Sheriff’s Patrol Boat Collides with Jet Ski on Bartlett Lake, Injuring Teen

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. — A Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) patrol boat collided with a jet ski operated by an 18-year-old on Bartlett Lake during Memorial Day festivities, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries to the teen, authorities said. The incident, which occurred around 3:15 p.m. on May 26, 2025, has prompted an investigation by the sheriff’s office.

According to MCSO, the collision happened when deputies attempted to stop the jet ski for a wake zone violation. As the patrol boat approached, the jet ski’s operator made a sudden right turn into the boat’s path. Despite the deputy’s efforts to avoid the collision, the two vessels made contact, MCSO reported. The 18-year-old was treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening, while the deputy operating the patrol boat was unharmed. Authorities have stated there is no indication that impairment was a factor in the crash.

“Our thoughts are with the young man involved and his family as he recovers, and we remain committed to transparency and accountability throughout the investigative process,” MCSO said in a statement.

The incident occurred during a busy Memorial Day weekend, with Bartlett Lake drawing large crowds. Just days before, MCSO had emphasized lake safety, citing 14 boating accidents and four boating-related deaths in the county earlier this year. Common violations, such as wake zone infractions and boating under the influence, were highlighted as ongoing concerns.

The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and MCSO has not released further details about the circumstances or potential citations. Bartlett Lake, located within Tonto National Forest, is patrolled by MCSO’s Lake Patrol Division, which oversees safety across several recreational waterways in Maricopa County.

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