On November 25, 2012 at approximately 2:12pm, I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) along with Reserve Lieutenant (FWC) was dispatched to a boating accident that had occurred on the St. John's River in the Geneva area known as "Cypress Bend".  We arrived on scene at approximately 2:36pm.  Once on scene, I was informed by Seminole County deputies that the victim/operator had been transported to the hospital.  The operator was identified.

During my inspection of the vessel, I noticed a lifejacket was on board, however, it was shoved under one of the seats near the bow of the vessel, and was not readily accessible. I climbed inside the vessel to inspect the motor.  The vessel seemed very unsteady, especially when I was sitting in the operator seat on the starboard stern side. Upon inspection of the motor, myself and R/L noticed the throttle was stuck in the full throttle position.  When testing the throttle, it was obvious that it was sticking, and would not release on it's own.  

Throughout my investigation, and speaking with the witnesses and operator, I learned that Operator had launched the vessel from property.  He was fishing along the St. John's River in the area known as Cypress Bend.  At the time of the accident, he was cruising at approximately 20mph heading South on the river towards Lake Harney.  Operator let off the throttle quickly to slow down because he had "smelled fish". When this happened, his wake from behind him pushed him forward.  At the same time, he was trying to make a quick turn. Operator lost his balance and fell out of the vessel on the starboard stern side.  The vessel's throttle was still stuck causing the vessel to circle Operator in a clockwise fashion.  Operator had to go under the water twice to keep the propeller from striking him.  He stated that he "dog paddled" for approximately 15 minutes until another vessel came down the river and observed what was happening. 

Operator was rescued by another boat. Operator was alert and responsive, although exhausted.

UNINCORPORATED                