Hallettsville man drowns Saturday in Lake Texana

Jackson County officials reported Sunday that a Hallettsville man had drowned in Lake Texana east of Edna on Saturday evening while out on a pontoon boat with two friends.

Jackson County Sheriff Kelly Janica said Donnie Hart Jr., 41, of Hallettsville, was on the east side of the lake, Saturday evening with two other friends

A lifejacket blew off the boat and Hart jumped in the water to swim after the device, he said.

Hart swam after the device, but the wind blowing it farther, Janica said.

Hart reportedly called out to his friends on the boat, but by the time they caught up to him, he’d already gone beneath the water.

Janica said it appeared as though he’d become fatigued.

An autopsy has been ordered, and no additional information was made available until the investigation is complete.

Hart’s parents and wife have been informed of his drowning, Janica said.