SYNOPSIS

On September 03, 2012, at approximately 0143 hours, a single vessel incident occurred on the waters of Seven Sister's Creek, a tributary of the St. Johns River in Putnam County, Florida. The incident involved a 16 foot open style vessel occupied by operator with two passengers. 
The three were participating in an alligator hunt on the St. Johns River while V1 was being idled up the creek from the river, passenger stepped to the starboard side stern area behind the operator and was attempting to urinate off the stern.
victim slipped and fell landing on his buttocks on the stern of V1. This action caused his right leg to enter the water and his right foot made contact with the moving prop of V1's 85 horse power engine. 
Operator heard Victim yelling that he had been hurt and they needed to go. Operator and Occupant2 wrapped a towel around Victim's foot and called 911 for assistance. Operator brought Victim to the Hermit's Cove Marina, where they met Fire Rescue and Victim was transported to Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine.
Victim was bare foot at the time of his injury and Victim received a laceration to the bottom of his right foot requiring multiple sutures to close.  

CONCLUSION

After reviewing all statements and evidence to date, I have concluded that there were no violations of State or Federal vessel laws or rules committed by the operator of V1, Operator.
WELAKA                        