On 5/29/2023, Vessel 1 was travelling on the Neches River near union canal above headway speed. GPS Coordinates:  Latitude -30.039787, Longitude -94.041050. 

The vessel was headed inside the canal and made a hard left turn to head out of the canal. 

At approximately 3:03pm, operator tried to stop a leak by instructing subject to operate the vessel while he pulled the plug to let the water drain while underway. While transitioning the throttle handle to Subject, the motor jerked, and both were ejected from the vessel. Subject fell backwards off the stern of the vessel causing him to hit the water headfirst into the propeller. 

Operator was ejected on the starboard side of the vessel. The kill switch was activated by Operator, so the motor died shortly after both were ejected. Neither Operator nor Subject were wearing a personal flotation device. Operator resurfaced and swam towards the vessel. After boarding the vessel, he saw Subject face down in the water and Subject quickly sank approximately 30-40 yards from the bank. Operator attempted to drive towards Subjects last known location but was unsuccessful in finding him. Operator then started calling for help. Operator reported no injuries beyond first aid in result to the accident. 

Operator admitted to consuming a few alcoholic beverages (two Miller Light beers) prior to the accident and had a low level of alcohol in his system. Operator was issued a citation for boating under the influence (minor). On 5/30/2023, at approximately 6:00pm Subject was recovered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Dive Team. After examining Subject’s body, Subject had two prop strikes to the head; on the right side of his forehead and behind his right ear. Subject was turned over to Justice of the Peace and Proctors Mortuary. 

End of Report

1402 NECHES RIVER
Beaumont                      