LAKE GASTON, NC (WHSV) – A Virginia Tech student has been identified as the victim of a boating accident last week.
According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, three people were on a boat that hit a dock at Lake Gaston Friday night. According to Kyger Funeral Home, 19-year-old Jackson Fendley died June 22, two days before his birthday, from injuries sustained in the crash.
He was born in Harrisonburg and was studying neuroscience and music at Virginia Tech.
“Jackson was an avid outdoorsman who admired the stars as well as a beautiful sunrise or sunset. He enjoyed hiking, skiing, and playing tennis. Jackson was also a talented musician and could always find the perfect song to share with a friend. He played classical guitar and learned many rock songs by ear. He loved animals, and they naturally gravitated to him. More than anything he loved his friends and family,” the obituary read.
The person operating the boat was treated at a hospital for injuries and released. Another person on the boat was not hurt.
An investigation is underway and charges are pending, according to investigators.
There will be a memorial service for Fendley Sunday, June 30, at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Harrisonburg.
