Tragedy on Dale Hollow: Celina Man Christopher Berry Dies in Boating Accident During Camping Trip

Tragedy on Dale Hollow: Celina Man Christopher Berry Dies in Boating Accident During Camping Trip

CELINA, Tenn. — A peaceful night on the water ended in tragedy early Wednesday morning when a boating accident on Dale Hollow Reservoir claimed the life of Christopher Berry, a 35-year-old man from Middle Tennessee. What began as a relaxing fishing and camping trip with friends turned into a heartbreaking loss that has shaken the Celina community and left loved ones in mourning.

According to a statement from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), Berry was camping near the lake with a group of close friends and had taken their Allison bass boat out on the reservoir sometime late Tuesday evening or in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The group had been enjoying a routine outdoor excursion—fishing, telling stories around the campfire, and taking in the serenity of the surrounding nature.

At some point during the outing, Berry separated from the group and took the boat out alone to do some night fishing or check on gear, according to preliminary reports. When he failed to return after an extended period of time, his friends became concerned and contacted authorities around 1:45 a.m.

Search and Recovery

TWRA officers, along with local emergency responders and the Clay County Sheriff’s Department, launched an immediate search and rescue operation on the water. Using sonar equipment and dive teams, officials combed the area around the northern end of the reservoir.

Berry’s boat was eventually discovered adrift near a narrow cove, with visible damage to the side of the hull. His body was recovered a short time later, not far from the vessel. He was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.

Officials believe the accident may have occurred when the boat struck a submerged object or shoreline obstacle, possibly at a high rate of speed. Berry was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident, according to TWRA, a fact that may have contributed to the fatal outcome.

A Life Remembered

Christopher Berry was known to many in Celina and the surrounding communities as a dedicated family man, a loyal friend, and an avid outdoorsman. He worked as a skilled tradesman and spent much of his free time enjoying Tennessee’s natural beauty, especially its lakes and rivers.

“He had a deep love for the water,” said longtime friend Jake Thornton, who was part of the camping group. “We grew up fishing these same waters. This was like a second home to him. It just doesn’t seem real.”

Family and friends have expressed an outpouring of grief across social media, sharing memories, photographs, and words of remembrance. Many described Berry as someone who “would give you the shirt off his back” and had a contagious laugh and a warm-hearted nature.

“He was a rock for so many of us,” said his cousin, Melissa Berry. “The kind of guy who would show up without being asked if you needed help. We just can’t believe he’s gone.”

Safety Reminder from TWRA

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency issued a statement offering condolences to Berry’s family and urging boaters to take extra safety precautions, especially during nighttime hours.

“Boating at night presents unique risks,” said TWRA spokesperson Matt Cameron. “Reduced visibility, unfamiliar terrain, and submerged obstacles all make navigation more dangerous. We encourage all boaters to wear life jackets, use navigation lights properly, and avoid traveling alone whenever possible.”

The incident remains under investigation, but no foul play is suspected at this time.

Final Arrangements and Community Response

Plans for a memorial service are underway, with the Berry family expected to release details in the coming days. In the meantime, the local community is rallying around them, offering food, prayers, and assistance as they deal with the shock of this sudden and tragic loss.

Friends have also launched a memorial fund to help cover funeral expenses and support Christopher’s surviving family members, including his mother and younger siblings.

As the sun sets over the calm waters of Dale Hollow Lake, those who knew Christopher Berry will remember a man who embraced the outdoors, cherished his friendships, and lived life with purpose and heart. His memory now lives on in the places he loved and in the many lives he touched.

Rest in peace, Christopher. Your spirit will forever echo in the stillness of the water.