Teenager from Normal dies in boating accident

Posted on March 30, 2021
According to a statement from the university, both students were members of the Iowa State Crew Club. The club was practicing Sunday morning at Little Wall Lake when their boat capsized. (WJBC file photo)

 

By Neil Doyle

HAMILTON COUNTY – A teenager from Normal, who is a freshman at Iowa State University, was one of two students that died in a boating accident Sunday.

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and Iowa State University Police Department identified Derek Nanni, 19, from Normal and Yaakov Ben-David, 20 from Washington D.C. as the victims.

According to a statement from the university, both students were members of the Iowa State Crew Club. The club was practicing Sunday morning at Little Wall Lake when their boat capsized. Three of the five students were rescued from the water.

Nanni graduated from University High School. Principal Andrea Markert released the following statement:

“The UHigh Community is deeply saddened by the loss of Derek Nanni. He was actively involved at UHigh. He ran cross country and track. He was an active member of the swim team. His class voted him as the winner of the senior superlative “Best Worst Jokes.” We will miss his jokes and his smile. Four counselors are available for any student that is working through the grieving process.”

Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen released the following statement:

“The Iowa State community is heartbroken to learn of this tragic accident at Little Wall Lake. At this time, we are focused on providing support to club members, their families and friends. We ask that everyone keep them in their thoughts during this very difficult time.

“On behalf of the university community, I want to thank the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Story County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team, Department of Natural Resources, Iowa State University Police Department, Jewel Fire and Rescue, Gilbert Fire, Stratford Fire and Rescue, Mary Greeley Medical Center and community members for their response and continued search efforts.”

The names of the other Crew Club members are not being released to protect their privacy. More information will be released when the investigation and the university’s internal review is complete.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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