According to witness, Vessel #1 was traveling (Seekonk River, East PVD) northbound through the channel under the Henderson Bridge.  The boat was cruising and then took a sudden right turn and crashed into the wooden fender on the bridge column.   The impact caused the bow to crush and completely separate from the boat.  Both operator and occupant were taken to the hospital by rescue. 

Investigators concluded that the operator was under the influence alcohol. East Providence Police reported a strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from the operator and Police also overheard the operator telling a fireman that he had consumed six beers.  DEM Police seized an empty 12-pack Budweiser container and a partically-fulled bottle of beer from the vessel for evidence.  Officer reported that when he interviewed the operator in the hospital, the operator told him that he had consumed six beers ealier in the day.  DEM officers also concluded that the operator was driving reckless.  Charges filed were:  1) Reckless Operation of Motorboat and 2) Chemical Test for Intoxication.
East Providencce              