On July 2, 2023 at approximately 1730, a vessel collision occurred that resulted in two people being taken to the hospital and damage.

Vessel 1 (a PWC) was returning to the beach and completing a starboard turn toward shore. There were 2 occupants on the jet ski. This afternoon was the second time that this operator (Operator 1) had drove a jet ski, the first time occurring the day before. 

Vessel 2 (a PWC) was driving toward the starboard side of Vessel 1 as it completed the turn and the 9-year-old operator (Operator 2) was unable to stop in time or turn away and collided with the starboard side of Vessel 1. This vessel was travelling around 10-20 mph.

Upon impact, both Operator 1 and Passenger 1 were ejected from Vessel 1 to the port side and Operator 2 was also ejected from Vessel 2. Operator 1 suffered scratches and bruising on their right leg and Passenger 1 received scratches and bruising on their right leg as well.

Vessel 1 sustained significant damage, it was starting to sink after the collision and was towed to shore by bystanders. There was a large piece of plastic missing on the starboard side rub rail, a crack running from this area halfway down the side of the vessel from bow to stern. There was also a vertical crack going starboard to port. There was a significant breach of hull on the starboard side below the rub rail and missing plastic in this area. Operator 1, Passenger 1, and others at the scene explained that the vessel was starting to sink and needed to be towed to shore. Vessel 2 and Operator 2 did not sustain any damage or injuries, there were some marks on the bow but the owner stated that they had likely already been there.

The cause of the accident was Operator 2’s underage operation and operating too close to Vessel 1 in congested waters preventing sufficient time to stop or avoid an accident. The parent of Operator 2 received citations for allowing underage operation and accountability for reckless/negligent operation.
MISSOURI RIVER DREDGE CUTS
FORT PECK                     