Operator was traveling north in Lake Misere.  Operator had one (1)  passenger onboard.  While Operator was traveling, on step, he ran his vessel through a large tree top.  This submerged tree had several large branches protruding 10' to 15' above the waterline.  This collision caused Operator to be thrown from the vessel.  The vessel then traveled west, and stopped.  Operator swam back to the vessel and did not see Victim.  He began looking for him and returned to the camp for help.  When he got back to the camp, he realized Victim was in the vessel, unresponsive.  They began CPR on victim, and another subject drove the vessel to Gary's Landing.  Victim was pronounced dead, at the landing.  Victim was wearing his PFD, but Operator was not.  The ignition safety switch was not used.  Operator was given a intoxilyzer test, for the presence of alcohol, and had a result of .087g% BAC.

     Charges have been filed w/the Cameron Parish D.A. office - Wreckless operation of a water craft, DWI, and  Vehicular Homocide.
Lake Arthur                   