Operator was fishing in his vessel when a storm approached.  Subject and his passenger took off, on step, heading to a bridge for cover.  Passenger stated that he heard a loud lightning strike noise, and the motor died.  He looked at the operator, and he was slumped over with his head in the water.  Passenger pulled subject back into vessel, and began CPR.    He called 911, but they could not determine his exact location.  Passenger then started the motor, and drove to the bridge where several other subjects were waiting for the storm to pass.  Passenger yelled for help and one of the subjects got into the vessel with him and assisted with CPR.  They proceeded to launch where Acadian Ambulance was waiting.  Operator was transported to Jennings American Legion Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.  Operator was breathing on his own, but was not conscious.  Operator was transported to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital on 5/11/2013.  Operator suffered burns to his head, chest and thigh.  Operator was pronounced dead at 12:00 P.M. on 5/11/2013.  Cause of death listed as electrocution from lightning strike.  Operator's vessel was a 15' Weldcraft, with a 20 HP Tohatsu tiller handle outboard.  Passenger stated that Operator was wearing his ignition safety switch.  There were two, type III, PFD's onboard, but were not being worn.  Alcohol or drugs were not a factor in this incident.
HAYES