NEEDLES — A deadly two boat collision on the Colorado River is under investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office (SBCSO). Deputies from the Colorado River station in Needles responded to the incident south of the Needles Bridge at 5:32 p.m. on Friday, July 25.
A 22-foot Cheetah deck boat was reportedly traveling downriver when it impacted an 18-foot Sanger vessel that was adrift on the river.
A badly injured passenger aboard the Sanger, Weston Stewart, 38, La Verne, California died following transport to the Colorado River Medical Center.
“Alcohol appears to be a factor in this incident,” said a news release issued by the SBCSO. The operator of the Cheetah, Bruce Southworth, 43, Yucaipa, California was arrested for negligent use of a watercraft causing injury.
