Teen in critical condition after boating accident
A 13-year-old boy is suffering from severe injuries after he was involved in a boating accident Thursday.
"He fell into the water. The vessel was not able to stop on time, and the vessel just ran over the young man," said Jorge Pino of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
On Friday, Parker Brannon was still in critical condition, recovering at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
FWC officials said 17-year-old Kyle Jenson was driving the boat, and Brannon's 18-year-old brother, Andrew, was also on board.
Investigators said they believe the boat hit a wave and knocked the teenager in the water near Black Point Marina. The propeller then partially cut Parker's right arm and his left shoulder. "Any injury is a bad injury. He suffered some pretty extensive injuries," said Pino.
Thursday night, friends of the family said the Brannons are hoping for the best. "They're waiting to hear from the surgeons," said one man.
FWC said, after the accident, Parker's brother and friend quickly brought him to land and called for help. "It could of been a lot worse. The older brother and the operator of the vessel did exactly what they were supposed to do," said Pino.
FWC is investigating the crash. They're also waiting to interview Parker.
Investigators said, as of right now, this appears to be just a horrific accident.
