On May 7, 2023, at approximately 14:15 hours, I was notified of a boating incident that had occurred on the Flint River in Bainbridge.  It was reported that it was a single vessel incident with injuries, and that the vessel was being towed in by another vessel to the Earle May Boat Basin.  

Corporal responded to the Boat Basin along with Decatur County First Responders.  Once the operator of the vessel arrived at the Boat Basin, it was found that the passenger had suffered an injury to his back and shoulder from a prop strike.  

Operator1 stated he was traveling north on the Flint River in Bainbridge when he noticed what looked to be a stick floating in the river.  As he approached closer, he noticed it was a large log floating and was not able to avoid the log.  

The foot of the outboard motor struck the log causing the motor to become unattached from the vessel and flip into the stern of the vessel, and the prop of the motor struck victim on the right side of his back causing injury.  Operator1 was unharmed, and the vessel had no damage other than needing the motor to be remounted.  Victim was transported to Memorial Hospital and Manor for treatment. 

	Cpl. went to Memorial Hospital to get a statement from Victim and to get the medical release forms filled out and signed by Victim.  Victim’s statement matched the statement Operator1 had given.  On May 8, 2023, I went to Memorial Hospital to get the medical records for Victim.  See attachments in the report for medical records and pictures.  Victim was treated for his injuries and released from the hospital on the evening of the incident.

Lake Seminole
BAINBRIDGE                    