Woman drowns walking dog at Wenham Lake, families urge caution

In Beverly, Massachusetts, on Christmas Eve, the search for Owen Kasozi was initiated after she was reported missing while walking her dog in the J.C. Phillips Nature Preserve. Owen, aged 30, was a routine visitor to the area, frequently walking her dog along the popular trails used by community members. As temperatures dropped well below freezing, concerns grew for her safety, leading to a multi-agency search operation on December 24 and December 25. Unfortunately, her body was discovered in the frozen Wenham Lake on December 25. Reports indicate that she likely fell into the icy water while trying to retrieve her dog. Her dog, Boca, was later found safe in Topsfield, suggesting that the dog may have been involved in the incident prompting Owen’s fall into the lake. The local police department and the Essex County District Attorney's Office expressed their condolences to Owen’s family, emphasizing that foul play was not suspected in this tragic case. An investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding Owen's death is being conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Owen's family is devastated by the loss and described her as vibrant and outgoing, with great love for her dog and family. They have urged fellow dog owners to exercise caution during the winter months to prevent similar tragedies. Owen Kasozi's story resonates deeply, highlighting the importance of being aware of safety risks while enjoying outdoor activities in winter. A GoFundMe page set up in her memory raised nearly $9,000, reflecting the community's support and love. This unfortunate event serves as a painful reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can be associated with seemingly simple activities like dog walking, especially in harsh weather conditions. Owen Kasozi's family plans to remember her spirited personality while also honoring her love for animals and the joy she brought to everyone around her.