On the above date operator was cruising on Old River when his vessel (LA9798ES) came into contact with an underwater object.  Mercury 150 hp pulled through fiberglass and pulled wooden portion of transom off of boat.  Passenger notified Operator that the motor of the vessel had just came off.  Motor stayed connected to vessel until it was towed to the boat launch where Operator was going to trailer it under power.  No drugs or alcohol was involved.  No injuries to driver or passenger.  Propeller appeared to have hit something steel or concrete.  Photos were taken of all damage.  Main contributing factors were a submerged object and transom appeared to have decomposing plywood in it.  Steering was remote hydraulic which was still intact. Passenger was wearing a type III PFD and Operator was wearing a type V Hybrid.
Batchelor                     