On 6/29/2023 operator was entering Duck Lake from twenty-one canal in St. Martin Parish. Operator was operating vessel which is a 20’ tiller steer, aluminum bateau, powered by a 70 HP Yamaha outboard. Agents went to hospital but were unable to speak to Operator due to him being transported to Thibodaux Regional Hospital to undergo surgery. On 7/1/2023, agents were able to speak to Operator where he was read his rights as per Miranda. Operator stated he understood and knowledgably waived. 

While entering Duck Lake, Operator stated he struck a submerged object and it jerked the motor out of his hand. Operator was not wearing a personal flotation device but was wearing the kill switch. Operator also stated to agents that he tried to reach for the handle, the vessel dug into the water, he hit his knee on the gunwale, and was then thrown from the vessel. 

Operator stated the passenger was able to get Operator out of the water and head back to Wilsons Landing in Patterson. Operator was transported to Ochsner Hospital in St. Mary Parish where he was then transported to Thibodaux Regional Hospital and underwent surgery for a broken knee. Alcohol and/or drugs are not contributing factors in this incident.

Duck Lake
Patterson                     