RedactedNarrative: Two people were travailing on a plane up the Ochlockonee River. Operator was operating the stick steer vessel when he let go of the steering mechanism to grab a drink. The vessel made a hard right turn, ejecting Operator and Occupant from the vessel. When Operator was able to surface he saw Occupant holding onto a life jacket asking him for help. Operator swam to his vessel and idled to Occupant. Operator said that Occupant tried to get into the boat but became unresponsive during the process. Operator grabbed Occupant's overalls and pulled him to shore. After attempting CPR for 5 minutes Operator left to get help. 
  • Operator stated he tried to catch up to boat that went by but was unable to gain their attention. 
  • Next he saw a subject fishing from the bank at the State Park. 
  • He went to the subject and asked for help. 
  • The subject called 911 and got into Operator’s boat. 
  • They reached Occupant’s location and pulled Occupant into the boat. 
  • Operator said that they took Occupant to the State Park and met EMS.; the medical examiner initial finding was that Occupant did not drown. Dr. stated that he believed the cause of death was related to advanced lung and heart disease coupled with the sudden emersion into the cold water along with the exertion of trying to climb back into the boat.