Alcohol not a factor in boat collision on South Thompson River

Photo: Nathan Richie

UPDATE: 10:50 p.m.

Witnesses say it's remarkable that no one was seriously injured or killed following this afternoon's boating accident on the South Thompson River. 

In a news release, Kamloops Mounties say around 3:30 p.m. an eastbound ski boat was travelling slowly, when a jet boat approached quickly from behind, travelling east. The operator of the jet boat lost control and crashed into the lead vessel, east of the Pioneer boat launch.

"The male and female passengers who were injured were reported to be sitting on the lower back deck of the ski boat at the time of the collision," the release states. "The boaters were able to make it to the shore." 

Emergency crews were able to respond quickly, police say, because RCMP and Kamloops Fire Rescue had boats on the river to support today's Float the River event. 

Initially, the injuries to one of the passengers was believed to be serious.

Police say alcohol was not a factor with either of the operators of the vessels.

RCMP seized the boats as part of their investigation, which is ongoing.

"Police are continuing their investigation to establish what if any charges may be supported," the release says. 

Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to call 250-828-3000.

ORIGINAL: 6:59 p.m.

BCEHS paramedics responded to a call about a boating accident on the South Thompson River in Kamloops at approximately 3:30 p.m. Saturday, where they sent four ground ambulances and one supervisor unit to the scene.

Five patients have been transported to hospital with varying degrees of injuries. 

Two ambulances remain on scene to support anyone else who may need medical attention. 

No further information is available at this time.

Castanet will update the information as it becomes available.