Vessel - 1995, 12' Aluminum Duroboat Open Motorboat w/ 5 hp Evinrude Engine 

On 9/4/2013, at about 5:38 p.m., Victim and his passenger, ex-wife, were fishing in this vessel on Puget Sound just off Bush Point in Island county WA.   

Victim fell overboard while attempting to land a fish.  The victim was not wearing a PFD. His companion attempted to get him back into the boat and fell into the water herself (no injures reported).  She managed to get herself back into the boat and was able to hang onto the victim until another recreational fishing vessel arrived. 

Other vessel operators in the area were able to recover the victim, perform first aid / CPR, and transport him to shore.  The victim was transported to Whidbey General Hospital by ambulance.  Victim never regained consciousness.  The preliminary Coroners Report indicates salt water drowning as cause of death. 

No injuries / One fatality
There was no alcohol involvement.
No vessel damage reported.
The operator/victim was not wearing a PFD.  Occupant was wearing a PFD.
It is unknown if the operator/victim had a mandatory Boater Education Card - He was exempt by age.
There were no Rules of the Road Violations.
Freeland