A boating accident on Lake Havasu last week has left one person dead and another critically injured. Authorities believe that impairment, speed, and lightning may all have played a role in the crash.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that the collision happened on the night of Wednesday, June 3rd, at approximately 10:30 p.m. when two boats collided on the lake.
Anita Mortensen, spokesperson for the Mojave County Sherrif’s Office said that the boats were near the Site 6 boat ramp, which is located near the southernmost portion of Lake Havasu. Investigators say that both vessels were traveling approximately 40 miles per hour when the crash occurred.
The victim in the crash has been identified as 66-year-old Richard Keith Williams of Phoenix. He died when his 15 foot Bayliner collided with a 22-foot Larson.
During the crash, Williams and the other injured person who was aboard the Bayliner were pulled from the water by a Good Samaritan while they were waiting for boating deputies. Williams reportedly died at the scene of the crash.
The other injured person on board the Bayliner was rushed to Havasu Regional Medical Center and is listed in critical condition. Authorities had not released their identity at the time of the report.
No injuries were reported for anyone onboard the Larson.
According to the statement released by the Mojave County Sheriff’s Office, impairment by alcohol and drugs, along with speed and possible lightning conditions at the time may have contributed to the fatal crash.
The accident is still under investigation at this time.
