Young Kayaker Critically Injured in Boating Accident

A young kayaker suffered critical injuries when he was struck by a boat on American Lake, Washington.

David Kenny Ross, 14, was kayaking on American Lake March 1 when he was struck by a boater. Ross was transported to Mary Bridge children’s hospital in Tacoma with a head injury and has remained unconscious since the accident.

Pierce County prosecutors have decided not to file felony charges against the boater responsible for the accident as there was no evidence that the boater was driving recklessly, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or intentionally hit the kayaker, according to Deputy Prosecutor Tim Jones.

It is possible that the city of Lakewood may still file misdemeanor charges for watercraft violations.