Serious Boat Incident on Lake Shafer

Jason Ward (44), of Mishawaka, was operating a 2014 Moomba Runabout Ski Boat carrying 6 passengers on Lake Shafer when the boat collided with an overhanging tree, rendering Ward unconscious.  The boat continued before running aground into the bank. Ward was flown from IU White Memorial Hospital to Methodist Hospital in a Lifeline Helicopter.  His condition is unknown at this time. Passenger James Scott, of Valparaiso, was flown from IU White Memorial Hospital to Methodist Hospital in a Lutheran Air Helicopter.  Scott is listed in stable condition. John Mahoney, of Porter, was transported to IU White Memorial by ambulance.  His condition is unknown. The additional passengers included Tina Barnes, Lynn Colby, Greg Barnes, and James Svetich, all from Valparaiso. Further investigation, including a reconstruction of the incident, will take place by Indiana Conservation Officers over the next several days. Speed and alcohol are believed to be a factor in the incident. End of Update (Monticello) – Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a serious boat incident that occurred yesterday evening on Lake Shafer.  White County Dispatch advised of a boat accident involving injuries in the area of 800 North and West Shafer Drive. Witnesses stated a boat hit a tree that was overhanging into the lake and knocked the operator unconscious.  The boat was then operating out of control and ran aground. Three subjects from the boat sustained injuries.  Two were flown out to area hospitals, one with life threatening injuries. This incident is still under investigation.  More details will be released as the investigation continues. Agencies assisting on the scene included the White County Sheriff’s Department, Buffalo First Response, Monticello Fire and Rescue, Lutheran Air, and StatFlight.                                Media contact: Sgt. Blaine R. Gillan, DNR Law Enforcement, (765) 427-8338