On Saturday, March 25, 2023, a single vessel boating incident occurred in the Homosassa River area of Citrus County; State of Florida.

At approximately 1600 hours, a single airboat allision occurred near Kokomo Island (where Mason Creek meets Petty Creek). The 16 foot Panther airboat, operated by vessel owner was traveling west on Mason Creek, turned north west around Kokomo Island, and headed north west towards Petty Creek. 

The vessel was traveling approximately 20 to 30 mph and had 4 passengers onboard. The winds were blowing approximately 10 mph SW with gusts recorded up to 22 mph. Operator was operating the airboat in shallow waters near the right hand side of the creek when he tried to bank towards the left around a mangrove point. 

The port side of the vessel was broadsided by wind, pushing the starboard bow into the mangrove trees along the shoreline. 

Subject1 was thrown forward over the bow and landed in a sitting position in the shallow waters. She refused medical services. She suffered several contusions along her backside. She refused medical treatment.;

Subject2 was thrown down on the bow grass rake, where her right ankle made contact with the deck causing swelling and bruising. She was taken to Oak Hill Hospital in Hernando County. An x-ray revealed she had an ankle fracture.

Subject3 suffered scrapes and contusions along his right arm and leg.

Subject4 suffered scrapes and bruising along his left ventral arm and left knee.

Petty/Mason Creek
HOMOSASSA                     