Pontoon operator loses control, runs over 3 kids in accident on False River, officials say [Video]

POINTE COUPEE PARISH, La. (WAFB) – A 14-year-old is recovering in the hospital after he and two other children were run over by a pontoon boat whose operator allegedly lost control over the weekend.

According to the Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened on False River around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 15.

A spokesman with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries said the incident occured while three children were floating in the water waiting to be picked back up after falling off a tube being towed by a boat.

The pontoon operator reportedly told LDWF that he lost steering of the 25-foot pontoon boat and tried to avoid the kids in the water.

According to LDWF, the 14-year-old suffered lacerations to his lower legs and feet, and he was airlifted to Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge where he is expected to …