On August 14, 2010, operator was recreational cruising on the Kaskaskia river just south of New Athens, Illinois. the operator was operatering his 18' 2004 G3 aluminum Jon boat with a 75 HP Mercury outboard motor. the operator was occupied in the watercraft by three others. the operator was on the west bank of the Kaskaskia river heading in a northerly direction st full throttle when he encounter several other watercraft. A large speed boat was doing donuts in the center on the river that was causing large wakes. the operator hit the first wakes at half throttle and loss control of the 75 HP Mercury motors tiller. the watercraft made a sharp turn to the left turn towards the west bank and struck several trees that were in the water. All occupants of the watercraft were ejected but one. Two passengers received minor injuries that required them to be transported to St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Belleville, Illinois. thhe opeartor was later given a field sobriety test which he failed. he was arrested and charged with operating a watercraft under the influence. he was transported to the New Athens Police Department to undergo a Breathalyzer test. he refused the Breathalyzer test. he posted bond and was released. his G3 Jon boat received damaged on the bow starboard side. Several large dents were left in the watercraft where it initially made contact with a tree and then bounce off it again. his stainless steel propeller was also bent. Damage was estimated at $1000.00.
New Athens                    