A dangerous boating incident in Washington has gone viral after a 21-year-old operator was arrested on suspicion of DUI following a dramatic crash near a dock that witnesses say could have ended much worse.
According to early reports, the boat was allegedly speeding through the area and came dangerously close to hitting two ferries before slamming into a rocky embankment near the shoreline.
Videos spreading online appear to show the operator unconscious or unresponsive behind the wheel moments before the crash, fueling intense reaction across social media.
Witnesses describe chaotic moments
People near the waterfront said the boat was moving erratically at high speed before the collision. Some witnesses claimed it narrowly missed ferry traffic, creating panic among bystanders who feared a catastrophic impact.
The vessel eventually crashed into rocks near a dock, bringing the chaotic ride to an abrupt stop.
Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, where authorities detained the 21-year-old operator on suspicion of boating under the influence.
Investigation underway
Officials have not yet released the suspect’s identity or confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or a medical emergency played a role in the incident. Authorities are expected to review video footage, witness statements, and toxicology results as the investigation continues.
No major injuries or fatalities have been publicly reported so far, though officials say the situation could have become far more serious given the nearby ferry traffic and crowded waterfront conditions.
Growing concern over reckless boating
The incident has reignited conversations around reckless boating behavior, especially during busy travel seasons when waterways are packed with recreational traffic and commercial vessels.
In many states, boating under the influence carries penalties similar to drunk driving offenses, including fines, license consequences, and possible jail time.
For now, investigators are focused on reconstructing the timeline and determining exactly what caused the operator to lose control before the crash.