Azle boat crash sends 3 to hospital, officials warn about boat safety this holiday

Key Takeaways:

• A boat crash at Eagle Mountain Lake injured two children and one adult.
• Texas has recorded 59 water-related deaths so far, including 21 boating fatalities.
• Officials blame alcohol consumption, lack of life jackets, and poor supervision for many accidents.
• Murky lake conditions make rescues difficult and highlight the need for safety gear.
• Operation Game Thief enables the public to anonymously report unsafe or illegal boating activity.

A Serious Holiday Accident

A Sunday evening outing on Eagle Mountain Lake turned dangerous when a boat carrying five people slammed into a dock around 7 p.m. Two children were rushed to Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, while an adult was taken to Harris Methodist Hospital Downtown. Though the severity of their injuries remains unclear, local authorities are investigating the crash.

A Worrisome Trend

The incident comes amid a 75% increase in boating-related deaths compared to last year, as reported by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Data through June 30 indicated a total of 59 water-related fatalities statewide: 38 were drownings, while 21 were specifically boating-related. These figures mark a sobering reminder that holiday weekends often see more traffic on popular lakes.

Expert Voices and Common Pitfalls

Jeremy Seese, division chief for the Lewisville Fire Department, highlighted the critical role of life jackets, responsible alcohol consumption, and vigilant child supervision. “Enjoy yourself,” he said, “but…we want people to be responsible with the choices that they make.” Captain Clay Martin of Lewisville Fire observed that many swimmers overestimate their abilities in the open water. “We’ve never pulled anybody off the bottom that’s been wearing a life jacket,” Martin noted, underscoring its life-saving importance.

Bobby Gladu, president of the North Texas Search and Recovery Dive Team, emphasized how murky and dark Texas lake waters can be, even on sunny days. This low visibility intensifies tragedy when children or adults go under, making them virtually impossible to see or rescue without proper flotation.

Essential Safety Tips

As holiday revelers head to the lakes, Texas Parks and Wildlife offers guidelines on staying safe:

• Wear a life jacket (mandatory for children under 13).
• Use the boat’s engine cut-off switch to prevent serious injury.
• Never operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Anchor your boat before entering the water, and wear a life jacket regardless of swimming ability.
• Take a boater safety course if required by law.
• Keep an eye on weather conditions, and ensure no overcrowding or reckless behavior on board.

Reporting Unsafe Boating

Those who witness illegal or dangerous activity can contact Operation Game Thief via text (using the keyword “TXOGT”), the Texas OGT App, or anonymously by calling 800-792-GAME (4263). Tips that lead to convictions of violators may receive a reward of up to $1,000. In any emergency situation, individuals should always call 911.

Staying Secure on the Water

While the holiday season offers a chance for fun and relaxation, officials statewide underscore the importance of careful preparation and adherence to safety protocols. By combining personal responsibility with vigilance toward hazards like murky water and fast-changing conditions, Texans can make their lake visits more enjoyable—and far safer.