On April 1st 2012, at approximately 3:30am, Agents of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Division of Law Enforcement were dispatched to Pump Slough in Pearl River Louisiana regarding a single vessel accident with one (1) moderate head injury reported. Upon their arrival agents learned that vessel number one (1) an 18’ Blue Wave c/c, displaying Louisiana registration LA-2890-FK, occupied by two white males was traveling northbound on Pump Slough when the operator attempted to travel underneath a bridge in high water which resulted in the vessels windshield, console brace, and operators head striking the support beam on the south side of the bridge. 

The vessels operator was transported by EMS to University hospital in New Orleans for moderate head trauma prior to their arrival. The vessel sustained only minor damage and its passenger was not injured in the crash. During the course of the investigation agents found the vessel to be in compliance with all safety requirements (PFD’s, fire extinguishers, etc.) however it was determined the operator did not have the required stern light affixed and operating while underway as required by state law. 

Agents also noticed numerous empty beer cans strewn about the vessels floor and the ice chest beneath the operators seat was full of beer and ice. Alcohol is suspected as being a contributing factor in the accident and after the vessel was removed from the water it was transported to Crawford’s landing for safe keeping while agents went to University hospital in New Orleans to check on the operator’s condition and to obtain blood samples for BAC analysis. The operator was found to be in stable but guarded condition, suffering from moderate head trauma from the crash. Operator was advised of agent’s intent to draw blood and read the notice to withdraw blood for chemical test for intoxication. The aforementioned blood sample was subsequently taken to the Louisiana state police crime lab in Baton Rouge for BAC and drug use analysis.

PEARL RIVER                   