Accident Database

Report ID# 1046

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  • Pinned in Boat against Rock or Sieve
  • Does not Apply
  • Inadequate Equipment
  • One Boat Trip

Accident Description

Ben Morin, 9, died on March 5, 2006 at his home in Spokane, WA, due to complications from injuries sustained in a canoeing accident on on the Spokane River last June 5, 2005. Accident Report Summary: 2 adults and 2 kids in canoe. Approx 7,000 cfs. No floatation in a flatwater canoe. The inexperienced paddlers launched near Maple Street on Spokane River and wrapped canoe on old railroad trestle bridge piers about a mile downstream.

The site of accident is at the location of new Spokane whitewater park set for construction in 2006 or 2007. The victim was trapped behind canoe and spent about 40 minutes under water before crews freed him. A would-be rescuer/mountain climber called for the installation of ladders on ALL bridge piers along Spokane because that would have helped in rescue.

Paul Delaney via email

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