Authorities say the fatal collision of two boats on Flathead Lake on the Fourth of July involved boats that were overloaded and without navigation lights on.
Twenty-seven-year-old Travis Wickum, of Whitefish, died in the late-night accident.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Park wardens say the boat that hit Wickum’s boat was overloaded with 10 people and going between 25 mph and 30 mph. They say the boat driver’s view may have been partially obstructed because of the number of people in the boat.
In addition, investigators says Wickum’s boat did not have its front navigation lights on that night.
Toxicology tests show alcohol was not a factor in the crash.
The accident remains under investigation.