July 4 boat accident victim speaks out, investigation reached Wadena

Fargo, ND - The Becker County Sheriff's Office says it's not giving up. Investigators tell us they're still following up on tips and calls, investigating a 4th of July hit and run boating accident on Big Cormorant Lake.

They say they've put in a lot of miles, traveling to places like Ada, Wadena, Wahpeton, and Fargo-Moorhead to look at boats.

They say they've already seized two boats.

John Sieling, Becker Co. Investigator: "We haven't closed the door on anything yet. One of those boats we feel strongly is not involved. The other one we just can't rule that out yet, we are just waiting for some things to come back. I can't really comment on that."

If you have any information, call the Becker County Sheriff's Office at (218) 847-2661

Imagine being involved in hit and run like that. It would be hard not to hold on to anger and frustration, but the victim of that hit and run tells us "accidents happen."

For the first time, Terry Erickson agreed to go on camera, sharing his story.

It's incredible how positive the Erickson family is. Terry, the victim in that hit and run, says it's been a struggle to get life back to normal. Yet his family is focused on moving forward.

Terry Erickson, injured in boating hit and run: "Not able to do much, at least I'm walking now and I can go for a walk during the day and strengthen my leg, and get back to work."

He's getting close. Terry Erickson says he's sped right through recovery, and is meeting with doctors soon for another update.

Erickson: "When this first happened, they were saying 3-6 months."

It's only been 3 months since that accident on Big Cormorant Lake on the 4th of July. Another boat hit him while the family was watching fireworks, and took off.

Erickson: "Got hit, and it was all over."

In an instant, their lives changed. Terry broke his pelvis, fractured his fibula, but slowly, he's getting stronger.

Erickson: "Not really pain, I get sore and stiff, but as for pain no."

It's a different routine for the Ericksons, with one less paycheck coming in, and Terry still not back to normal.

Tayrn Erickson, husband injured in hit and run: "It's been hard to not have your husband do the things he normally does for you."

Terry hopes the Becker County Sheriff's Office catches the boaters who hit him. It's been a challenge to get past this, but Terry says he's moved on.

Erickson: "I don't think about it too much. Accidents happen."

If you'd like to help the Erickson's, there's a benefit for Terry this weekend.

The spaghetti feed and silent auction will be Sunday at the Dilworth Community Center, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

You can also send donations to Gate City Bank, with "The Terry Erickson Benefit" written on the check.