Vessel on the West Fork of the Calcasieu River near Holbrook Park.   There was one (1) passenger in the vessel along with the operator.  Operator was operating at a high rate of speed in a narrow channel near the park.  Operator stated that the vessel suddenly pulled to the right (starboard) and struck a large cypress tree.  The vessel impacted the tree with the port bow.  Neither of the two (2) occupants was wearing their PFD.  Upon striking the tree the passenger was thrown from the vessel, striking the trees and becoming knocked unconscious, according to the passenger.  The operator was thrown into the bow of the vessel where he suffered injuries as well.  There was a kill switch lanyard attached to the operator of the vessel. The vessel, LA 9476 FB, came to rest next to the bank near a park road.  Operator was able to get himself out of the vessel and onto land.  It is unknown how the passenger reached the land.  There were several onlookers on site when agents arrived; however, none were willing to give a written voluntary statement.  Both subjects were transported by Acadian Ambulance to West Cal-Cam Hospital in Sulphur.  The passenger was treated for various abrasions and a large laceration to his left temporal area.  The operator was treated for multiple fractures of the lower right leg.  These injuries to Operator later required surgery.  After being mirandized, the operator admitted that he had drunk several beers that afternoon.  It was also learned that the engine on the vessel is a 50 hp and not a 40 hp as previously believed.  Operator will also be charged with overpowering a motorboat.  Operator has been charged in this incident with DWI, Reckless operation, Operating a watercraft under suspension or revocation, failing to comply with Class A Tiller handle PFD requirements and failing to comply with boating education requirements.  Charges are still pending for the crime of first degree vehicular injury.  The blood alcohol concentration for Operator as determined by the blood test which was run through the LASP Crime Lab measured 0.14 %
Moss Bluff                    