Tragic Louisiana Boating Accident Claims Two Lives, Several Others Injured

In a heartbreaking incident on the Tickfaw River, a boating accident early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two individuals and left several others injured. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is currently investigating this tragic event.

According to FOX 8, The collision, involving a 25-foot pontoon boat and a 25-foot Sea Fox boat, occurred near Kings Point around 12:17 a.m. on Sunday (July 28). Upon arriving at the scene, LDWF agents discovered the pontoon boat heavily damaged and the Sea Fox capsized.

Trapped under the capsized Sea Fox was a 27-year-old female passenger. In a heroic effort, an LDWF agent and a Good Samaritan dove into the water to rescue her, administering CPR until Acadian Ambulance arrived. She was transported to North Oaks Hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. Her identity has not been released pending notification of her next of kin.

Simultaneously, a search operation was launched for the 36-year-old male operator of the pontoon boat, who was reported missing following the collision. Tragically, his body was recovered from the Tickfaw River at approximately 12:45 p.m. Friends gathered near the river have revealed that he was a father of four, but his identity also remains undisclosed until family notification is complete.

In addition to the fatalities, six individuals—three from each vessel—sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and were hospitalized at North Oaks Hospital. Their conditions are reported to be stable, and they are expected to survive.

The exact cause of the collision is currently unknown. LDWF agents are conducting a thorough investigation, which includes drawing blood from the operator of the Sea Fox for testing. Notably, no one involved in the accident was wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the crash.

The LDWF Enforcement Division, with the assistance of the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Springfield Fire Department, continues to look into details surrounding this fatal incident. The bodies of the deceased have been transferred to the Livingston Parish Coroner’s Office for official determination of the cause of death.

Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.