RedactedNarrative: V1 was headed south in the Myakka River, cruising at a speed of around 25mph. The steering went out while attempting to turn. V1 then struck a channel marker head on, ejecting two of the three occupants, resulting in minor injuries to all occupants. 
  
  Operator and I discussed the event and he also gave a sworn written statement at 1812 hours. (Written statement attached) Information as follows: 
  
  • Left residence by vessel at approximately 1230 hours  
  • Headed west in canal stopping to fish along the way 
  • Headed south in main Myakka River towards El Jobean 
  • Stopped to fish several times 
  • Was heading south in channel when steering went out 
  • Approximate RPM’s at time of collision 4000 (15-25 MPH) 
  • No one wearing life jackets 
  • Struck Marker 8 
  • Operator stated he flew forward in vessel, 2 other occupants were ejected from vessel 
  • Engine was not running after collision 
  • Possibly due to portable gas tank being ejected from vessel during collision 
  • Got everyone back on vessel 
  • Threw anchor and pulled vessel to shore 
  • Flagged down home owners 
  • Collision occurred approximately 2 hours prior to complainants calling 911 
  Operator suffered bruising and contusions to his back and right shoulder. 
  
  Next, I made contact with occupant at 1831 hours. Injured2 stated that they left to fish around 1200 hours. He stated he saw the marker and then the next thing he knew they crashed. Injured2 said he remembered flying into the marker and then into the water. 
  
  Injured2 received 3 stitches due to a laceration to his right arm and a bruised right hip. 
  
  Last, I made contact with occupant at 1845 hours. Injured3’s Mother was present during our conversation. Injured3 stated he remembered driving for a few and then hitting something. Then he was in the water. 
  Injured3 suffered minor lacerations to his back. 
  
  I also inspected the mechanical function of the steering, since it was believed to be the cause of the accident. The steering was completely unresponsive, letting the steering wheel spin freely without any response from the motor.