Boating accident claims life of La Crosse man, who initially refused medical attention

A boating accident at the French Slough waterway over the weekend has claimed a life, though the details at this point are somewhat vague.

A 2006 Skeeter boat headed downstream from the French Slough — on the south side of French Island — into the East Channel waterway of the Mississippi River collided with an Alumacraft boat.

Scott Halvorson was driving the Alumacraft, traveling upstream into the slough, while Dane, Wis., native Keith Matush was operating the Skeeter.

The La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office water patrol was dispatched at 3 p.m. Saturday to the accident. According to its report, the 41-year-old Halvorson had minor injuries and refused medical attention.

The next day, however, the Sheriff’s Office was notified that Halvorson was hospitalized because of undiagnosed injuries from that collision.

It was again notified Monday that he had passed away, though what day that happened is unclear.

The Wisconsin DNR and the Sheriff’s Office are investigating, as well as asking for the public’s help if anyone witnessed the accident. If so, call 608.785.9629.