The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is facing a negligence lawsuit in Wyoming following a horrific boating accident in 2022 that resulted in a 12-year-old boy losing his foot. The legal action, filed on behalf of two brothers, alleges the church failed in its duty of care during an official youth trip.
The Incident at Boysen Reservoir
According to court documents, the accident occurred during a boating activity on the Boysen Reservoir. The brothers, then aged 12 and 14, were participating in the trip organised by the church. A member of the church's Young Women's group was reportedly operating the boat.
The lawsuit states that the 12-year-old was feeding a rope to an inner tube in the water when the driver allegedly accelerated the vessel. This sudden acceleration caused the rope to tighten violently and wrap around the boy's left foot. The force inflicted deep lacerations that effectively severed the foot below his ankle.
A Brother's Heroic Rescue and Failed Response
In the chaotic aftermath, the situation worsened. The driver stopped the boat but could not restart it because the engine flooded. Meanwhile, the 14-year-old brother, the other plaintiff in the case, immediately called 911 for emergency assistance.
Facing a dire situation far from shore, the teenage brother took decisive action. He applied a tourniquet to his sibling's injured leg in an attempt to stem the bleeding. He then placed his brother on an inner tube and attempted to paddle him back to the shore while they awaited help.
Despite extensive medical intervention, including two amputations and multiple surgeries, doctors were unable to save the 12-year-old's foot.
Allegations of Trauma and Negligence
The legal filing contends that the younger boy has suffered severe and permanent psychological trauma alongside his life-altering physical injury. It also argues that his brother endured significant emotional distress from witnessing the accident and managing the emergency response.
The core of the lawsuit alleges that the church, as the organiser and leader of the activity, breached its responsibility to provide a safe environment and proper training for its volunteers. The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical expenses and for the loss of past and future enjoyment of life.
The Church's Defence and Legal Stance
In a formal response issued on Monday, 5 January 2026, the church firmly denied any failure in its obligations or legal duties. It also denied that the accident resulted from inappropriate or erroneous acts by its personnel.
The church's statement pointed to the inherent risks of activities like boating and cited the volunteer immunity doctrine, which offers legal protections to individuals acting as volunteers. The church characterised the event as a "rare and unforeseen accident that happened in the absence of negligence or lack of due care."
The case highlights the complex legal and ethical responsibilities of organisations running activities for minors, setting the stage for a significant courtroom battle over duty of care and volunteer liability.
