Story Created:
Dec 18, 2009 at 12:22 PM EDT
Story Updated:
Dec 21, 2009 at 10:30 AM EDT
FORT MYERS, Fla. - We have an update on last night's fatal boat accident. The Fish and Wildlife Commission tells us a 12-foot vessel was towing a 10-foot vessel in the Caloosahatchee River's choppy water.
The operator of the first boat, identified as 51 year old Leroy Swinger, fell in the water after his seat broke. Another passenger fell in after attempting to take control of the boat. Swinger ultimately drowned, and was recovered within 100 feet of the accident site at nearby Rat Island. Officials say the accident was alcohol-related.
The 3 passengers rescued were 46 year old Charles Gottschalk, 39 year old Michael Ritter, and 20 year old Justin Ritter. 3 dogs were also rescued.
