Responded to a capsized boat on a private pond. Two people were in a boat, fishing on a private pond. The boat was anchored at the front and back (bow and stern). Both individuals were straddling the boat''s seats, fishing off the left (port) side. Occupant stood up in the boat and lost his balance. Occupant fell hitting his back on the right (starboard) gunwale. Occupant fell within the boat causing the boat to lean to starboard. The boat''s movement caused Operator to fall backwards to starboard. With their combined weight and momentum the boat capsized causing both of them to fall into the water. 

They attempted to swim with the boat to shore. After approximately 15 minutes they decided to leave the boat and swim to shore. Operator made it to shore. Occupant did not. Occupant''s body was recovered and an autopsy is scheduled for 6/7/12. Cause of death will be determined after autopsy and toxicology reports are completed.

There were no personal flotation devices on the boat.  There was not a Type IV device (Not Required) on the boat.   

Note: It was determined both Operator and Occupant were operators of the boat. They used paddles to paddle out to their location. Used Vessel 2 page to document both were operators.

On 6/22/12 LaSalle County Coronor completed the autospy report (case # LS12-C-500). The findings were Accidental Drowning with Methadone Intoxication as a contributing factor.

Mendota                       