Conservation Officer Carlyle B. Smith

Carlyle B. Smith

Conservation Officer Carlyle Smith succumbed to exposure after his boat capsized in the cold waters of the Maple River between Bridgeville and Maple Rapids.

He was searching for illegal fishing nets when the boat capsized. He was able to pull the boat, motor, and some of his equipment to shore and then started walking the three miles back to Bridgeville. He succumbed to exposure and overexertion before making it back to Bridgeville.

A massive search was initiated after he failed to return. His body wasn't located until May 11th, 1943.

Officer Smith had served with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for 10 years. He was survived by his wife and two children.