A final update has come in a case from Oklahoma where a man’s body was found in a lake last year. Authorities have now confirmed the cause of death after completing an autopsy.
What Happened in Grand Lake?
The incident took place near Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in northeastern Oklahoma. The body of 29-year-old Roger B. Griffith was discovered in the water on November 13, 2025.
He was found near Highway 10 and East 250th Road, close to Cowskin Bridge in the Elk River area of the lake, which is located in Delaware County near the town of Grove.
Cause of Death Confirmed
According to the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Griffith died due to drowning. The report also stated that he was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time.
Officials have ruled the death as accidental.
Initial Investigation Details
When Griffith’s body was first found, the case was treated as suspicious. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation began looking into the circumstances surrounding his death.
However, no further updates have been shared publicly by the agency since then.
Autopsy Findings
The autopsy was conducted by Dr. Victoria Thomas at a facility in Tulsa on November 14, 2025, one day after the body was recovered.
The examination confirmed that drowning was the main cause of death, with drug influence being a contributing factor.
No Additional Updates Yet
The Grand River Dam Authority, which oversees the lake, has not released any further information about the incident.
Investigators have not shared additional details about how the situation developed or what led to Griffith being in the water.
About Grand Lake
Grand Lake, also known as Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. It stretches across multiple counties in northeastern Oklahoma and attracts many visitors throughout the year.
The area where Griffith was found, the Elk River arm, is part of Delaware County and is known for recreational use.
The confirmation of Roger B. Griffith’s cause of death brings some clarity to a case that initially raised questions. While authorities first treated the situation as suspicious, the autopsy has now ruled it an accidental drowning with drug influence as a factor.
However, many details about how the incident happened remain unclear, and no further updates have been provided by investigators.
Cases like this highlight the risks associated with substance use, especially in environments like lakes and open water. As Grand Lake continues to be a popular destination, safety awareness remains important for visitors and locals alike.
