Operator was operating LA 1765 FR with eight occupants onboard and one subject being pulled by vessel on wake board in Red River south of Alexandria. Subject made gradual right turn struck west bank of river causing damage to vessel's port and starboard side gunwales and lower hull. Steering wheel and steering console also received minor damage. During accident vessel began to take on water. Subject was  able to operate the boat back to their boat house where the boat was then elevated on a lift to stop it from sinking. 

The operator and one passenger were injured during the accident. The injured passenger was transported by private vehicle to St. Francis Cabrini Medical Center to obtain treatment for his injuries to his left arm before agents arrived on scene. operator was still on scene when agents arrived. Agents suspected that Operator was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. Operator requested medical attention for injuries to his chest and rib area. Agents informed him that due to the fact that they suspected that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident, and that the accident resulted in injuries that he was being detained for investigation. He was transported to St. Francis Cabrini Medical Center by Sr. Agent for treatment. While there Sgt. administered a Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test on Operator. Sgt observed six of six clues during the test. Sgt read Operator the Rights Relating to Chemical Testing for Intoxication. Medical staff then took a blood sample from Operator. Sample was sent to crime lab for testing. Operator was released until test results are obtained. Test results were received on 9-25-13. Operator's blood alcohol content was found to be 0.05 g%. Agents did not pursue charges of Boating while Intoxicated. 
   Agents determined that contributing factors to the accident consisted of operator's alcohol use, the fact that the operator did not pay proper attention during operation and that the operator did not keep proper lookout of his surroundings during operation. Operator was charged with violating La. 34:851.5, Reckless Operation of a Watercraft and 34:851.10B Failure to File Official Boating Incident Report with LDWF.
Alexandria