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  • Writer's picturebizjetnation
    • Aug 11
    • 2 min read

Dramatic Image Captures Moment Before Rogue River Hellgate Jet Boat Crash

A dramatic image has surfaced capturing the moment just before a collision between a Hellgate Jetboat Excursions jet boat and a private jet boat on the Rogue River. The incident, which occurred on a Sunday afternoon, resulted in multiple injuries and a sunken private boat.

Key Takeaways

  • A passenger on the Hellgate jet boat captured the moment before the crash on camera.

  • The collision resulted in multiple injuries and the sinking of the private jet boat.

  • Quick actions by passengers and crew helped rescue those in the water.

  • An investigation into the crash is ongoing.

The Incident

The collision took place at around 12:39 p.m. on a Sunday at Two Bit Riffle, approximately two miles downriver from Robertson Bridge. The Hellgate jet boat had just departed from a brunch location when it was struck by a private jet boat carrying six people. The private boat turned sideways just before the impact, which some believe helped save lives.

Eyewitness Accounts

Mitch Ruis, a passenger on the Hellgate jet boat, was filming with his GoPro and captured a still frame of the private boat moments before the collision. Ruis, who was seated at the front of the Hellgate boat, recounted the chaotic moments following the crash. He immediately alerted the boat captain to radio for help and ensure the safety of those in the water.

Another passenger, Damien Rennie, was on a second Hellgate jet boat and quickly realized something was wrong. Rennie, along with his friend Brad and the boat's skipper, jumped into action to rescue three people from the water. They used life jackets to aid an injured woman who was later taken to the hospital.

Immediate Response

The captain and crew of the Hellgate jet boat were praised for their quick response. They ensured that everyone on the private boat was accounted for and checked their own vessel for damage before continuing to Hellgate Lodge. Passengers were evaluated by medical personnel upon arrival.

Makena Wadsworth, another passenger on the Hellgate boat, described the experience as surreal. She expressed immense gratitude for the captain's actions, stating that he saved lives that day.

Ongoing Investigation

The Jackson County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating the accident. Efforts are also underway to remove the sunken private jet boat from the river. The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the sequence of events that led to the crash.

The incident has raised questions about safety protocols and the need for increased vigilance on the water. As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge about what exactly transpired on that fateful Sunday afternoon.

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