GAINESVILLE, Ga. — An online petition, which calls to drain, clean, restore and improve safety measures on Lake Lanier, is growing. It was set up by Usher's ex-wife Tameka Foster on a significant day that marks 11 years since her son's tragic boating accident on the lake.
On July 6, 2012, 11-year-old Kile Glover, the former stepson of Grammy-award hip-hop artist Usher, was critically hurt after he was run over by a jet ski on Lake Lanier, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. He was hospitalized with a severe brain injury and fought for his life for two weeks until he passed away on July 21, 2012, a previous Associated Press report stated.
Last Thursday, Foster took to social media to demand change on Lake Lanier in memory of her son.
"Let's ensure a safer future by demanding improved safety measures, better zoning, and the removal of haunted debris from the lake. Join me in signing the petition and sharing this vital cause," Foster wrote in a social media post.
The petition calls for several actions to be taken including implementing stricter regulations and proper zoning for various water-related activities, among enforcing other safety protocols on the lake.
"Together, we can create a fresh start and bring about lasting transformation. #JusticeForKile #SignForSafety #IWILLFIGHTTILTHEENDOFMYDAYS," Foster added.
More about Lake Lanier
Lake Lanier has often had a dark history of deaths on the water. Over the years, 11Alive has reported on numerous drownings and even a 2021 boat explosion that sent three people to the hospital.
Most recently, back in May, missing Atlanta 57-year-old Terry Daughtery was found dead in Lake Lanier.
11Alive also reported on the months-long search for 20-year-old Dorian Pinson in 2021. Pinson's body was recovered by a private dive team -- nearly three months after he went swimming with a group and didn't resurface.
Underneath the surface of Lake Lanier lies a forest of trees, homes, barns and more. It was formerly known as the town of Oscarville, which was formed in the late 1800s. It was a thriving Black community full of carpenters, blacksmiths, bricklayers and farmers.