Two Boys Injured in Watercraft Accident Near St. Joseph

A man from St. Joseph, Minnesota has been charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) after a watercraft accident left two nine-year-old boys injured on a lake near St. Joseph. The incident occurred on Saturday.

The accused, identified as 42-year-old Ryan Willis, was operating a jet ski that was pulling a tube carrying the two boys. According to authorities, Willis stated during the investigation that he had gotten too close to the shore, causing the tube to collide with a dock.

As per the criminal complaint filed in relation to this case, one of the boys sustained severe injuries including a skull fracture, bruised lung, and head laceration. He had to be airlifted to a hospital in Twin Cities for treatment. The other boy was taken to St. Cloud Hospital but his injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.

Stearns County Sheriff's deputies noted that Willis displayed signs of impairment at the scene before eventually admitting that he had consumed alcohol prior to operating the watercraft. A preliminary breath test revealed his blood alcohol level registered at .148 - nearly twice the legal limit.

In addition to DWI charges, Willis is also facing two counts of criminal vehicular operation causing great bodily harm. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 1st.

This incident serves as another reminder about the dangers of drinking and operating any type of vehicle or vessel - whether it be on land or waterways - especially when children are involved.

Legal Help

If you or a loved one was a victim in this or a similar accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

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