Two personal watercraft were headed toward the beach on Lake Carlsbad playfully speeding side by side just past the Canal Street bridge.  They collided and rolled according to one witness and the riders all were airborne. 


A man was killed and three people were injured Tuesday after two Jet Skis collided on the Pecos River under the Canal Street bridge. When Carlsbad firefighters arrived at the scene, they found Operator1, 20, suffering from internal injuries. All four victims were taken to Carlsbad Medical Center, where Operator1 was later pronounced dead. 
Witness said he observed Operator1, accompanied by a female victim, playfully speeding alongside a second Jet Ski operated by Operator2. Operator2 was also carrying a passenger. The two watercrafts headed toward the beach on the south side of the river, where they collided and rolled. Witness was boating on the river, said he observed the riders go airborne before he heard cries for help from a female victim. 
A police report said a search of Operator1's vehicle revealed a bong and an open bottle of liquor, but it is unknown whether drugs or alcohol were a contributing factor in the accident. 
Carlsbad police officers assisting at the scene reported that Operator1 was operating a jet ski without a valid license as required by the NM State Parks Division. 
Fire Chief said Tuesday's incident was the first fatal accident on the river this year. 
The investigation is being handled by NM State Parks Division.
Carlsbad