Investigation continues into fatal boat accident on Berlin Reservoir

DEERFIELD — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Portage County Sheriff’s Office are still investigating a fatal Berlin Reservoir boating accident that occurred three weeks ago, but no charges have been filed.

The Portage County Coroner’s Office has ruled the death of Neal B. Cuppett, 58, of Akron, accidental, due to internal injuries from the 12:20 a.m. May 9 crash.

Cuppett’s fishing buddy, Bruce Lindamood, 42, of Green, was treated at Robinson Memorial Hospital in Ravenna.

The 16-foot Bass Tracker boat they occupied was stuck by a 17-foot Bayliner, which ODNR said was owned and operated by Joseph Yurich of Deerfield.

Many people heard the crash, yelled for help, and called 911; and several responded by boat, rescuing two men in the water, an ODNR report said.

ODNR’s report said alcohol was involved, but it did not elaborate.