Nationwide — Kristen Gerrie, a 41-year-old woman from Curtice, Ohio, has been released on a $50,000 bond after being charged in the death of 11-year-old Angelique Cunningham, a Black child who drowned during a Lake Erie boating trip. Authorities say Gerrie did not call 911 after Angelique and another person entered the water.
Gerrie now faces a felony child endangerment charge after prosecutors upgraded the case from a misdemeanor, according to 13 ABC. Investigators said she was responsible for Angelique’s care during the July 1 boat outing near Jerusalem Township.
Angelique was on the boat with Gerrie and 38-year-old Jonathan Ciha when they left Meinke Marina. Officials said the child went missing less than 15 minutes after the boat departed.
The Lucas County Coroner’s Office later identified Angelique after her body was found near the shoreline in Jerusalem Township. The coroner ruled her death an accidental drowning and said the 11-year-old was not a strong swimmer.
Ciha, who owned the boat, was also found dead after another boater reported the emergency and called 911 Thursday morning. Authorities ruled his death an accidental drowning as well. The boat was later recovered near West Sister Island.
Angelique’s family said Gerrie was their neighbor and someone they trusted to take the child on the recreational outing. Authorities said Gerrie swam back to shore after the incident, contacted a friend for transportation, and did not call emergency services or notify Angelique’s mother.
Angelique’s mother eventually contacted authorities after learning about the situation. Capt. Robert Chromik said investigators are continuing to examine the events surrounding the drownings.
Gerrie appeared before a judge by video and said she would stay with family while the case moves forward. As part of her bond conditions, she cannot contact the Cunningham family. Authorities have not said whether she could face additional charges.