On Friday March 27, 2015 at approximately 2:52 PM, Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit responded to Lake Sonoma for an emergency on the water. A call was transferred into our Dispatch Center about a man who was injured while operating his personal watercraft.
A Deputy and Sergeant from the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Marine unit, with Geyserville Fire Department and Bell's Ambulance, went to the public boat ramp. They tended to an adult male from Rohnert Park who was complaining of pain and had suffered a non-life threatening injury. The man was transported via ambulance to a local hospital.
Through speaking with the man's friends the Deputies learned more about what happened out on the water which caused the man to be injured.
The man had come out to Lake Sonoma with his friends to enjoy a day on Lake Sonoma using their personal watercrafts. At some point, the group encountered a passing boat. The man crossed the boat's wake at a high rate speed and became airborne. He was launched from the personal watercraft and was thrown into the lake.
Fortunately, the man had been smart about his day at Lake Sonoma. He was boating with friends and wearing his personal floatation device as require by law on PWCs. They quickly came to his aid when he was in the water and attended to him. Alcohol is not considered a factor in this incident.
As the beautiful weather continues, the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit reminds everyone to be safe on the water. Always wear your life vest, be aware of your surroundings and never consume alcohol while on the water.
CR #150327-020
Prepared by Sergeant Cecile Focha
Media Relations / PIO
