FWC officer injured in boating accident
News Release
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Media contact: Karen Parker, 386-758-0525
A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
officer was injured Saturday evening when he was involved in a
boating accident on the Santa Fe River.
FWC Officer Billy Giles, 34, was on water patrol
near the Santa Fe River County Park Ramp when he lost control of
his boat and was ejected into the river.
According to FWC officials, the boat circled around
to the right, narrowly missing the officer. It came around a second
time, bearing down on Giles. He attempted to grab onto the vessel
but lost his grip and was pulled under the boat and struck by the
propeller.
Giles was able to walk to the boat ramp and was
assisted there by a person who called 911. Giles was transported to
Shands Hospital in Gainesville, where he underwent surgery for
lacerations on his legs.
Giles is doing well and expected to make a full
recovery, according to FWC officials.
Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office personnel are
investigating the accident.
Persons with Disabilities