An initial investigation has revealed that Erven Strange, 72, was seated on the elevated bow seat of his boat, which was being operated by an unlicensed juvenile. The boat was traveling at a low speed when it struck an unknown object, ejecting Strange from the boat.
Upon being ejected into the water, Strange struck his head on another object, causing a serious head injury. The juvenile then jumped into the water and held Strange’s head above water until emergency responders arrived. Strange is currently in critical condition.
Indiana Conservation Officers commend the juvenile’s rescue actions. Officers would also like to remind the public that elevated bow seats are intended to be used while the boat is stationary or while being operated by a front-mounted trolling motor. It is also unlawful for an unlicensed juvenile to operate a motorboat with a motor 10 horsepower or larger without a valid Indiana driver’s License or without being at least 15 years of age with a valid state identification card and having passed a certified boater education course.
For more information on boater education classes, please visit: https://www.boat-ed.com/indiana/studyGuide/10101602/