Interpration of Then there is the man who drowned while crossing a stream that was on average 6 inches deep by wie gates?

Answer 1

It refers to statistics, and how raw data does not always provide actionable intelligence. The bed of a stream or river is often concave and not perfectly flat. at it's edges it is quite shallow, however rather deep in it's center. At it's center it may be several feet deep but only providing an average of six inches. The lack of additional details result in mistakes. For example, U.S. paratrooper in WW II that parachuted on swamps instead of prairies.

Answer 2

This sentence appears to be a metaphorical statement, suggesting that even seemingly simple or easy tasks can have unforeseen risks or consequences. The man's drowning in a shallow stream highlights the idea that danger or failure can come from unexpected sources.