Town of Webb Police and the Old Forge Fire Department responded to a boating accident in the area of Soper Point on First Lake at approximately 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 27th.
Upon reaching the scene, law enforcement personnel learned that a boat operated by Janelle Nixon, 24, of Middletown, NY was operating recklessly when it collided and ran over the top of a boat operated by James (Doc) Foley of Old Forge.
Foley and his wife, Judy, a passenger in the boat, were taken to shore where they were met by Old Forge Ambulance and transported to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Utica with serious injuries.
At the scene, the Foley boat was aided by neighbors and nearby boaters who bailed water from the damaged vessel.
Nixon was taken into custody and charged with Reckless Operation of a Vessel, Boating While Intoxicated, and operating a vessel with a blood alcohol level of .08 or better. She will appear before Hon. John W. Graham at Town of Webb Court on Thursday, August 1st. Further charges may be pending.
According to Doc, he and Judy were almost to their destination to pick up their children when the incident occurred.
He suffered several broken ribs and a lacerated kidney and was hoping to be released from the hospital by Wednesday, July 31, he said.
The injuries sustained by Judy were more serious, however, which required extensive back surgery.
Doc said her lower legs were compromised and they are hopeful that by the end of the week she will be transported to Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital in Schenectady where she will receive treatment.
He reported that despite the trauma of the incident, her spirits are good and her sense of humor is intact.
“We’re just thankful to be alive. Judy is in the best physical health she’s ever been in, which will help her get through what she’s going through. We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of concern and love we have received from everyone. Please keep Judy in your prayers,” Doc said.
He also expressed gratitude to all the rescue and medical personnel who assisted in their time of need.
“From the on-site treatment, to the ambulance ride, to our treatment at St. Elizabeth’s, we were in the best of hands. We are thankful to all who helped us through the horrible process in such a kind and professional manner,” he said.
Anyone wishing to drop a card to Judy may do so at: Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital, 1270 Belmont Ave., Schenectady, NY 12308.
