On Saturday 03/23/13 at approximately 10:30am, I heard a call come over intercity radio regarding an air boat accident with injuries.

I responded from US-41 and SW 147ave and headed in a westerly direction towards the L-67A Canal. I observed Miami-Dade Police Department and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responding to the same location. I arrived at the L-67A at approximately 11:00am and began a search of the area for the injured parties. At approximately 2.8 miles north of US-41 I located a single vessel and two occupants. 

Both occupants advised that they are ok and there was no need for medical assistance. However I did notice that Operator had a laceration over his right eye and Occupant had significant swelling in his left knee. Both advised that they are coherent and capable of walking around.  

Both occupants were transported to the gated entrance of the L-67A and were checked out by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Unit 58 under the supervision of Chief.

Operator advised that they had launched from the boat ramp and were traveling by air boat heading north to a fishing spot. Approximately 5 minutes into their trip, they went around an area that was under construction and stuck a rock that was just below the waterline. The impact stopped the vessel immediately and caused a crack in the hull. The impact caused Occupant to be ejected and he landed in the marsh. Both were able to maneuver the air boat closer to the levee were they could be easily located.

Operator made arrangements to have vessel removed from the area.  

Conclusion, The area where they were operating had low water and objects usually underwater were exposed. These waters are not considered navigable waters, therefore are not governed by United States Coast Guard Navigational Laws. No charges pending.


This concludes Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission investigation.

Operator suffered a laceration on his right forehead from impact with air boat steering control. He was checked out by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue where he refused transport and treatment. Operator transported himself to the hospital later that day and received several stitches.
DORAL