News Story - Idaho State Journal

AMERICAN FALLS � Power County Sheriff Jim Jeffries announced Friday that charges were filed against two members of a local outdoor group stemming from the death of a 13-year-old boy last month.

According to the press release, Bob Ellis, outdoor recreation coordinator for the Cooperative Wilderness Handicapped Outdoor Program at Idaho State University, and Hailey Martinez were charged with incapacity of operator following a Jet Ski accident, which claimed the life of Erik Simnitt.

Power County Prosecutor F. Randall Kline said the infraction carries a maximum penalty of a $57 fine.

He declined to comment about the details of the case, but said the citations were issued following a review of the accident.

Simnitt died from head injuries he sustained when he was struck by Jet Ski operated by an unidentified disabled participant in the CW HOG program July 30 at the American Falls Reservoir.

Members of the CW HOG crew administered first aid at the scene until emergency personnel arrived. Simnitt died from his injuries later that night at Harms Memorial Hospital.

ISU spokesman Graham Garner said President Arthur Vailas telephoned the families of both the victim and the operator the day after the accident.

“We have tried to be caring and supportive of both families,” Garner said.

Garner said the incident is the first fatality connected to the outdoor program.

Lee Krehbiel, vice president of student affairs, said a review group was being formed to evaluate the policies and procedures of the CW HOG program.

“They will make recommendations about where improvements can be made in both safety and education,” Krehbiel said.

The group is expected to meet next week.

By Debbie Bryce

This document was originally published online on Saturday, August 30, 2008

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The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of our paper.

Warner wrote on Aug 30, 2008 12:29 PM:

" My condolances go out to all parties involved in this tragic accident. The CW HOG program has been such a leader in handycapped groups and great success for those that participate, I sure hope the program goes on safely. To enrich the lives of those less physically fortunate is a great calling. "

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