RedactedNarrative: Vessel – 1988, 7’ Kawasaki PWC w/40 hp Inboard/Outdrive Engine
  
  On 07/24/2016, at about 11:30 a.m., this vessel was cruising on the Columbia River near the Edison Street boat launch located near Kennewick WA in Benton County.
   
  According to the Vessel Operator (Operator1) he was in the middle of the river practicing his turns when he lost balance and fell off the PWC.  After he fell, the PWC’s throttle stuck in the open position and it took off full throttle towards shore.  He began to yell as loud as he could to try and warn the people on shore but was too far away for them to hear him.  
   
  The PWC traveled about 1000 yards or more and struck a large rock on shore (sitting at approximately 45 degree angle) causing a loud bang followed by a small fire.  This happened next to two women, a child, and a dog.  There was a man walking nearby that heard/saw what happened and quickly extinguished the flames by throwing water on them.  Fortunately, no one was injured.
   
  Operator1 added that normally when he wrecks on the PWC the throttle releases and it idles in a circle allowing him to bet back on and continue to ride.  He did not know what happened to cause the throttle to stick.   
   
  0 Injuries / 0 Fatalities
  No apparent alcohol involvement
  The vessel was a “Total Loss” with an estimated value of $1,000
  The Operator was wearing a PFD
  The Operator did not have a mandatory Boater Education Card
  