Man sentenced to 10+ years for 2020 boating crash

SAVANNAH, Tenn. — A Memphis man has received over 10 years in prison for a 2020 boating crash.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency reported that on Monday, a Matthew Swearengen pleaded guilty to two counts of vehicular homicide by intoxication at the courthouse in Hardin County.

The TWRA says that on August 15, 2020, Swearengen was operating a personal water craft and hit another PWC in Dry Creek in Pickwick Lake.

The crash led to the death of 40-year-old David Carter and his daughter, six-year-old Olivia Carter, the TWRA said.

Swearengen was sentenced to 12 years in jail for the incident, and also had his driver’s license and vessel operating privileges revoked.

Nicole Carter, the wife and mother to the victims, stated:

“Today is closure for our family and friends. It’s been a long, emotionally draining two years for all of us, but we are thankful for the TWRA investigators, district attorney, witnesses, and everyone involved who helped bring justice for David and Olivia. What happened to David and Olivia could have been prevented. What started as a fun, family day out on the water ended in the worst way possible, all because someone decided to consume alcohol and then operate a watercraft. This one terrible decision forever changed and impacted the lives of so many people. You may think this could never happen to you, but trust me, it can. I am begging you; please do not operate any form of motorized vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. The damages left behind will forever impact our daily lives.”

You can read the full news release from the TWRA here.

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