RedactedNarrative: On 7-9-17 at approximately 2045, operator was operating his fathers Sundance Skiff (FL 5572 NE) with three other persons onboard. While traveling in a westerly direction at approximately 20 mph in the marked entrance channel of Bayou Grande, Operator struck a fixed channel marker (Red Marker 2A).
  
  Operator stated that he was utilizing a spotlight intermittently while in the channel. At the last second Operator saw the pole of the marker and turned to port (left). The vessel made glancing contact with the starboard (right) side of the bow (front). Operator struck the handrail above the windshield with his lower lip causing it to split open. The occupants onboard were thrown to the deck without injury.
  
  Operator used a T-shirt to control the bleeding and continued to Navy Point boat ramp where I made initial contact after observing the vessel entering the restricted area at a high speed. After my initial observations it was apparent that Operator was involved in a boating accident and needed medical attention. He stated that he would go to Baptist Hospital ER. I took pictures of the vessel and gathered pertinent information to complete the report and indicated to Operator that I would see him at the hospital. 
  
  Officer went to Baptist Hospital while I operated the patrol boat back to Rook's Marina and secured and took pictures of the broken channel marker. 
  
  I waited at the Baptist Hospital until midnight for Operator.  Days later I was able to make contact with Operator. He stated that he ended up going to Sacred Heart Hospital for treatment. Operator stated that he received 5-6 stitches but was unsure of the exact amount
  
  Upon conclusion of the investigation Operator was issued a citation for improper look out.
  