Gages Lake, IL – Two people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries following a personal watercraft crash on Gages Lake earlier today, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
According to sheriff’s deputies, the collision occurred around noon when two personal watercrafts (PWCs) being operated by two Indiana men collided. A preliminary investigation revealed a 21-year-old Indiana man was riding alongside a 22-year-old Indiana man when the 21-year-old suddenly pulled in front of his friend, activating a “no-wake mode” that rapidly decelerated his PWC. The 22-year-old was unable to slow down in time and struck the rear of the other watercraft.
The 21-year-old man and his passenger, a 22-year-old Indiana woman, were injured and later transported to a local hospital. The other operator and his 21-year-old female passenger sustained minor injuries but declined medical treatment. A Good Samaritan on a separate boat helped bring the two men to shore, while the two women used one of the PWCs to return safely.
Officials said all four individuals were visiting a friend with a lake house on Gages Lake.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources also responded to the scene and is conducting a further investigation.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
