Union County boating crash near Highway 33 bridge leaves one man dead
In Union County, Tennessee, the peaceful morning of Saturday, November 1, 2025, turned tragic when a fatal boating collision occurred near the Highway 33 Bridge on Norris Lake, prompting an investigation by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).
According to TWRA officials, at approximately 8:30 a.m., two vessels collided near the bridge. One boat carried two people, both of whom were transported to the University of Tennessee Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. The other vessel had a single occupant, who was initially unaccounted for following the crash.
After an intensive search by rescue teams, the missing boater was found deceased and later identified as James Bailey, age 25, of Maynardville, Tennessee. His body was recovered from the water and transported to the medical examiner’s office for an autopsy.
The two individuals from the second boat, whose names have not been released, remain hospitalized with serious injuries. TWRA confirmed that both were conscious when rescued but required immediate medical attention. Their current conditions are being monitored by medical staff.
This incident marks the 26th fatal boating accident in Tennessee this year, adding to a concerning trend of recreational water tragedies across the state. TWRA officials noted that boating activity has increased significantly in recent years, and with that rise, so has the risk of collisions and drownings.
The collision occurred on Norris Lake, one of East Tennessee’s most popular recreational destinations, known for boating, fishing, and weekend getaways. The section near the Highway 33 bridge often experiences moderate to heavy boating traffic, especially on weekends and during early morning hours when anglers and pleasure boaters take to the water.
Investigators are currently analyzing evidence to determine what caused the two vessels to collide. Factors being examined include speed, visibility, operator awareness, and mechanical function of the boats involved. Authorities have not released information on whether any of the boaters were wearing life jackets at the time of the crash.
Emergency crews from TWRA, Union County Sheriff’s Office, and local fire departments worked together during the response. Dive teams were deployed to search for the missing boater, while paramedics tended to the injured at the scene. The quick coordination among agencies helped ensure that all victims were located and that the scene was secured for further investigation.
James Bailey, the victim who passed in the crash, was a well-known resident of Maynardville. Friends and family describe him as a hardworking young man who loved the outdoors, often spending his weekends fishing and boating with friends. His passing has deeply affected the close-knit community, where he was admired for his kindness and friendly nature.
TWRA officials are emphasizing renewed calls for boating safety awareness following the tragedy. They urge all boaters to take precautions such as wearing life jackets, maintaining a proper lookout, avoiding distractions, and operating vessels at safe speeds. The agency also reminds the public that even experienced boaters are at risk when conditions change unexpectedly or when visibility is limited.
As the investigation continues, TWRA will conduct a full reconstruction of the incident, including interviews with the surviving boaters, mechanical inspections of both vessels, and toxicology tests to rule out impairment. The final report will determine contributing factors and outline safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Union County residents are expressing grief and solidarity with the victims’ families. Many are calling for increased signage, safety patrols, and educational programs to improve awareness on local waterways. For now, the community mourns the sudden and heartbreaking loss of James Bailey, while offering prayers for the recovery of the injured survivors.
The tragic crash near the Highway 33 bridge serves as a somber reminder of how quickly a day on the water can turn fatal. As Norris Lake’s calm waters return to normal, the memory of this event underscores the importance of caution, preparedness, and respect for the unpredictable power of nature.