A collision between two boats on the Current River near Doniphan, Missouri, resulted in minor injuries on Saturday morning, August 17, 2024. The crash occurred approximately three miles north of Doniphan.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident took place when a 1997 Weldbilt, operated southbound by a 13-year-old boy from Doniphan, crossed into the path of a northbound 2024 Southfork, operated by 51-year-old William M. Jackson of Decatur, Illinois. The Weldbilt struck the Southfork on the starboard side, leading to the ejection of two occupants from the Southfork.
One occupant of the Weldbilt, 55-year-old Walter L. Bowman of Doniphan, sustained minor injuries and was transported by Ripley County EMS to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. Neither boat operator was reported to be using safety equipment during the crash.
The 1997 Weldbilt sustained total damage and was removed by its owner, while the 2024 Southfork was piloted from the scene.
The crash was investigated by Corporal M. L. Schlief, with assistance from Sergeant S. K. Talburt.
