The names of the victims in the fatal boat crash last evening in the South Channel of the St. Clair River have been released.
According to St. Clair County Sheriff Tim Donnellon, Robert Koontz of Chesterfield Township and 68 year old Nancy Axford of Winnipeg, Manitoba were killed in the crash between a 25 foot Baja boat and a cabin cruiser. Both of the deceased were passengers on the cabin cruiser.
The incident occurred about 6:45 last night, when the Baja boat, driven by a 32 year old Chesterfield Township man struck the cabin cruiser broadside. The Baja ended up riding up and over the other boat, causing one passenger on the cabin cruiser to be thrown in the water.
Three others aboard the cabin cruiser were injured and taken to hospitals.
The 32 year old Chesterfield Township man was arrested and faces alcohol related charges at arraignment in 72nd District Court in Marine City. He and two passengers aboard the Baja boat were not injured.
The crash remains under investigation by Sheriff’s Office watercraft accident reconstructionists.
The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Ontario Provincial Police, Clay Township Fire and Rescue, Macomb County Sheriff Marine Division and Tri-Hospital EMS.
The incident occurred directly across the border from Walpole Island.
Here is our original story: Two dead in Michigan boat crash across from Walpole Island
