One dead, another injured on Lake Texoma in jet ski accident

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Posted: 1:09 PM May 5, 2008
Last Updated: 6:07 PM May 5, 2008
Reporter: KXII Staff

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MARSHALL COUNTY, Okla. - A tragic accident has claimed the life of one and left another in serious condition. It happened around six o'clock Sunday night around the islands on the Oklahoma side of Lake Texoma, closer to the Marshall County line.

Eric Sorenson, 19, died at the scene. Zachary Slagle, 19, was flown to Parkland Hospital in Dallas in serious condition. Robert Slagle, 20, was treated and released from the scene with minor injuries. Slagle is said to still be in serious condition Monday evening.

Lake patrol says the drivers of two jet skis were jumping waves, weaving around on the water when they collided. All three were thrown into the water.

Witness Jimmy Crow was out on the lake at the time of the accident and says he saw the men earlier in the day hanging out with a group of friends, having a good time. He says his heart goes out to the families in these tragic times.

"You know they were going back and forth spraying each other and one ran into the other one and I didn't absolutely see that, but it's obvious looking at the watercraft from what happened,” said Crow. “One broadsided the other, and I believe it killed him on impact. It's a pretty horrific crash."

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Mathieu Location: Sherman on May 8, 2008 at 05:27 PM
Me and eric lived across the hall from each other at Austin College and I can say with utmost honesty that Eric was a great guy. Its terrible to think that this tragedy could have happened to such a great person who had so much left to give to the world. My condolences reach out to the Sorenson family as this must be a extremely difficult time for them. Just know that Eric was truly a happy person and all of us that had the opportunity to get to know Eric can relate that he was a good guy who always had your back. The boys on 3rd floor miss you brother, and we'll never forget you or the great times we had together. Take it easy up there Eric. I know you are watching out for all of us. Will miss you dearly.

Posted by: Lindy Location: Sadler on May 8, 2008 at 12:16 PM
I just wonna say that this was a devastating accident that was not meant to happen. My prayers go out to you Zach, RC, and Eric as well as your families. You have all been given much love from the hearts of the students at S & S. We are all hoping for the best outcome. It is a tragedy but I think Zach and RC are still alive for a reason. They are going to live out their lives. God took Eric because he was ready for him to come home. But he is still here in our hearts well thought of. He will live out his life there forever and its a much better place than here. Some day maybe we too can join him in holy matrimony. Best wishes to you all. I am sure sorry for the lost life but it is a joy to still have Zach. And all those comments about the drugs and things were not acceptable. I cant believe people would put the parents and families through the stress of people talking about what fools these boys were. They are all wonderful, smart, and courageous and I admire them all.

Posted by: Sue Location: Tom Bean on May 8, 2008 at 12:36 AM
It is so sad when a young life is taken to soon. I didnt know these boys but I do pray for the families and these kids. I am so sorry for Eics family and I offer my heartfelt condolences.

Posted by: patrick Location: sherman on May 7, 2008 at 07:49 PM
i love you eric

Posted by: Kayla Gage Location: Princeton Tx. on May 7, 2008 at 01:25 PM
This is very depressing to find out. I used to go to school with these kids and i cannot believe how horrible their friends and family must feel about this situation, i am praying for zach to get better each day, i remember when i was in kindergarten and i thought he was soo cute, haha, i know you can make it zach.

Posted by: Student Location: sadler on May 7, 2008 at 12:33 PM
I think it would be honorable to have a memorial service @ S&S thursday!!!

Posted by: Rick in OKC on May 7, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Very sad. It appears these guys were doing the right thing. Usually these type of accidents happen when jumping the wake of a boat...which is illegal. My family's heart felt prayers go out to all affected by this infortunate accident.

Posted by: Tanner Baze Location: S&S High School on May 7, 2008 at 09:55 AM
Zach and i have known each other since we were 1, and i just wanna say that all the students in S&S are here for zach. I have been there with him since it happened, and everyone needs to be here for RC and PJ and just pray for eric's family. We are all very concerned for all of them that were involved as well as eric's family, my heart goes out to all of them and i am praying non-stop for them.

Posted by: Loving Friend on May 6, 2008 at 04:28 PM
I adore these boys more than anything. Eric is the sweetest person I have ever known and God has taken him to a better place. R.C. and Zach have some hard times facing them and we as one need to stand united and be with them. They were all the best of friends and never could anyone possibly imagine what was in store for them. They need all the love and support we can give them. The emotional trauma they will suffer from this accident cannot even be described. Please keep in mind what you write about these wonderful boys. Accidents happen and no one or nothing can be to blame. There is nothing anyone could have done to prevent this tragedy, love you boys with all my heart.

Posted by: m Location: denison on May 6, 2008 at 04:16 PM
there is alot of you people out there that does not have a clue about what has or has not happened.the best kids can make a dumb choice.most of the time they dont have a propblem but then something happens and everybodyfinds out that they had secerets.do not throw stones you might live in a glass house one day.

Posted by: Student Location: Southmayd on May 6, 2008 at 03:41 PM
Everyone that wants to have a memorial at school on Thursday, PLEASE E-mail me at kittykatz1234@yahoo.com. This will mean alot.

Posted by: Student Location: S&S HIGH SCHOOL on May 6, 2008 at 02:56 PM
My heart hurts for both families. Zach, I am continuously praying for your full recovery. RC, you will make it;I am praying for you as well, and to Eric's family...my deepest sympathy goes out to you. Eric touched a lot of lives, and a lot of people cared for him. He will be dearly, dearly missed. Stay strong. You all can make it, through God. May He be with you.

Posted by: S & S Parent Location: Sadler on May 6, 2008 at 02:45 PM
Some of you need to stop and think about what you are writing. The families have been through enough. They don't need to deal with your comments you don't know the boys. They are intelligent, responsible boys that were out having fun on a beautiful day. Think about what you would feel like if this was your child and how you would feel. You should put your negative energy toward praying for these families to get through this terrible accident. We are glad to here that Zach is doing much better. The Sorenson and Slagle families will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Posted by: Student Location: Sadler on May 6, 2008 at 12:39 PM
Everything happens for a reason. And we the students of S&S is struggling to understand why. Maybe its not ment to be understood. But RC, Zach, and Eric are and will be in our prayers!!! We are happy to report that Zach is doing very very well! Thats what we have to focus on. God bless the familes of Eric, Jaden, Zach, and RC. Yall are all in our prayers!!! Everything is going to be ok!!! We love yall!!!

Posted by: Student Location: Sadler on May 6, 2008 at 12:30 PM
Zach is doing much better. He was moved to a room and is up talking! We will greatly miss Eric and we take comfort in the fact that he is in a better place. I will keep everyone in my prayers!

Posted by: Alicia Location: S&S HS on May 6, 2008 at 11:46 AM
Zach i'm PRaying for you to get better so you can come to YOUR Gradutetion thie year i know that you will pull through

Posted by: anna Location: sadler texas on May 6, 2008 at 11:42 AM
i go to school at S&S and every one is sad but we are all hoping for zach recover my friends are all praying for him to get better too .i cryed when i hear this news my brothers went to school with RC they say they are also praying for zach too.please everyone pray for zach to get better and God will bless you too .

Posted by: Outsider Location: Southmayd on May 6, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Nikki, Get a Life!! Do you always judge by the cover? How would you like it if you kid died and someone judges and said he was acting like an idiot when he was just having a good time? There were no Drinking or Drugs involved. And if I remember straight these kids are straight edge and would not have anything to do with that. so. get a life and let these families have there peace instead of making childish comments about something you have no clue over.

Posted by: Witness Location: Pottsboro on May 6, 2008 at 09:48 AM
I meant to say "that happened on SUNDAY" (not Saturday)

Posted by: GC Location: S & S parent on May 6, 2008 at 09:27 AM
so much tragedy has struck this school this year... 2 deaths in one year is horrible.... my prayer is that S & S Elem, MS and HS, will overcome all of this and stick together... NO ONE is promised tomorrow or even the next breath we take.. and for the sake of all and I mean ALL who are involved and who know these kids, please do not point fingers and write such harsh words, it could happen to you and you and you... live everyday like it matters and keep Eric close in your hearts S & S... Pray for the full healing of Zach and pray for RC... they've all got a long road ahead of them!! Keep your head up and dont take your eyes off God!!! He will get everyone through this!!

Posted by: Witness Location: Pottsboro on May 6, 2008 at 09:00 AM
I just want to say that my friends and I were at the island when this happened, and the guys that were with me are the ones that brought the boys into highport. The boys were just having fun like ALL boys do and the Mother below who is placing blame right now needs to consider the feelings of others. There is no need for that during this tragic time. Accidents happen. Our hearts go out to all the families. My guys and us were and are completely devastated by everything that happened Saturday. It was the worst thing the most of us had ever witnessed. Thanks goes out to the medic on our boat and to the girl medic-in-training who tried EVERYTHING they could to save Eric. Those of you who know Zach, please keep us updated as we are praying for him.

Posted by: Spurlin mom Location: S&S on May 6, 2008 at 12:20 AM
All 3 boys were extremely smart,gifted academically and athletically.Zach and Eric especially were very good friends to my son and he is missing Eric so much already.I am here for the parents of all these boys all they have to do is call me anything night or day.

Posted by: LORI Location: SAVOY on May 5, 2008 at 10:56 PM
I AM SORRY FOR WHAT THE FAMILIES ARE GOING THROUGH. I WILL THINK ABOUT YOUR FAMILIES AND PRAY FOR YOU DURING YOUR HARD TIMES. GOD BLESS YOU ALL !!!

Posted by: Close Friend Location: Sherman on May 5, 2008 at 10:22 PM
My prayers go out to Eric's parents. I never met them but they could have not had a better son! It was a horrific accident and we all need to stick together to help RC through this and get Zach back on his feet. Just remember Eric is watching over us and loves us all just as much as we love him!

Posted by: Thomas Location: Southmayd on May 5, 2008 at 09:49 PM
My Prayers goes out to the families of this accident. This was a hard thing for a lot of students at S&S. Be Strong and just know that God loves you. I will be praying for the family and the students at S&S.

Posted by: Thomas Location: Southmayd on May 5, 2008 at 09:42 PM
This is for the person from Denison who made the stupid comment about Drinking and drugs. There was not any Drinking and drugs involved. these kids where just out having a fun time and it was just an accident. You need to gather your information better before you start making comments. I guess some people don't have anything better to do.

Posted by: Randy Swinde;; Location: Sherman on May 5, 2008 at 08:25 PM
My Heart goes out to the family & friends RC it was a accident,I know you can be Strong. Zach be strong!!! Bobby,Bob, Susan,Elizabeth Praying for ya'll your still like family to me. Love ya Randy

Posted by: Lani Location: Southmayd on May 5, 2008 at 07:26 PM
My heart goes out to you guys. It won't ever be the same. Zach Get well soon.

Posted by: teacher Location: sherman on May 5, 2008 at 06:35 PM
May I add my prayers and words of encouragement to all involved...including the Slagles. This was an accident and it affects them on a couple of levels. R.C. and family, there are those of us praying for you too.

Posted by: Andrea Location: Van Alstyne on May 5, 2008 at 05:29 PM
Bobby, My prayers are with you and your family. I am thankful to here things are better. God bless you!

Posted by: a mom Location: S&S on May 5, 2008 at 04:09 PM
My heart goes out to the family and friends, my child goes to school at S&S and I know all the students and families are praying for everyone.

Posted by: n/a Location: sherman on May 5, 2008 at 03:54 PM
no words can take away the pain these familys are feeling.you are in thoughts and prayers. may god bless

Posted by: Friends Location: S&S on May 5, 2008 at 03:18 PM
These are 3 fine young Men with great Familys. God is in good company with Eric! Go Zach. R.C. it was an accident, be strong.

Posted by: Student on May 5, 2008 at 03:10 PM
Keep praying!!! All we gotta do is keep praying!!!!

Posted by: Billmeier family Location: S&S on May 5, 2008 at 02:58 PM
To all families and student of S&S school. I have kids in all 3 school's and each and every one of ya'll are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your grief and pain. To all students just be careful out there & watch out for each other. Stay strong and god bless each of all....

Posted by: Student at S&S Location: Sadler on May 5, 2008 at 02:52 PM
We are all overjoyed to hear that Zach is doing better, we hope & pray that his condition continues to get better. My family & I will keep the Slagle & Sorenson families in our prayers.

Posted by: vanessa Location: sadler on May 5, 2008 at 02:38 PM
Keep hanging on Zach. We're praying for you!!!

Posted by: parent Location: sadler on May 5, 2008 at 02:21 PM
My heart aches for the family of Eric he was a wonderful young man who had a bright future ahead of him,Zach you and your family are in my prayers.Parents hug your kids and tell them you love them,it could be your last don't take them for granted. RAM PRIDE!!!!!

Posted by: Student at SSHS Location: Sadler on May 5, 2008 at 01:03 PM
My family & I are praying for the Sorenson & Slagle families. Zach's fate is in the hands of God & he will do what is best for him.

Posted by: Student @ S&S Location: Sadler on May 5, 2008 at 12:50 PM
Zach is doing better. We are happy he is breathing on his own. He came this far, I have all the faith in the world he will make it. All our prayers go out to the families. We feel your pain and we are here if you ever need anything. Thanks for all the prayers! Lets keep it up!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on May 5, 2008 at 12:39 PM
We dedicated our moment of silence to Zach and Eric and the families. No words can describe our grief. But us students at S&S are praying for everyone! We love yall and God will keep us strong.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: sherman on May 5, 2008 at 11:13 AM
zach is responding to verbal commands and is breathing on his own...everyone pray for the Slagle family along with the Sorenson Family

Posted by: Student on May 5, 2008 at 10:57 AM
There is no way to describe the pain my fellow students and I are feeling right now. We did recieve some good news this morning however, Zach' breathing tube has been removed and he is starting to respond to verbal commands. Please keep him in your prayers along with the Sorenson family..

Posted by: Kinsey Walker Location: bells on May 5, 2008 at 10:54 AM
Im very sorry for your loss i know how it feels i just lost my sister in the car wreck wedensday im praying for both familys i hope your son is ok and im very sorry for the other ones loss.May God be with stay stong

Posted by: Pj Location: Sherman on May 5, 2008 at 10:28 AM
M & K, so sorry for the loss of your child.I can't find the words to console you. There are no good words that you desire to hear at this time, but do know that so many people are bearing grief over this accident, and thinking and praying for your family. Pj

Posted by: Anonymous on May 5, 2008 at 09:52 AM
Zach is a student at s & s.. he is in critical condition on a vent and unresponsive at parkland. Eric had graduated from s& S. I will be praying for everyone involved!

Posted by: N/A Location: Denison, Texas on May 5, 2008 at 09:12 AM
There will be alot more accidents out there with summer here. There is so much drinking and drug use going on at that Island where they all party at its unreal. I hope they can get it under control before more tragic accidents happen!!!!! That place needs full time SECURITY....

Posted by: sad on May 5, 2008 at 09:12 AM
Very sad... these are kids from S&S

Posted by: Anonymous on May 5, 2008 at 08:52 AM
Anyone know the names yet?

Posted by: Anonymous on May 5, 2008 at 08:22 AM
Boating safety certificates should be required for anyone operating ANY watercraft.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 5, 2008 at 06:39 AM
the other one is in critical condition at a dallas hospital!! let's keep them in our prayers. They are students at S & S HS.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 4, 2008 at 11:53 PM
there were three men involved.

Posted by: The Roper's Location: Southmayd on May 4, 2008 at 11:52 PM
Our thoughts and prayers go out to both the families!

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