Vessel – 18’ North River, Seahawk, Aluminum, Open motorboat, OB gas motor, 150 hp

On 09/4/2023, at about 06:04 a.m., this vessel with two people onboard, were fishing in the Skagit River, between Edgewater Park and Youngs Bar, closest to the city of Mount Vernon, WA in Skagit County.

According to Law Enforcement, operator was going underway at high speed trying to beat another fisherman to his preferred fishing location. An unknown submerged object was struck by the hull and the outboard motors lower unit causing the boat to stop rapidly. Operator was ejected through the soft top of the boat. Occupant was thrown from the stern through the cabin. Occupant then grounded the vessel after realizing it was badly damaged and she was unable to locate Operator. The operator was not wearing a PFD. Death caused by trauma/drowning.

Fatality: 1
Alcohol Involvement: unknown
PFD: No
Vessel Operator Mandatory Boater Education card: Yes

Skagit River
Mount Vernon                  