The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office says the incident drives home the need to make sure people know how to operate personal watercraft, and what to do in case of a malfunction or emergency.
Jet Ski Slams Dock at High Speed, Multiple Injuries
Details about the incident were released Tuesday, Jun 16th. Sunday afternoon, the 14th, the CCSO and EMS were called to the dock at Lakeside Park on Lake Chelan about a personal watercraft (PWC) accident.
Deputies said the male rider was approaching the dock at high speed, but failed to slow, and slammed into the floating structure. Besides the operator, several people were treated at the scene, and two were taken to Lake Chelan Community Hospital for observation.
The Operator Said He Had a Mechanical Failure
The CCSO says the jet ski was traveling at “significant” speed before the crash:
“The operator advised deputies that he had attempted to slow and stop the watercraft but experienced a mechanical issue. One bystander sustained minor injuries after being struck during the incident, while another victim was later diagnosed with a fractured foot.”
The jet ski was photographed and processed at the scene, and the CCSO Marine Unit will also examine it to determine what led to the crash, will be looking for mechanical failure. The area of the collision is circled in our photo.
Deputies said again, it reinforces the need for anyone who operates any on the water boat or PWC to be familiar with how to operate it, and if necessary, steps to take in case of mechical emergency such as this. No word if any charges pending for the rider.