Lake Charles, LA –
On August 31 at approximately 3:00 p.m., a single vessel boating accident occurred on the West Fork Calcasieu River involving a Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Marine Enforcement Unit vessel. During the course of its operation the vessel, which was being operated by CPSO deputies, struck an object in the water and then struck a tree.
Two deputies aboard the vessel were transported to a local hospital. One deputy was treated for injuries and subsequently released. The other deputy remains hospitalized, suffering from serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
“This incident is a stark reminder that no one is immune to accidents on the water, even those with extensive training and experience. We urge everyone to always stay vigilant and pay close attention when boating,” stated Sheriff Stitch Guillory. “While we are relieved that the injuries sustained by our deputies are non-life-threatening, they are still serious and they have a road to recovery ahead of them.”
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is currently handling the investigation of the crash and any further questions about the accident should be directed to them.