On August 27, 2022, at approximately 9:45 p.m., the Winnipeg Police Service’s River Patrol Section attended the Tache Public Dock, where Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service members were already on scene, tending to an injured male.
A 41-year-old male was transported to hospital in stable condition suffering a head injury. Members recovered a heavily damaged human-powered pleasure craft (kayak) and personal property a distance away on the water.
Members of the River Patrol Section investigated the incident and determined that the injured male was operating his kayak on the Red River when he was struck by a 23-foot Sea Ray pleasure craft (boat). As of note: the kayak was not equipped with navigation lighting, and the injured male was wearing all black clothing at the time of the incident. The limited conditions for the time of day and poor visibility were also determined to be contributing factors leading to the accident.
The kayak operator is fortunate not to have sustained a severe injury and is expected to recover fully.
The Winnipeg Police Service and River Patrol Section reminds the public to exercise proper vessel safety during the upcoming long weekend to minimize hazards for themselves and other vessel operators.
The public can expect to see the River Patrol on our waterways this weekend to ensure everyone’s safety.
For further boating safety regulations information, please refer to the links provided below: