On 02/13/11 at approximately 2:30pm I, Texas Game Warden, Operator1 was contacted by Aransas Pass P.D. informing me that two boats collided resulting in injuries, and that both  boats were coming to the Conn Brown Harbor boat ramp.  Upon arrival I found vessel #1 at dock with the injured person still lying on the deck. V2Occupant1, who was a passenger on vessel #2, was on vessel #1 administering first aid to him.  Victim was removed from the boat by EMS and transported by Halo Flight to Spohn Memorial with what appeared to be back injuries.  Operator2 came up to me and said,"I ran into him".  Coast Guard arrived at the scene.  Both boats were trailered and parked at the boat ramp parking lot. I got information and took pictures of both boats and noted damages.  I handed out paper and pens to Operator2, V2Occupant1, and two others.  I explained that what I was requesting was a voluntary statement of what happened and any illustration they could add.   I told both operators that I would be in touch with them for any further information. 

On 2/16/11 I spoke to V2Occupant1 explaining what was going on and what to expect from me during investigation.  After reviewing damages, vessel #1, and taking statements into account, I believe that the collision was caused due to vessel #2 following too close when attempting to overtake vessel #1's  wake.  When overtaking the wake of vessel #1, vessel #2 was passing on the starboard side heading west on the Aransas Channel near the Intracoastal Waterway.  Vessel # 2 attempted to overtake vessel #1. The bow of vessel #2 struck vessel #1 at the starboard transom halfway between the motor and starboard gunnel, travelled over the vessel striking victim who was standing holding onto the center console rail, knocking him to the deck.  Vessel #2 glanced off to the starboard side back into the channel.  Vessel # 2 did stop to render aid and call for help.  Damages to vessel #1 included: damage to transom, damage to engine cover, center console, windshield and rail, GPS,and fishing equipment.  Damages to vessel #2 included contact marks along its portside hull forward of its center mainly above the waterline and possibly some fiberglass chips on the portside of its hull below the waterline.

NOTE:  The was only one person involved wearing a PFD.  No sound producing devices were used.
              Report number indicated was generated by TPWD Houston Communications.

Aransas Pass                  