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Kayaker Drowns in Icy Vermont River Churn
8 Apr
Summary
- Experienced kayaker drowned in icy, turbulent Lamoille River waters.
- Sarah Goldberg, 34, was unable to escape her capsized kayak.
- The incident highlights dangers of cold water and fast currents.

A tragic incident occurred on the Lamoille River in Wolcott, Vermont, where Sarah Goldberg, a 34-year-old experienced kayaker, drowned on Saturday. She was paddling with a friend when their boat overturned in turbulent, icy waters. Goldberg became trapped in her capsized kayak and was unable to free herself. First responders were alerted around 2 PM and found her body floating in the river. Efforts to revive her with CPR at Copley Hospital were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced dead. Goldberg's kayaking partner emphasized that even experienced paddlers are at risk from cold water and strong currents, despite being properly equipped with life jackets and helmets. Experts advise caution, suggesting pre-trip river scouting, awareness of water levels, and proper cold-weather gear. The incident remains under investigation.