The State - News from July 15, 1988

Ferryboats that carry gamblers and casino workers across the Colorado River will be outfitted with two engines to prevent accidents such as the one that spilled 25 people into the chilly river. The accident occurred when one of the boats lost power, drifted into an unoccupied pleasure boat and capsized. The victims were pulled from the fast-moving river and no serious injuries were reported. But the Coast Guard has begun an investigation into the operation of the boats, which run between Bullhead City, Ariz., and Laughlin, a fast-growing gaming resort in the southern tip of Nevada. Coast Guard Lt. Ken Thorkildsen said the capsized boat had been inspected by his agency in March and was recertified. He said the Coast Guard certifies the ferries every three years and inspects them each year. in between the certifications.