Airboat collision injures seven on Peace River in DeSoto County

DESOTO COUNTY, Fla. — Two commercial airboats collided on the Peace River in DeSoto County on Jan. 6, leading to several injuries. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, and DeSoto County Fire Rescue responded to the incident.

The collision occurred north of the Lettuce Lake Boat Ramp. One airboat had one operator and six passengers, five of whom were injured. The second airboat had one operator and two passengers, with two of them sustaining injuries. All injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals.

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Both airboats involved were commercial vessels. While the FWC led the initial response, the U.S. Coast Guard is now the lead agency for the ongoing investigation.

Captain Kevin Chepren, who has navigated the Peace River for decades, shared insights into the challenges of the area.

"I've been on this river for about 30 years. I've run trips up and down this river many a time. Unfortunately, with what happened yesterday, it was sad. It's a beautiful river, and it's safe if you think about what you're doing," said Chepren.

Chepren highlighted the dangers present on the river.

"The first thing is, this Peace River. It averages four feet deep. There are so many shoals, logs, and trees in the water. It's a lot of local knowledge that you need to have to make your way down the river," said Chepren.

He also mentioned the narrow channels and lack of speed limits as potential hazards.

"The river is so tight in such narrow channels, you ain't gonna see a kayak until you're on 'em. If you're in a power vessel, airboat or pontoon boat or speedboat, you gotta really watch around the corners and slow down. Unfortunately, there's no speed limit out here," said Chepren.

The captain expressed relief that no fatalities occurred in the recent accident.

"Just thank God that everybody's safe. No death. All the injuries are minor. There's nothing major, life-threatening, from what I heard. Unfortunately, things like that happen, but come see the Peace River," said Chepren.

The investigation into the collision continues with the U.S. Coast Guard leading the efforts.