On 4/21/09, Agents responded to A SAR mission in the Berwick area. The subject was dropped off on 4/20/09 at approsimately 08:30 AM and was supposed to return at approximately 2pm that day.  At approximately 1:30pm on 4/21/09, agents found Victim face down in his vessel unresponsive. After a short time Victim became responsive but was incoherent. It appeared that Victim was traveling at full throttle and veered off course hitting acypress tree on the west bank of the Atchafalaya River. His vessel came to rest approximately 30 feet beyound the tree onto the bank.  The throttle was in the forward position and at full throttle. Also the tachometer indicated that his otor was running at 5800 RPM.  When agents found Victim he was wearing a PRD but the kill switch lanyard was not used.  Also after speaking with Victim's father agents were advised that the subject had started a new medication for anxiety (Seroguil).  Victim was transported to Teche Regional for multiple injuries to is face and shoulder. Once at Teche Regional it was found tha Victim had internal bleeding of his brain and was beng transported to Lafayette General for his head injuries. This matter is still under investigation at this time.
Berwick                       