Two rescued from sinking boat

By STACY MILLBERG - Staff Writer - smillberg@starbeacon.com
Star Beacon

July 06, 2008 03:13 am

— ASHTABULA — Two boaters were rescued late Friday night after their boat hit the breakwall near Lake Shore Park.
The accident occurred between the Ashtabula Lighthouse and the entrance light to the Ashtabula River. Upon impact, the boat traveled up over the wall, causing extensive damage and ultimately sinking, said U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer John Stottmann.
The female passenger on the boat was taken to Lake Shore Park on another boat that was traveling with the couple. She was met by emergency crews from Ashtabula Fire Department and Community Care Ambulance Network. The woman was transported to Ashtabula County Medical Center for treatment of head lacerations, Stottmann said.
The male stayed with the boat until Coast Guard personnel arrived. Crew members were able to assist him off the boat before it sank. He was treated at the scene and released. The boat was recovered Saturday at Lake Shore Park, Stottmann said.
“He was a little confused coming into the harbor,” he said.
The incident occurred just before 11 p.m. Alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in the crash.