BASS LAKE - On September 3, 2018 around 3:08pm, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office received a call for service regarding a boating accident at Bass Lake. According to witness statements, a privately owned ski boat was pulling two individuals on an inflatable tube. While the ski boat was stopped, a pontoon boat struck both tube passengers. Deputies responded to the scene along with EMS and located two injured persons, ages 32 and 7.

The 32 year old male, Brandon Harris, was transported to local regional hospital by ground ambulance, while the 7 year old female victim was airlifted to a local regional hospital. The 7 year old female, Lily Harris, was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. The father and daughter are both residents of Fresno, but maintain a residence in the Bass Lake area. The operator of the pontoon boat is a resident of San Mateo, but also maintains a residence in the Bass Lake area.

The accident and circumstances of the collision remain under investigation. The pontoon boat was rented from a local marina. With the valid rental contract on file, the operator of the rental vessel, pursuant to California law, is exempt from the California Boater Card requirement.

The investigation remains ongoing to determine whether any safety factors may have contributed to the collision. At this time, it is not believed that alcohol or drugs were a factor in the incident.

Any criminal charges will be based on the outcome of the investigation. No one is in custody at this time. All involved parties are fully cooperating with the investigation. If anyone has information relating to this case, please contact the Madera County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 675-7770.

The family has set up a GoFundMe account for anyone who wishes to contribute to funeral expenses for Lily.