Alcohol likely a factor in jet ski accident that killed teen

Alcohol was likely a factor in the Long Lake personal watercraft crash that left a 16-year-old girl dead and her 5-year-old sister hospitalized, according to the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office.

“We do suspect alcohol may have played a part in this and it is a continuing investigation,” Chief Deputy Greg Gowin said.

First responders received reports of a drowning near the Lake Spokane campground at about 5:45 p.m. Sunday. The incident was quickly updated to a personal watercraft accident.

The 16-year-old girl was driving a personal watercraft with her 5-year-old sister on board when she suddenly stopped, Gowin said. Family members following behind on a second personal watercraft hit the girls at a high speed, Gowin said.

The 5-year-old was taken by helicopter to Spokane for treatment with serious injuries. Gowin said the 5-year-old is expected to recover as of Tuesday morning. Medical personnel worked on the 16-year-old for over an hour before she was declared dead at the scene, fire personnel said.

Recreational accidents and injuries have increased significantly this summer, said Gowin, who attributes the change to COVID-19 regulations pushing people to spend more time outdoors.

“It has been a crazy year for outdoor accidents, fatalities and serious injuries all over Stevens County,” Gowin said. “Much higher than normal.”

Gowin reminded people to wear life jackets if they are on the water and to remember that drinking and boating can be as deadly as drinking and driving.Emma Epperly can be reached at (509) 459-5122 or at emmae@spokesman.com