We would like to make lucidly clear that we do not know the operator of the cabin cruiser involved in the deadly June accident on Lake Wilson. We have no idea who else was on board, so we can't say that we do or don't know any of the passengers or the boat's owner.
Neither do we know Ross (Trey) Wooten. We are casually acquainted with Mr. John Odem who is Mr. Wooten's attorney, as well as being married to Mr. Wooten's sister.
In other words, we have no interest in seeing the truth kept hidden in this horrible accident. Just the opposite; we wish for all facts to be perfectly clear.
One statement that we have seen repeatedly is that the cabin cruiser left the scene of the accident. Sgt. Chad Pate of the Alabama Marine Patrol has been quoted as saying the boat did not leave the scene. Why is there confusion?
Yes, the cabin cruiser traveled the short distance to a marina and docked. According to accounts that we have read, the hull of the cruiser took a blow to the bow. In this case, the operator is correct to dock as soon as possible (in a nearby place) to prevent further injury to human life.
We do NOT know what statement the boat's operator made to the Marine Patrol, but apparently the investigators were satisfied that the boat's pilot did not intentionally leave anyone in the water.
Just as an aside, if we were on a boat that was taking on water, or was thought to be taking on water, and no one was attempting to make it to shore, we would give new meaning to the term "hissy fit." We suggest everyone read A Night to Remember.
(Sorry About the Sub-Titles)