Vessel one operator reached for object on deck of vessel.  Vessel capsized and operator was ejected. 

Around 12:00 p.m. subject launched his 14' Old Town vessel at Grassy Pond off of Butler Rd.   Operator apparently was reaching for an object on the deck of the vessel when the canoe style vessel suddenly capsized.  Operator said while in the water he began to cough up blood.   Operator stated he saw a nearby tree and began to swim for it.  Operator said he struggled as he swam for the tree going under multiple times before reaching it.  

A bank fisherman was watching as this happened and immediately called for help.  FWC Reserve Officer responded with a vessel and arrived on scene at 1240hrs.  Officer launched the vessel and made contact with Operator.  Officer brought Operator aboard his vessel and transported him to the shore.  Officer then recovered the canoe vessel and brought it to shore.    

EMS arrived on scene to assess Operator.  While EMS was on scene Operator begin to have shortness of breath.  EMS made the decision to transport him to Southeast Alabama Medical Center at that time.  

Officers inventoried and photographed the Old Town vessel after the initial accident.  

Ofc and I arrived at the SAMC Medical Center at 1807hrs on the night of the 12th.  We made contact with Operator in the emergency room and found him to be in good spirits.  Operator gave an account of the incident and details related to his diagnosis.  Apparently Operator's struggle while in the water led to his coughing up blood.  Operator was examined and held over night at SAMC for observation.    

After concluding the investigation, I found the accident occurred due to a sudden shift of weight on the canoe style vessel.  I found Operator was not wearing a personal floatation device but did have one on board.  No charges are pending.; OPERATOR:Due to physical struggle while swimming to nearby tree.  Vessel one operator burst capillaries in both lungs causing vessel one operator to cough up blood.  Injuries were expected to heal with proper rest.
SNEADS