Grandfather Dies in Tragic Ice Fishing Accident

An Iowa woman is spreading awareness about ice fishing safety after her grandfather tragically fell through the ice of a frozen lake and passed away. Amanda Willson shared that she heard the ice cracking at Lake Macbride when she visited on Sunday, just one day after the incident.

Her 85-year-old grandfather, Jack Peacock, was alone on the lake on a Saturday morning without informing his family. A bystander noticed the broken ice and gloves and called the police. Willson emphasized the importance of letting others know your plans before heading out onto the ice to ensure safety.

Peacock was an experienced outdoorsman who exercised and knew how to swim, but the unforeseen accident serves as a reminder that precautions are key. Willson hopes her grandfather’s story will help raise awareness for ice safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

She suggests measures like signing in and out at ice fishing locations to track visitors and ensure everyone’s safety. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources recommends ice thickness of at least four inches for ice fishing. Stay safe and always be cautious when enjoying winter activities on frozen lakes.