HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A man is being charged with boating under the influence after woman from Christian County was injured in a boating accident over Fourth of July weekend. Since then, the community has worked to raise money for her medical expenses.

Sgt. Morris with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife told Christian County Now that the accident occurred on the lake in nearby Trigg County on July 3. The 20-year-old woman suffered severe injuries from the propeller of the boat to her lower extremities, and she was transported for treatment by EMS in Trigg County

When officers with Fish and Wildlife made it to the scene of the accident, they made contact with the operator of the boat, who was determined to be under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and charged with boating under the influence and was ultimately transported to the Christian County Jail, according to Morris.

This remains an open investigation by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, and no other information has been released at this time.

Community fundraising efforts

As confirmed by a fundraising website, the victim in the crash who suffered traumatic injuries was Rylee Owens. Friends of the family are raising money to help cover medical expenses, with over $400,000 raised in a couple of days.

“If you know the Owens family, you know they are the first to step up when someone else is in need,” said the Spotfund post. “Whether it’s volunteering their time, supporting friends, helping neighbors, or giving back to the community, they have always shown kindness and generosity without expecting anything in return.”

Crofton Baptist Church shared that they are hosting a blood drive in her honor, and several other businesses and community members have voiced their support on social media. Roundies Rock Cafe in Hopkinsville also announced that anyone who purchases plates of spaghetti during the month of July will directly benefit the family, with all proceeds from that menu item being donated.

In a post on social media, they said that 70 people came through on the first day to purchase spaghetti, which is Rylee’s favorite food. A donation jar is also set up in their restaurant.

“The Owens family is incredibly special, not just to us, but to so many in our community,” said a Facebook post from Roundies. They are truly some of the kindest, most selfless people you’ll ever meet, and right now, they need all of us.”

Over the weekend, Fish and Wildlife had increased patrols as part of “Operation Dry Water,” a nationwide boating safety initiative that brings together Kentucky game wardens and law enforcement agencies to increase awareness, enforce boating laws and reduce alcohol-and drug-related incidents and fatalities.

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