Investigation revealed: Operator #1 encountered wake / chop from unknown vessel / source while crossing Barnegat bay in a Northwest direction in the jurisdiction of Lacey Twp.  Vessel #1 was traveling at an approximate speed of 50 m.p.h. as per statements made by operator #1.  Operator #1 lost control of steerage at this time due to impacting the wake / chop, hitting the throttle with his arm / body, causing the vessel to further accelerate.  The vessel became partially airborne in a hard port direction as per statements by witness #3.  As the vessel turned hard port and became airborne victim #1 was ejected from the vessel.  Same submerged underneath the water and was never seen by the operator or any witnesses after being ejected.  Victim #2 attempted to hang on to a safety hand rail underneath the starboard gunnel inside the vessel.  Victim #2 was ejected over the starboard side of the vessel while holding on to the rail.  Victim #1 sustained a compound fracture of the right forearm while attempting to hold on subsequently letting go of the handle and landing in the Barnegat Bay.  Witness #1, starboard front seat passenger, took control of the steering wheel and throttle and was able to get the vessel back under control.  The vessel eventually came to rest facing the opposite direction of travel in a Southeast direction. 
June 28, 2011

Autopsy revealed cause of death Asphyxia due to drowing.

Lacey Township                