At approximately 10:15 AM on March 20th, 2023, a boat accident occurred on the Sangamon River, approximately 4 miles NE of Beardstown. The accident involved one 16-foot Lund vessel (vessel 1) with three passengers. 

After considering the limited information provided by the occupants to the evidence in and along the river (e.g., submerged tree, markings on bank and trees) and the vessel, the following summary reflects what the investigating officers believed happened during the incident. 

While cruising, vessel 1 struck a submerged tree which caused the operator to lose control of the tiller handle. After striking the tree, vessel 1 veered right directing the starboard side into the bank/roots and the bow into a tree trunk at the river's edge. The force from hitting the tree along with the angle of travel caused the stern of the boat to swing into an adjacent tree. The combination of the impacts caused the operator to fall out of the boat as it continued forward. Shortly thereafter vessel 1 struck another tree (causing a second occupant to fall out) and then the bank where it came to a stop due to the fuel line becoming detached from the motor. 

The operator was identified as Operator. The passengers were identified as Passenger 1 and Passenger 2. Operator reportedly suffered fractured ribs, a punctured lung, fractured back, and a shoulder injury. Passenger 1 suffered a small brain bleed in his frontal lobe as well as a contusion and laceration near his left eye that required two stitches.  Passenger 2 did not sustain any injuries that required medical attention. 

None of the occupants were wearing life jackets. 

It is believed that a combination of striking the submerged tree along with the operator failing to use a functional safety switch/lanyard contributed to the accident.

It is estimated that the boat sustained around $500 in damages from the accident.

See supplemental report for additional information.
Sangamon River
Beardstown                    