Around 9:45 p.m. on August 27, the Winnipeg Police River Patrol Unit was called to the Tache Public Wharf, where the Winnipeg Fire Department was already on scene to assist an injured person. A 41-year-old man was taken to the hospital in stable condition with a head injury. At the scene, officers found a heavily damaged kayak and some personal property in the water. The river patrol division investigated and determined the man was kayaking in the Red River when he was struck by another vessel – a 23-foot Sea Ray pleasure boat. Police note the kayak did not have navigation lights and the kayaker was wearing all black at the time of the incident. Officers added that poor visibility and limited conditions for the time of day also contributed to the crash. Police said the man in the kayak is “lucky” not to have been seriously injured, adding that he is expected to make a full recovery. Police are now reminding residents to use safe boating practices ahead of the weekend. “Just your basics – wearing a life jacket, no alcohol on the boat,” said Colton Gair with the Winnipeg Police River Patrol. “Another important thing, if you’re going to be on the water at night, just make sure you have all your safety lights on and working.” Residents can expect to see river patrols on the waterways this weekend to ensure everyone stays safe. More information on boating safety can be found online.
