On 08/05/2012 at approximately 4:15 p.m., vessel #1 was towing a tube with two juvenile male passengers at hwy 421 bridge on south holston lake in sullivan county. Based on witness statements, vessel #1 pulled up to the bank near the bridge to unload and go ashore to the rope swing. The two juvenile male passengers got off of the tube and the tube was secured to the vessel. One juvenile male remained in the water and was swimming near the vessel. The subject stated he was attempting to go to the rear of the vessel and climb the ladder. Operator of vessel #1 stated that he thought everyone was out of the water and looked around and did not see anyone near the vessel. At this time, he started the engine and put the boat into gear in attempt to move farther up onto the bank to secure the vessel. The juvenile male stated he heard the engine start and tried to kick away from the vessel and the propeller struck him in the lower left leg. An occupant of vessel #1 called 911 and advised sullivan county of the incident. The operator of vessel #1 transported the male juvenile to painter creek marina. Sullivan county ems arrived on scene and transported the male juvenile to bristol regional medical center where he was admitted for treatment and released on 08/07/2012.
BRISTOL                       