Why does Usher's ex want to drain Lake Lanier? Tameka Foster urges authorities to 'drain, clean and restore' lake
ATLANTA, GEORGIA: Usher's ex-wife, Tameka Foster, is reportedly urging officials to drain Lake Lanier, the largest lake in Georgia. Foster's 11-year-old son, Kile Glover, died in a jet ski accident on the lake 11 years ago. To enhance safety measures, Foster has gathered over 3,000 signatures on an online petition calling for the complete draining, cleaning and restoration of Lake Lanier, located northeast of Atlanta.
Foster asserted that draining the lake entirely was necessary to facilitate the removal of hazardous materials and implement improved "safety measures," thereby ensuring the well-being of individuals engaging in water-related activities. Foster's determination to push for change remains steadfast.
What happened to Kile Glover?
Glover was floating on an inner tube in Lake Lanier in July 2012 when a jet ski driven by a family friend collided with him, leaving him severely injured. Despite being kept on life support for two weeks, he was declared brain dead and died soon after. The family friend, Jeffrey Hubbard, was convicted on several charges, including homicide by vessel, and received a prison sentence of four years with 15 years of probation.
Why does Usher's ex want to drain Lake Lanier?
“This incident, among others, underscores the urgent need for proper zoning, safety, and complete overhaul measures within the lake,” Foster said. Over the past three decades, the lake has witnessed numerous boat collisions due to heavy traffic, leading to hundreds of accidents. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, between 1994 and 2018, over 170 deaths resulted from boating incidents and drownings. Foster believed that the creation of Lake Lanier, which partially flooded the predominantly Black community of Oscarville during its construction 73 years ago, may impact water currents and pose risks to recreational users.
Lake Lanier serves as a popular recreational destination and also supplies drinking water to approximately five million people. The Buford Dam, located at the lake's southern end, generates hydroelectric power for the metro Atlanta area. Foster's proposal to "drain, clean, and restore" the lake was accompanied by a plea for stricter regulations and zoning for water-related activities.
“Draining, cleaning, and restoring Lake Lanier is not only necessary but also an opportunity to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives and prevent further tragedies,” she wrote, adding, “I Love You Kile and I will fight to the end!” Foster and the 'DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love' singer divorced in 2009. The pair were locked in a custody battle at the time of the Glover's accident. The ex-couple share sons Usher Raymond V and Naviyd.