(WHO – DES MOINES) – The drivers of two boats involved in a fatal collision on the Des Moines River Sunday have been charged with boating while intoxicated.
The crash happened around 6:30 p.m. between Second Avenue and Sixth Avenue near the Birdland Marina.
The two boats, driven by 54-year-old Steven Mayo and 46-year-old Tony Starrett, were traveling in opposite directions when they hit. The force of the collision threw the people in the boats into the water.
One boat was able to get to shore, the other became submerged. Witnesses were able to help passengers to shore.
Paramedics took three people to the hospital but 49-year-old Kelly Starett, the brother of Tony Starrett, did not survive. Two others were treated and released
“It’s going to be a very sad day for a family that lost a loved one. It is a holiday, a lot of family activities. As far as I know, it could have been a family out here enjoying a beautiful day. And unfortunately this is going to be a very sad day for many people,” said Sgt. Chris Scott.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has taken over the investigation from Des Moines police.
