Deadly Carbon Monoxide Exposure May Have Caused 11-Year-Old To Fall Off Boat and Drown

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A Wisconsin girl who recently died in a lake was likely suffering from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. While out boating, the girl fell off the boat and went missing in the water. Emergency services searched for several hours before locating her body. After her death, it was discovered that several other people on the boat were also dealing with possible carbon monoxide-related illnesses.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office shared a press release about the girl’s death on July 27, 2025. It explained that the 11-year-old girl had fallen off a boat while out on Lake Alexander and had gone missing underwater. Emergency services from the Merrill Fire Department joined the sheriff’s office in responding.

Multiple local dive teams were also requested to assist in finding the girl. Additionally, other departments used fan boats to expand the search.

“Dive team members were able to recover her body at approximately 7:03 p.m,” the release said. “She was pronounced dead at the scene.”

The Merrill Fire Department also released a statement after finding the body. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this extremely tragic situation,” it wrote. “We deeply appreciate the collaboration by fellow first responders during this incident.”

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On July 29, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office posted a follow-up with additional information learned. First, the press release identified the 11-year-old girl as Maisy Livingston. It is believed that Maisy lost consciousness and fell off the boat due to carbon monoxide poisoning. 

“Three other victims in the same boat were treated at various medical facilities for carbon monoxide toxicity,” the release said. “Their condition is considered stable and they are expected to make a full recovery.”

“An autopsy was performed on Monday July 28, 2025,” it continued. “Preliminary findings indicated carbon monoxide toxicity to be a likely contributing factor to Maisy’s death.”

While the police investigation is ongoing, they don’t believe foul play or negligence are contributing factors. They used the release to warn about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that can build up in and around a boat when it moves at a slow speed for an extended period of time, the release explained. “This can occur even in open air boats which do not have enclosed cabin area,” the release warned. “Boaters should remain aware of wind conditions and cognizant of this potential hazard. Remember, carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and can be fatal.”