Jackson Williams: OSU mourns the death of student, 24, who drowned in Sooner Lake while duck hunting

NOBLE COUNTY, OKLAHOMA: A 24-year-old graduate student from Oklahoma State University (OSU) died in a tragic accident while hunting for ducks along with a partner in Sooner Lake.

Jackson Williams, who studied in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, was dragged to the bottom of the lake by his waders that filled up with water when he hit an unexpected drop off, Daily Mail reports. 

Jackson Williams was retrieving a duck before the accident

According to KOCO News, Williams orginally from Arkansas was retrieving a duck when he encountered a sudden change in the depth of water on Sunday morning, December 10.

His waterproof wader boots quickly became heavy with water and pulled him under. His friend, who was with him, called for help, but it was too late. Several agencies, including the Oklahoma Highway Patrol’s Lake Patrol, responded to the scene and located his body on the lake floor using side imaging.

OSU community mourns Jackson Williams' tragic death

Jackson Williams' tragic death has left a deep impact on his family, friends, and the OSU community.

His mother, Karen Turner Williams, said her son was “in heaven duck hunting with Jesus” and that the world won’t be the same without him.

OSU issued a statement expressing their condolences to Williams’ parents, family, friends, co-workers, the 4-H’ers and producers he advised, and his former OSU Rodeo team members.

“Our hearts go out to the family and the friends and loved ones of this young man. We want to make sure everyone knows that our hearts and prayers are with them,” the statement read.

Game wardens warn about waders

The Oklahoma Game Wardens, who investigated the incident, explained how waders can be dangerous in cold water.

Captain Ben Bickerstaff said that waders are hard to get off even on dry land, and that “in a panic, in cold water, it can be really tough.” He advised hunters to wear life jackets and to be aware of the water depth. He also said that the hunting community is “small and close knit” and that Williams “will be missed", KOCO News reported. 

Jackson Williams’ legacy as an educator

Williams was not only a student, but also an educator. He served as the OSU Extension Agriculture and 4-H Educator for youths in Logan County. The Logan County Cooperative Extension Service, in a statement, praised Williams for his passion, enthusiasm, and kindness.

“Jackson was passionate about helping and educating others. Even in his short time serving Logan County, he was well-known and liked by all who had the opportunity to meet him," the statement read.

"He loved working with the teens in Logan County and knew how to encourage them to do their best. He also enjoyed working with producers in the county to help them find solutions to their problems. And he did it all with a smile on his face. He was a great co-worker and will be missed by all,” it added.