On August 10, 2023 at approximately 11:34 AM, I, CPO 1, receieved an email from CPO 2 about an accident on Lake Michigan involving a personal watercraft (PWC).  In the email, Operator and Passenger state that they rented a PWC from Next Wave Watersports (owned by Owner) on August 4, 2023 and the accident occurred at approximately 2:35 PM.

On August 31, 2023 at approximately 11:30 AM, I called Operator and questioned him about the accident.  Operator stated that he and Passenger were heading south on Lake Michicgan outside the breakwall approximately 1/2 mile Northeast of Navy Pier in Chicago..  Operator stated they were travelling approximately 5-10 miles per hour 20-30 feet from the break wall.  Operator stated that when he noticed a large wave coming toward them he released the throttle on the PWC.  The wave capsized the PWC causing the operator and passenger to fall off.  Operator stated that he cannot swim and Passenger assisted him to the breakwall.  Operator stated that he and Passenger were both wearing personal flotation devices.  They climed onto the breakwall and signalled for help.  The waves caused the PWC to continually crash into the rocks at the breakwall.  Operator stated that a towboat came and towed the jetski back to Diversey Harbor and Chicago Police Deparment rescued them from the breakwall.  They were taken to Diversey Harbor.

On August 31, 2023 at approximately 11:19 AM, I called Owner and he stated the PWC is totaled.

No enforcement action taken.
Lake Michigan
Chicago                       