On 02/07/23 at approximately 10:00am, Operator was alone and operating a 14ft flat bottom boat near Shamrock Island in Corpus Christi Bay. He was traveling between 20-25mph when the port bow of his vessel struck a large wave for the size of his vessel. This caused him to be ejected from the boat. He was not wearing a PFD at the time. It is also believed that Operator was not wearing an emergency engine cut off switch at the time he was ejected from his vessel. After Operator was thrown overboard, the vessel kept traveling and eventually became beached in gear and under power. Two people later discovered the vessel and advised the United States Coast Guard. Operator swam to the shoreline and attempted to wave down any passing vessels. Operator was eventually picked up by a passing boater and brought to Wilson's Cut where he had launched from. Personnel from Coast Guard and Corpus Christi EMS made location to assist. 

Operator was transported to Bay Area Medical Center for further medical care. Operator sustained a cut to his right hand as well as a sore elbow. It was also discovered that Operator had fluid on his lungs and was moved to the ICU for further monitoring. Operator was interviewed at the hospital while being treated. His vessel was also inspected for damages and for water safety equipment. The vessel was in compliance with water safety requirements. No visible damage was observed on his vessel.
6130 CORPUS CHRISTI BAY
Corpus Christi                