ensure such tragedies are prevented in the future.
In the Jabez community, LaDonna Gail Wasson is remembered as a cherished figure, her warmth and presence deeply woven into the fabric of local life. As the community grapples with this profound loss, friends and neighbors are coming together to honor her memory, though funeral arrangements have yet to be announced. The collective grief is palpable, a reminder of the fragility of life and the bonds that unite small communities like Jabez in times of sorrow.
As the investigation into the accident continues, the Russell County community holds LaDonna Gail Wasson’s family in their thoughts, offering prayers and support during this heartbreaking chapter. Her memory will linger on the shores of Lake Cumberland, a poignant call for safety, unity, and remembrance in the face of tragedy.