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Jun 21, 2009 10:35 pm US/Central
Boat Accident Kills 11-Year-Old Fort Worth Boy
Selena Hernandez
LAKE WORTH (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
The first day of summer is already proving to be a deadly one in area lakes and pools. On Saturday, an 11 year old Fort Worth boy died on Lake Worth.
Authorities say John Henderson III died after the tube he was on collided with a passing personal watercraft. Police say Henderson was being towed by a jet ski when his driver reportedly swerved in an attempt to avoid an oncoming personal watercraft. The impact critically injured Henderson, who was flown to Cook Children's Hospital where he later died.
"People need to be cognizant of their surroundings and the rules that go with the boat," said Leah Stefanini.
"When you got a lot of boats out on the water- you'll have a lot of wakes. It's really quick to hit one and your boat flips, or somebody falls out and gets injured."
Stefanini, an avid boater, knows all too well about the dangers that lurk on the lake. "You just got to be smart, go slow and be very cautious and watch out for the other boaters – because you're not guaranteed that they'll be watching out for you."
It's the same advice the Fort Worth Fire Department urges of all water sport seekers. "People not understanding their ability to swim and not understanding how on lakes changes can happen," said Kent Worley of Fort Worth Fire Department.
His advice: Always watch your speed – whether in a boat or a watercraft; don't drink; and always wear a life jacket. But if you find yourself overboard, he suggests that you stay calm; lay on your back and float; and yell for help.
Authorities say Henderson was wearing a life jacket. In fact, state law requires all children 13 years and younger to wear one. The accident is still under investigation.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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