"     On May 5, 2012  at approximately 2300 hours, two people launched their 16' War Eagle boat (GA Registration 6448KT) at the Sidney Lanier Boat Ramp to go Flounder gigging.  Due to the extremely low tides that the coastal area had been experiencing, and the trouble the two had gaining access into several areas, the men decided to head back at approximately 0300.

     As they navigated their way South on Turtle River past the Port, they suddenly hit "something”. Operator, was thrown to the bow of the stick steer boat, but was able to grab the gunwhale before coming completely out.  As he regained his composure and control of the boat, Operator realized that Occupant was no longer on board.  He immediately began looking for Occupant and located him approximately 15-20 yards from the boat.  Operator advised that Occupant was floating face down in the water.  He continued to call to him, as he pulled him into the boat.  Operator also advised that Occupant, who was presumably in shock, grabbed the boat to try to pull himself on board.

     Operator then called 911 and told the operator where they were, and that they needed an ambulance to meet them at the boat ramp under the bridge.  When Operator and Occupant arrived at the ramp, EMS was on scene.  Occupant was conscious, but was taken to the hospital in Brunswick, due to the water that he had swallowed.

     Contact was made with both subjects on May 6 and interviews were conducted on May 7.  Photos of the vessel were taken, and written statements were gathered from both men. ,"
BRUNSWICK                     