A tragic boating accident on Lake San Antonio in South Monterey County, California, claimed the life of a 62-year-old man and left a minor injured on Friday, June 13, 2025. The crash occurred around noon near the Bradley area and was witnessed by dozens of lakegoers. According to officials, the speedboat was traveling between 30 and 60 miles per hour when it struck a wake while attempting a turn, launching the vessel airborne and causing it to flip multiple times.
Both occupants—a 62-year-old man identified as John Alexander of North Hills, California, and a teenage passenger—were ejected from the boat despite wearing helmets and flotation devices. The minor sustained only minor injuries, while Alexander reportedly suffered severe trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Risks and Contributing Factors in High-Speed Boating Accidents
High-speed boating presents significant risks, especially in recreational areas with variable water conditions and high weekend traffic. According to Monterey County officials, the speedboat in this incident was operating at a considerable speed—possibly up to 60 mph—when it struck a wake and became airborne. Even with safety gear, such sudden and violent maneuvers can be catastrophic.
Wake-induced instability is a common hazard in speedboat accidents. When a boat hits a wake at high speed, the hull can become partially or fully airborne, disrupting steering and balance. If the pilot fails to anticipate or adjust for the wake, the boat can lose control, tip, or flip entirely. In this case, the boat flipped multiple times after being launched into the air.
Investigators will likely examine factors such as the operator’s control and judgment, the boat’s speed relative to conditions, and whether the waterway was too congested for safe maneuvering. Although flotation devices and helmets may reduce risk, they cannot fully protect against the trauma inflicted during a high-speed ejection or capsizing event.
Legal Responsibilities on Public Waterways
Boat operators on public lakes and reservoirs have a legal duty to navigate safely, maintain control of their vessels, and remain aware of conditions such as other boaters’ wakes and wave patterns. When high-speed maneuvers lead to injury or death, the circumstances must be scrutinized to determine if the operator acted with due care.
Authorities will likely investigate whether this accident involved negligence, including excessive speed, poor situational awareness, or improper handling in a high-traffic area. While no criminal charges have been reported, the findings of the investigation may lead to civil liability if it’s determined that reckless operation contributed to the fatality.
It is also the responsibility of park authorities and agencies managing recreational waters to post appropriate warnings, enforce speed limits, and ensure that safety protocols are in place for visitors. If there were known hazards that were not adequately communicated, questions may arise regarding governmental or park district accountability.
Legal Rights for Victims of Recreational Boating Accidents
Injured passengers and surviving family members of fatal boating accidents may be entitled to pursue claims for compensation. A wrongful death claim may cover:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical bills related to the incident
- Loss of financial support or companionship
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
In cases involving negligence, these claims can provide critical financial relief and hold accountable those responsible for failing to operate their vessels safely.
Speak with an Experienced Boating Accident Attorney
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we represent victims and families affected by recreational boating accidents nationwide. Whether your case involves a collision, capsizing, or equipment failure, our boating accident attorneys understand the unique legal and safety issues involved in maritime injury claims.
If you or a loved one has been harmed in a boating accident, contact us today. Call 713-804-9306 for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you pursue justice and secure the compensation your family deserves.