The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) responded to a call about a possible drowning on Tims Ford Lake in Franklin County, shortly after 3:50 p.m. on March 15.

 

The investigation revealed that 58-year-old Nobuyuki Terajima of Hermitage, had secured his vessel to the dock at Devil’s Step boat ramp. While backing his truck down the ramp, the boat became unsecured and drifted from the dock. Witnesses reported that Mr. Terajima entered the water to retrieve the vessel but disappeared before reaching it.

 

A search of the area by TWRA, Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, and Franklin County Emergency Management ensued. Search efforts were halted Sunday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m. and resumed on Monday, March 16. TWRA investigators deployed a remote operated vehicle (ROV) on Monday morning and located the body at approximately 10:15 a.m. Divers from

 

Franklin County Emergency Management made a recovery at 11 a.m. Mr. Terajima was not wearing a life jacket.

 

This incident remains under investigation. This marks the third boating death on Tennessee waters for 2026.

 

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.