The Decatur Daily News reports that Anthony “Ski Daddy” Szozda was killed Tuesday night after being nearly decapitated by a low-hanging power line on the Tennessee River. Szozda was participating in a weekly bass fishing tournament. TVA officials have acknowledged that safety measures were not in place and that “lessons will be learned” by the incident.
A statement from the TVA said the following:
(Tuesday’s) accident was an unusual and unfortunate occurrence. Our thoughts go out to the family of the boater who was killed. We are taking this very seriously and are working closely with the authorities to understand the facts around this event.
TVA exercises all appropriate caution when we do our work at all times. The safety of the public, our employees and our partners is our top priority.
Family and friends say Szozda was a kind, loving person who brought a smile to everyone.
The memorial service for Szozda will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home.