Operator struck his own wake and collided with branches and trees.

On 10/25/2023 at approximately 5:30pm,  the operator of vessel was riding his personal watercraft (PWC) westbound in Black Creek. He turned 180 degrees and accelerated to approximately 20 miles per hour. He struck the wake he had created, lost control and collided with branches and trees lining the bank of the creek. He was able to slowly make his way back to the ramp as his PWC was taking on water. When I arrived I performed a vessel inspection. OP1 had not taken a boating safety class which is required for anyone born after January 1, 1988 and operating a vessel with 10 horsepower or greater. I also found 5 other issues relating to safety equipment. I issued OP1 1 citation for F.S.S. 327.395(1) Operation of vessel without complying with boat education law.
black creek
GREEN COVE SPRINGS            