Avon Lake Man Among 3 Found Dead In Boat On Lake Erie

AVON LAKE, OH — Three people were found dead on a boat in Lake Erie on Wednesday. The victims were identified by the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner on Friday.

Frank Opaskar, 76, from Avon Lake; Christopher Kedas, 45, from Huron, and Owen Kedas, 11, from Huron, were found dead on a boat towed to shore by the U.S. Coast Guard. Dr. Thomas Gilson, the medical examiner, said their deaths were accidental and likely caused by carbon monoxide.

"This is an incredibly sad and unfortunate accident. As we move forward through the summer boating season, be sure to check that your boat's exhaust system and components are functioning properly," Gilson said.

The Coast Guard investigated the trio's boat after it was seen listlessly circling on the lake. All three victims were already unconscious when help arrived, WKYC reported. High levels of carbon monoxide were detected on the boat.

Poaskar and Christopher Kedas were declared dead on the boat. Owen Kedas was rushed to MetroHealth, where he later died.