Ronnie Rawlins, 64, and Anthony Hoover, 63, Identified in Wilgreen Lake Drowning Incident
Ronnie Rawlins, 64, and Anthony Hoover, 63 Death, Obituary: RICHMOND, KY — The Madison County Coroner’s Office and Kentucky State Police (KSP) are investigating two apparent drowning deaths after the bodies of two men were discovered in Wilgreen Lake near the Boat Ramp on Wednesday night, March 25, 2026. The victims have been identified as Ronnie Rawlins, 64, and Anthony Hoover, 63, both of Richmond, Kentucky.
According to authorities, the men had gone out early Wednesday morning to fish. They were reportedly wearing heavy clothing when they were found in the water, raising questions about potential contributing factors to the tragic incident.
Emergency responders were called to the scene after the bodies of the two men were discovered in the lake. Kentucky State Police and the Madison County Coroner’s Office responded quickly to the area to recover the bodies. The circumstances surrounding the deaths are still under investigation, and autopsies have been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
While the preliminary investigation suggests drowning, the presence of heavy clothing worn by the men may have played a role in the incident, and authorities are exploring all possible contributing factors, including environmental conditions and the men’s physical state.
Ronnie Rawlins and Anthony Hoover were both long-time residents of Richmond, and their sudden deaths have sent shockwaves through the local community. Family members, friends, and acquaintances have expressed deep sorrow at the loss of these two individuals, who were well-known and respected within their community.
The Madison County Coroner’s Office has extended condolences to the families of both men during this incredibly difficult time. As part of the investigation, the bodies of Rawlins and Hoover have been sent for autopsy, and more information will be provided as soon as the results of the examination are available.
The Kentucky State Police is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and is asking anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with individuals who may have been in the area around the lake that morning or who might have seen anything unusual.
Authorities urge the public to exercise caution when engaging in outdoor activities, particularly in cold weather or when wearing heavy clothing, as these factors can create hazardous conditions near bodies of water.
This remains an active investigation, and updates will be provided as more details become available.
