At approximately 1430 hours, Corporal was notified of a boating incident that occurred on the Chattahoochee River between Azalea Park and GA-9 (Roswell Road) by Troop C Atlanta Dispatch. The single occupant and the vessel owner was traveling upstream (river-right), in a new 16ft jet boat, when he collided with a submerged tree. Impact from the crash caused the new Mercury 5hp jet motor to detach and sink to the bottom of the river. Minimal stern damage occurred, and the operator was not injured. Operator was also able to get off the river without assistance. 

The Chattahoochee, on today’s date, had just experienced nearly a half inch of rain over the past 24 hours. This caused the river to be flowing at a much higher CFS than normal. Water conditions were also murky, which are normally clear to about 6 foot in this stretch of river. Wind speeds were at gusts of 40mph, conditions were clear, and the water temperature was around 58 degrees. All of these weather conditions are believed to be contributing factors in the crash. 

The operators statement said it was the first time that this new motor even touched water. Operator believed that the motor was firmly secured to the stern of the vessel. Estimated damage is believed to be $2000. Cpl. advised Operator of private recovery services to possibly help retrieve the motor from river bottom.

Chattahoochee River
ROSWELL                       