The suspected drowning of a Brainerd, Minn., man apparently came after he went in the water to pursue his boat as it drifted from him during its launch, authorities said.

The body Douglas A. Larson, 66, was recovered Thursday afternoon in the narrows of Gilbert Lake just north of Brainerd, according to the Crow Wing County Sheriff's Office.

Larson's vehicle and boat trailer were located at the lake access, and his boat was found beached near the access and close to where Larson was found in about 8 feet of water, the Sheriff's Office said. Also at the access were Larson's boots and clothing.

"Through the investigation, it appears that Larson had been in the process of launching his boat when it apparently drifted away," a statement from the Sheriff's Office read. "Indications are that Larson undressed in an attempt to enter the water and retrieve his boat."

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482