Operator of Vsl #1 boarded sometime between midnight and 2:52 a.m. with passenger on back.  Operator states that half way across the river, the vessel stalled and when he reached for the reserve handle (fuel) the vessel capsized.  Operator and passenger stayed with the PWC for a short period and the victim attempted to swim to shore.  As they neared shore, victim went under water.  Neither operator or the victim was wearing a Pfd.  Operator stated he knew he was violating the hours of operation law. Dive rescue and Constantine Fire were joined by other officers and a U S Coast Guard helicopter.  Victim was sighted by helicopter floating about 100 yards down river in about 4 feet of water.
Constantine Township          