# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: NY-2013-0359
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-11-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROCKAWAY POINT INLET
NearestCityTown: Rockaway
County: QUEENS
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
While traveling around jetty a large wave came up and over the stern of the vessel causing it to capsize and sink.


BARDID: NY-2013-0360
Date: 2013-11-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE PECONIC BAY
NearestCityTown: Southold
County: SUFFOLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subject launched kayak at Cedar Beach and went fishing in it and overturned.  Subject was wearing a life jacket and was able to swim with the kayak to shore.  Subject stated he was in the water approximately an hour.


BARDID: NY-2013-0361
Date: 2013-12-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:25:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: FORGE RIVER
NearestCityTown: Center Moriches
County: SUFFOLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating in a narrow unlit channel at night.  Operator misjudged his course and struck a dock.  Two persons on board were thrown overboard.


BARDID: NY-2013-0362
Date: 2013-11-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:35:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST ROCKAWAY CHANNEL
NearestCityTown: Oceanside
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
While in an overloaded Jon Boat operator experienced over heating of his engine.  The operator turned the vessel into the wind where waves came over the bow causing the vessel to capsize.  All occupants were thrown overboard and were latter treated for hypothermia.


BARDID: NY-2013-0363
Date: 2013-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: FIRST LAKE
NearestCityTown: Webb
County: HERKIMER
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel 1 was operating a rented speed boat while underway striking vessel 2.  Both individuals on vessel 2 were severely injured.


BARDID: NY-2013-0364
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREAT SOUTH BAY
NearestCityTown: West Islip
County: Suffolk
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
High winds and choppy waves caused the small motorboat to capsize throwing both individuals into the water.  The individuals were able to swim to a small deserted island and await rescue.  Sever fog hampered significantly hampered rescue efforts.  The individuals were able to make a small fire on the island that attracted the attention of rescuers the next day.


BARDID: NY-2013-0365
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-11-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST RIVER
NearestCityTown: Astoria
County: QUEENS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Operator failed to see college point striking a partially submerged rock.  The vessel sank to the bottom of the river and is considered a total loss.


BARDID: NY-2013-0366
Date: 2013-12-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:10:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: UPPER NIAGARA RIVER
NearestCityTown: Grand Island
County: ERIE
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was not paying attention while duck hunting for small losing his balance and falling overboard into the river.  Operator was treated for hypothermia.


BARDID: NY-2013-5004
Date: 2013-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: NY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sodus Bay
NearestCityTown: Fairhaven
WaterConditions: choppy
Wind: light
Visibility: poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to a CG report, a 15 ft sailboat capsized, ejecting two people.  They were reported overdue and found approx 8 hours after the event with the help of a flashlight signal.  The cause of the capsizing is unknown.  There were two injured victims (slight dehydration and onset of hypothermia) and significant damage to the vessel.  The CG marked the vessel with a strobe light and left it.


BARDID: OH-2010-0001
Date: 2010-03-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:47:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maumee River
NearestCityTown: Maumee
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, encountered significant wind and waves on the starboard side.  This caused Vessel 1 to roll to port and then capsize, placing both Occupants in the water.  Both Victims were able to swim to shore after a 3-5 minute swim; the Victims were then transported to St. Luke's Hospital by the Maumee Fire Department where they were treated and released for mild hypothermia.


BARDID: OH-2010-0002
Date: 2010-03-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:37:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St. Marys
NearestCityTown: Celina
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was observed being swamped by waves 1-2 feet in height.  The Operator and one Occupant aboard Vessel 1 abandoned ship (after both persons put on life jackets) approximately 300 yards northeast of the peninsula located near the west bank launch facility.  A person on shore saw the Operator and Occupant swimming and signaled to a a nearby boater who then rescued the Operator and Occupant and brought them to shore.  Both victims were treated for mild hypothermia; one of the Victims was transported to Van Wert County Hospital for further treatment.  Vessel 1 was later towed to shore by ODNR Parks and Recreation.


BARDID: OH-2010-0003
Date: 2010-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:26:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mogadore Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Mogadore Village
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was found floating in the water near Vessel 1 and preliminary indications are that he fell from Vessel 1 into the water.  The Victim was not wearing a lifejacket and no lifejackets were found aboard Vessel 1.  There were no witnesses to the incident.  Autopsy results are being awaited from the coroner.


BARDID: OH-2010-0004
Date: 2010-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Conneaut
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Disabled vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both of the Victims were observed by Coast Guard Station Ashtabula personnel at approximately 8:00 a.m. on April 3, 2010 purchasing beer at a local Gas Mart (following the discovery of the Victims a receipt was found on one of the bodies indicating three "beers" - probably 12 packs - purchased for $31.00).  The Victims then apparently found a sailboat hull on the beach and used it without the permission of the owner.  Empty beer bottles and drag marks in the sand were found near where the hull was taken.  Vessel 1 was not outfitted with sails, a rudder, a tiller, or any safety equipment.  The Victims may have launched Vessel 1 while the weather was still warm and the water was still very calm; the Victims were wearing only T-shirts, shorts, and tennis shoes.  Winds began picking up strength at approximately 1400 hours from the south-southwest direction, pushing Vessel 1 out and around Ashtabula Harbor.  Later that night winds continued to rise and waves reached six feet in height offshore.  Temperaratures dropped down into the 50-degree range overnight and wind and waves continued; winds then shifted to the northwest pushing Vessel 1 to the east and to shore just west of Conneaut Harbor.  Vessel 1 was discovered at approximately 8:30 a.m. on April 4 by someone walking the beach.  The Victims were found braced against the inside of the hull in a back to back position.  Alcohol is suspected in the incident and a toxicology report is being awaited from the Cuyahoga County Coroner.


BARDID: OH-2010-0005
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:35:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Milton
NearestCityTown: Lake Milton
County: Mahoning
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling southbound from the Mahoning Avenue Causeway Bridge, heading into gusty wind and waves, when the wind caused Vessel 1 to turn broadside to the waves three separate times and take water over the starboard side of the transom.  Vessel 1 then flooded and sank.  The two Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were wearing type III lifejackets and were rescued by other boaters and transported to the boat ramp.  No injuries were sustained and no medical treatment was rendered.  Investigation determined that Vessel 1 was most likely overloaded for the weather conditions at hand.


BARDID: OH-2010-0007
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Buckeye Lake
County: Licking
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were near the east end of the Cranberry Marsh No Wake Zone; Vessel 1 was travelling west and Vessel 2 was travelling south.  The bow of Vessel 2 impacted with the starboard stern of Vessel 1 causing the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 2 to be ejected.  Following the collision, the Operator and Occupant aboard Vessel 1 attempted to assist the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 2 out of the water, however, the engine on Vessel 1 was still engaged and in the process of this assistance, both the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 2 were struck on the legs by the propeller of Vessel 1.  Another boater in the area then assisted the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 2 into their vessel and transported them to the Mallory Square Complex where there wre asisted by emergency services.


BARDID: OH-2010-0008
Date: 2010-05-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tappan Lake
NearestCityTown: Cadiz
County: Harrison
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOADING
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was being used to run trot lines when Vessel 1 capsized in high winds, putting both occupants into the water.  Both Occupants were able to swim to shore, but upon retrieval of Vessel 1 (which washed up to the shore following the incident), one of the Occupants collapsed.  Both Occupants were transported to the hospital where one Victim was treated and released and the second Victim was pronounced dead from what is presumed to have been a heart attack.


BARDID: OH-2010-0009
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-04-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:38:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Berlin Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Deerfield
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling eastbound, accelerating away from the boat ramp, when Vessel 1 made an abrupt turn to port (without the operator steering to port), causing the Operator to slide to the starboard side of the seat, capsizing Vessel 1.  The Operator, who was not wearing a lifejacket, then fell overboard.  Following the incident, the Operator was able to hold on to a floating fuel can; Vessel 1 sank immediately following the incident.  Another nearby boater rescued the Victim and transported him to shore where he refused treatment by the Deerfield Fire Department.


BARDID: OH-2010-0010
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cuyahoga River
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was moored to a bulkhead, unoccupied, on the Cuyahoga River.  Vessel 2, a commercial freighter, was being towed stern-first downbound on the Cuyahoga River by a tug boat (Vessel 3).  As the tug/Vessel 2 passed the area where Vessel 1 was moored, the starboard side of Vessel 2 collided with the port side of Vessel 1 causing severe damage to the hull, interior, and contents of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0012
Date: 2010-03-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kenton Lake
NearestCityTown: Oak Hill
County: Gallia
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 had three persons on board with a combined total weight of 520 pounds.  Vessel 1 had a capacity of 2 persons and 300 pounds.  As a result of overloading, water was able to enter Vessel 1 over the bow during operation, eventually resulting in a capsizing that put all three Occupants into the water.  Fire and Rescue responded to the scene following the accident, rescuing the three Occupants and treating all three for hypothermia.


BARDID: OH-2010-0013
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Lakeview
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons aboard, was operating on Indian Lake when the wind picked up.  The Operator of Vessel 1 then tried to enter the channel to the state campground when he lost control of Vessel 1.  Waves pushed Vessel 1 into the seawall at the Chippewa Ramp; all of the Occupants then exited Vessel 1 onto the seawall while Vessel 1 struck the rocks.  Vessel 1 then began to take on water due to beating against the rocks and waves splashing over the gunwales.  Park Officers responded to the scene and towed Vessel 1 from the seawall to the ramp; no injuries were sustained by the Occupants aboard Vessel 1.  As Vessel 1 was being trailered, the vessel and its motor were completely submerged.  After trailering Vessel 1, holes in the bottom of the hull were observed and water was seen draining from Vessel 1.

Operator Experience is listed as a Primary Contributing Factor based on the fact that, although the Operator has more than 500 hours of boating experience in general, he had less than 11 hours of experiene operating this particular vessel.


BARDID: OH-2010-0014
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Officers and Investigators responded to a two boat accident at Alum Creek that occurred around 5:10 pm on Saturday. The collision occurred between the Cheshire ramp and the campground ramp in the open zone of the lake. Two people were on board each vessel at the time of the collision.  Vessel 1 was operating on plane heading east along the Cheshire Causeway.  Vessel 2 was also operating on plane heading west along the Cheshire Causeway.  Both vessels were in a head-on collision situation and failed to take evasive action in substantial time to avoid the collision, resulting in Vessel 1 impacting the port stern area of Vessel 2.  The Occupant of Vessel 1 was flown from the scene of the accident to OSU, the Operator of Vessel 1 was transported by Delaware EMS to Riverside; the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 2 refused treatment at the scene but later went to a local hospital where they were treated and released. The Occupant on Vessel 1 expired later in the evening on the day of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0015
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:46:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Berlin Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Deerfield
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling in a southwesterly direction in Zone 4 while pulling a skier and went around a blind bend.  Vessel 2 was operating in a northerly direction around the same blind bend.  The Operator of Vessel 1 saw Vessel 2 and recognized a collision course, at which time he steered slightly left (port) and then turned hard to the right (starboard).  The Operator of Vessel 2 also observed Vessel 1 and turned hard left (port), colliding with Vessel 1.   The starboard bow of Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on Vessel 1's port side just behind mid-ship.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was severly injured due to blunt trauma caused by the collision.


BARDID: OH-2010-0018
Date: 2010-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage Lakes
NearestCityTown: New Franklin
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was travelling counter-clockwise in the north end of the TurkeyFoot Speed Zone; the Operator of Vessel 1 was operating recklessly (zigzagging back and forth).  The Operator of Vessel 1 then made a hard turn back to starboard (right), causing an Occupant seated in the front port (left) side of Vessel 1 to be thrown across the bow, striking her face on the right gunwale, then ejecting the Occupant out of Vessel 1 into the lake.  The Operator immediately let off the throttle and turned back to pick up the Occupant from the water.  The Occupant in the water was not wearing a lifejacket, but was quickly pulled back on board Vessel 1.  The Operator contacted emergency services and transported the Victim to the new park boat ramp.  Emergency services transported the Victim to Akron General where she was treated for her injuries and released.


BARDID: OH-2010-0020
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by other occupan
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 came out of the Hollenback Marina into the open zone.  While accelerating, Vessel 1 struck a wave, resulting in the head of Occupant 1 striking the head of the Operator.  Occupant 1 suffered a laceration on the head as a result of this action.


BARDID: OH-2010-0021
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling on Alum Creek when a hole developed in the wood hull of the vessel near the site of a previously repaired area.  Vessel 1 then took on water and swamped.  Vessel 1 was later towed to Hollenback Ramp where it was loaded onto the owner's trailer.  The Occupants of Vessel 1 reported that they did not recall striking anything with Vessel 1 prior to Vessel 1 taking on water.


BARDID: OH-2010-0023
Date: 2010-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Lake
NearestCityTown: Mantua
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim, on board Vessel 1, was trying to splash other party-goers on a large raft.  The Victim then left the area of the raft (on the north side of the lake) and proceeded south toward the residence hosting the party.  According to witnesses, the Victim was approximately 100 yards from shore when they heard Vessel 1 stop running and they saw the Victim fall off of Vessel 1 into the water.  Sensing something was wrong, the party-goers went to the Victim's aid, noting that the Victim had suffered a deep laceration to the center of his forehead.  First aid was administered by the party-goers, and emergency services were contacted.  The Victim was transported via Life Flight to Akron General Hospital where he was treated.  The Victim sufferd a laceration from the hairline on the right side of his forehead to the eyebrow between the left eye and nose.  In the center, the laceration was crescent shaped.  According to the medical staff examining the Victim, one or both orbital eye sockets were fractured.

The Victim reported that he had arrived at the party shortly before the incident occured.  He had eaten some pizza and consumed 1-2 beers.  The Victim then put on a PFD and started using Vessel 1.  The Victim admitted splashing other guests on the raft, but noted that he could not remember anything after that time.


BARDID: OH-2010-0024
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Officers responded to a skiing/tubing accident on Alum Creek.  The male on board the tube had separated his shoulder while riding on a tube.  While offiders waited for EMS it was determined that the injured subject had warrants from San Francisco, Indiana, and Ohio.  The subject was transported to the hospital and later taken into custody by Watercraft at the hospital and transported back to Delaware County Jail.  The subject is awaiting an extradition hearing.


BARDID: OH-2010-0029
Date: 2010-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jockey Hollow Wildlife Area
NearestCityTown: Cadiz
County: Harrison
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Loading
AccidentCause2: OVERLOADING
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was travelling east across the lake at the time of the incident.  The estimated weight capacity for Vessel 1 (there was no capacity plate) was 275-320 pounds; the actual weight aboard Vessel 1 at the time of the incident was approximately 495 pounds.  This excess weight caused Vessel 1 to ride very low in the water with very little freeboard.  The Operator, riding in the stern of the vessel near the outboard motor, shifted his weight and/or stood in Vessel 1 causing the stern of Vessel 1 to drop down even further, allowing water to enter Vessel 1 over the transom.  As water entered in the stern area, the front of Vessel 1 raised up, rolling Vessel 1 over, and putting both Occupants in the water approximately 70 yards from shore.  The Operator was able to swim to shore, while the other Occupant/Victim disappeared below the water.  The Victim's body was later recovered 30 yards from shore.  Test results on the Operator indicate that he was under the influence of alcohol approximately 5 hours after the accident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0030
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Chilo
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Commercial Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, crossed in front of and was struck by Vessel 2 (a commercial barge).  During the incident both persons on board Vessel 1 were ejected from Vessel 1, swept under Vessel 2, and re-surfaced, along with Vessel 2, on the port side of Vessel 2.  Neither the Operator nor the Occupant were wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident.  Both Victims were picked up by onlookers; the Operator was then transported, treated, and released from Brown County Hospital (Ohio) for minor abrasions to her right hip.  The Occupant reported no injuries.

ODNR follow-up with the Coast Guard determined that the Master of Vessel 2 had no fault in the incident; all navigation procedures were followed and all navigation lights were on on Vessel 2 at the time of the incident.  Vessel 1 was also determined to have their running lights on at the time of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0031
Date: 2010-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Avon Lake
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was operating in Lake Erie just north of the Miller Road Boat Ramp when one of the Occupants (the Victim) stood up in the bow area at the same time that a wave struck Vessel 1.  The Victim subsequently fell overboard, at which time the propeller of Vessel 1 struck the Victim, causing lacerations to the front of the Victim's left leg and to the Victim's back on his left side.  The Victim was retrieved by the remaining Occupants in Vessel 1, bystanders contacted 911, and the Avon Lake Police and Fire Departments responded to the scene.  The Victim was transported to St John West Shore Hospital where he  was admitted and treated for lacerations to his left back and left leg.  

Subsequent investigation revealed that two of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 (the Victim and another Passenger; not the Operator) had been consuming alcohol prior to the incident.  

Information regarding PFD wear on the Operator and Occupants of Vessel 1 was not collected by the responding agency (Avon Lake Police Department) at the time of the incident and is not available for this report.


BARDID: OH-2010-0034
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake White
NearestCityTown: Waverly
County: Pike
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating at approximately 30 miles per hour when the Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to jump a wake from another vessel.  When Vessel 1 struck the wake, all persons on board Vessel 1 were thrown into the water.  Vessel 1 then continued on and struck the dock, then became airborne and struck the boat lift attached to the dock.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2010-0035
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:19:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were travelling parallel to each other and making a gradual turn to the left (port) to avoid a fishing net when Vessel 2 made a sharp turn to the left (port), in front of Vessel 1, then stopped.  Vessel 1 let off the throttle and attempted unsuccessfully to turn, instead striking Vessel 2 and riding up over it.  Following the collision, the Operator of Vessel 1 then exited the vessel and held the Operator of Vessel 2 up in the water, as he was now face-down.


BARDID: OH-2010-0036
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (West Harbor)
NearestCityTown: Catawba Island
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER ANCHORING
AccidentCause3: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 ,with two persons on board, was travelling from South Bass Island/Kelley's Island back to West Harbor when Vessel 1 began experiencing mechanical/electrical problems.  When the Operator removed the engine cover he observed sparks coming from the ignitiion coil.  The Operator then anchored Vessel 1 from the stern and attempted to work on the engine.  The anchor came loose in a storm that whipped up and Vessel 1 then drifted into the west side of the west breakwall of the new entrance to West Harbor.  Vessel 1 was slammed against the breakwall, creating a large hole on the starboard forward portion of the hull, also damaging the stern drive.  The two Occupants aboard Vessel 1 then exited the vessel and secured Vessel 1 away from the breakwall after the storm had passed.  After trying unsuccessfully to get to shore by traversing the breakwall (there was a break in the breakwall that they could not cross), the Operator contacted a family member who in turn contacted the Coast Guard.  The Coast Guard responded to the scene and transported both Occupants to shore.  The Division of Watercraft responded to the scene shortly thereafter and was told by the Operator of Vessel 1 that there were no injuries as a result of the accident and that he had not been consuming alcohol prior to the incident.  The Watercraft officer performed a horizontal gaze stygmus test which the Operator passed.  Vessel 1 was later towed in and examined, at which time a large hole was observed on the starboard forward part of the hull; the entire stern drive was also missing.  Large scratch marks were also found all over Vessel 1's exerior.  Further examination revelaed that the ignition coil had melted.


BARDID: OH-2010-0037
Date: 2010-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Another accident occurred involving one 30 ft Sportcraft (7  pob) striking a 21 ft Sea Ray (4 pob) East of South Bass Island. Sportcraft was going 25 mph and struck sea ray that was trolling.  Happened at 10am, no injuries, no impairment.  Sportcraft operator cited for improper lookout.  Damage to both boats.  Case is closed except citation into court


BARDID: OH-2010-0038
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Sandusky Bay)
NearestCityTown: Bay Point
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was cruising west of the channel; the water depth gauge read 7 feet of water when Vessel 1 struck the bottom and ran aground.


BARDID: OH-2010-0040
Date: 2010-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buck Creek
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was being used for waterskiing.  The Victim was attempting to be pulled up by the water ski rope when the rope slack or knot snapped, resulting in the Victim injuring/straining her back.  The Victim's family called emergency services who rsponded to the scene and transported the Victim to Springfield Regional Hospital where she was treated and released on the same day.  A follow-up call to the Victim on June 3 indicated that she was recovering well.


BARDID: OH-2010-0041
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Waynesville
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was on a trailer (still in the water) next to the area at the ramp where the Operator of Vessel 2 was attempting to launch.  The Operator of Vessel 2 lost control of Vessel 2, causing Vessel 2 to back into and strike Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 suffered no damage from the collision, while Vessel 1 suffered some fiberglass damage.


BARDID: OH-2010-0042
Date: 2010-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Harveysburg
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was in the act of docking Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 2 was also attempting to dock in the same area.  The Operator of Vessel 2 reported that the motor of Vessel 2 shut off while she was trying to dock; upon re-starting Vessel 2, the Operator reported that she placed Vessel 2 in the wrong gear (forward), resulting in a collision with Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on the starboard side causing damage to the starboard side of Vessel 1 and the bow of Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2010-0043
Date: 2010-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:33:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch State Park
NearestCityTown: Charlestown
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with 5 persons on board and one additional person being towed as a skier, was travelling in a straight line at approximately 28-30 miles per hour when the skier let go of the towline and settled into the water without significant incident, but reporting a strain/pop in his left hip.   The Operator of Vessel 1 turned Vessel 1 and retrieved the skier who reported feeling pain in his left hip/leg.  The skier was able to board Vessel 1 without incident, but advised that he needed to be taken to the hospital as the pain in athe afflicted hip/leg continued to increase.  Emergency services were called to the scene and the skier was transported to the hospital where he was treated and released for a pulled left hamstring.


BARDID: OH-2010-0047
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unforeseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: FLOODING/SWAMPING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 struck an unknown floating object (suspected to be a floating log) and began taking on water.  Vessel 1 then sunk, with the persons aboard Vessel 1 being retrieved by friends in another nearby vessel.


BARDID: OH-2010-0049
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lorain
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Anchoring
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
AccidentCause3: Weather
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The two persons on board Vessel 1 had been fishing for approximately three hours when the wind and waves prompted them to head back toward shore.  As they approached shore, the two Occupants decided to finish out their day by anchoring Vessel 1 near the breakwall and fishing from there.  The anchor broke loose as they were attempting to anchor Vessel 1, and when the engine was re-started, it would not stay running.  Vessel 1 then washed up against the breakwall where the two Occupants were able to climb out of Vessel 1 onto the breakwall and signal passersby for assistance.  Other boaters, seeing their need, contacted the Coast Guard who arrived on scene and towed Vessel 1 to Spitzer's lakeside fuel dock.  The Coast Guard also transported the Occupants of Vessel 1 to the Coast Guard Station where they were cheked out by emergency services and found to be in safe condition.  The Operator of Vessel 1 indicated that the fuel pump had been recently replaced on Vessel 1, and that the motor ran great for the first three hours of operation on the date of the incident.  All connections appeared to be in good condition on the fuel pump as well.  The investigating Officer indicated he believed the difficulties with the engine were a result of a fuel issue.  The Owner/Operator reported that he will be scrapping the boat and motor as it was not worthy of repair.


BARDID: OH-2010-0050
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:48:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading east beyond the Cleveland breakwall when it encountered a wake from another vessel.  The Operator/Victim lost his balance as Vessel 1 crossed the wake, striking his knee on the bulkhead.  The Operator/Victim sought medical treatment and was diagnosed with a torn quadriceps ligament requiring outpatient surgery.


BARDID: OH-2010-0051
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Aberdeen
County: Brown
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Shortly after Vessel 1 was launched with two persons on board, an explosion occured in the rear engine area of Vessel 1.  Both Occupants jumped overboard and swam to shore; neither of the Occupants was wearing a lifejacket.  One of the Occupants suffered minor burns on the shin area of his legs; he was transported, treated and released for these injuries.  The second Occupant suffered no injuries.  Vessel 1 burnt to the waterline and was later retrieved by Aberdeen Fire Department.

Operator inexperience is listed as a tertiary cause based on the fact that despite over 500 hours of overall eboating experience by the Operator, he had less than 100 hours of experience operating this particular vessel.


BARDID: OH-2010-0052
Date: 2010-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both Operators/Victims involved in the accident reported that they didn't remember much regarding the incident.  The Operator of Vessel 1 did indicate that he and the Operator of Vessel 2 were jumping waves from another vessel (in close proximity to each other) when water splashed into his face (Vessel 1 Operator) and he did not see Vessel 2 resulting in the collision.   The Operator of Vessel 2 reported that he was ejected from Vessel 2 as a result of the collision and may have been temporarily unconscious as he found himself choking on water as he regained consciousness.

The Operator of Vessel 1 did not suffer any significant injuries; the Operator of Vessel 2 received nine staples in the back left side of his head.  No damages were reported to Vessel 1 or Vessel 2.

Investigator's Report indicates that the Operator of Vessel 1 was using alcohol prior to the accident, although it was not on board Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0053
Date: 2010-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seneca
NearestCityTown: Montpelier
County: Williams
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Other
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was cruising at a steady speed of approximately 32 miles per hour and was in the process of making a slow turn.  The Operator leaned into the turn in an effort to turn more quickly; the Occupant then leaned into the turn as well causing Vessel 1 to turn too sharply, ejecting both the Operator and the Passenger from Vessel 1.   During the ejection, the Occupant struck her head on the back the Operator's head, resulting in a 1.5 inch laceration above the Occupant's left eye.  Following the ejection, the Operator assisted the Occupant in getting back onto Vessel 1, at which time he trsnaported her to her residence and on to Montpelier Hospital.


BARDID: OH-2010-0054
Date: 2010-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Toledo
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator and Occupant of Vessel 1 observed a fire in the motor compartment and attempted unsuccessfully to extinguish the flames using three separate fire extinguishers.  Unable to douse the flames, the Occupant and the Operator grabbed lifejackets and were preparing to jump overboard when a Watercraft Patrol Vessel arrived on scene; Officers were able to extinguish the flames.

Investigators were unable to definitively determine the cause of the fire, noting that it appeared to be a problem with the engine.


BARDID: OH-2010-0056
Date: 2010-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buck Creek
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
During the docking of Vessel 1, the Victim stepped off of Vessel 1 intending to step onto the dock, but instead slipped and lodged her leg between the boat and the dock.  Her forward movement at the time of the incident resulted in a broken ankle as she fell forward onto the dock.  The Victim was transported to Springfield Regional Community Hospital where she was admitted overnight, treated, and released the next day.


BARDID: OH-2010-0059
Date: 2010-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was adrift with 9 persons on board.  The persons on board had been jet skiing, tubing, and swimming for approximately 5 hours when Occupant 2 and Occupant 4 jumped into the water (without lifejackets) for one last "cooling off".  Shortly thereafter, Occupant 4 began yelling for assistance; he was approximately 100-150 feet away from Vessel 1 and an approaching storm front had started generating 2-foot waves.  At this point Occupant 2 was nowhere in sight.  Occupant 3 then jumped into the water and swam to Occupant 4 (without a lifejacket); Occupant 3 then began pulling Occupant 4 back toward Vessel 1.  Occupant 8 and Occupant 9 put on lifejackets, grabbed two additional lifejackets, then jumped into the water to assist as well.  When Occupant 8 and Occupant 9 reached Occupant 3 and Occupant 4, they were able to get lifejackets on all parties.  Occupant 3 and Occupant 9 were then able to get back on board Vessel 1, while Occupant 4 and Occupant 8 drifted farther from Vessel 1.  Meanwhile, the Operator of Vessel 1 had contacted the United States Coast Guard who responded to the scene (along with another Multi-Agency Police Vessel).  The USCG pulled Occupant 4 and Occupant 8 from the water and a search was started for Occupant 2 within minutes of their arrival on scene.

The United States Coast Guard crew and the Police Boat crew both believed that all parties on Vessel 1 were under the influence of alchol.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was interviewed immediately after the incident at the United States Coast Guard Station; he refused to perform a sobriety test or submit to any chemical test.

The Victim (Occupant 2) was recovered in Euclid, Ohio on July 19, 2010.


BARDID: OH-2010-0060
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:48:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Pond (Glen Hollow Cour
NearestCityTown: Brecksville
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two Occupants launched Vessel 1 from shore Saturday evening (time unknown).  Occupant 1 entered the water from Vessel 1 to swim; shortly thereafter, the Operator entered the water from Vessel 1 to swim as well .  The distance both the Operator and the Occupant swam away from Vessel 1 is unknown.  The father of the Operator approached the area sometime later after hearing voices near the pond.  At this time, both the father of the Operator and Occupant 2 were unable to locate the Operator 1.  The father of the Operator then had the mother of the Operator contact 911.  

The Victim (Operator) was recovered by fire department personnel one hour after submersion; resuscitation was started and the Victim began breathing on his own at approximately 1:00 a.m.  The Victim was then transported to Metro Hospital via Life Flight; the Victim expired at 5:00 a.m. that same morning.

Occupant 2 was heavily under the effects of alcohol following the incident and had to be restrained by local PD.

Alcohol containers (both empty and full) were found aboard Vessel 1; no lifejackets or registration were found aboard Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0061
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hoover Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Galena
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements and evidence acquired at the scene of the incident, it appears that the Operator/Victim was preparing to go fishing at the time of the accident.  Witnesses came upon Vessel 1 at approximately 7:00 a.m. with its engine running; Vessel 1 was not tied to the dock at that time.  Assuming that the Operator was simply out of sight and preparing his fishing tackle, the Witness went about his business.  When the Witness observed Vessel 1 still running and untied from the dock, with no Operator around, at approximately 9:00 a.m. they contacted 911.  Emergency crews responded and divers recovered the body of the Operator/Victim at approximately 11:20 a.m. under the dock where Vessel 1 would have been tied.

Alcohol involvement is still being investigated.


BARDID: OH-2010-0062
Date: 2010-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Muskingum River
NearestCityTown: Reno
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator (not wearing a lifejacket) and one additional Occupant (wearing a lifejacket) were in Vessel 1 when it capsized, putting both persons into the water.  The mother of Occupant 1 retrieved him from the water; the Operator had trouble swimming and did not make it to shore.

Alcohol involvement is being investigated in this accident.

Note that Operator Inexperience is listed as Primary Contributing Factor based on the fact that, despite a total boating experience of 100-500 hours, the Operator had very limited experience with this particular vessel (0 to 10 hours).


BARDID: OH-2010-0063
Date: 2010-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, towing two tubers on two separate tubes, was travelling just southwest of the dam at West Branch State Park when the Operator of Vessel 1 swerved to starboard to avoid a large wake created by another nearby ski boat.  This 45-degree turn action caused the two tubes to slide into the same wake trough, resulting in the two tubes colliding with each other.  At the time of the collision, the second tuber's/Victim's left leg made contact with the first tuber's forehead resulting in a compound fracture to the second tuber's/Victim's leg; the first tuber (struck in the forehead) was not significantly injured.  Following the collision, another Occupant aboard Vessel 1 dove into the water to assist the two tubers.  Once everyone was back on board, the Operator contacted 911 and guided Vessel 1 to the East Boat Ramp where they were met by Emergency Services.  The Victim was transported to Robinson Memorial and then on to Akron Children's Hospital.  Vessel 1 also sustained minor damage to the detachable ski post as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0064
Date: 2010-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: Charlestown
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling westbound under the Rock Springs Road Bridge, towing a single tuber, when the weight on the tube combined with the force of the vessel pulling it began to force the tube underwater.  The tube Occupant grabbed the tube handle as it began to submerge, at which time the rope became entangled around the Occupant/Victim's hand, pulling him underwater as well and severely tearing his finger.  The Occupant/Victim began calling for assistance at which time the Operator stopped Vessel 1, assisted the Occupant/Victim to get back on board, and rushed him to the West Ramp where they called 911 and Emergency Services responded.  The Occupant/Victim was then transported to a local hospital for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0065
Date: 2010-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:08:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Pond
NearestCityTown: North Lawrence
County: Stark
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was tied to a floating dock with no one on board.  The Operator of Vessel 1 lost control of Vessel 1 and collided with the fixed dock and stern of Vessel 2, causing minor damage to both vessels.  During the collision, the Operator of Vessel 1 also fell off Vessel 1 while wearing a type III personal flotation device.  The Operator was found floating face down at the northwest corner of the fixed dock, having sustained a laceration to the the left back side of the head and suffering a sprained right shoulder.  The Operator/Victim was transported to Affinity Hospital where she was treated and released for her injuries.

Investigation revealed that the Operator had been using alcohol prior to the incident and the Operator was cited for OVI.


BARDID: OH-2010-0069
Date: 2010-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:19:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Cambridge
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: exertion
RedactedNarrative:
While launching Vessel 1, the Operator avoided striking the dock behind Vessel 1 by immediately putting the throttle forward after entering the water.  This action propelled Vessel 1 toward a cement wall at the ramp.  The Operator then attempted to reach out toward the wall to stop the forward momentum of Vessel 1 and thereby avoid collision with the wall.  In the process of this action, the Operator sustained a back injury.  Emergency Services were contacted and arrived on scene, transporting the Operator/Victim to Southeastern Medical for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0070
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Muskingum River
NearestCityTown: Zanesville
County: Muskingum
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating near the Zanesville Yacht Club on the Muskingum River when he observed a large wake from a passing houseboat approaching Vessel 1.  The Operator then slowed Vessel 1 (which was on plane) to cross the wake.  Vessel 2 was also on plane following closely behind Vessel 1 at this time, and was unable to slow down in time to avoid colliding with Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 in the stern area of Vessel 1, also striking the outboard motor of Vessel 1, and continuing to travel through Vessel 1 to the Operator's position where it struck the Operator of Vessel 1, pining him against the Operator's console and the steering wheel.  As Vessel 1 continued to travel forward during this incident, Vessel 2 slid back off the top of Vessel 1.   Following the incident, the Operator of Vessel 1 returned to the ramp, loaded Vessel 1, and returned to his residence.  The Operator of Vessel 2 returned to his dock following the incident, then took Vessel 2 back out later that day and evening.  Neither individual reported the incident on the day that it occured, but rather the following day.  Further investigation by the Division of Watercraft revealed that the Operator of Vessel 1 had later sought medical help resulting in x-rays that reveaked a possible scapula fracture (MRI pending) and nerve damage to his right arm, as well as abrasions on his chest, back, and face; damage to Vessel 1 included a crease in the top of the transom, damage to the outboard motor, a broken fuel gauge, shifting of the console and broken welds, and damage to the steering wheel.  The Operator of Vessel 2 apparently suffered no injuries and the only damage to Vessel 2 was insigificant (paint transfer that had already been removed).  Officers observed several empty beer cans aboard Vessel 2 upon inspection, however the Operator of Vessel 2 claimed that hehad not consumed any alcohol on the vessel prior to the incident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0071
Date: 2010-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Mohawk
NearestCityTown: Malvern
County: Carroll
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: EQUIPMENT FAILURE
EquipmentFailure: Engine cut-off switch
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
The Owner of Vessel 1 reported that Vessel 1 had been taking on water prior to the incident, however, she did not know where Vessel 1 was leaking.  Vessel 1 was in operation with two persons on board at the time of the incident.  The Operator of Vessel 1 turned slightly to port, striking a wake and causing Vessel 1's occupants to become ejected.  The Operator reported that the engine cut-off switch she was wearing did not disengage the engine on Vessel 1, and instead pulled Vessel 1 down on top of the Operator.  Shortly thereafter the engine cut-off switch lanyard broke, allowing Vessel 1 to continue on in idle speed, with Vessel 1 eventually striking both the Operator and Passenger a second time as it continued to circle.  The Occupant was then able to get back on board Vessel 1 and turn off Vessel 1 using the key which was still in the ignition.  The Occupant was then able to swim Vessel 1 to shore where she was able to get some bystanders to assist her with aiding the injured Operator.  The Operator was then transported to Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio by emergency services where it was determined that she had suffered a fractured pelvis in two places.


BARDID: OH-2010-0074
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:03:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tuscarawas River
NearestCityTown: Newcomers Town
County: Coshocton
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: FLOODING/SWAMPING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was caught in a strong current and struck a tree, capsizing Vessel 1.  Following the incident, the Operator was able to tie Vessel 1 to a tree; however, when he went back to retrieve Vessel 1 it was gone (completely submerged), resulting in a total loss of Vessel 1 and its accompanying equipment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0075
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
EquipmentFailure: Gimble ring failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in operation when the Operator heard a loud bang and lost all power and steering on Vessel 1.  The Operator then opened the engine compartment and observed water entering Vessel 1.  The Operator then contacted a towing company and the Coast Guard for assistance.  Watercraft Officers arrived on scene (waved down by the Operator) and assisted with dewatering Vessel 1 by using a manually operated dewatering pump to assist the bilge pump until the towing company arrived.  After being towed to Whiskey Island, Vessel 1 was lifted and placed into a cradle at which time it was immediately observed that the lower unit was just hanging on by the steering arms and was broken loose from the transom mount.  Inspection by an insurance adjuster concluded that the Operator had not struck anything with Vessel 1 (as was suspected at the beginning), but instead the gimble ring had failed from stress, causing the lower unit to be detached from the transom, and allowing water to begin entering the engine compartment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0077
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in operation when the Operator observed that Vessel 1 was beginning to take on water.  After contacting emergency services, the Operator reports that Vessel 1 continued to take on water at a rapid rate, eventually resulting in Vessel 1 becoming mostly submerged, with only about 4 feet of Vessel 1's bow remaining above water.  Emergency services arrived on scene, bringing the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 1 on board the rescue boat.  Vessel 1 was later towed to shore where small cracks were found in the hull of Vessel 1 near the ribs (looked to be caused by old age/standard wear and tear).


BARDID: OH-2010-0078
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:59:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maumee River
NearestCityTown: Toledo
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentCause2: Failure to vent
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling up the Maumee River headed toward downtown Toledo when Vessel 1 ran out of fuel.  Occupants aboard Vessel 1 then tried to refuel the vessel with a gas can.  While refueling, some of the fuel spilled onto the engine compartment area; when Vessel 1 was re-started, the fuel on the engine ignited.  All nine of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were forced to jump into the water and were picked up by other boaters in the area and transported to the Monroe County Sheriff's Patrol Boat.  The Lucas County Marine Patrol arrived on the scene, extinguished the fire, and towed Vessel 1 to Coast Guard Station Toledo.  Two of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were transported to St. Vincent's Hospital in Toledo where they were treated for burns to their ankles, feet, and legs.

The quantity of lifejackets and fire extinguishers on board vessel 1 prior to the incident were unable to be determined because all materials were destroyed in the fire.  Investigation revealed that one of the persons who was rescued from the water was wearing a lifejacket at the time of recovery, however responders could not remember which of the parties being rescued was wearing it.


BARDID: OH-2010-0080
Date: 2010-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (West Harbor)
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with 6 persons on board, left dock to cruise on the lake.  Upon exiting West harbor onto the main body of Lake Erie, the Operator and Occupants of Vessel 1 determined that conditions on the lake were too rough for safe operation and decided to return to the dock.  Upon returning to the Marina, the Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to dock into his slip which placed him between the dock to his starboard side and another vessel on his port side.  The strong wind pushed him toward the dock on his starboard side too quickly and, fearing for the safety of an Occupant sitting near the bow of Vessel 1 should Vessel 1 strike the dock, the Operator of Vessel 1 used his engine to back away from the dock.  In doing so, he struck Vessel 2, which was docked astern of his location in another dock perpindicular to Vessel 1's.  The stern of Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 amidship on the starboard side of Vessel 2.  The force of the impact pushed the hull of Vessel 2 in and separated the hull from the superstructure.  There was no one on board Vessel 2 at the time of the incident.

NOTE - Operator Inexperience is listed as the primary contributing factor based on the fact that even though the Operator had 100-500 hours boating experience in general, he had less than 10 hours of experience with this particular vessel (Vessel 1).


BARDID: OH-2010-0081
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:51:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Catawba Island
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, left Detroit around 4:00 p.m. headed toward Put-In-Bay.  The Operator at the time of this incident indicated that he was not the owner of Vessel 1, and had in fact only met the other two persons on board for the first time earlier that day.  The Operator stated that he was operating Vessel 1 because the Owner was "too drunk to drive".  The Operator also indicated that he had never been to the Put-In-Bay area before and, although he wasn't sure whether the GPS was on at the time of the incident, he noted that he did not know how to use it.  At some point, Vessel 1 ran into the shore at Catawba Island at a speed of approximately 30 miles per hour, causing injuries; the Operator and other Occupants were unable to provide any additional details regarding the accident.  The Operator did state that he "was going too damn fast". Following the grounding, the Operator reported seeing a fire on the port side engine of Vessel 1 and was unable to shut Vessel 1 down even after te key had been turned to the off position. 

Law Enforcement Officers found indications of intoxication through HGN  and placed the Operator under arrest at the hospital.   The Operator reported that he had consumed 2 beers at home and 2 beers on the boat.


BARDID: OH-2010-0082
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Mt Sterling
County: Pickaway
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel  1 was towing the Victim on a tube when the tuber (the Victim) fell from the tube causing injury to her inner thigh.  The Victim was transported to the beach where emergency services responded and transported the Victim to Nationwide Children's Hospital.  Doctors reported that the Victim had suffered an overstressed muscle in her upper thigh; the Victim was up and walking within an hour and continues to do well at home.


BARDID: OH-2010-0083
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Waynesville
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was launched at the launch ramp, then tied up to the courtesy dock with one passenger still on board while the Operator of Vessel 2 went to park the trailering vehicle.  In the launch lane immediately adjacent to Vessel 2, the Operator and Passenger of Vessel 1 were attempting to retrieve and trailer Vessel 1.  During the retrieval process, the Operator of Vessel 1 failed to maintain control of his vessel, resulting in Vessel 1 drifting over into the lane where Vessel 2 was tied to the courtesy dock.  The starboard portion of the swim platform on Vessel 1 then struck the port side of Vessel 2, causing a slight puncture and several scratches on the port (left) midsection of Vessel 2's fiberglass hull.  The impact of the collision also pushed the starboard side of Vessel 2 into the dock resulting in a buckling in the fiberglass hull of Vessel 2 on the starboard side and a hairline fracture approximately 18 inches in length.  There was no reported or visible damage to Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0084
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Waynesville
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent3: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling on plane coming into a no wake zone; as Vessel 1 slowed down, the Operator observed that the engine was on fire.  The Operator and one Occupant then jumped out of Vessel 1.  The Occupant suffered 1st and 2nd degree burns on her hand and leg; she was treated and released from the hospital after being transported there by the Operator.


BARDID: OH-2010-0085
Date: 2010-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Lakeview
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling near Oldfield Beach with two persons in tow on a tube behind Vessel 1.  As Vessel 1 turned, the tube crossed a large wake created by another vessel causing the two Occupants of the tube to be ejected into the water.  One of the Occupants then advised that her neck was injured and emergency services were contacted.  Emergency services arrived on scene and later Med Flighted the Victim to Grant Hospital in Columbus based on the possible neck injury.


BARDID: OH-2010-0086
Date: 2010-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Russells Point
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with five persons on board, was stopped (but not anchored) to allow the Occupants to swim.  The Victim and one other Occupant entered the water from Vessel 1; the Victim never resurfaced.  The Victim was not wearing a lifejacket and alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor.

The Victim's body was recovered at 2:55 p.m. on July 21, 2010.

Awaiting full WICR from Investigator for additional details.


BARDID: OH-2010-0087
Date: 2010-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:56:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Weather
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was drifting approximately 1500 yards north of the Cleveland Breakwater near the Main Harbor entrance.  The Operator remained on board Vessel 1 while Occupant 1 left the vessel near the transom voluntarily to swim.  When Occupant 1 expressed difficulty to the Operator, the Operator started Vessel 1 and approached Occupant 1 to assist.  The Operator threw a rope several times to Occupant 1 with no success.  Wind and wave conditions continued to cause Vessel 1 to drift away from Occupant 1 and the Operator then saw Occupant 1's head go under the surface and not reappear.  Weather reports indicated 24-34 mph winds in the area during this time period and USCG personnel reported 2-3 foot waves in the area upon arrival.

The Victim (Occupant 1) was not wearing a lifejacket and the Victim had been consuming alcohol prior to the incident.

The body of the Victim was recovered on July 27, 2010 (pending positive identification) off of Edgewater State Park Marina.


BARDID: OH-2010-0088
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Anchoring
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
The two Occupants aboard Vessel 1 had fished at various places within the breakwall and had been anchored for half an hour approximately 150 yards off the East 72nd Fishing Access when the Operator noticed that the anchor was not holding and Vessel 1 was drifting into the rocks.  The Operator raised the anchor and tried to restart Vessel 1, but the engine would not restart.  The Operator then attempted to reset the anchor again, but it would not hold.  Vessel 1 then drifted into the rocks, damaging the propeller and the starboard-side turn of the bilge.  After setting off distress signals, ODNR Watercraft and the Coast Guard responded to the scene.  Vessel 1 was then pulled off the rocks and towed back to the Gordon Launch Ramp.


BARDID: OH-2010-0089
Date: 2010-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was returning from Shooter's (restaurant/bar) to a courtesy dock at East 55th Street Marina.  The Operator and one of the Occupants (the Victim) was sitting in the operating area of Vessel 1; the two remaining Occupants were sitting in the rear of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 was travelling at approximately 15-20 miles per hour, and was approximately 150 feet away from the dock when the Occupant/Victim sitting in the front with the Operator walked to the stern of Vessel 1 and jumped off the center of the transom into the water.  The parties still on board Vessel 1 were shocked by the Victim's behavior, but recovered their composure and the Operator of Vessel 1 turned Vessel 1 around to pick up the Victim.  As Vessel 1 approached the Victim, the Operator of Vessel 1 grabbed a PFD and entered the water to assist the Victim who was now stating that he had broken his leg.  The Operator was able to assist the Victim back to Vessel 1 and both of them were able to re-board Vessel 1 with the the use of a swim ladder and the assistance of the two Occupants still on board.  The group then contacted emergency services and operated Vessel 1 to the dock to wait for their arrival.  The Victim was transported to University Hospitals where he was treated for a torn tendon and received a skin graft.  The Operator was administered a standardized field sobriety test and provided a chemical test upon request.  The Operator's BAC reading was registered as 0.055.

Investigation into the incident revelaed that the Operator and the Victim had both been drinking alcohol at Shooter's prior to the incident and the Operator reported that the Victim had been "drinking all day".


BARDID: OH-2010-0092
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were being operated back and forth outside the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, but inside the breakwall.  The Operators reported that a "speedboat" passed at a high rate of speed between Vessel 1 and Vessel 2, creating a wake that made them crash into each other.  The Investigator determined that, in reassessing the damage to both vessels, the manner in which both parties were operating at the time of the incident was reckless and both parties were charged with reckless operation accordingly.


BARDID: OH-2010-0093
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Cooley Canal)
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 had just finished fueling up Vessel 1 at the marina and noticed that Vessel 1 was not running well as he headed out at idle speed through Cooley Canal and out onto Lake Erie.  When he looked back toward the stern of Vessel 1 he noticed smoke and fire coming from the engine area.  The Operator then pulled up at the fuel dock to exit Vessel 1.  A witness was able to put out the flames on Vessel 1 using an on-shore fire extiguisher.  Damage was limited to the engine area.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2010-0095
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Scioto River
NearestCityTown: Portsmouth
County: Scioto
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with one person on board, was travelling upriver while fishing when the motor stopped running and Vessel 1 went into a spin downriver due to the current.  Vessel 1 then struck the 2nd Street Bridge Pier, causing Vessel 1 to capsize.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was ejected during the capsizing, but was able to hold onto a log near the bridge.  The Operator remained in the water for approximately one hour before he was rescued by emergency services.  The Operator had no apparent injuries and refused all medical treatment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0096
Date: 2010-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1, with two additional persons on board, was forced to use its auxiliary engine due to choppy waters near Port Clinton.  The line from the jib sail then accidentally wrapped around the prop.  The Operator entered the water to attempt to cut the line, however Vessel 1 drifted away from him in the rough water.  The Occupants still aboard Vessel 1 did not know how to operate Vessel 1 and were unable to assist the Operator.  The Operator/Victim went under shortly thereafter and did not resurface.  A search for the Victim was unsuccessful.

The Victim's body was recovered on July 26, 2010.  Awaiting WICR report from Investigator (Ottawa County Sheriff's Office) for complete details.


BARDID: OH-2010-0098
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Vickery
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were both drifting, facing west/southwest, parallel to each other, with Vessel 2 to the port of Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1 and the Operator of Vessel 2 then applied power to their respective vessels and began moving west/southwest, still in parallel with each other.  The Operator of Vessel 2 then thought the Operator of Vessel 1 was going to turn to starboard toward the Route 2 bridge and turned Vessel 2 to starboard to do so as well.  The Operator of Vessel 1 instead stayed on his current course, and the turn to starboard by the Operator of Vessel 2 resulted in Vessel 2 striking Vessel 1 on the port side.  Vessel 2 went under Vessel 1 and the Operator of Vessel 2 was struck by Vessel 1's propeller.  The Operator of Vessel 1 retrieved the Victim who had been ejected from Vessel 2 into the water by the force of the collision as well.  Leaving Vessel 2 on the water, the Operator of Vessel 1 took the Operator of Vessel 2 aboard his vessel and transported him back o the Crystal Rock Campground where they were met by emergency services.  Both Operators were checked for alcohol following the incident and both submitted to testing.  The BAC of the Operator of Vessel 1 was .102 g/100 ml (urine) and the BAC of the Operator of Vessel 2 was 0.94 g/100 ml (whole blood).  The Victim (Operator of Vessel 2 suffered a cut right Achilles tendon, a large laceration above his buttocks, and a laceration on his back below his shoulder blades.  The PFD worn by the Victim saved him from additional lacerations, probably saving his life.


BARDID: OH-2010-0099
Date: 2010-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:55:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Waynesville
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
The victim was being pulled on a tube behind Vessel 1 when he fell off of the tube.  The Victim then swam to the swim platform.  The Operator thought Vessel 1 was in neutral, however it was actually engaged.  As the Victim attempted to board the swim platform,  the Victim's left foot was swept/sucked toward the propeller and cut.  The Victim was transported to an area hospital where he received 30 staples in his left foot and was released.


BARDID: OH-2010-0100
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Mount Sterling
County: Pickaway
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was pleasure boating and tubing; while paying out line for the tube, a large wake forced water over the transom of Vessel 1, causing Vessel 1 to take on water and swamp.  The two persons on board Vessel 1 at the time of the incident swam out to the inner tube occupied by the third person in the party who was on the tube.  A passing vessel saw the three persons in the water and picked them up.  When Watercraft arrived on scene, all but the bow of Vessel 1 was submerged.  No injuries were sustained.


BARDID: OH-2010-0101
Date: 2010-05-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St Marys
NearestCityTown: Montezuma
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was underway and returning for weigh-in at the launch ramp when the bow of Vessel 1 rose up on a wave, pushing the outboard motor under the water in the stern, in turn causing the motor to stall.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was unable to restart the motor.  By this point, the wind and wave action had turned Vessel 1 so that waves were now coming over the stern.  Vessel 1 quickly began filling with water and the bilge pump could not keep up.  The Operator and Passenger were then able to mount the trolling motor and operate the now mostly swamped vessel to Bayview Marina.


BARDID: OH-2010-0103
Date: 2010-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage River
NearestCityTown: Oak Harbor
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Anchoring
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: departure from shore to boat
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim and his family had been camping on a small island when a storm developed.  As the storm approached, everyone in the family travelled from the island to shore (by boat) where everyone except for the Victim left the area to return to their residence.  The Victim remained behind, indicating by cell phone to his wife (who was returning to their residence) that he would return to the island (via boat) to secure the remaining camping equipment and would expect the remainder of the family to come back to the island after the storm passed to have dinner.  Shortly thereafter (about five minutes later) the Victim's wife tried to contact the Victim again by cell phone but received no answer.  The Victim's wife then contacted emergency services who responded to the scene where Vessel 1 was found in the middle of the Portage River.  A search commenced for the Victim, who was recovered at approximately 10:30 a.m. on August 16, 2010.  During the search, an aluminum boarding ladder from Vessel 1 was found embedded in a muddy area near the area where the family had gained access to the island previously.  The Victim was not wearing any shoes, and had keys, a cell phone, and his wallet in his pocket at the time of recovery; with no witnesses to the incident this evidence leads to speculation that perhaps he was intending to wade into the water to launch or retrieve Vessel 1 (hence no shoes), but did not anticipate falling into the water (with his cell phone, wallet, and keys in his pocket).  The Victim was not wearing a life jacket.  The investigation of this incident is ongoing.


BARDID: OH-2010-0106
Date: 2010-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Berlin Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Limaville
County: Stark
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was skiing behind Vessel 1, just past the island in the middle of the lake, passing from the right side of Vessel 1's wake to the left side of Vessel 1's wake when he lost control and fell face forward into the water.  The Operator of Vessel 1 turned Vessel 1 around to retrieve the Victim, who was lying face first in the water.  The Operator and a second Occupant on Vessel 1 assisted the Victim onboard Vessel 1 (via the swim platform), contacted 911, and transported the Victim to the campground ramp where they met emergency services.  The Victim was trasnported to Akron General Hospital with neck injuries.


BARDID: OH-2010-0107
Date: 2010-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Milton
NearestCityTown: Craig Beach
County: Mahoning
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The seven Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were taking turns operating and skiing throughout the day.  The Victim was sitting on the top of the rear seat and stepped down into the boat in order to take over operation.  At this time Vessel 1 was in neutral and not anchored.  The Victim either slipped or lost her balance as she stepped down, landing wrong on her left ankle.  Other Occupants aboard Vessel 1 recall hearing a loud "pop" when the incident occured.  The group then wrapped the Victim's leg in ice, elevated it, contacted 911, and headed to the Robinson's Point Launch Ramp to meet emergency services.  The Victim was transported to St. Elizabeth's Main Hospital for her injury, which was later diagnosed as a broken left ankle.


BARDID: OH-2010-0108
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Milton
NearestCityTown: Lake Milton
County: Mahoning
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 stalled near the cove opening near the Lake Milton Boat Club.  The Operator of Vessel 1 displayed a distress flag and the Operator of Vessel 2 approached Vessel 1 and offered to tow Vessel 1 back to the dock, located inside the cove.  As Vessel 2 began accelerating to tow Vessel 1, Vessel 1 began to submerge, resulting in the Operator and the one additional Occupant aboard Vessel 1 being forced to leave Vessel 1 and jump into the water.  Vessel 2 continued to pull Vessel 1 for approximately 25 yards underwater before stopping to check on the vessel (Vessel 1) being towed.  The series of events following Vessel 2 stopping in its towing of Vessel 1 are unclear, however, at this point Vessel 2 left the area leaving Vessel 1 submerged and the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 1 in the water.  A third vessel (PWC) then arrived on scene and towed Vessel 1 and its occupants to the dock.  When officers arrived at the dock to investigate the incident, they found Vessel 1 tied to the dock, upright, with only a small amount of water inside Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1 indicated that he would have Vessel 1 removed and repaired through his insurance and didn't want to try to start Vessel 1 due to the submersion.  The Operator reported that he had no injuries as a result of the incident, however the other Occupant of Vessel 1 was later taken to be checked out (due to some parental custody issues) where she was diagnosed, treated, and released for a strained lower back.


BARDID: OH-2010-0112
Date: 2010-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Mentor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause3: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was returning from Lake Erie into Mentor Harbor/Mentor Lagoons with a total of five persons on board during a thunderstorm and collided with the seawall at the entrance due to rough weather.  Vessel 1 suffered damage to the port side bow pontoon and cross brace.  Investigation revealed that the Operator may have lost some control of Vessel 1 due to a missing propeller on the outboard engine which was observed in pictures following the incident.  Following the collision, the Operator was able to operate Vessel 1 through the harbor entrance and secure it to a gas dock at the boat club.  The Operator and Occupants suffered no injuries as a result of the collision.


BARDID: OH-2010-0113
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:27:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Eastlake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER ANCHORING
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was en route to the beach off Eastlake CEI Power Plant.  As Vessel 1 approached the shore, the Operator accidentally ran Vessel 1 aground and was unable to get Vessel 1 free and back afloat.  The Operator of Vessel 1 then tied the vessel off to a log partially buried onshore so Vessel 1 would not drift off, intending to return later and remove Vessel 1 from the beach; the Operator and Occupant aboard Vessel 1 were able to walk to shore from the grounded Vessel 1 and suffered no injuries as a result of the accident.  Between the time Vessel 1 was grounded and the time that the Operator returned to retrieve Vessel 1, the weather and wave conditions worsened, causing Vessel 1 to be washed further ashore and causing severe damage to Vessel 1 from the wave action.  Vessel 1 suffered significant damage to the hull and interior, with most of the interior being scattered along the beach along with personal property, boating equipment, and safety gear.  Vessel 1 was later towed back to East Bank Marina.


BARDID: OH-2010-0115
Date: 2010-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:24:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Fairport Harbor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling forward when it struck a wave/wake, causing the Operator of Vessel 1 to strike her head/face on the handlebars of Vessel 1.  The Victim was treated and released on scene after refusing transport, but indicated to responders that she would be going to Lake West Hospital on her own to get checked out for her injuries.  Responders confirmed possible facial/head injuries.  Upon follow-up investigation by Watercraft Officers, the address provided by the Victim came back to a landscape company and efforts to locate and/or contact the Victim have been unsuccessful to date.


BARDID: OH-2010-0116
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Geneva
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was heading east toward Geneva approximately 1 mile northeast of North Perry.  Vessel 2 was following Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1 noticed his fuel line pressure gauge for his port engine "acting up" and stopped Vessel 1 to check the situation.  The Operator of Vessel 1 noticed smoke coming from the engine hatch and opened the engine compartment; flame was observed coming from the fuel rail and the control valve.  The Operator of Vessel 1 then tried to use a fire extinguisher aboard his vessel to put out the fire.  The Operator of Vessel 2 then pulled along the starboard side of Vessel 1 to provide another fire extinguisher to put out the fire on Vessel 1.  Once the fire was out, the Operator of Vessel 2 attempted to accelerate to move away from Vessel 1, but inadvertently grabbed the throttle controls instead of the transmission.  Vessel 2 was still in reverse and subsequently Vessel 2 backed into the starboard side of Vessel 1 just aft of the Operator's position.  Following the incident, both vessels proceeded to Townline Ramp and contacted the local North Perry Police Department to file  a report.


BARDID: OH-2010-0117
Date: 2010-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Roaming Shores
NearestCityTown: Rock Creek
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were both at the fuel dock with Vessel 2 tied up in front of Vessel 1.  No one was on board Vessel 2 at the time of the accident.  The Operator of Vessel 1 had just refueled Vessel 1 and was attempting to maneuever away from the gas pump, and being relatively unfamiliar with the operation of Vessel 1 (less than 10 hours of experience on this vessel), he accelerated too quickly, colliding with Vessel 2 in front of him.  The bow pontoon of Vessel 1 struck the port side of Vessel 2, causing fiberglass damage.  Vessel 1 suffered no damages from the incident, and Occupants were not injured aboard either vessel.


BARDID: OH-2010-0118
Date: 2010-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:54:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Conneaut Harbor
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling westbound toward Ashtabula about 3 miles northwest of Conneaut Harbor.  Vessel 2 was at anchor, facing west, fishing for perch, approximately 3 miles northwest of Conneaut.  

The Operator of Vessel 1 observed Vessel 2 off the starboard side of Vessel 1 at about 1 mile away .  The Operator of Vessel 1 then adjusted his course slightly to avoid striking Vessel 2, then reached down to wrap up a dock line.  When the Operator of Vessel 1 looked back up, he could not see Vessel 2.  

At the same time, the Operator of Vessel 2 noticed Vessel 1 in the distance, but assumed he would change course to avoid collision.  As Vessel 1 continued to approach Vessel 2, the Operator and two Occupants aboard Vessel 2 observed Vessel 1 closing the distance and apparently not changing course.  The Operator and two Occupants aboard Vessel 2 all reported that they could not see the Operator of Vessel 1 at the helm at this time.  The Operator and Occupant aboard Vessel 2 began shouting in order to get the Operator of Vessel 1's attention, but the Operator of Vessel 1 reported that he did not hear anything, probably due to the engine noise of Vessel 1.  Anticipating the collision, Occupant 2 decided to jump overboard prior to the collision; Occupant 1 tried to jump overboard at the last moment before the collision, but was instead thrown against the starboard gunwale and ejected into the water when Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2.  The Operator of Vessel 2 stayed inside Vessel 2 during the collision and was thrown against the starboard side and then toward the hull of Vessel 1 as it ran over the port side of Vessel 2.  

As Vessel 1 collided with Vessel 2, the Operator of Vessel 1 reported a sound like Vessel 1 had struck a log.  The Operator of Vessel 1 reported that he did not see Vessel 2 prior to the collision.  After colliding with Vessel 2, Vessel 1 circled back around and, after discovering he had struck Vessel 2, assisted Occupant 1 and Occupant 2 to get back on board Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 then followed Vessel 2 into Conneaut Harbor, contacting the USCG while en route, and the Operator and Occupant 1  of Vessel 2 were taken to Conneaut ER to have their injuries treated.


BARDID: OH-2010-0119
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Geneva
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was returning from North Perry/Townline ramp after stopping to drop several passengers off when the Operator of Vessel 1 stopped Vessel 1 approximately 3 miles west of Geneva Marina and turned the motor off so that one of the Occupants could swim.  Vessel 1 was not anchored at this time but left adrift.  The Occupant/Victim donned a personal flotation device (PFD) and exited the rear of Vessel 1 through the stern door and onto the swim platform.  As the Occupant/Victim descended the swim platform, she lost her balance, subsequently releasing her grip on the swim ladder, at which time her lower left leg caught in between the ladder rungs, fracturing her lower leg.  The Operator and additional Occupants aboard Vessel 1 assisted the Victim back onto Vessel 1 and contacted emergency services on their way back to Geneva Marina.  Emergency services met the party at the marina, where they stabilized the Victim's leg and transported her to Geneva Hospital.  Doctors confirmed that the Victim's lower tibia/fibula were fractured.


BARDID: OH-2010-0121
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Millersport
County: Fairfield
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in operation, leaving the west boat swim zone, when the Operator noticed that the starboard side (pontoon) of Vessel 1 was beginning to take on water.  A Watercraft Officer in the vicinity of Vessel 1 observed the situation and pulled alongside Vessel 1 to take the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 1 aboard the Watercraft vessel.  Vessel 1 was then towed to the marina where it then capsized on its side before being secured to the dock.


BARDID: OH-2010-0122
Date: 2010-08-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Thornville
County: Licking
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling east with one person being towed on an innertube behind Vessel 1 when the Operator of Vessel 1 realized that he was headed directly head-on to Vessel 2 (travelling west).  Vessel 1 turned to port in order to avoid collision with Vessel 2, while Vessel 2 turned to starboard to avoid collision with Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 2 did not see the tuber being pulled behind Vessel 1, who, due to the port turn by Vessel 1 was swung into the path of Vessel 2.  The Tuber/Victim subsequently struck the bow on the port side of Vessel 2, knocking him unconscious and leaving him floating face-down in the water.  Several Occupants from Vessel 1 and one Occupant from Vessel 2 jumped into the water to assist the Victim; they were then able to turn the Victim face-up and get him back on board Vessel 1 at which time he was transported to Captain Woody's where emergency services were waiting to transport/treat the Victim.

Following the incident, the Operators requested lawyers and would not provide experience or education details.


BARDID: OH-2010-0124
Date: 2010-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tappan Lake
NearestCityTown: Uhrichsville
County: Harrison
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1, towing a skier, turned Vessel 1 to return to pick up the skier when Vessel 1 hit a wake, throwing the Operator from the seat of Vessel 1 and onto the floor of Vessel 1, causing injury.


BARDID: OH-2010-0125
Date: 2010-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Cambridge
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person entangled in activity e
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was injured while while pulling a ski rope into Vessel 1.  While doing so, the tube he was pulling in with the rope caught a wake, causing the ski rope to wrap around his right hand, and the momentum from the wake created tension on the rope, resulting in injury to the Victim's right hand.  The Victim suffered lacerations to his right hand, right index finger, and right ring finger which required 13 stitches in his right index finger and 6 stitches in his right ring finger.


BARDID: OH-2010-0128
Date: 2010-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:59:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Kimbolton
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements taken by a Park Officer, the Victim was riding on one of two inner tubes being pulled behind Vessel 1.  The Victim had been given explicit instructions from his doctor not to participate in the tubing activity due to a previous neck injury.  The Victim fell from the tube and apparently re-injured his neck during the fall.  The Victim was transported to the ramp where emergency services responded and transported the Victim to the hospital for additional treatment.

This incident was reported to the Division of Watercraft several days after the actual incident; the Victim is from the state of Indiana and has been unresponsive to requests for additional information regarding the injury/accident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0130
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lorain
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was secured to its dock with no one on board.  Vessel 2 was leaving a dock that was located to the port side of Vessel 1.  After backing successfully from its dock, Vessel 2 struck the starboard engine of Vessel 1 as it moved forward to proceeed out of the area.  The starboard engine of Vessel 1 suffered damage to its cover and mounting.  Investigation revealed that the Operator of Vessel 2 did not have the boating education certificate required based on his age of birth.


BARDID: OH-2010-0132
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was operating at approximately 50-100 yards behind and to starboard of Vessel 1.  As Vessel 2 closed the distance between Vessel 2 and Vessel 1 approaching Vessel 1, a wave splashed the face of the Operator of Vessel 2, temporarily restricting his vision.  When the Operator of Vessel 2 once again saw Vessel 1, it was too late and he was too close to avoid a collision and Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on the starboard side.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was thrown from Vessel 1 as a result of the collision.  Both Operators sufferd minor contusions and lacerations but refused treatment or transport.


BARDID: OH-2010-0133
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:33:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lorain
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 2 completed upgrades and repairs to Vessel 2 and was beginning test runs.  The Operator of Vessel 2 reported that he did observe Vessel 1 and other vessels as he cleared the harbor.  Vessel 1 was pulled alongside several other vessels and took off at a high rate of speed with a second vessel following.  The following vessel observed that Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were on a collision course, but could not get close enough to Vessel 1 to communicate this fact.  Vessel 2 saw Vessel 1 at the last moment; both vessels turned in opposite directions to avoid collision, but were unsuccessful.  The bow of Vessel 1 then struck the port side of Vessel 2 mid-ship, causing damage to both vessels.  The Operator of Vessel 1 suffered no injuries; the Operator of Vessel 2 suffered a head injury.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was cited for not having mandated boater education.  Alcohol was not suspected in the incident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0135
Date: 2010-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Rocky River
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling northwest with three persons on board Vessel 1 and one person being pulled on a tube behind Vessel 1.  The person on board the tube (the Victim) fell from the tube, breaking her pelvis.


BARDID: OH-2010-0143
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Maumee Bay)
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling northbound leaving Maumee Bay State Park Marina when it struck the wake of another vessel travelling inbound into the marina.  The Victim was standing on the flybridge of Vessel 1 at the time Vessel 1 struck the wake and subsequently fell against the flybridge structure, causing injury to her lower back.  The Victim was later transported to a medical facility where an X-ray was taken and no abnormalities were observed; two weeks later the Victim was still experiencing pain and mobility issues in her back.


BARDID: OH-2010-0145
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:04:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maumee River
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling southwest in proximity and to the south of Vessel 2, which was travelling southeast.  After crossing in front of Vessel 2, the Operator of Vessel 1 turned to port approximately 180 degrees, changing heading to the northeast, at which time Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 on the port side of Vessel 2.  Investigation of the details of the incident revealed that Vessel 1 was operating at an unsafe speed, without a proper lookout, and made a rules of the road infraction resulting in the collision.  Sobriety testing of the Operator of Vessel 1 following the incident revealed that the Operator of Vessel 1 was operating under the influence; the Operator of Vessel 1 was placed under arrest for OUI following the incident.  Vessel 2 suffered extensive damage to the port side, flooding and swamping following the incident; Vessel 2 was a complete loss.


BARDID: OH-2010-0147
Date: 2010-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was approaching its docking space when the engine speed rapidly accelerated as a result of a throttle problem and Vessel 1 ran directly into the steel wall located between other docked boats in the area and the restaurant.  Vessel 1 suffered extensive damage to the bow of Vessel 1 just above the water line.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2010-0148
Date: 2010-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Carroll Township
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 opened the hatch on Vessel 1 and ran the blowers at his personal dock for 15 minutes before driving to the fuel dock.  After arriving at the fuel dock, the Operator loaded approximately 22 gallons of gasoline and added 16 ounces of high octane STP additive.  Although the Operator did not open the engine hatch at the fuel dock, the Operator indicates that he did run the blower; witnesses reported that they never heard the blower running.  Following fueling, Vessel 1 left the dock.  Vessel 1 travelled approximately 20 feet and then stalled; as the Operator re-started the engine, an explosion occurred and a fire started at the front end of the engine.  Witnesses reported that the engine hatch was thrown approximately 50 feet up over Vessel 1 as a result of the explosion.  Dockhands and witnesses then entered the water and pulled Vessel 1 back to the dock; the Operator extinguished the flames using an on-board fire extinguisher and a larger extinguisher when Vessel 1 reached the dock.  The Operator received no injuries; the one additional Occupant on Vessel 1 suffered severe head injury to the top of his head (inspection of the cabin aft roof edge revealed an indentation approximately 3/4 inch deep into the fiberglass and metal band around the edge of the roof where the Victim's head struck the roof).  The Victim was transported to Magruder Hospital where he expired as a result of his injuries on September 5, 2010.  Investigation revealed indicators that prove that considerable fuel vapor accumulated under the deck of Vessel 1 as far forward as the Operator Station.  The explosion was caused when these fuel vapors were ignited by one of several possible sources including unshielded batteries, the blower motor, or the bilge pump (definitive source could  not be determined due to fire and explosion damage).


BARDID: OH-2010-0151
Date: 2010-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was operating at a high rate of speed when the Operator attempted to navigate through the bridge area.  The Operator reported letting off the throttle, however, she stated that Vessel 1 did not slow down accordingly.  Vessel 1 then struck the inside of the bridge, knocking the Operator unconscious and causing Occupant 1's arm and finger to be crushed and broken between the Operator and the handlebars of Vessel 1.  A Good Samaritan in the area assisted the three Victims, with the Operator being held on Vessel 1 until emergency services arrived and transported her on a backboard for care.  Occupant 1 was able to swim to some nearby rocks where she was also attended to by emergency services.

Investigation determined that Vessel 1 was being operated at a greater speed than was safe to navigate the narrow passage under the bridge and the limited visibility produced by the causeway.  Officers examined Vessel 1 and determined that the throttle seemed to be in working order.


BARDID: OH-2010-0153
Date: 2010-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Waynesville
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was towing two individuals on a tube when both individuals fell off.  One of the individuals was attempting to swim to Vessel 1 and board when the Operator of Vessel 1 put Vessel 1 into gear, causing the individual's (Victim's) swim shorts to become entangled in the prop and inflicting a laceration on the upper thigh area of the right leg of the Victim.  The Victim was taken on board, transported to the dock area, and taken by emergency services to Southview Hospital where he was treated and released for his injuries.


BARDID: OH-2010-0154
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: CJ Brown/Buck Creek
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, approached Vessel 2 to allow the Occupant aboard Vessel 1 to board Vessel 2.  Vessel 2 was anchored at this time.  Vessel 1 was travelling at a high rate of speed and, as the Operator of Vessel 1 approached Vessel 2, he let go of the throttle resulting in a loss of maneuverability.  Vessel 1 subsequently struck the starboard side of Vessel 2 near the midsection gunwale with the bow of Vessel 1, causing a puncture in Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 then turned slightly to port as it bounced back from striking Vessel 2 and re-struck Vessel 2 on the starboard side causing some scratching on the rub rail and damage to a boat cover fastener.  No damages were reported on Vessel 1.  A sobriety test was performed on the Operator of Vessel 1 by responding Watercraft Officers and the Operator of Vessel 1 was found to NOT be under the influence of alcohol.


BARDID: OH-2010-0155
Date: 2010-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Great Miami River
NearestCityTown: Dayton
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOADING
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons onboard (three in the front seat; one in the rear seat), had been in operation for approximately 30 minutes when the Occupants became tired from paddling/pedaling.  At this time Vessel 1 had travelled down river past the Main Street Bridge.  The Occupants attempted to turn Vessel 1 up-river in the current but had difficulty in steering Vessel 1.  The Occupants of Vessel 1 then put up the red flag on Vessel 1 (as they had been instructed prior to renting Vessel 1) to indicate that they needed to be rescued.  All Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were wearing lifejackets at this time.

Seeing the red flag, Vessel 2, with two persons on board, then went out to tow Vessel 1 back to the dock.  The Operator of Vessel 2 attached a five foot length of tow rope to a rope that extended from the portside to the starboard side of Vessel 1, instructed the Occupants of Vessel 1 to sit back in Vessel 1 while it was being towed, and began to tow Vessel 1.  Both Occupants of Vessel 2 were looking forward without watching Vessel 1 as they began to tow.  Hearing screams from Vessel 1, the two Occupants of Vessel 2 looked back and saw that Vessel 1 was tipping forward with its bow pushing down into the water, swamping Vessel 1.  This action caused the stern of Vessel 1 to rise up into the air, flipping the Occupants of Vessel 1 into the water and resulting in Vessel 1 landing on top of the Occupants in the water.  The Operator of Vessel 2, seeing this occuring, shut down the engine on Vessel 2 and with the assistance of the other Occupant of Vessel 2, began a rescue of the Occupants of Vessel 1.

All of the Occupants of Vessel 1 were successfully brought aboard Vessel 2 and transported to shore.  There were no visible injuries to the Occupants of Vessel 1, however, Occupant 1 complained of a headache as a result of Vessel 1 striking her in the head (where her hairband was located).  All parties refused treatment, but the mother of the Victim was told to watch the child for signs of a possible concussion and to seek additional treatment if needed.  Later that same evening, the Victim was taken to Springfield Regional Medical Center for additional evaluation of her head injury where it was determined that she did have a concussion and was treated and released.  

Investigation of the incident revealed that excessive towing speed, combined with the fact that the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 (with three persons in the front seat) had unevenly distributed the weight on Vessel 1 were contributing factors to the accident.  Lack of a proper lookout also contributed to the accident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0156
Date: 2010-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Great Miami River
NearestCityTown: Moraine
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were both travelling upstream, approximately 50 yards north of the East River Boat Ramp Area, with both proceeding in a northerly direction roughly parallel with each other with Vessel 1 to the port side of Vessel 2.  While accelerating in an attempt to clear the motor, the Operator of Vessel 2 made a sharp turn to port and into the path of Vessel 1.   Vessel 1 was unsuccessful in avoiding the ensuing collision and struck Vessel 2 on the port side of Vessel 2 in the mid-seat/steering area.  As a result of the collision, the Operator of Vessel 2 was ejected from the craft into the river and suffered injury to his lower left leg.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was not injured.


BARDID: OH-2010-0157
Date: 2010-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Harveysburg
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating with two Occupants onboard Vessel 1 and one additional Occupant being pulled behind Vessel 1 on a tube.  The Operator stopped Vessel 1 and thought he had put Vessel 1 into neutral in order to pull the tube and tuber back up to the stern of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 was not in neutral however, and as the Operator was pulling the tube/tuber in, the rope became entangled in the rotating prop and pulled the tuber/Victim toward the prop after the tuber/Victim exited the tube (the rope became entangled around the Victim's left leg).  The Victim suffered a laceration (2 inches by 1/2 inch) on the inside of his right knee.  

The Operator reported that he had taken a Vicodin earlier in the day and was cited for Failure to Control and Not Having an Observer of Legal Age on Board.


BARDID: OH-2010-0158
Date: 2010-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermilion River
NearestCityTown: Vermilion
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 as proceeding north on the Vermilion River when the Operator of Vessel 1 reached for something in his cooler, resulting in Vessel 1 striking the transom of Vessel 2, which was moored and unattended at the time of the incident.  After striking Vessel 2, Vessel 1 then bounced backward, striking Vessel 3 which was moored and unattended directly behind Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2010-0159
Date: 2010-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Russles Point
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were operating in proximity at the time of the incident.  Occupant 3 on Vessel 1 fell off the back of Vessel 1 as it struck a wave and, despite wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident, did briefly go under water as a result of the ejection.  At the same time, Vessel 2 was crossing behind Vessel 1 and did not observe Occupant 3 of Vessel 1 falling off of Vessel 1.  As Occupant 3 of Vessel 1 resurfaced after the ejection, Vessel 2 struck Occupant 3.  Emergency services were contacted and the Victim (Occupant 3 of Vessel 1) was backboarded and care-flighted to Miami Valley Hospital for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0160
Date: 2010-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Milton
NearestCityTown: Milton Township
County: Mahoning
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 reported that another vessel in the area where he was operating approached Vessel 1 to inform him that the engine was smoking on Vessel 1.  He removed the cover of Vessel 1's engine, found smoke and heard a "popping" noise.  Soon therafter a patrol vessel in the area arrived and found the Operator standing over the engine with fire extiguisher in hand; no fire was evident in the engine although it was giving off heat and appeared to be smoldering.  The Operator then disconnected the battery at which time he found that the battery was melting and the positive terminal pulled out when he tried to disconnect it.  Vessel 1 was then towed to its dock and after assuring that there was no active fire, Vessel 1 was trailered.


BARDID: OH-2010-0161
Date: 2010-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir/We
NearestCityTown: Edninburg Township
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was in the water behind Vessel 1 ready to begin water-skiing.  As Vessel 1 accelerated to raise the Victim into skiing position, the Victim lost her balance, did a split on her skis, and fell into the water.  The Operator of Vessel 1 stopped Vessel 1 and returned to pick up the Victim at which time the Victim reported that she thought she tore or stretched something in her thigh and was in pain.  The Victim was assisted back into Vessel 1, transported to the launch ramp, and assisted into her vehicle (at her request) and transported by her husband to an urgent care facility for treatment of her injury.


BARDID: OH-2010-0162
Date: 2010-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Russells Point
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 struck an unknown submerged object  (suspected to be a stump) and, although the engine on Vessel 1 continued to operate, the Operator of Vessel 1 was unable to put Vessel 1 into gear.  After receiving a tow back to the ramp by a Watercraft Officer, the Operator discovered that the lower unit of Vessel 1 had been almost completely ripped off as a result of the impact.


BARDID: OH-2010-0163
Date: 2010-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:09:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Russells Point
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
While attempting to dock at McDonalds, the Victim stuck his leg over the rail on the pontoon boat.  The Operator was not aware of the location of the Victim's leg, and the Victim's leg became wedged between the upright on the dock and the pole on the bimini top of Vessel 1, resulting in a deep cut on the leg of the Victim.


BARDID: OH-2010-0166
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Fairport Harbor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
EquipmentFailure: Sail Stay Anchor Failure
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: GROUNDING
RedactedNarrative:
The stay anchor on Vessel 1 broke, releasing a cable to the mast.  At this point, the Operator and Occupant aboard Vessel 1 flipped Vessel 1 onto its side (entering the water themselves) to allow the Operator to fix the stay (the Operator had used the trapeze anchor to anchor the cable stay after the anchor snapped).  After reconnecting the cable, the Operator needed the Occupant, who was also in the water, to assist him in righting Vessel 1; during the time that the Operator was reconnecting the cable, however, the Occupant had drifted away from Vessel 1 due to the wind and wave conditions.  Observing the difficulty, Metroparks employees contacted the Coast Guard who responded to the scene along with the Fairport Harbor Police Department and the fire department.  The Operator and Occupant swam safely to shore where they were assisted by the responding parties; responding parties also assisted with getting Vessel 1 onshore after it drifted into the rocks.  Vessel 1 suffered significant damage as it washed against the shoreline, seawall, and rocks.  the Operator's insurance company wrote Vessel 1 off as a complete loss.


BARDID: OH-2010-0167
Date: 2010-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:42:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Conneaut
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: UNKNOWN
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator and two Occupants onboard Vessel 1 were fishing off Conneaut Harbor when the group decided to stop fishing and return to port as the waves were getting too rough for Vessel 1.  At this time Vessel 1 was anchored from the bow with the wind and waves coming out of the northwest.  One of the Occupants started pulling the anchor line in, attaching a buoy to keep it afloat, while the Operator started the engine on Vessel 1 and idled forward as the Occupant continued to pull the anchor line in.  During this operation, the motor stopped on Vessel 1, and Vessel 1 drifted abeam to the wind and waves.  Shortly thereafter Vessel 1 took a couple of waves over  the side, causing Vessel 1 to fill with water and capsize.  Just prior to the capsizing, one of the Occupants was able to radio the US Coast Guard regarding their impending predicament.  Following the capsizing, all three persons onboard were able to climb back on top of the hull of the capsized Vessel 1.  The three were able to signal to a passing charter vessel, who took all three onboard and transported them to shore.  Another charter vessel was able to tow Vessel 1 back to Conneaut Harbor where the owner and local residents succeeded in righting it (using a backhoe) and getting it back on the trailer.


BARDID: OH-2010-0168
Date: 2010-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:58:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tappan Lake
NearestCityTown: Cadiz
County: Harrison
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, stopped in a no-wake area to jump in and take a swim, allowing Vessel 1 to drift while doing so.  The Occupant jumped in first, and as he was resuracing, the Operator jumped directly on top of the Occupant, causing the Operator to strike her chin on the back of the Occupant's head.  As a result of the collision, the Operator was knocked unconscious and lacerated her chin; the Occupant sustained a laceration to the back of his head.  Both parties were taken to the hospital where they were treated and released for their injuries.


BARDID: OH-2010-0169
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was headed south toward Cleveland Harbor, returning from a fishing trip.  While observing and monitoring a new GPS/Chart Plotter, the Operator did not set a passenger as a lookout and, as a result, Vessel 1 ran into the outside breakwall, west end, near the Edgewater Cut.  Although equipped with a marine band radio and cell phones, the Operator and Passenger did not contact anyone for assistance and instead waited overnight on the breakwall until they were spotted by a Coast Guard patrol vessel.  The Operator and Occupant were not wearing personal flotation devices at the time of the collision and did not don them after the collision, although alcohol is not suspected as a contributing factor.  The Operator claimed minor injuries (cut on chin, sore ribs) but refused treatment.


BARDID: OH-2010-0170
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, capsized; the two Occupants were subsequently unable to re-board Vessel 1.  Wave action caused both the Occupants and Vessel 1 to drift into the breakwall.  The Coast Guard responded to the scene, picked up the two Occupants from the water, and transported them to Whiskey Island.  Neither party suffered any injury.  Vessel 1 subsequently sank.


BARDID: OH-2010-0171
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lakewood
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Very Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Improper Vessel for Conditions
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored from the bow while the Occupants were fishing.  Waves of 4-6 feet in height rolled over the bow, swamping Vessel 1.  After filling with water, Vessel 1 then capsized.  The Occupants stayed with Vessel 1 until help arrived, although they were not wearing personal flotation devices prior to the accident and were unable to reach the personal flotation devices after Vessel 1 had rolled over.  Alcohol use is not suspected in this incident.


BARDID: OH-2010-0172
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Euclid
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 lost battery power and drifted to shore where the two Occupants on board attempted to secure Vessel 1 to the beach.  The two Occupants left the area and returned the next day to find that Vessel 1 had sustained a hole in the side from the wave action and the fact that Vessel 1 had not been properly secured.


BARDID: OH-2010-0175
Date: 2010-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Curtice
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was travelling west down "G" bank of Meinke Marina West preparing to dock at slip G-6.  The stronger wind conditions caused the Operator of Vessel 2 to miss the dock.  As the Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to place Vessel 1 into reverse in order to re-align for docking, the wind caught the bow of Vessel 2 and pushed Vessel 2 into Vessel 1.  As a result of the collision, Vessel 1 sustained damage to the bow pulpit spotlight as well as damage to the stainless steel railing on the top deck on the starboard side of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0177
Date: 2010-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was headed east through the passage between South bass Island and Middle Bass Island headed for a green buoy when Vessel 1 struck the rocks.

Following submission of a partially-completed federal BAR to Watercraft, the Owner/Operator refused to provide additional information on persons aboard, location of passengers at the time of the incident, specific location of the incident, and after-accident action taken.


BARDID: OH-2010-0178
Date: 2010-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with 6 persons on board, was returning to Sandusky from Kelley's Island.  As Vessel 1 decelerated in approach to the harbor entrance, passengers reported a muffled noise, an explosion, and then the appearance of flames.  All parties on board suffered minor to severe burns from the gasoline fire.  Investigation revealed that the regulator valve of the fuel system blew apart, blowing out the casing and tearing loose the screws.  This chain of events caused fuel to spray into the engine compartment and onto the engine block, presumably igniting the gasoline and causing the accumulated vapors to explode.  The engine cover blew open and those nearest the area were struck by flames and gasoline which was still pumping through the fuel line.  The Operator turned the engine off following the explosion and used equipment on board to put out the flames.  The Operator was then able to start the second engine on Vessel 1 and get to the dock.  The victims then transported themselves to McGruder Hospital (two of the victims were then transported to Toledo Hospital via helicopter).


BARDID: OH-2010-0179
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Saybrook
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: UNKNOWN
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: GROUNDING
RedactedNarrative:
While in operation, Vessel 1 struck an unidentified submerged object, breaking the propeller on Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 subsequently washed up onto the beach area owned by the Owner of Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1 left Vessel 1 abandoned on the beach resulting in Watercraft's investigation; no charges were filed based on the fact that Vessel 1 washed up on the owner's own beach area.


BARDID: OH-2010-0180
Date: 2010-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:02:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 rode up a large wave.  As Vessel 1 came back down from the wave, the Victim became airborne.  When the Victim landed (on his feet) again on Vessel 1, he landed "wrong", breaking a bone in his leg.


BARDID: OH-2010-0181
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-10-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lorain
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Occupant 4 was in the process of pulling up the anchor for Vessel 1 when a wave came over the side of Vessel 1, swamping Vessel 1 and sinking it all the way to the bottom of the lake.  None of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were able to don their personal flotation devices prior to the sinking of Vessel 1, but were assisted by another boater in the area.  

Operator Inexperience is listed as a Contributing factor in this incident based on the fact that this Operator had limited experience with this particular vessel (although he had significant self-reported boating experience in the overall sense).


BARDID: OH-2010-0183
Date: 2010-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (East Harbor)
NearestCityTown: Marblehead/Lakeside
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was docked at the time of the incident and the vessel owner was placing a cover on Vessel 2.  The Operator of Vessel 1 had finished fueling and was in the process of leaving the fueling dock.  As Vessel 1 left the fueling dock, the wind caught the bow of Vessel 1, changing its course.  The Operator of Vessel 2 compensated for the wind, changing course, and inadvertently struck the starboard mid-side of Vessel 2.  As a result of the collision, Vessel 2 suffered two scrapes on the port side forward ship; Vessel 1 suffered damage to the window seal on the starboard side and sustained dents and scraped on the starboard side window frame.


BARDID: OH-2010-0184
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:53:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage River
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
EquipmentFailure: Battery
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The local fire department was called to respond to a boat fire involving Vessel 1.  At the time of the incident, Vessel 1 was tied to the dock at Pier A at Coastal Marine.  Upon fire department arrival, Vessel 1 was found to be completely engulfed in flames; the shore line power was plugged in and electrical arcing was present.  The power was subsequently turned off, the fire was put out, and Vessel 1 was pulled from the water as it was beginning to take on water.

The Owner of Vessel 1 reported that he had an issue with the on-board charge 3-4 days prior to the incident.  At the time of the incident Vessel 1 was plugged into shore power and the owner reported that a trickle charge was being used to charge the batteries.  Jumper cables were used to connect the two batteries for simultaneous charging off the portable charger.  The portable charger was plugged into a 110 volt receptacle by the sink and was connected to the engine compartment by a heavy-duty cord running from the plug through the cabin door, across the control area, and into the engine compartment.

Vessel 1 was for sale at the time of the incident and was insured for a value of $20,000.

Investigation by the State Fire Marshall determined that there was no indication of criminal intent with regard to the fire.


BARDID: OH-2010-0185
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:41:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentCause3: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating from Northwest Marina to Catawba Island State Park where he intended to remove Vessel 1 from the water for the season.  As Vessel 1 approached the dock, Vessel 1 snagged a rope that was left on the dock, tangling it in the prop, stopping rotation of the prop, and stalling Vessel 1.  After losing the engine, Vessel 1 drifted onto the rocks nearby.


BARDID: OH-2010-0186
Date: 2010-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:05:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Lakeview
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was docked in the courtesy dock at the Chippewa Ramp; the Occupants of Vessel 1 were in the parking lot at the time of the incident.  Vessel 1 was positioned with its bow toward the shore and the courtesy dock to the starboard of Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 approached the courtesy dock and Vessel 1, trying to dock on the opposite side of the courtesy dock from Vessel 1 (if done correctly, the courtesy dock would have been to the port side of Vessel 2 with the courtesy dock itself in between Vessel 1 and Vessel 2).  In first trying to dock, Vessel 2 narrowly missed striking the stern of Vessel 1 with the bow of Vessel 2 as the Operator overshot the courtesy dock area.   The Operator of Vessel 2 then put Vessel 2 into reverse and tried the approach again, however, Vessel  2 was now being pushed by the wind in such a way that the Operator once again overshot the opening for the opposite side of the courtesy dock and instead struck the stern of Vessel 1 with the bow of Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 suffered damage to the hood of the motor and the transom shifted from the hull.  Vessel 2 suffered a dent in the bow gunwale and broke the bow eye.


BARDID: OH-2010-0188
Date: 2010-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:39:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Conneaut
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
The self-reported Owner of Vessel 1 contacted the Division of Watercraft to report damage to Vessel 1, which had been docked in an open slip on the night previous to the incident being reported.  On the night prior to the incident being reported, another party was also reported to have threatened to damage Vessel 1 and, after drinking heavily, had been reported in the  vicinity of Vessel 1 on the night before the incident was reported, apparently attempting to clear the dock and take Vessel 1 out onto Lake Erie.  Vessel 1 was found drifting in the slip with obvious damage to the port and starboard corners and along the port side.  The wooden/metal swim platform from Vessel 1 was also found floating in the water nearby.  Upon further investigation, the self-reported Owner was advised that his name was not the owner's name listed on the current registration.  The purported Owner insisted that he was the current Owner of Vessel 1, however, several days following the incident the purported Owner chose to not press charges on the suspected perpetrator of the damage to Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0190
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-11-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was headed out from the Sandusky Ramp to the south side of Cedar Point breakwall to duck hunt.  A large wave came over the transom of Vessel 1, stalling the engine.  Vessel 1 was approximately 150-300 yards from the Cedar Point breakwall light and 50 feet off the breakwall itself when the incident occured, and the waves and wind pushed Vessel 1 to the breakwall where all four passengers were able to exit Vessel 1.  The Sandusky Fire Department picked up the passengers and returned them to the Sandusky Ramp.  Vessel 1 was later towed and recovered; as per the insurance adjuster Vessel 1 was a total loss due to damage received when it contacted the breakwall.


BARDID: OH-2010-0193
Date: 2010-11-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Pond
NearestCityTown: Cardington
County: Morrow
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim operated Vessel 1 out onto his private pond in order to retrieve a fishing lure.  The Victim leaned over the side of Vessel 1 to retrieve the lure, capsizing Vessel 1 and placing the Victim into the 50-degree water.  The Victim was recovered from the water and transported to the hospital where he remained in serious condition for several days.  The Victim then expired on November 13, 2010 as a result of the incident.  The Victim was not wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident and no lifejackets were found aboard Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2010-0197
Date: 2010-12-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Miami River
NearestCityTown: Oregonia
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
EquipmentFailure: Oar lock malfunction
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, capsized as a result of a problem with the oar locks and subsequently striking a submerged stump when the current became too strong.  Both Occupants were able to self-rescue to shore and retrieve Vessel 1 with no injuries; lost property in the incident included 2 shotguns (Binelli Black Eagle II/Remington 1187), hunting clothes, a dry box of ammunition, both oars, two duck decoys, identification and keys.  Following the incident, the two parties involved walked to the nearby River Side Cafe where their wives picked them up; emergency services did not respond to the scene and the incident wasn't reported until four days following the incident.  The Operator reported that there were two lifejackets aboard Vessel 1 at the time of the incident , however neither party was wearing their lifejacket at the time the incident occured.


BARDID: OH-2011-0001
Date: 2011-03-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:06:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Sandusky Bay)
NearestCityTown: Crystal Rock
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was used without the permission of the owner of Vessel 1 by two individuals who paddled Vessel 1 out from the Crystal Rock playground area.  In addition to the two persons on board, Vessel 1 was also reported to have a 12-pack of beer and fishing gear aboard.  No safety gear was on board Vessel 1 at the time of the incident.  The two Occupants aboard Vessel 1 paddled halfway to the Route 2 bridge where both Occupants fell overboard from Vessel 1.  One Occupant was able to paddle/pull Vessel 1 and the second Occupant back to a private ramp in the area where a friend was called to the scene; the friend responded and subsequently transported the two Occupants to Firelands Hospital where both Occupants were treated for hypothermia.


BARDID: OH-2011-0002
Date: 2011-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch/Michael J. Kirwan
NearestCityTown: Edinburg
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 left the west boat ramp and proceeded eastbound down the lake with the wind.  The Operator then turned Vessel 1 back into the wind to return to the ramp and subsequently began to take on water from the bow and the stern as a result of the wind and wave conditions.  At the time of the incident winds were reported from the west at 26+ mph and whitecaps were reported.  Occupant 3, who had been seated in the stern of Vessel 1, moved toward the bow of Vessel 1 to try to offset the waves coming over the bow, however the result was additional water coming over the bow.  Vessel 1 then swamped and capsized, placing all three Occupants (none of whom were wearing lifejackets) into the 48-degree water.  Two PFDs were onboard Vessel 1 at the time of the incident; per one of the Occupants, one PFD was blown away and the second was unable to be successfully donned by another Occupant.  The three Occupants then tried to swim Vessel 1 to shore (approximately 100 feet away).  Two of the Occupants made it successfully to shore while the third Occupant lost their grip on the vessel and went missing.  One of the Occupants who made it to shore was able to run approximately 1/2 mile to where their vehicle was parked and flag down a passersby for assistance.  The remaining Occupant who made it to shore later expired at the hospital at 12:38 a.m. on Monday April 18, 2011.  The missing Occupant was recovered on Monday April 18, 2011 at 1:38 p.m. and pronounced deceased.


BARDID: OH-2011-0003
Date: 2011-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Millersport
County: Fairfield
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 stopped on the east side of Orchard Island to secure gear within the boat during a windstorm.  When the Operator resumed operation and came around Orchard Island into the wind, a wave came over the bow of Vessel 1, killing the engine.  Waves continued to roll over the bow of Vessel 1, eventually swamping Vessel 1 to the point that it became submerged.  Both Occupants were put into the water as a result of the incident; they were assisted by another passing vessel and taken to shore at Liebs Island.  Vessel 1 was later recovered by a towing service.


BARDID: OH-2011-0004
Date: 2011-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:22:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Millersport
County: Fairfield
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in the process of recovering Vessel 2 (which was swamped/sunken with no one on board at the time of this incident).  Vessel 1 was tied at its stern to the bow of Vessel 2 when Vessel 1 began to take on water over its transom, swamping Vessel 1.  Occupant 2 aboard Vessel 1 then fell into the water, but was succesful in reboarding Vessel 1.  The Operator/Occupant 1 aboard Vessel 1 then called 911 at which time local emergency services responsed and transported Occupant 2 to Licking Memorial Hospital for treatment of hypothermia.  Both vessels were later recovered by the Operator/Occupant 1 aboard Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0006
Date: 2011-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Licking River
NearestCityTown: Zanesville
County: Muskingum
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was being paddled downstream north of Dillon Falls on the Licking River.  As the Occupants attempted to paddle back upstream, Vessel 1 struck a log causing Vessel 1 to capsize and put both Occupants into the water.  Both Occupants then washed downstream, going through the falls, but were then able to successfully reach the shore.  Neither Occupant suffered injury.  Vessel 1 was also swept downstream and was unable to be located following the incident.

Operator Inexperience was noted as the Secondary Contributing Factor based on the fact that, although the Operator did have significant boating experience, he did not have significant experience with this particular type of vessel.


BARDID: OH-2011-0007
Date: 2011-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cuyahoga River
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was left loosely tied to its dock and left unattended for approximately 23 hours following discovery of the incident.  Vessel 1 was found capsized 180 degrees to its usual position in the water, partially submerged under another vessel.  Three other vessels in the same area, also tied to the dock, suffered no damages.  Vessel 1 was pulled from the water and inspected with damage being found to the rudder and the frame structure that connects the pontoons and the deck struts.  Further inspection revealed that neither of the pontoons had any flotation.  There were air compartments with three inspection ports on the top of each pontoon; visual inspection revealed minimal water intake into the compartments.  Noticeable scraping was found on the bottom of each of the pontoon hulls which had gone through the gel coat and into the fiberglass in at least 12 areas.  Despite this damage, the investigator deemed the damage insufficient to have caused Vessel 1 to turtle completely of its own volition.  The investigator surmised that a tug, travelling up or down the river, or a thruster motor could have created a significant enough wake to start Vessel 1 riding up onto one pontoon and the damage noted may have resulted in completely capsizing the vessel.


BARDID: OH-2011-0008
Date: 2011-04-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was tied to the dock where it was found sunken.  Investigation revealed that the plug had not been inserted in the vessel.

This incident is being submitted as non-reportable based on the following exception:
Property damage occurs to a docked or moored vessel due to lack of maintenance on the vessel or the structure to which it was moored.


BARDID: OH-2011-0009
Date: 2011-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:38:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Weather
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: fall from dock
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim, on the dock at the time of the incident, was assisting the Operator of Vessel 1 who was attempting to dock Vessel 1 in high wind when the Victim was pulled into the lake by a cleat line.  The water temperature at the time of the incident was 43 degrees and the Victim became hypothermic, resulting in admittance to the hospital.


BARDID: OH-2011-0010
Date: 2011-04-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Miami River
NearestCityTown: Cincinnati
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with nine persons on board, was launched and proceeding downriver; at the first bend in the river there was a strainer, in which Vessel 1 became entangled.  Vessel 2 (the coach boat) tried to assist Vessel 1 by wedging Vessel 2 between Vessel 1 and the strainer, however in this effort Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 both capsized, putting all involved parties into the water.  Vessel 3 (another coach boat) successfully picked up two of the parties from Vessel 1 and 2 that were in the water, however, as the Operator of Vessel 3 tried to assist additional persons from Vessels 1 and 2, Vessel 3 capsized as well.  All parties from all three vessels were able to swim to shore; all 9 students from Vessel 1 were transported by emergency services and treated and released for mild hypothermia.  No PFDs were used or worn by anyone involved in the incident.  The PFDs were all located on the coach's boats (Vessels 2 and 3) and were washed away by the current when these two vessels capsized.  Significant damage was suffered by all of the vessels involved in this incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0011
Date: 2011-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Miami River
NearestCityTown: Batavia
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 fell overboard as Vessel 1 struck and "wrapped around" a tree in the river.  The Operator was able to secure himself on said tree while standing on Vessel 1 while awaiting rescue.  The current at the time of the incident was 4100 cfs (extremely strong).  The Victim was rescued with no injuries; Vessel 1 was a total loss.


BARDID: OH-2011-0012
Date: 2011-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Kelleys Island
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was trolling/travelling west/northwest on Lake Erie when Vessel 1 lost power.  The wave action forced Vessel 1 into a position where the bow pointed north at which time a first, and then a second wave came in over the stern of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 then capsized, ejecting all three Occupants into the water.  Vessel 1 continued to drift and eventually became lodged on Gull Shoal Island.


BARDID: OH-2011-0014
Date: 2011-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Harsha Lake/East Fork
NearestCityTown: Bethel
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating the vessel, with a total of four persons on board, while using a trolling motor.  The Operator put down the trolling motor, then tripped over a tackle box resulting in a fall overboard.  The Operator (Victim) was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident and was in the water for approximately 5 minutes before other fishermen in the area assisted the Operator (Victim) onto their vessel for transport to shore.  The three remaining persons on board Vessel 1 were unable to operate Vessel 1 in a manner to assist the Victim.  The Victim then refused medical treatment at the time of the incident, but was later admitted to the hospital (2 days later) due  to complications from the incident (chest pains, breathing problems).


BARDID: OH-2011-0015
Date: 2011-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St Marys
NearestCityTown: St. Marys
County: Auglaize
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling eastbound when it struck a submerged object.  The outboard motor, jack plate, and partial stern hull were torn from Vessel 1's hull and fell onto the rear deck; their motion was stopped by the rear pedestal seat.  The Operator contacted other boaters in the area (all associated with a fishing tournament) and Vessel 1 was subsequently towed back to the East Bank launch facility.  Vessel 1 was placed on a trailer and towed away.


BARDID: OH-2011-0017
Date: 2011-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tomahawk Lake
NearestCityTown: Negley
County: Columbiana
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was travelling westbound toward the no-wake buoys when the Operator made a fast turn, ejecting two of the Ocupants from Vessel 1.  Both Occupants then re-boarded Vessel 1 and the Operator of Vessel 1 began travelling eastbound, away from the western no-wake buoy line, nearest the south shore of the lake.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was turning Vessel 1 in fast, short, abrupt S-turns at this time, resulting in Occupant 3 being thrown off the starboard side of Vessel 1, striking the starboard rear of Vessel 1 and causing severe internal injuries and contusions to her legs and buttocks.  Occupant 2 was also ejected from Vessel 1 into the water without injury.  Following the ejections, the Operator of Vessel 1 turned to come back and pick up Occupant 2 and they approached Occupant 3 for pickup when all parties noticed blood in the water.  Occupant 2 then re-entered the water to try to assist Occupant 3.  The Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to tow Occupants 2 and 3 back to the shore while they held on to Vessel 1, but was unsuccessful in doing so.  The Operator then left the scene to obtain an inflatable device to tow Occupant 3 to shore; Occupant 2 was able to swim Occupant 3 to shore prior to his return.  Witnesses were asked to contact 911; emergency services responded and the Victim (Occupant 3) was transported by aircraft to Allegheny General Hospital.  All parties involved in the incident were wearing personal flotation devices (PFDs) at the time of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0018
Date: 2011-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:07:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage Lakes
NearestCityTown: City of Green
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two Occupants on board, entered the East Reservoir Activity Zone during speed time (this lake is idle speed in all other areas, except the designated speed zone during designated time periods for designated activities).  The Operator of Vessel 1 then attempted to speed in a counter-clockwise manner in the activity zone, however, a wave struck Vessel 1 causing the Operator and Occupant of Vessel 1 to be ejected; the Operator (Victim) was knocked unconscious by the force of the contact with Vessel 1 and the water.  The Occupant aboard Vessel 1 was able to keep the Victim's head above water (she was wearing a personal flotation device), and another boater in the area came to their aid, bringing the Victim aboard their vessel, contacting 911, and transporting the Victim to the marina where the party was met by emergency services.  The Victim was transported to Akron General Hospital for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0020
Date: 2011-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Buckeye Lake
County: Licking
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling west toward the no-wake zone near cranberry marsh when the Victim (an Occupant aboard Vessel 1) decided to jump off the back of Vessel 1 while it was still underway.  The Operator stated that after the Victim left Vessel 1 he put the vessel into neutral and threw the Victim a Type IV PFD, however, the prop must have still been turning as the Victim was struck by the prop on his left thigh as he swam toward the ladder to re-board Vessel 1.  The victim was released from the hospital on 5/28/11 with 50 stitches.


BARDID: OH-2011-0022
Date: 2011-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Millersport
County: Fairfield
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was being operated heading east toward Sellars Point when the Operator oF Vessel 1 reported striking a log floating on the water.  The force of the collision created a hole approximately the size of a quarter in the hull of Vessel 1 causing the stern of Vessel 1 to swamp.


BARDID: OH-2011-0023
Date: 2011-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pleasant Hill
NearestCityTown: Perrysville
County: Ashland
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested Waters
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was adrift with the Operator standing on the back swim platform of Vessel 1.  Occupants 2, 3, and 4 were in the water, just off the swim platform of Vessel 1.  The ski rope from Vessel 1 was adrift just off of the starboard transom of Vessel 1, extending off six to eight feet.  Occupant 2 had the ski rope wrapped around her right hand at the time of the incident.  Vessel 2 passed Vessel 1 heading north in close proximity to Vessel 1, catching the adrift ski rope and jerking Occupant 2's right hand and arm resulting in injury.


BARDID: OH-2011-0025
Date: 2011-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:09:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Rocky River
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Very Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: GROUNDING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was caught in a storm and attempted to seek safe harbor.  As Vessel 1 turned toward the pier the engine quit and the force of the waves caused Vessel 1 to capsize.  Vessel 1 righted itself, however, the engine would not re-start.  The Occupants aboard Vessel 1 then attempted unsuccessfully to anchor.  Vessel 1 then ran aground, breaking off the keel of Vessel 1, resulting in Vessel 1 coming to rest along the rocky shoreline.


BARDID: OH-2011-0026
Date: 2011-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tinkers Creek
NearestCityTown: Bedford
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was operating Vessel 1 down Tinker's Creek when Vessel 1 capsized.  The Victim swam to a large rock and climbed up on to it; Vessel 1 and its paddles were swept downstream and never recovered following the incident.  The Victim was stranded on the rocks for two hours before hikers passing through the area observed the Victim and obtained help to rescue him.  Following the incident, the Victim complained of pain in his left shoulder, elbow and wrist.  The Victim was transported to the hospital where he was treated and released for contusions on his left arm.


BARDID: OH-2011-0029
Date: 2011-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was being operated toward the north side of North Bass Island (to fish) and was in approximately 30 feet of water when Vessel 1 struck an unknown submerged object.  The collision resulted in the propeller and shaft being ripped off of Vessel 1 and the rudder on Vessel 1 was also bent.  Following the collision, Vessel 1 began taking on water through the shaft and rudder port.  The Operator and Occupant then donned personal flotation devices (PFDs) and contacted Tow Boat US.  Tow Boat US directed the parties to contact emergency services hrough Channel 16 and several agencies subsequently responded to the scene.


BARDID: OH-2011-0031
Date: 2011-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was travelling southwest on the north side of Kelleys Island for a day of fishing; waves were 3-4 feet with an occasional 5-foot wave.  Vessel 1 took a wave over the bow of the vessel about 1.5 miles north of Lakeside at which time the Operator decided to turn Vessel 1 around and head back to the ramp at Mazurik due to the conditions which were too rough for Vessel 1.  As Vessel 1 was being turned to starboard to head back northeast two additional waves came over the stern of Vessel 1, swamping Vessel 1 and causing it to sit lower in the water.  The Operator and three Occupants donned lifejackets at this point.  The engine on Vessel 1 then stalled and another wave struck the stern of Vessel 1, capsizing the vessel.  The Operator and three Occupants were all thrown into the water as Vessel 1 capsized.  One of the Occupants had not properly secured his lifejacket and it subsequently came off.  This Occupant was able to stay afloat with the assistance of the Operator and other two Occupants of Vessel 1, as well as buoyancy from the debris in the water.  Other fishermen in the area saw the incident and pulled three of the four Victims from the water; the remaining Victim was assisted in staying afloat until the Coast Guard arrived and retrieved him from the water as well.  All four parties were checked by EMS when they were returned to the lauch ramp with no injuries reported.


BARDID: OH-2011-0032
Date: 2011-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Miami River
NearestCityTown: Waynesville
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: DRUG USE
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was operating between the covered bridge and Oregonia Road when the Operator of Vessel 1 lost his balance and fell overboard, capsizing Vessel 1 and putting both Occupants into the water.  The Operator was pulled from the water by a Good Samaritan who performed chest compressions on the Victim.  The Victim coughed and vomited blood and water and was then transported to a hospital for care.  Alcohol and drugs were contributing factors in this incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0034
Date: 2011-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Lakeview
County: Logan
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Sometime between May 29, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. and May 30, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. Vessel 1 suffered damage consistent with being struck by another vessel (Vessel 2).  There were no witnesses to the incident, however Vessel 1 suffered damage to the port stern area on the side panel and support bar.  Vessel 2 appears to have been travelling toward the rear of Vessel 1 at the time of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0036
Date: 2011-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:47:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Mentor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Sudden Medical Condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Per Preliminary Incident Report dated June 22, 2011:

Victim was kayaking along shore, fell out and put lifejacket on. Was asked if he needed help from people onshore, and stated yes. Rescuer paddled out to help, and tried to assist. During this time, Victim became unconscious. Second rescuer swam out ~50-100 yards and helped pull victim into shore. Rescuer stated not breathing, and rescuers began CPR. Stated no pulse able to be found.  Neighbor ran to call 911 from house, and reported victim had drowned. EMS on scene shortly thereafter. EMS report stated possible Cardiac Arrest, no lung sounds, no pulse, Asystole and Pulseless Electrical Activity on heart monitor. Last update from Mentor Fire Dispatch was that Hospital ER had gotten a pulse back, and was inducing a hypothermic state for patient transfer to Cleveland Hospital.


Follow up from responding officer (June 23, 2011):

As of right now, I spoke with Mentor Fire Chief , and got an update on Victim's condition. Family consisting of two sisters, were notified already as of last night by Mentor PD. Both were spoken with at the hospital in Concord by Mentor FD. No names have been released, but a quick article detailing what took place was written for the News-Herald. (Attached article below) Victim is currently still alive but in an induced hypothermic coma. He is on a ventilator as he is still not breathing on his own but does have a pulse. He is currently under the care of doctors at Cleveland Clinic. Chief is planning on going up there today to check on his condition and prognosis. He will update me as he finds more out later today. Chief advised it may be 3-7 days before they try to take him off the ventilator. Will be sure to keep everyone advised of developments. Chief asked that he be notified if media or news contacts us before releasing any information, names, etc. He does not have a problem if we do, just wants to know if we do beforehand. I am still obtaining information from the witnesses/rescuers. Please call if you have any other questions or concerns.


Follow up from responding officer (June 24):

Victim expired.  Autopsy to be completed and preliminary results to be available afternoon of June 24, 2011.


BARDID: OH-2011-0037
Date: 2011-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Lakeview
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: CONGESTED WATERS
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was towing three passengers on a tube; one of the tubers subsequently fell from the tube and was having difficulty swimming back to Vessel 1 because of wave action on the lake (the tuber was wearing a personal flotation device).  The remaining passengers aboard Vessel 1 tried to assist the tuber back to Vessel 1, with two of the passengers entering the water to provide assistance.  The Operator of Vessel 1, who was a poor swimmer and was not wearing a personal flotation device, and who was still aboard Vessel 1 at this time, lost his balance (possibly due to a boat wake) and fell overboard.  One of the passengers already in the water tried to assist the Operator (Victim), but became too exhausted to assist.  The Operator (Victim) was unable to keep his face out of the water.  Another boat in the area assisted the Victim and one of the passengers in the water to board their vessel and transported them to shore where CPR was started on the Victim.  Both the Victim and the passenger were then life flighted to a nearby hospital for care.

The Operator (Victim) was pronounced deceased at 12:45 a.m. on July 3, 2011 as a result of the incident.  

The assisting passenger was initially treated and released, but was later re-admitted to the hospital for kidney failure as a result of the near drowning he sustained.  He has since recovered.


BARDID: OH-2011-0038
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Kelleys Island
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was found unoccupied and drifted onto shore in the north bay of Kelleys Island.  Shortly thereafter the Victim (the Operator) was found deceased and floating on the east side of Kelleys Island.  There were no witnesses to the events leading up to the demise of the Victim.  Follow-up on phone calls from the Victim's cell phone in the period preceding the discovery of the vessel and the deceased indicated that the last call the deceased made was to a friend to say that the Victim was on his way to a marina on the south side of Kelleys Island when his rudder broke and he had lost steering.  The Victim reported his location at that time as the east side of Kelleys Island.  The friend had asked if the Victim needed assistance, but the deceased had indicated that he had a ship to shore radio to call for assistance.  When the friend called back approximately one hour after their last conversation, the Victim did not answer.

Investigation revealed that the rudder on Vessel 1 was gone at the time of discovery; the Victim was found in swim trunks.  Preliminary results of an autopsy revealed no head trauma to the Victim and his death was ruled as an accidental drowning. 

Investigation continues on this incident, but foul play is not suspected at this time.


BARDID: OH-2011-0040
Date: 2011-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:56:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board and a third person (the Victim) being towed on a wakeboard behind Vessel 1, was operating north of the Cheshire ramp headed north toward State Route 36/37 when the Victim jumped the wakeboard from one side of Vessel 1's wake to the other side.  As the Victim attempted to jump the wake a second time, he leaned too far forward on the wakeboard, causing the wakeboard to "dig into the water" upon landing.  The resulting fall and impact with the water broke the Victim's right tibi aand fibia.  Following the injury, one of the Occupants of Vessel 1 entered the water to assist the Victim into Vessel 1 and 911 was contacted.  The Victim was transported to shore where emergency services responded and the Victim was transported to the hospital for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0042
Date: 2011-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Millersport
County: Fairfield
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with five persons on board, was heading southwest by Onion Island.  Vessel 2, with seven persons on board, was heading northeast by Onion Island.  Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 on the starboard side toward the stern, causing an Occupant from Vessel 1 to be ejected; Vessel 2 simultaneously lost all power.  The ejected Occupant from Vessel 1 was able to swim back to Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 was then operated by to the owner's lake house, while Vessel 2 was towed back to Vessel 2's owner's lake house.  Several persons involved in the incident sought additional medical attention as a result of the accident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0045
Date: 2011-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:39:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Mentor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2, with five persons on board, was traveling back from Pickle Bills on the Grand River to the Chagrin River on Lake Erie.  While en route, the engine of Vessel 1 quit working and after inspection it was determined that Vessel 1 had run out of fuel (time approximately 9:30 p.m.).  Vessel 1 was then anchored, facing west (the direction they were travelling) and the group decided to sleep on Vessel 1 overnight.  The Operator and Occupants reported that the lights on Vessel 1 were working correctly at this time, and the Operator reported checking the lights again before going to sleep in the bow of the vessel.  Later in the evening, one of the Occupants lit a flare to signal a passing vessel; this vessel came over, was asked for tow information and both parties exchanged phone numbers, then  left the scene and was not seen again.  Later still in the evening, Occupants aboard Vessel 2 saw and heard another vessel (Vessel 1) heading east along the shoreline toward Fairport Harbor.  The Occupant aboard Vessel 2 again tried to signal for assistance, this time using a battery jump box light.  As reported by the Occupants aboard Vessel 2, Vessel 1 slowed down, changed direction toward Vessel 2, then began travelling directly toward Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 did not slow down and the Occupants of Vessel 2 reported only being able to see the bow of Vessel 1 as it approached.  As the Occupants aboard Vessel 2 realized that Vessel 1 was not slowing as it approached, they began waving and yelling unsuccessfully at the Operator of Vessel 1 to slow down.  Vessel 1 then struck Vessel 2 at the aft portside corner and continued along the length of the transom of Vessel 2.  

No injuries were sustained by anyone involved in the incident.  Damage to Vessel 1 included scrapes down the port side of Vessel 1 all the way down to the keel of the vessel, paint transfer, and gouges; there was also a basketball size indentation through the fiberglass on the port side, just below the waterline.  Vessel 2 suffered a ragged cut along the length of the transom starting from the port side corner to the starboard side corner across the top of the engine compartment, which was ripped and smashed from the impact with Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 also had damage to both seats in the aft port and starboard sides and damage through the hull to the waterline of the fiberglass where Vessel 1's port side cut through and rolled off the transom as it passed over.  Vessel 2 was a complete loss.

USCG Station Fairport responded to the scene and towed both vessels in to port.  The Operator of Vessel 1 reported drinking before getting underway and was given a field sobriety test which indicated that he was not intoxicated at the time of the incident.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was cited for negligent operation.  Several underage Occupants aboard Vessel 2 were found to have been possibly consuming alcohol and the Owner of Vessel 2 (an Occupant) was cited for simple possession of marijuana, allowing underage consumption of alcohol and several other carriage equipment violations.


BARDID: OH-2011-0047
Date: 2011-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:27:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pymatuning Lake
NearestCityTown: Andover
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Improper vessel for conditions
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was returning to Pymatuning State Park Campground from Jamestown, heading north up the lake passing Stocker's Island when Vessel 1 encountered high winds and waves from an incoming storm moving into the area (heading south).  Vessel 1 took a wave over the starboard bow, partially swamping Vessel 1 and partially filling it with water.  The wave also caused Vessel 1 to turn broadside to the oncoming waves, and resulting in another wave over the port side of Vessel 1.  The water swamping Vessel 1 caused it to capsize, sending all four parties aboard into the water.  None of the Occupants were wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident and none of them were able to reach or don them during the incident.  Another boater in the area attempted to assist, but was unable to reach the individuals in the water due to the weather conditions.  A second vessel successfully assisted those in the water aboard their vessel and transported them to a fire department vessel that was also responding to the incident.  All parties were returned to shore safely; one of the Occupants was then transported to a local hospital to be treated for a fishing lure stuck in his arm during the incident events.  Vessel 1 was later recovered and towed to the campground.


BARDID: OH-2011-0049
Date: 2011-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chagrin River
NearestCityTown: Eastlake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: appendage pinched
RedactedNarrative:
Watercraft Officers observed Vessel 1, with four persons aboard, drifting on the Chagrin River with one Occupant (the Victim) leaning over the engine of Vessel 1.  Officers then observed the Operator of Vessel 1 proceed to start the engine.  The Victim began yelling that "his finger had been cut off" and was holding his right hand with his left hand.  The tip of the Victim’s right hand, middle finger, was amputated when it was caught between a belt and one of the pulleys on the vessel’s engine as it was started by the Operator.  The Victim held his hand elevated above his head and kept pressure on his right middle finger.  The observing Watercraft Officers yelled over to the Operator to pull Vessel 1 into a nearby fuel dock and radioed for emergency services.  Vessel 1 started and stalled several times as the Operator tried to pilot it to the fuel dock.  Once secured to the dock, Officers observed that the Victim's right hand middle finger had been amputated from behind the nail to the tip of the finger.  The portion of the severed finger was found in the bilge of the vessel and packed in ice but was unable to be reattached upon arrival at the hospital.


BARDID: OH-2011-0050
Date: 2011-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Kimbolton
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading north of Sugartree Marina and had a skier in tow.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was watching the skier instead of looking ahead while operating resulting in Vessel 1 running aground at the entrance of Sugartree Fork.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2011-0052
Date: 2011-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was under power entering Edgewater Cut from open water when the engine stalled.  The Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to re-start Vessel 1 with no success; during this time Vessel 1 drifted into the breakwall.


BARDID: OH-2011-0053
Date: 2011-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:25:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was sailing on a starboard tack in a southeast direction.  Vessel 2 approached Vessel 1 from the northeast, travelling southwest.  As Vessel 2 got in proximity to Vessel 1, a wave struck Vessel 2 at the stern causing Vessel 2 to lose steering ability and turning Vessel 2 to starboard, impacting Vessel 1 in a glancing blow on the port side of Vessel 1 as Vessel 1 turned hard to starboard to avoid a direct hit.  Occupant 4 on Vessel 1 complained of an injured wrist following the incident and later sought treatment from her doctor.


BARDID: OH-2011-0057
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chippewa Lake
NearestCityTown: Gloria Glens Park
County: Medina
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons associated with the vessel (two on board and one in the water), was anchored in the "Party Cove" area of Chippewa Lake.  The two Occupants on board Vessel 1 noticed another person (the Victim) in the water nearby and having trouble standing.  The Victim was invited onto Vessel 1 for his own safety and in order to provide him with a ride to shore.  The Victim successfully climbed the ladder into Vessel 1, however, once on board Vessel 1 he swayed, loosing his balance.  The Victim grabbed onto the roof support, slipped, then grabbed the rails for the slide on the port bow; the port rail on the slide failed and the Victim subsequently fell, striking his head on the deck.  One of the Occupants on board Vessel 1 then called for the third Occupant (in the water) who in turn reboarded Vessel 1, pulled anchor, and drove Vessel 1 to the dock.  The Occupants called 911 while en route to the dock and were met by an ambulance which transported the Victim to the community hospital for care.  The Victim was subsequently flown to Akron General Hospital for treatment of a subdural hematoma.  The Victim's BAC level upon arrival at Akron General was .369.  The Victim was treated and released and charges were filed for disorderly conduct on the Victim. 

On July 20, 2011 Watercraft was notified that the Victim had been flown again for treatment and later passed away.  The Medical Examiner ruled the Victim's death as complications of subdermal hematoma as a result of the fall on Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0058
Date: 2011-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was adrift with the engine off watching the sunset when the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 noticed Vessel 2 approaching them from the south (the direction of the beach).  Vessel 2 did not slow as it approached Vessel 1 and struck Vessel 1 on the port side, ejecting and injuring all  persons aboard Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 2 was also ejected as a result of the incident and suffered injury.


BARDID: OH-2011-0060
Date: 2011-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: White Oak Creek
NearestCityTown: Higginsport
County: Brown
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was tied to the dock (in a slip with the dock to Vessel 1's port side) with no one on board when Vessel 2, with seven persons on board, attempted to dock in the adjoining slip (where Vessel 2 would have the dock to its starboard side).  As Vessel 2 attempted this maneuver the Operator looked away for a moment and when she looked back Vessel 2 had gone off course to the starboard side.  The Operator noted that Vessel 2 had just had a new throttle and engine installed and the Operator was not familiar with changes in the operation of Vessel 2 as a result of this installation.  When the Operator of Vessel 2 noticed she was off course, she got nervous and instead of putting Vessel 2 into reverse (as she planned to do) she accidently went into a forward gear, running into a dock cleat and the stern of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 suffered damage (denting) to the upper middle portion of the port pontoon as a result of the incident.

Although the Operator of Vessel 1 had over 100 hours of boating experience, including over 100 hours experience with this vessel, Operator Inexperience is listed as the primary contributing factor based on her inexperience with the handling of Vessel 2 following installation of its new throttle and engine.


BARDID: OH-2011-0061
Date: 2011-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Point Pleasant
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was heading upriver at approximately 20-25 miles per hour when Vessel 1 struck something in the water and the engine ceased operation.  The Operator of Vessel 1 then used the anchor to try to secure Vessel 1 and was able to pull Vessel 1 over to a group of trees and other debris in the water to stop Vessel 1 from being pushed downstream.  The Operator then contacted 911 and emergency services responded to the scene.  Upon their arrival, the local fire department towed Vessel 1 to shore where Vessel 1 ended up on its port side, half-submerged and pointing downstream.  Upon inspection, it was determined that the outdrive had been torn off Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 was later pushed upright, water was pumped out, and Vessel 1 was trailered for removal from the scene.


BARDID: OH-2011-0063
Date: 2011-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Chilo
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6 at approximately 2100 hours, the Operator of Vessel 1 contacted his wife to notify her that he was going night fishing on the Ohio River.  At 0300 hours on July 7, workers from the Meldahl Dam on the Ohio River reported Vessel 1 floating in the area with no one on board.  Authorities were contacted and responded to the scene; subsequent investigation revealed that the truck and trailer associated with Vessel 1 were upriver approximately 2.5 miles at the Chilo Lock 34 Boat Ramp.  The truck was found to still be running, with the headlights on, and the trailer was in the water at the ramp.  A search commenced for the Operator who was found at 1:42 p.m. on July 7 approximately 20 feet from the launch ramp in 15 feet of water.  There were no witnesses to the incident, but it is supected that the Victim was in the process of launching and/or tying off the vessel at the courtesy dock when the accident occured.  The events leading up to the Victim falling into the water are unknown; open beer containers were found in the truck.  The Victim was not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) at the time his body was recovered, however, personal flotation devices were found on board Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0064
Date: 2011-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:24:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was stopped on Lake Erie west of West Sister Island, returning from Put-In-Bay, when the Operator of Vessel 1 stopped to allow the Occupants to swim.  Four of the Occupants entered the water to swim; two Occupants remained on board Vessel 1.  Due to difficulties in starting Vessel 1 when leaving Put-In-Bay, the Operator of Vessel 1 chose to leave the engines running during this activity.  One of the Occupants in the water re-boarded Vessel 1, and after doing so, slipped and while trying to regain his balance accidently struck the throttle putting Vessel 1 into reverse gear.  One of the Occupants in the water was located behind the starboard motor at this time and was sucked into the propeller resulting in injuries.  Another Occupant aboard Vessel 1 was able to put Vessel 1 quickly back into neutral.  The injured Occupant was taken back aboard Vessel 1 and transported back to shore where emergency services met the party and transported the Victim for treatment.  The Occupant that knocked the boat into gear was a .223 BAC and the operator that operated the vessel after the incident was a .102 BAC.


BARDID: OH-2011-0065
Date: 2011-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating in a southeast direction around Buckeye Reef when he saw that he was in shallow water (about 18 feet deep).  The Operator of Vessel 1 then made a hard turn to get to deeper water when Vessel 1 struck something with its prop.  The Operator then instructed another Occupant aboard Vessel 1 to operate while he checked the motor compartment for damage.  Seeing that Vessel 1 was now taking on water, the Operator then took control of the helm once again and headed to the ramp at Put-In-Bay.  Both the Operator and the Occupant aboard Vessel 1 donned personal flotation devices (PFDs) at this point and contacted Rescue Marine for assistance.    Vessel 1 made it to the Put-In-Bay ramp and, after the Operator had offloaded equipment from Vessel 1, and after determining that Vessel 1 would become suberged before the arrival of Rescue Marine, the Operator of Vessel 1 chose to drive Vessel 1 onto the Put-In-Bay ramp to avoid submersion.


BARDID: OH-2011-0067
Date: 2011-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were anchored approximately 30 feet from each other.  When the Operator of Vessel 2 attempted to pull his anchor and leave the area, he did not realize the force of the wind and waves until the anchor was already pulled; Vessel 2 subsequently drifted toward Vessel 1 at which time the Operator of Vessel 2 operated Vessel 2 away from Vessel 1 in order to finish retrieving the anchor line.  As the Operator of Vessel 2 then finished retrieving his anchor, Vessel 2 was again blown toward Vessel 1, this time entangling Vessel 2's outdrive in Vessel 1's anchor line.  After the anchor line was disentangled Vessel 2 once more drifted toward Vessel 1, this time pushing the bow of Vessel 2 into the port side forward window of Vessel 1 causing several scuffs in the gel coat of Vessel 1 and damaging the window and the seal to the rub rail just above the window of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0075
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:25:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cowan Lake
NearestCityTown: Wilmington
County: Clinton
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both vessels involved in this incident were participating in a regatta.  Vessel 1 was travelling south approximately 500 yards from the finish with Vessel 2 to its port; Vessel 2 was travelling north with Vessel 1 to its port.  As the two vessels passed port to port, but before they had cleared one another's path, Vessel 2 turned to port, striking the port side of Vessel 1 with the bow of Vessel 2.  The force of the collision destroyed the forestay of Vessel 1 and demasted Vessel 1; the mast and boom of Vessel 1 collapsed upon the hull facing to the rear.  The mainsail on Vessel 1 was also torn and the hull suffered minor damage on the port side.  Vessel 2 did not suffer any reportable damage but was disqualified from the race due to a violation of Navigation Rule 10.


BARDID: OH-2011-0076
Date: 2011-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:43:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Belle Center
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: EQUIPMENT FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Unknown
EquipmentFailure: Fire Extinguisher
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 experienced engine trouble and stalled in the channel.  The Operator and one Occupant aboard Vessel 1 worked on the engine and were able to get it restarted, but it stalled again shortly thereafter (still in the channel).  The two parties on board continued to work on the engine and then heard a small explosion and fire and smoke began to pour out of the engine.  The Operator attempted to use a fire extinguisher on the engine but was unable to pull the pin on the extinguisher.  The Operator and Occupant then jumped into the water from Vessel 1 and swam to the shore.  Emergency services responded to extinguish the fire, however Vessel 1 was a total loss.


BARDID: OH-2011-0079
Date: 2011-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tuscarawas River
NearestCityTown: Midvale
County: Tuscarawas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator/Victim of Vessel 1 was reported to have been consuming alcohol with friends prior to arriving at Moose Island on the Tuscarawas River for a concert later in the evening.  The Victim had left his vehicle at a boat ramp downriver from the island earlier in the day and had received transport for himself and Vessel 1 to Moose Island.  The Victim reportedly continued to consume alcohol throughout the evening.  At approximately 12:45 a.m. the Victim decided to paddle dow river to the launch ramp where his vehicle was located to head home.  The Victim was last seen walking Vessel 1 in the shallow part of the river as it was too shallow to paddle where he had put in.  The Victim was reported missing the following morning at 11:41 a.m. and Vessel 1 was found 100 yards downstream from the last seen location of the Victim.  The Victim was recovered at 3:28 p.m. approximately 200 feet upstream of where Vessel 1 was located in 6 feet of water.  An autopsy is pending.


BARDID: OH-2011-0080
Date: 2011-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Toledo
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was sitting on the top of the transom of Vessel 1 while the operator was making several turns.  The male passenger subsequently fell off the back of Vessel 1.  At the same time, another passenger aboard Vessel 1 fell inside the vessel, suffering a cut on her head.  The Operator of Vessel 1 stopped Vessel 1, and another passenger reported seeing the male in the water swimming.  This passenger turned away, put on a PFD and untied a fender to throw to the Victim; when she turned back, the Victim was no longer in sight.  The United States Coast Guard arrived on scene shortly thereafter, transported the injured passenger to shore, and started a search for the missing male.  On July 19 at approximately 12 noon, the body of the Victim was pulled from the Maumee River near Cullen Park in Point Place.  Positive identification of the Victim was made by the Lucas County Coroner's Office; cause of death was ruled as drowning and toxicology reports are pending.


BARDID: OH-2011-0081
Date: 2011-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Michael J. Kirwan Lake/West Br
NearestCityTown: Edinburg
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by activity equi
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with six persons on board, was headed east toward the swim area with an inflatable inner tube positioned on the motor housing of Vessel 1 (unsecured).  While in route, the inner tube flew out of Vessel 1, pulling the attached rope across the right shin of the Victim.  This action caused a rope burn on the Victim's right leg.  Following the incident, the Operator secured the tube and headed back to the West Ramp to take the Victim to the hospital for her injury.


BARDID: OH-2011-0085
Date: 2011-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Thornville
County: Perry
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 (with three persons on board) turned in a circle several times to create a wake for Vessel 1 (with two persons on board) to jump.  As Vessel 2 was coming out of one of these circle maneuvers, Vessel 1 was coming straight toward the port side of Vessel 2.  Vessel 2 turned hard to starboard and Vessel 1 turned hard to port, but the two vessels still collided.  Both Occuoants aboard Vessel 1 were injured as a result of the collision.  Vessel 1 suffered extensive damage to the starboard side and Vessel 2 suffereed damage to the port side.

Operator Inexperience was listed as a secondary cause based on the fact that the Operator, although having significant experience with boat operation in general, had limited experience (and no boating education) regarding the operation of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0089
Date: 2011-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Buckeye Lake
County: Licking
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator/Victim was operating Vessel 1 at a high rate of speed when he turned sharply to avoid a floating log.  The force of the sharp turn resulted in the Operator/Victim being ejected from Vessel 1, striking the floating log as he landed in the water, and injuring his lower back area.  The Operator/Victim was able to reboard Vessel 1 and operate to the North Shore Ramp where he called for assistance and was shortly thereafter transorted to the hospital for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0090
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:16:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Fairport Harbor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with five persons on board, was travelling north out of the Grand River onto Lake Erie.  As Vessel 1 left the channel, a Coast Guard vessel in the area observed Vessel 1 operating in an erratic manner.  Vessel 1 then crossed in front of the Coast Guard vessel, did a loop to the east, then headed back south, in the process again crossing the path of the Coast Guard vessel, then looped toward the west and headed back north, crossing in front of the Coast Guard vessel for a third time.  Just prior to the third crossing, the Coast Guard vessel sounded its horn and flashed their lights to warn the Operator of Vessel 1 not to approach the Coast Guard vessel.  Following the third crossing in front of the Coast Guard vessel, the crew onboard the Coast Guard vessel observed Vessel 1 crashing into the northeast breakwall, grounding Vessel 1 out of the water on top of the breakwall.  A second Coast Guard vessel responded to the incident and transported four of the individuals aboard Vessel 1 to shore as they had suffered minor injuries, although all refused medical treatment.  All parties on board Vessel 1 admitted to drinking alcohol prior to the incident and the Operator was given a Field Sobriety Test.  A later breath test of the Opeator registered a 0.138 breath alcohol concentration and a 0.130 breath alcohol concentration.  The Operator was subsequently cited for operating a vessel under the influence.


BARDID: OH-2011-0091
Date: 2011-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:05:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ashtabula River
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was tied to the dock with the bow of Vessel 2 facing east; Vessel 1 was travelling upriver (east) and attempted to dock behind Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 was unable to make a correct approach to safely dock behind Vessel 2 and then continued up river past Vessel 2 and turned around to head downstream (west) in order to make another approach.  As Vessel 1 passed Vessel 2 again in making this maneuver, Vessel 1 was at too narrow an angle and, combined with the increased wind spped, Vessel 1 drifted toward Vessel 2.  An Occupant aboard Vessel 2 tried to fend off Vessel 1 with a boat hook but was unable to keep Vessel 1 from striking the portside aft corner of Vessel 2.  Vessel 2 sustained slight paint damage from the collision, as well as paint damage on the starboard side from being pushed into the wooden dock pilings along the gas dock.  Vessel 1 sustained a minor rub mark from contact with Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2011-0092
Date: 2011-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was heading outbound on the Ashtabula River toward Lake Erie to go on a fishing trip.  The Operator of Vessel 1 idled until he reached the mouth of the river, then accelerated onto plane at a cruising speed of approximately 18 mph.  Vessel 1 was equipped with a radar and a GPS unit, both of which were on and functioning at this time.  Shortly thereafter Vessel 1 struck the West breakwall, approximately 50 yards from the west entrance to Ashtabula Harbor, creating a breach in the hull of Vessel 1 and lodging Vessel 1 against the breakwall.  The force of the collision resulted in injuries to two of the parties aboard Vessel 1.  One Occupant was thrown from a seat into the cabin, possiby losing consciousness, and suffering bruising to the head, chest, and left knee.  A second Occupant suffered bruising on the  chest and a contusion above the right eye.  Coast Guard responded to the incident, and transported all parties to shore where emergency services responded.  Vessel 1 was later towed back upriver.


BARDID: OH-2011-0093
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Conneaut
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 had three persons on board, and was drifting while the Occupants fished in approximately 70 feet of water, when the Occupants noticed that the cuddy cabin was filling with water.  The Operator reported that he did not observe any leaks the night before when he stayed aboard Vessel 1, and that there was no indication that Vessel 1 had struck anything with its hull.  The Operator turned on the bilge pump, but water continued entering Vessel 1 faster than the pump could work.  With water now making its way into the stern of Vessel 1, the Operator of Vessel 1 turned on the kicker motor to try to make it back to shore; the other Occupants began bailing water from Vessel 1.  The main outboard motor on Vessel 1 was unable to be started as water had now reached the middle of the cowling on the starboard engine.  As the Operator turned Vessel 1 bow first into the waves (using the kicker motor) all of the water rushed to the stern of Vessel 1 , sinking the stern into the water.  One Occupant was able to don a lifejacket, one Occupant grabbed a lifejacket (but did not put it on), and the Operator was able to hail a neighboring charter boat for assistance as Vessel 1 submerged and put all three persons into the water.  The three persons on board were rescued from the water approximately 10-15 minutes later and a distress call was made to USCG Sector Buffalo.


BARDID: OH-2011-0094
Date: 2011-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seneca Lake
NearestCityTown: Senecaville
County: Noble
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was towing a skier on a tube near the shore zone buoy.  The Operator of Vessel 1 operated too close to the buoy and the skier subsequently struck the buoy, bruising her neck.


BARDID: OH-2011-0095
Date: 2011-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seneca Lake
NearestCityTown: Senecaville
County: Noble
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was waterskiing and, after falling from the waterskis, the Operator of Vessel 1 returned to retrieve the Victim.  The Victim attempted to enter Vessel 1 on the port transom boarding ladder while Vessel 1 was in reverse at idle speed.  The Victim was struck by the propeller of Vessel 1 resulting in two lacerations on the right leg above the right knee.


BARDID: OH-2011-0096
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seneca Lake
NearestCityTown: Senecaville
County: Noble
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board and two additional persons being towed on a tube behind Vessel 1, was travelling at an estimated speed of 22 miles per hour headed south in the open zone when the Operator of Vessel 1 turned Vessel 1 counter clockwise; the two Occupants aboard the tube fell off the tube into the water as a result of this maneuver.  When the Operator of Vessel 1 turned around to retrieve the two fallen Occupants it was determined that the Victim (one of the Occupants) had injured his leg when falling into the water.  The Victim was loaded aboard Vessel 1 and transported to the park side campground launch where he was assessed and then transported to the hospital.  It was determined that the Victim had broken his left femur and was later transferred to Akron Children's Hospital for additional treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0099
Date: 2011-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER ANCHORING
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was out pleasure boating when it lost power to the motor.  The Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to anchor Vessel 1, however the anchor did not hold and Vessel 1 began to drift.  Vessel 1 eventually drifted into the breakwall at the east end of Burke Lakefront Airport where it suffered damage to the fiberglass and the motor.


BARDID: OH-2011-0101
Date: 2011-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, Vessel 2, and Vessel 3 were at dock when Vessel 1 caught fire.  The cause of the fire was unable to be determined by the Fire Marshall, although the location was determined to be in the central third of Vessel 1 on the starboard side ("The area of origin for this fire is the cabin area, at or near the stern on the starboard side of the vessel").  The fire then spread to the dock and onto Vessel 2 and Vessel 3.  Fire Department and Coast Guard personnel arrived on scene and put out the fire; at this time all three vessels were still afloat.  Vessel 1 burned almost to the waerline (including the interior); Vessel 2 had extensive damage to the port bow, windshield, and cabin; Vessel 3 had damage to the port side wood support to the cabin roof and the seam along the port wall/roof in the central part of Vessel 3; the docks on both sides of Vessel 1 also suffered damage.  Vessel 1 later sank as a result of the fire damage but was able to rerieved and pulled out of the water at a later date.


BARDID: OH-2011-0104
Date: 2011-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:35:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Rocky River
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was adrift while the 4 Occupants on board were watching a fireworks display.  Vessel 1 was under power and sail at low speed and the Operator reported that he did not see Vessel 2 before striking the lower starboard corner of Vessel 2 resulting in minor scrapes to both vessels.


BARDID: OH-2011-0105
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Higginsport
County: Brown
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Improper vessel for conditions
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating from White oak Creek onto the Ohio River when a 50 mile-per-hour gust of wind caused Vessel 1 to swamp.  Both Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were able to self rescue to shore and Vessel 1 was later retrived from the river.


BARDID: OH-2011-0107
Date: 2011-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maumee River
NearestCityTown: Grand Rapids
County: Henry
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 approached Vessel 2 on plane from the sternside of Vessel 2 near a hazard buoy on the Maumee River; Vessel 2 was drifting at the time of the incident.  In trying to avoid an impending collision, the rear starboard side of Vessel 1 then struck Vessel 2 on the rear port fiberglass area of Vessel 2.  Just prior to the collision, the Operator of Vessel 2 extended his leg to try to stop the collision, but the resulting force ejected him from Vessel 2.  Another Occupant on board Vessel 2 was also ejected from Vessel 2 as a result of the collision.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was also ejected as a result of the colision, striking Vessel 2 resulting in slight injury and additional damage to the steering housing of Vessel 2.

Operator Inexperience was listed as the primary contributing factor based on the fact that the Operator of Vessel 1 had very little experience with this type of watercraft.


BARDID: OH-2011-0110
Date: 2011-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sandusky River
NearestCityTown: Fremont
County: Sandusky
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was underway, headed north on the Sandusky River approaching the curve at Muncie Hollow, when the Operator of Vessel 1 observed another vessel in the area at anchor.  The Operator of Vessel 1 slowed and had almost come to a stop when Vessel 2, who was following Vessel 1 and had failed to see Vessel 1 slowing, struck Vessel 1 in the stern with the bow of Vessel 2.  The force of the collision resulted in all parties aboard Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 being thrown into the water; Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 also capsized before returning to an upright position.


BARDID: OH-2011-0111
Date: 2011-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 with three persons on board was headed toward Ballast Island at approximately 30 knots.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was looking at the wrong green navigation aid and subsequently struck a steel wall, ejecting one passenger and the Operator.  The ejected passenger struck her head and was pronounced dead at the scene from major head trauma.  The Operator suffered a compound fracture on his left leg and a broken arm.  The third party aboard Vessel 1 was not ejected, but did suffer a broken arm and a head laceration.


BARDID: OH-2011-0112
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Huron
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were travelling parallel to each other with Vessel 1 slightly ahead and to the starboard of Vessel 2 when the Operator of Vessel 1 veered to port and was struck on the port side by the bow of Vessel 1 causing damage to Vessel 1.  There were no injuries as a result of this incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0113
Date: 2011-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Mount Sterling
County: Pickaway
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating in the open zone of Deer Creek Reservoir at an average (operator-reported) speed of 70 miles per hour when the Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to jump a wake.  As the Operator came back down onto Vessel 1 from jumping the wake in a standing position the force of the impact on his right leg resulted in a broken bone.


BARDID: OH-2011-0119
Date: 2011-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St. Marys
NearestCityTown: Celina
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to operate over a floating dredge line, causing the jet steering nozzle to become dislocated/broken.  The outdrive of Vessel 1 also suffered a broken bolt and bolt assembly.  The Operator and Occupants aboard Vessel 1was able to paddle Vessel 1 to shore.


BARDID: OH-2011-0120
Date: 2011-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Berlin Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Deerfield Township
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating in the open zone, pulling three passengers on a tube.  The Operator then stopped Vessel 1 to allow the tubers to reboard.  As the Victim attempted to reboard Vessel 1 she slipped on the boat ladder and fell into the outdrive, visibly bruising her upper thigh and also causing several light scratches to the area.  The Victim was then transported aboard Vessel 1 to the ramp where emergency services responded and transported her to St. Elizabeth's hospital.


BARDID: OH-2011-0121
Date: 2011-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Berlin Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Deerfield
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was skiing behind Vessel 1 in the no-wake zone when the Victim let go of the tow rope.  As the Victim let go of the tow rope he fell forward, making contact between the top of his head and the ski, resulting in an approximately 4-inch laceration on the top of the Victim's head.  Following the injury, the Victim was transported to the hospital by a family member for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0123
Date: 2011-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage Lakes
NearestCityTown: Akron
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was on it trailer in the water at the boat ramp when Vessel 2 lost control and struck the side of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 suffered a hole in the fiberglass on the side of Vessel 1 as a result of the collision.


BARDID: OH-2011-0125
Date: 2011-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was tied to the dock at the marina ramp when Vessel 1 broke loose due to strong storms in the area.  While the Operator then tried to retrieve Vessel 1, waves began to come over the transom of Vessel 1.  The Operator tried to turn Vessel 1 to starboard to slow the ingress of water, however, this caused the port stern of Vessel 1 to strike the dock.  The throttle on Vessel 1 then became stuck in the engaged position, causing Vessel 1 to propel forward and strike the concrete wall at the ramp.


BARDID: OH-2011-0129
Date: 2011-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: HULL FAILURE
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was on the second of two trips out onto the lake, just coming out of the harbor, when the Operator/Occupant heard a large thump which rocked Vessel 1 sideways.  The Operator reported that it felt as though the collision occured directly under him near the starboard side of Vessel 1.  The Operator than placed Vessel 1 in neutral and observed what looked like a large diameter telephone pole or log bobbing just below the surface of the water near Vessel 1.  Noticing the engine vibrating slightly, the Operator/Occupant opened the cabin door to the below deck and observed water rushing into the cabin space, filling it quickly.  The Occupant/Operator donned PFDs, grabbed additional type IV PFDs, fired two flares into the air, and tried using the marine radio for assistance (unsuccessful as the radio had shorted out from the water).  Both parties used their cell phones to contact 911 as well.  The Coast Guard arrived on scene and assisted both partied from Vessel 1 as Vessel 1 submerged with only the bimini top and the masthead light visible above the surface of the water.  It was determined that Vessel 1 would not be recovered as it posed no significant environmental hazard and was not a hazard to shipping or other vessels.


BARDID: OH-2011-0130
Date: 2011-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Improper vessel for conditions
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was drifting with two persons on board fishing; upon trying to start the engine on Vessel 1 it failed to start.  At this time Vessel 1 was approximately 1/4 mile from the breakwall in approximately 14 feet of water.  The anchor on board Vessel 1 was not deployed at this time.  After approximately 5-10 minutes of unsuccessfully trying to start the engine on Vessel 1, Vessel 1 subsequently drifted into the breakwall bow first.  The two persons on board tried to use oars to keep Vessel 1 off of the breakwall at which point a wave broke over the stern of Vessel 1, turning Vessel 1 parallel to the breakwall.  The Occupant aboard Vessel 1 then exited Vessel 1 onto the breakwall.  The Operator then tried to exit Vessel 1 onto the breakwall as well; however, a large wave broke over the starboard stern side of Vesssel 1, capsizing Vessel 1.  The Operator was put into the water, but was able to swim/climb onto the breakwall and walk to safety.  Neither the OPerator nor the Occupant suffered injury in the incident and Vessel 1 was later removed from the breakwall.


BARDID: OH-2011-0131
Date: 2011-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Mentor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with 10 persons on board, was heading west returning to the Chagrin River travelling at approximately 35 miles per hour when the Operator bent down below the windshield to fix the radio on the vessel.  Immediately after he bent down he heard something strike Vessel 1, shattering the driver side windshield, and striking an Occupant aboard Vessel 1 resulting in the Victim being knocked to the floor.  The Operator reported that he did not see anything prior to the impact or before bending down.  Other Occupants aboard Vessel 1 also reported not seeing or hearing anything prior to the impact of the object.  Vessel 1 continued on to dock where the Victim was transported and treated for a laceration and a broken nose from the impact.  

Investigation of the incident revealed a plastic streak on the windshield of Vessel 1 indicating that something struck and shattered the windshield of Vessel 1, skipping off after the impact.  the windshield had remained together due to the window tint laminate.  Investigation in the location of the reported collision revealed a racing buoy that was broken off approximately 3-4 foot above the waterline.  The racing buoy did not have lighting.  The Investigator in this incident surmised that Vessel 1 had struck the unlighted buoy with the bow of Vessel 1 causing the buoy to break off and shatter the windshield.  It was most likely a piece of the buoy that struck the Occupant in the face causing her injuries.


BARDID: OH-2011-0133
Date: 2011-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:02:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Geneva
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentCause2: EQUIPMENT FAILURE
AccidentCause3: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
EquipmentFailure: Other
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with five persons and one dog on board engaged in fishing, was drifting when the Operator observed approximately two feet of water in the cabin.  The Operator reported that the trip had been uneventful until this point with no indication that Vessel 1 had struck anything in the water.  The Operator made a mayday call to the Coast Guard and then turned on the two bilge pumps aboard Vessel 1; neither of the two bilge pumps came on.  The Operator observed that the shower aboard Vessel 1 had one foot of water in it, but the drain pump did not come on.  The Operator then attempted to start the engine, but it would only turn over without starting.  The Operator and Occupants tried to bail water from Vessel 1, but could not keep up with the water coming in.  A wave then broke over the stern of Vessel 1, tilting Vessel 1 sideways, then submerging Vessel 1.  All parties aboard Vessel 1  were ejected into the water; one Occupant injured his right foot in trying to get away from Vessel 1.  All parties were able to don PFDs in the water and the party separated into two groups.  The Coast Guard arrrived on scene and assisted all parties from the water.  Vessel 1 subsequently sank into 67 feet of water at the original reported position.


BARDID: OH-2011-0134
Date: 2011-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was underway with two persons on board at approximately 40 miles per hour when the Operator attempted to slow down and released the throttle.  Vessel 1 slowed down faster than the Operator anticipated and the bow of Vessel 1 subsequently dipped, caught a wave, and ejected the Operator from Vessel 1.  The Operator struck the handlebar of Vessel 1 with her right side; Vessel 1 suffered no damage.  The Occupant aboard Vessel 1 was not ejected.  The Operator was able to swim to shore where she was driven by a family member to the hospital for pain in her right side.


BARDID: OH-2011-0135
Date: 2011-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:38:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was travelling from Mentor Lagoons toward Cleveland when the engine stopped and the Operator of Vessel 1 was unable to get it restarted.  The Operator of Vessel 1 contacted Cleveland Marine Towing for assistance in towing Vessel 1 back to dock, however, before they could respond to the scene, Vessel 1 drifted onto the rocks around the 72nd Street boat ramp.


BARDID: OH-2011-0136
Date: 2011-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Rocky River
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
As a result of Vessel 1 striking a wake, the Victim struck their head and fell overboard. 

(Based on initial BAR report received; awaiting WICR from Watercraft Investigator for additional details.)


BARDID: OH-2011-0137
Date: 2011-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Harsha Lake/East Fork State Pa
NearestCityTown: Bethel
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1, with one Occupant already on board,  picked up a second Occupant from the beach and was heading back out toward the middle of the lake when the second Occupant lost her grip and fell off Vessel 1.  The Operator retrieved the second Occupant and returned her to the beach.  When the second Occupant reached the beach, she went into the restroom and upon coming back out subsequently passed out.  She was transported to the hospital where doctors concluded that the Victim had endured a mild concussion as a result of the fall from Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0138
Date: 2011-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Harsha Lake/East Fork
NearestCityTown: Bethel
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sudden Medical Condition
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was headed into the beach area at idle speed with one person being towed on a tube behind Vessel 1, when the parties aboard Vessel 1 observed that the Victim (on the tube) was having a seizure.  The Victim had a history of seizures and black outs and was on several medications (Depacote, Vicodin, Xanax) at the time of the incident.  The Victim fell off the tube as a result of the seizure at which time the Operator of Vessel 1 stopped Vessel 1 and jumped into the water to assist the Victim in rolling her face up out of the water.  Watercraft Officers arrived on scene after being alerted by other boaters in the area and transported the Victim to shore where emergency services arrived on scene to assist the Victim and transport her to the hospital.


BARDID: OH-2011-0139
Date: 2011-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maumee River
NearestCityTown: Grand Rapids
County: Henry
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were travelling eastbound on plane parallel to each other with Vessel 1 slightly ahead and to starboard of Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 swerved to port (crossing in front of Vessel 2) and back to starboard at which time the bow of Vessel 2 struck the starboard side of Vessel 1 and the Operator of Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was ejected from Vessel 1 as a result of the collision.


BARDID: OH-2011-0143
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wards Canal
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Carbon Monoxide Exposure
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was tied to its dock and hooked up to shore power.  The Operator of Vessel 1 ran the generator for approximately half an hour to charge the batteries on Vessel 1 around 9:00 p.m.  At midnight the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 went to bed with the air conditioner on.  Around 1:30 a.m. two of the Occupants awoke not feeling well.  When one of the ill Occupants went down on one knee, the Operator contacted 911 and evacuated everyone from Vessel 1.  When emergency services arrived all five of the Occupants were tested for carbon monoxide exposure; all Occupants had a measurable amount of carbon monoxide in their system and were transported to the hospital.

Investigation determined that a combination of factors contributed to the carbon monoxide situation: 1)The wind was very calm on the night of the incident which allowed the carbon monoxide from the generator to settle and stay in the area, 2) The Operator had pulled Vessel 1 into the slip with the stern of the vessel facing the seawall which contained the carbon monoxide in one area, and 3) the running air conditioner had pulled the carbon monoxide into the cabin of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0145
Date: 2011-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Kelleys Island
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling in a northeasterly direction on the west side of Kelleys Island toward the West Bay Marina when the Operator of Vessel 1 failed to see the lighted pier; Vessel 1 collided with the pier causing severe crush damage at the bow of Vessel 1.  All Occupants aboard Vessel 1 suffered injuries as a result of being thrown from their seats upon impact.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was able to operate Vessel 1 to shore where emergency services were contacted and responded for injured Victims.  The Operator of Vessel 1 tested at 0.124 g alcohol per 210 L of breath following the incident.  Vessel 1 was deemed a total loss as a result of severe hull and fiberglass damage.


BARDID: OH-2011-0146
Date: 2011-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sandusky River
NearestCityTown: Fremont
County: Sandusky
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was travelling north when he rounded a sharp bend in the river and struck a fixed dock and Vessel 2 that was tied to the dock.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was able to operate Vessel 1 back to his own dock and then transported himself to the hospital where he was treated for multiple injuries to his face and right thigh (none of the injuries were life threatening).  Vessel 1 suffered damage to the bow and the keel; Vessel 2 incurred significant damage to the port side including a cracked weld on the pontoon and rain damage.  The dock that was struck was completely destroyed.


BARDID: OH-2011-0147
Date: 2011-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:53:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with the Operator and two additional Occupants on board, was travelling one half mile west of South Bass Island in calm seas when the Operator made a hard left turn at the same time that Vessel 1 struck a wake.  As a result the two Occupants on board were ejected into the water, followed by the Operator.  Another vessel in the area came to their aid and assisted all parties in getting to South Bass Island State Park where the injured Victims were transported by relatives for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0148
Date: 2011-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Sandusky Bay)
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in operation for several hours prior to the incident and, after pulling away from the dock after changing passengers, Vessel 1 stalled and would not restart.  The current and wind allowed Vessel 1 to drift back toward the dock and attempts were made to restart Vessel 1.  As the Operator of Vessel 1 pulled the choke and pushed the start button on Vessel 1, Vessel 1 exploded causing severe damage to the vessel and throwing the Operator into the air.  As the Operator came back down she landed partially on Vessel 1 and was then pulled to safety by the Owner of Vessel 1.  The Operator suffered several injuries in the explosion/fall including broken bones in both feet and a head injury.  

Investigation of the incident revealed that one of the spark plugs was completely out of the head of the engine and laying on the top of the engine, still connected to the plug wire.  The other spark plug was loose and able to be turned with very little effort.  There was no evidence of fuel leaking from any of the fittings, lines, or the tank.  A follow-up inspection of the vessel by a dealer found all of the lines, fittings, and the tank in good condition as well with no apparent leaks.  The dealer also reported a prior service recall on the vessel in question for the fuel tank, but his records also indicated that Vessel 1's tank had been replaced in 2003.


BARDID: OH-2011-0149
Date: 2011-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were both rented and had been in operation for approximately 55 minutes when the Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to splash Vessel 2 using Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 was drifting at the time of the incident.  Vessel 1 approached Vessel 2 from the starboard side and, being unfamiliar with the stopping distance for the vessel, turned to port too late, striking the starboard side of Vessel 2 with the port side bow area of Vessel 1.  Both Operators were ejected by the collision.  Following the collision both Operators were able to re-board and operate to shore.  Neither party was injured; however, both vessels suffered damage.


BARDID: OH-2011-0150
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was northbound heading out of Bay Point Channel into heavy boating traffic.  Vessel 2 was westbound leaving the boat ramp area.  According to reports from the Operator of Vessel 1, the Operator of Vessel 2 pushed the throttle all the way down and did not have control of the steering wheel.  Vessel 2 subsequently spun 180 degrees until the Operator of Vessel 2 regained control at which time the Operator of Vessel 2 turned the vessel back around 180 degrees, then striking Vessel 1 on the starboard side near the stern.  The Operator of Vessel 1 contacted the Coast Guard regarding the incident but was unable to get a response; Vessel 2 approached Vessel 1 and reported that he did not see damage to Vessel 1.  The parties did not exchange information.  Vessel 1 proceeded to its destination where the Operator found that there had been damage to Vessel 1 as a result of the incident.  No injuries were reported by parties aboard either vessel.  The Operator of Vessel 2 has been unresponsive to providing additional information regarding the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0151
Date: 2011-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The Owner (Victim) of Vessel 2 was on board Vessel 1 replacing a fuel filter on Vessel 1.  The Victim was standing on the battery tank of Vessel 1.  Tools were observed lying on the battery of Vessel 1 with the battery terminals uncovered.  The Victim on Vessel 1 had excess fuel in a plastic container and investigation revealed that the Victim may have manipulated one of the tools in such a manner as to cause a short in the battery terminal and generate a spark that ignited the fuel vapors/excess fuel in the plastic container.  After the plasic container caught fire, the Victim tossed the burning container over the transom onto Vessel 2 which was tied to the port side aft of Vessel 1.  The Victim then secured a water hose and attempted to put out the flames.  The Victim was burned severely over 40% of his body and was later flown to the hospital via life flight.  Vessel 1 suffered fire damage to the engines, electrical system and motor acessories; Vessel 2 was damaged beyond repair from fire/gasoline damage.


BARDID: OH-2011-0152
Date: 2011-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: HOSE
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating around South Bass Island.  When the Operator of Vessel 1 stopped Vessel 1 to put the cover up, he noticed that the vessel was not running correctly and opened the motor compartment.  Upon opening the motor compartment he observed that Vessel 1 was taking on water and that the water had reached the level of the motor.  The Operator contacted Rescue Marine for assistance, who in turn contacted the Coast Guard to respond as well as there were two infant children aboard Vessel 1.  While waiting for assistance to arrive, the Operator and one of the Occupants entered the water, swam Vessel 1 to shore, and stood in 4-5 feet of water until assistance arrived.  When the Coast Guard arrived on scene Vessel 1 was towed to the Miller's Ferry Dock where it was moored to the outside of Vessel 2.  At this time the waves were 2-3 feet and the contact between Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 as a result of the waves resulted in additional damage to Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0153
Date: 2011-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Anchoring
AccidentCause2: EQUIPMENT FAILURE
EquipmentFailure: Other
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored from the stern for approximately 2 hours when waves began entering the engine compartment over the stern.  At this point Occupants were standing in two inches of water on the deck.  The Operator turned on the bilge pump, heard a buzzing sound, then the bilge pump stopped working.  The Operator then attempted to start the engines on Vessel 1 without success.  After making a mayday call the Operator cut the anchor line and secured PFDs for all of the Occupants on board.  As Vessel 1 continued to take on more water the Occupants left Vessel 1 and entered the water where all parties were picked up by another boater in the area.  Vessel 1 was later towed to shore by Rescue Marine.  No one was injured in this incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0155
Date: 2011-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was close-hauled on a starboard tack in a crossing situation with Vessel 2 on a port tack.  After the Operator of Vessel 1 hailed the Operator of Vessel 2, the Operator of Vessel 2 indicated (verbally) that he would pass behind the stern of Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 2 failed to accomplish this maneuver and instead struck Vessel 1 on the port side near the stern.


BARDID: OH-2011-0159
Date: 2011-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kayak Pond - Ohio State Fair
NearestCityTown: Columbus
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested Waters
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
RedactedNarrative:
While paddling at the Ohio State Fair kayak pond, under the supervision of ODNR Division of Watercraft personnel, the Victim on board Vessel 1 was struck in the eye by a kayak paddle.  Minior redness around the outside of the eye was observed and the Victim was unable to open the injured eye for inspection.  First aid personnel arrived on scene and, after examination, advised the Victim to see his family doctor as the eye was most likely scratched.


BARDID: OH-2011-0160
Date: 2011-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Euclid
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: DRUG USE
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim took Vessel 1 out onto Lake Erie, leaving a note for his parents that he was doing so and taking the family dog with him.  The Victim took a PFD for the dog, but none for himself.  Approximately one half hour later, the Victim was last seen on Vessel 1 slightly offshore.  Approximately 2 hours after the Victim was last seen, the dog returned to the Victim's residence, still wearing its PFD.  The father of the Victim was not surprised that the dog returned without the Victim as the Victim had a pattern of stopping off to attend parties in the area after boating.  The mother of the Victim reported that the last time the Victim had taken Vessel 1 out with the dog they had capsized.  Approximately two hours after the dog returned home, a local resident found a kayak, paddle, and one sandal washed up along the shoreline.  Vessel 1 was also found  floating close to shore and pulled it up onto the beach (it was found right side up).

The following day the Victim's mother (who did not know the dog had retrned home alone until the next day) went looking for Vessel 1 and met the local residents who had found Vessel 1 and the associated items.  Later that day the Victim's mother contacted the police department to report the Victim missing.  She reported that she waited on making the report to make sure he had just not come home as she didn't want to trouble anyone for no reason.

The Victim was found along the shoreline on August 29, 2011 by a local resident.  The medical examiner reported his cause of death as drowning, accidental, and his BAC was found to be 0.292 with a positive test for amphetamine.  It is unknown how the Victim entered the water as there were no witnesses to the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0161
Date: 2011-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was towing two Occupants on a tube behind Vessel 1 at approximately 21-23 miles per hour in 26 feet of water when Vessel 1 struck an unknown and never positively identified object in the water.  Vessel 1 suffered damage to the fiberglass, a bent propeller, and a bent propeller shaft.


BARDID: OH-2011-0163
Date: 2011-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mosquito Lake
NearestCityTown: Bazetta
County: Trumbull
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was operating near the beach area when the Operator reported that he turned Vessel 1 and simultaneously struck a wave, causing the Operator and one of the Occupants to be ejected into the water.  All parties were able to reboard Vessel 1 and Vessel 1 was operated to shore where emergency services were contacted.  Upon EMS arrival, the Victim (the Operator) was taken for treatment of a dislocated shoulder and a strained neck as a result of striking the water when being ejected.


BARDID: OH-2011-0164
Date: 2011-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Michael J. Kirwan/West Branch
NearestCityTown: Ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
A group of three friends rented Vessel 1 and a tube to recreate on the lake.  All three completed rental examinations so they could operate Vessel 1 as they had not completed a full Ohio Boater Education Course (OBEC).  Two additional persons were also on board Vessel 1, but did not take the rental examination or operate Vessel 1.  After pulling the tuber on a tube for a while, the group began circling Vessel 1 around the tube.  The Victim (on the tube at this time) observed Vessel 1 approaching too close to the tube during these maneuvers and jumped off the tube into the water to avoid being struck.  Upon surfacing he screamed for assistance and the remaining Occupants aboard Vessel 1 pulled him back onto Vessel 1 where they observed excessive bleeding from the Victim's foot.  The group transported the Victim back to the rental marina where 911 was contacted.  The Victim was transported to the hospital for treatment.  All parties involved in this incident hae since left the state and have been unresponsive to contact although it has been reported that the Victim underwent additional surgery on the injured foot at a New Jersey hospital.


BARDID: OH-2011-0165
Date: 2011-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating near the Campground Beach when it capsized due to heavy weather.  The sole Occupant on Vessel 1, the Operator, was ejected into the water.  Watercraft Officers responded to the scene and transported the Victim (the Operator) to shore where he was treated for mild hypothermia and released at the scene.  Vessel 1 as towed to shore where it was drained and loaded onto the Operator's trailer.  In the process of being towed the mast on Vessel 1 was broken in two (as it was towed into the shallower water near the beach).


BARDID: OH-2011-0167
Date: 2011-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ashtabula River
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was travelling up river near the marina when the Operator shifted the starboard engine ahead and the port engine into reverse in an attempt to come to port for docking. The Operator reported that Vessel 1 did not respond to the controls and that, despite increasing the throttles in an attempt to get Vessel 1 to respond, the bow of Vessel 1 then struck the starboard bow of Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2011-0170
Date: 2011-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lorain
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Very Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was being operated from Vermilion to Beaver Park (in a westward direction) when a storm hit.  The Operator of Vessel 1, who had limited experience with this particular vessel despite significant experience in boating in general, was attempting to enter the harbor from the west with waves striking the starboard quarter of Vessel 1.  As Vessel 1 approached the entrance, a large wave (estimated at 6-8 feet) pushed Vessel 1 onto the rocks at the eastern wall on the inside of the channel.  Vessel 1 then slid off the rock wall back into the water causing extensive damage to the propellers, drive shafts, rudders, and the underside of the vessel.


BARDID: OH-2011-0172
Date: 2011-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:29:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Point Place
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling at approximately 25-30 miles per hour when the Operator observed a partially submerged log in the path of Vessel 1 and attempted to swerve to avoid the submerged log.  This attempt was unsuccessful and Vessel 1 struck the submerged log with the outdrive of Vesel 1 resulting in damage.


BARDID: OH-2011-0173
Date: 2011-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOADING
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was drifting with three Occupants on board fishing when Occupant 2 stood up to urinate over the side of Vessel 1.  The shifting of weight in Vessel 1 caused by this action caused Vessel 1 to capsize, putting all three Occupants into the water.  Occupant 1 and Occupant 3 assisted Occupant 2 to swim to shore where the local fire department responded and transported all three Occupants to the Bay Shore Launch Ramp.  Occupant 1 and Occupant 3 claimed no injuries; Occupant 2 was transported to the hospital for treatment for mild hypothermia.


BARDID: OH-2011-0174
Date: 2011-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Maumee Bay)
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was to the starboard and stern of Vessel 1 in an overtaking position when Vessel 1 turned sharply to starboard into the path of Vessel 2.  Vessel 2 attempted to take evasive action by turning sharply to starboard to avoid collision.  Despite this action, the starboard side of Vessel 1 struck the port stern of Vessel 2 ejecting both operators.  Both Operators received only minor bruising and did not receive medical care.


BARDID: OH-2011-0176
Date: 2011-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Portsmouth
County: Scioto
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating at idle speed downriver between the Anchor Pad Marina and the Shawnee State Park Marina when the Victim leaned over the the stern of the vessel to retrieve a lifejacket that had blown out of Vessel 1.  In doing so, the Victim fell overboard and struck her left forearm on the propeller of Vessel 1.  The Victim was flown to Ohio State Hospital in Columbus for treatment where the wound was closed with 25 stitches.


BARDID: OH-2011-0177
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:35:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Manchester
County: Adams
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent3: FLOODING/SWAMPING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was navigating downriver when Vessel 1 stalled.  A large amount of smoke was observed coming from the engine compartment at this time as well.  All Occupants aboard Vessel 1 chose to grab a lifejacket, put it on, and jump overboard at this time.  Vessel 1 then caught fire and burnt down to the waterline.  Vessel 1 was a total loss and no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.  Investigation indicated that the engine and electrical system aboard Vessel 1 were the source of the fire aboard Vesssel 1, but the exact nature of the failure resulting in the fire was unable to be determined.


BARDID: OH-2011-0178
Date: 2011-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Manchester
County: Adams
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was drifting westbound on the Ohio River near the Ohio shoreline at Twins Islands Campground when the Victim voluntarily left Vessel 1 to swim.  The Victim departed Vessel 1 at the stern of Vessel 1 by dropping off the swim deck into the water at which time his left leg struck the left propeller resulting in injuury.  The Victim was assitsed back aboard Vessel 1 following the incident and transported back to the ramp, then onto the hospital (by medical airlift) for treatment.


BARDID: OH-2011-0180
Date: 2011-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling west just north of Sugar Island when the Operator of Vessel 1 reported running aground in the area of Sugar Reef resulting in extensive damage to the hull, keel, rudder, and propeller of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0181
Date: 2011-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:28:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was knee boarding behind Vessel 1 when she struck a wake, causing her to fall and strike her head on the hard corner of the knee board.  The collision resulted in a fractured eye socket and a laceration on her face as well as two cracked vertebrae in the Victim's neck.


BARDID: OH-2011-0183
Date: 2011-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 traveled under the Sandusky Bay Bridge; while exiting onto the lake (from Sandusky Bay) from under the bridge the Operator of Vessel 1 realized that the waves were too large to be safely navigated by Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1 then attempted to turn Vessel 1 around to return to the bay at which time the motor on Vessel 1 stopped operating.  Vessel 1 then drifted back toward the bridge pilings as the Operator tried to restart the motor.  The Operator was able to successfully restart the motor, but gave the motor too much gas upon resuming operation and struck the bridge piling causing damage to Vessel 1.  The bridge piling itself sustained no significant damage.  No injuries resulted from the incident and the Operator of Vessel 1 was able to pilot Vessel 1 back to the slip following the incident, although after being lefted from the water the damage resulted in the total loss of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2011-0184
Date: 2011-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
While operating in the area, Vessel 1 was not aware of Sugar Reef on the northwest corner of Middle Bass Island (he did not look at a chart prior to operation).  Vessel 1 went across the reef and at that time the Operator of Vessel 1 felt something strike the bottom of Vessel 1 but kept going.  A few moments later he slowed Vessel 1 and as a precaution placed PFDs on the minor passengers on board as a small amount of water was now entering Vessel 1.  The Operator hen idled to the ferry dock where the Coast Guard was contacted and a tow boat pulled Vessel 1 back to its dock.  Vessel 1 never completely submerged.  After examination back at dock it was determined that Vessel 1 had suffered a cracked seal and needed a new lower unit, seal, and propeller as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0186
Date: 2011-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was operating in the Upper Straight Channel and had just passed the red #10 buoy on a south/southwest course; Vessel 1 was entering the Upper Straight Channel and had just passed buoy #10 on a south/southeast course.  At the time just prior to the incident, Vessel 1 was approaching Vessel 2 from the rear and starboard of Vessel 2.  The Operator of Vessel 1 observed the course of Vessel 2 and tried to avoid collision by cutting his throttle.  This maction was unsuccessful and the bow of Vessel 1 struck the rear starboard side of Vessel 2 causing damage to both vessels.  Both vessels were able to leave the scene on their own after the collision.


BARDID: OH-2011-0187
Date: 2011-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:42:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Very Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was being operated in a northeasterly direction approximately 100 yards off the Point Retreat beach area; waves at the time of the incident were 6-7 feet in height.  The Operator of Vessel 1 drove Vessel 1 up a large wave resulting in Vessel 1 becoming airborne in a vertical orientation.  The Operator let go of the handlebars of Vessel 1 to separate himself from Vessel 1 on the descent.  Vessel 1 fell back to the water surface and the Operator fell on top of Vessel 1 resulting in severe injuries to the Operator's back and right hip.  Bystanders assisted the Operator to shore and contacted local emergency services who responded to the scene and transported the Operator to the hospital.  The Operator was wearing a type 3 PFD at the time of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0188
Date: 2011-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:01:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sandusky River
NearestCityTown: Fremont
County: Sandusky
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling north when Vessel 1 struck an unknown object, bringing Vessel 1 to a stop and ejecting the Victim (the Operator remained on board Vessel 1).  The Victim was able to reboard Vessel 1 and the two persons on board were able to paddle Vessel 1 to the east shore where rescue personnel responded.  The Victim received first aid for a minor laceration above his right ear; Vessel 1 suffered the loss of the entire outdrive.


BARDID: OH-2011-0189
Date: 2011-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Sandusky Bay)
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were operating 100 yards east of the east breakwall at the Sandusky Harbor Marina when they collided in a glancing manner with the starboard side of Vessel 1  striking the port side of Vessel 2.  As a result of the collision, the Operator of Vessel 2 fell off Vessel 2, striking Vessel 1 with his face and knocking out his front tooth.  Following the collision/injury, the Operator of Vessel 1 assisted the Operator of Vessel 2 onto Vessel 1 as Vessel 2 had stalled and would not restart.  Vessel 1 returned to shore where the Operator of Vessel 2 was met by family members and transported to the hospital for treatment.  The Owner of Vessel 1 then went back out and retrieved Vessel 2.  Neither Vessel 1 nor Vessel 2 suffered damage as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0190
Date: 2011-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was floating free and idling at the launch ramp to warm up the engine.  The shifter on Vessel 1 was worn and went into gear on its own, causing Vessel 1 to surge forward and ground itself on the ramp.  Vessel 1 suffered a hole in the starboard side as a result of the incident.  Vessel 1 was able to be trailered and removed from the water.


BARDID: OH-2011-0194
Date: 2011-10-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 ran into the Cedar Point breakwall.  There were no witnesses to the incident and no survivors on board Vessel 1 following the incident.  Onc Victim was found inside of Vessel 1 and the second Victim (assumed to have been ejected as a result of the collision) remains missing.

This incident remains under investigation.


BARDID: OH-2011-0195
Date: 2011-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Bay Village
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Very Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: operator behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was last seen leaving the yacht club with no one else on board Vesel 1.  The weather at the time was poor.  The Operator was reported missing by his wife later that evening, with the Coast Guard locating Vessel 1 the following morning.  Upon boarding Vessel 1, no one was found on board; waves that morning were at 6-10 feet.  Vessel 1 was seemingly intact upon discovery and was started and operated back to its dock at the yacht club.

Indications were that the Victim had left Vessel 1 voluntarily (back flap open and no signs of struggle), however there were no witnesses. 

The Victim was located in Rondeau, Ontario, Canada on November 13, 2011.  Preliminary autopsy results showed the cause of death as drowning, with no signs of trauma.

Autopsy results are pending and may not be received for 6-9 months due to backlog.


BARDID: OH-2011-0196
Date: 2011-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clear Fork Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Lexington
County: Richland
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim fell overboard from Vessel 1 while trying to place a lifejacket on a duck hunter's dog.  The Victim was not wearing a PFD at the time of the incident.  No one was in the immediate area at the time of the accident.  The Victim struggled for 1-2 minutes in the water before submerging.

The Victim was later recovered with the use of side-scan sonar.

This incident remains under investigation.


BARDID: OH-2011-0197
Date: 2011-10-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating in the area of the New Galena Boat Ramp when a large gust of wind caught the kite and lifted both the Operator and the kiteboard approximately 30 feet in the area, carrying both an unknown distance to shore, and dropping them onto the shoreline rocks.  Witnesses on scene contacted 911 and attended the Victim on scene until assistance arrived.  The Victim was transported to Riverside Hospital where he received 4 stitches to the head and experienced bruising of his body and his kidney.


BARDID: OH-2011-0200
Date: 2011-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:26:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Ashtabula
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Improper vessel for conditions
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board intending to duck hunt, motored north to the eastern portion of the outer breakwall of Ashtabula Harbor.  After arriving at their destination inside the breakwall, the four persons on board began deploying decoys.  A line from one of the decoys became entangled in the engine's propeller; the line was freed and the group began to again deploy decoys.  At this time the wind changed direction and increased, forcing Vessel 1 into the breakwall (parallel to the wall).  The wave action resulting from the wind caused Vessel 1 to begin taking water over the starboard gunwale.  At this point Vessel 1 became stuck on the ledge at the waterline of the breakwall.  Unable to free Vessel 1 from this location, the Occupants exited Vessel 1 onto the breakwall, retrieving the majority of their gear as well, and contacted the Coast Guard for assistance.


BARDID: OH-2011-0201
Date: 2011-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sheffield Lake
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling eastbound approximately 300 feet off shore from the beach area just east of the breakwall ramp at the Sheffield Lake public ramp when the forward starboard side of the hull failed.  The starboard side section of the hull delaminated creating a hole approximately 2 feet in diameter.  Vessel 1 flooded, immediately sank, then partially resurfaced in a capiszed position.  The three persons aboard Vessel 1 at the time of the incident were able to don life jackets and swim to shore following the incident.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2011-0203
Date: 2011-09-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sudden Medical Condition
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 travelled out of Wild Wood Marina onto Lake Erie to go fishing.  The Victim, an Occupant aboard Vessel 1, took Dramamine before boarding Vessel 1.  After reaching their destination on the lake and being anchored for approximately two hours, the Victim became dehydrated and suffered from motion sickness to the point that she had a siezure.  The Operator called for assistance on the marine band radio and the Victim was transported by ambulance to the hospital where she was treated and released.


BARDID: OH-2011-0204
Date: 2011-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was operating inside Edgewater Marina when Vessel 1 struck a submerged object, later identified as a sunken dock which is marked off by the Army Corps of Engineers.


BARDID: OH-2011-0207
Date: 2011-10-01 00:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Friendship
County: Scioto
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: hull failure
OtherAccidentCause: DRIVER INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was not aware at the time, but while transporting Vessel 1 to the launch ramp one of the lower units on Vessel 1 was dragging across the surface of the launch ramp (creating a gouge line in the pavement) and eventually resulted in a portion of the skeg breaking off.  After launching Vessel 1 the Operator (unawareof the broken skeg) operated Vessel 1 to the shoreline just south of the launch ramp and moored Vessel 1.  After Operator disembarked, but shortly therafter noted Vessel 1 listing to the starboard side and upon checking the engine compartment found that Vessel 1 was taking on water at a rapid rate.  Vessel 1 eventually sank on location.


BARDID: OH-2011-0208
Date: 2011-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:03:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 capsized at which time the Operator/Victim contacted the Coast Guard for assistance.  Watercraft Officers patrolling the area observed the Operator/Victim in distress and responded to the scene, transporting the Victim to shore for medical treatment (hypothermia).  According to the Operator/Victim he was en route on Vessel 1 to Cedar point Marina when a high wind caught the front part of his sail and pushed Vessel 1 over.  He also reported having consumed 40 ounces of Budweiser beer and did not check the weather conditions before departing from shore.


BARDID: OH-2011-0210
Date: 2011-10-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cowan Lake
NearestCityTown: Wilmington
County: Clinton
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Other
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equip
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was racing Vessel 1 when an accidental "jib" occured resulting in the boom striking the Operator and knocking him off Vessel 1.  The Operator (Victim) suffered a puncture wound on his arm from striking Vessel 1 as he was falling into the water.  The Victim was wearing a PFD and was assisted back into Vessel 1 by another Occupant.  Vessel 1 was operated back to shore where the Victim transported himself to the hospital for medical care.


BARDID: OH-2011-0214
Date: 2011-11-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Delaware Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling south/southwest toward the marina ramp when the lower unit of Vessel 1 struck an unidentified submerged object causing Vessel 1 to lose all power.  Vessel 1 was towed to the ramp by another boater in the area.


BARDID: OH-2011-0217
Date: 2011-10-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie (Sandusky Bay)
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 turned 90 degrees to the wind while the Operator was taking down the mainsail; when the wind gusted it caught the mainsail and capsized Vessel 1.  As a result of the incident the mast on Vessel 1 snapped in half; the mast was also torn out of the mast head.  The Operator also suffered mild hypothermia as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0218
Date: 2011-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Kelleys Island
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: GROUNDING
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating on the west side of the island when the motor shut off during operation and would not restart.  When the Operator looked into the motor compartment he could see that the drive shaft boot was blown and that Vessel 1 was taking on water.  The Operator put out a distress flag; however, before assistance arrived, Vessel 1 drifted onto shore and went up onto the rocks causing several large holes in the bottom of Vessel 1.  The Coast Guard arrived on scene shortly thereafter and pulled the four Occupants on board off of Vessel 1.

operator Inexperience is listed as a secondary contributing factor based on the fact the Operator had limited experience with this particular vessel.


BARDID: OH-2011-0219
Date: 2011-11-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Huron
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating at approximately 14 miles per hour when Vessel 1 struck an unidentified submerged object in what was reported as very muddy water.  In additon to the damage to Vessel 1 as a result of the collision, the Operator's hand also struck and broke the trim gauge on the dash of Vessel 1 resulting in injury (received first aid only).


BARDID: OH-2011-0222
Date: 2011-11-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:25:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cuyahoga River
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was pushing a barge up the Cuyahoga River; Vessel 2 was to the stern of Vessel 1, providing escort.  Vessel 1 attempted to turn 180 degrees at Collision Bend to allow Vessel 1 to proceed stern-first upstream.  Vessel 2 was ordered to tie from the stern of Vessel 1 to pull the stern of Vessel 1 to starboard to aid Vessel 1 in the turn.  In the process of turning, Vessel 1 used its propeller to move forward to avoid several vessels tied to the wall on the west side of the river.  The propeller subsequently created a wake which caused the dock lines on Vessel 3 to part, causing damage to Vessel 4 which was docked to the stern of Vessel 3, and causing damage to the starboard side of Vessel 5, which was docked in front of Vessel 3.  Additionally, the wake parted dock lines on Vessel 6, causing Vessel 6 to propel forward over a 16-foot section of floating dock and colliding with Vessel 7, damaging Vessel 7.  Vessel 7 then surged forward damaging Vessel 8.


BARDID: OH-2011-0223
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: C J Brown Reservoir/Buck Creek
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with seven persons on board, was being operated between the Army Corps facility and the main beach when the wake from another vessel came over the bow of Vessel 1, sinking Vessel 1 and putting all Occupants into the water.  All Occupants were safely recovered by another boater in the area (with no injuries reported) and Vessel 1 was later retrieved from 30 feet of water by a local dive team.  Investigation into the incident revealed that overloading of Vessel 1 was the primary factor in this incident; there was no sign of hull fracture, hull failure, or a missing boat plug.


BARDID: OH-2011-0224
Date: 2011-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Miami River
NearestCityTown: Spring Valley
County: Greene
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with three persons on board, came around a bend in the river and made contact with a large Sycamore tree that had fallen into the river, creating a strainer.  As Vessel 1 struck the tree, Vessel 1 capsized, putting all three Occupants into the water.  Following the capsizing, the three Occupants and Vessel 1 were swept into the strainer with Vessel 1 becoming lodged under the tree.  A passerby observed the incident and was able to assist the three Occupants in making it out of the strainer and onto shore with no injuries.  Vessel 1 was never able to be recovered.


BARDID: OH-2011-0225
Date: 2011-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Acton Lake
NearestCityTown: Oxford
County: Preble
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with seven persons on board, was underway and, as per witness statements, the Occupants were horseplaying and jumping from Vessel 1 while it was underway.  The Operator of Vessel 1 then joined in the horseplay by pushing the Victim who was standing close to the front of Vessel 1.  As the operator of  Vessel 1 left the console in order to push the Victim, another Occupant grabbed the wheel of Vessel 1.  As a result of the push from the Operator, the Victim fell forward, past the open front of Vessel 1, and fell into the water.  Vessel 1 travelled directly over the Victim before it could be brought to a stop.  The Victim suffered minor scrapes and light friction burns to her right breast, arm, and leg as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2011-0228
Date: 2011-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Huron
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was being used for fishing, with three persons on board, when the motor stalled and would not restart.  After stalling, the Operator attempted to anchor Vessel 1 to keep it stationary but was unsuccesful in doing so.  Vessel 1 then drifted onto the shoreline rocks where the hull sustained damage and Vessel 1 took on water.

Operator Inexperience is listed as a secondary cause based on the fact that the operator was unfamiliar with this particular vessel (but otherwise had significant boating experience).


BARDID: OH-2012-0005
Date: 2012-01-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mad River
NearestCityTown: Huber Heights
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was southbound in duck creek and struck the nw corner of breakwater #1 at an angel of approx 40 degrees.  Exact speed has not been determined but it was above idle speed.  Upon impact with the breakwater, victims 1 (seated in passenger seat left of operator), 2 (seated in front of the passenger seat to the left of the driver), and 3 (seated in front seat in front of the operator) were ejected from the vessel.  Operator was injured but remained inside the vessel.  Area of the accident was 76 yards nw of arrowhead point and approx 237 yards se of cherokee yacht club gas dock and approx 188 yds sw of the point of land.


BARDID: OH-2012-0006
Date: 2012-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Buckeye Lake
County: Licking
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was attempting to dock his vessel at the ramp when the Occupant aboard Vessel 1 extended her left arm to grab hold of the dock.  In doing so, the Occupant's hand became pinned between Vessel 1 and the dock, causing a laceration that required 10 stitches as well as bruising and swelling.


BARDID: OH-2012-0009
Date: 2012-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake White
NearestCityTown: Waverly
County: Pike
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge hose loose
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator and one Occupant aboard Vessel 1 observed water coming in at the transom of Vessel 1.  Both parties then exited Vessel 1 and swam to shore.  The Operator then swam back to Vessel 1 to try to retrieve it.  The Operator was able to re-baord, however, Vessel 1 then rolled onto its starboard side and capsized.  The second party, who remained on shore, was treated for hypothermia and released the following day.


BARDID: OH-2012-0010
Date: 2012-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:37:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Huntsville
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with two persons on board, was being operated near Cranetown Island when waves began to crash into Vessel 1, eventually swamping and then capsizing Vessel 1.  Both Occupants aboard Vessel 1 ended up in the water and subsequently tried to stay with Vessel 1; Vessel 1 then submerged until only the bow was visible above the surface of the water.  Both Occupants then attempted to swim approximately 70 yards to shore; one Occupant was successful in reaching the shore and the other Occupant swam approximately 25-30 yards before disappearing below the surface of the water.  Vessel 1 did not suffer any damage as a result of the incident.

Neither Occupant twas wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident and no personal flotation devices were found aboard Vessel 1 at the time of the incident.

The Victim was recovered and pronounced deceased at Mary Rutan Hospital.


BARDID: OH-2012-0012
Date: 2012-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage Lake
NearestCityTown: New Franklin Township
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Owner/Operator of Vessel #1 reported a collision with a submerged object in Turkeyfoot Channel at Portage Lakes State Park during the first trip of 2012.  Owner/Operator submitted a BAR to the State of Ohio and the Insurance Company.
Further investigation included speaking with the owner/Operator, his mechanic, and inspecting the outboard motor revealing that the power head gasket on one cylinder was leaking for some time; wiring for the engine overheat alarm was faulty by corrosion causing engine to overheat and fail without warning to Operator.  Engine siezed up and is no longer operable.  Cooling water was observed being discharged prior to engine failure.


BARDID: OH-2012-0013
Date: 2012-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:22:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buckeye Lake
NearestCityTown: Buckeye Lake
County: Licking
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling east at idle speed when waves began coming over the bow of Vessel 1, causing it to swamp.  As Vessel 1 came within approximately 30 feet of the shore, the Operator of Vessel 1 entered the water and pulled Vessel 1 to a nearby dock and secured Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0015
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Beaver Creek
NearestCityTown: Lorain
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was fueled before going out.  According to owner it was run for 15-20 minutes then sat for 45 minutes while owner went onto Lake Erie in another boat.  The owner came back and started the motor.  While motoring onto Beaver Creek the vessel exploded at the stern, with the engine cover being blown off.  The occupants used a bucket to try and put the fire out.  The vessel drifted to Dickason's Marina where it was tied to Dock 5, and the people got off.  The fire was put out by Lorain Fire Department.  It was towed back to Copper Kettle Marina and lifted out onto a trailer.

Despite further investigation it was unable to be determined where in the machinery structure the fire initially started.


BARDID: OH-2012-0018
Date: 2012-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:39:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Harveysburg
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
A witness to the incident observed the Victim standing on the front of Vessel 1 fishing.  The witness looked away and a short time later the same witness heard a "splash" and looked over to see the Victim struggling in the water.  The Victim was not wearing a lifejacket at the time, and by the time the witness got to the Victim the Victim was face-down on the surface of the water and unresponsive.  The witness tried unsuccessfully to pull the Victim onto his vessel at which time the witness entered the water and swam the Victim to the nearest shore and began performing CPR.  The witness called to another person on shore to call 911.  Emergency services arrived on scene shortly thereafter; they were unable to resuscitate the Victim and he was pronounced deceased.  

Investigation revealed that the Victim did not know how to swim and suffered from a history of "dizzy spells".

Preliminary coroner report ruled the official cause of death as drowning; additional coroner details are expected in the future regarding other possible factors (medical conditions, BAC, etc.).  Investigation continues at this time.


BARDID: OH-2012-0020
Date: 2012-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Huron
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 was attempting to enter the Huron River from Lake Erie when Vessel 1 passed to the wrong side of the breakwall green light, and as a result  running aground on a large rock.


BARDID: OH-2012-0022
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lakeside
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was tied to a dock; the Owner/Operator of Vessel 1 was having trouble docking and gave the helm to another Occupant aboard Vessel 1 to attempt the docking.  The Occupant, now the Operator of Vessel 1, had never operated a vessel with a manual transmission such as that found on Vessel 1 and, as a result, as Vessel 1 appeared to be geting too close to Vessel 2, the Operator of Vessel 1 put Vessel 1 into what he thought was forward and gave Vessel 1 gas.  In reality, Vessel 1 was in reverse and the Owner of Vessel 1, who was now standing on the swim platform when Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2, struck Vessel 2 and broke his arm.


BARDID: OH-2012-0023
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie/Sandusky Bay
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling south/southeast, jumping the wake of another vessel.  Vessel 2 was travelling northeast, with Vessel 2 to the southwest of the path of Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 could not see the intended path of Vessel 1 as the "wake vessel" was blocking the Operator of Vessel 2's view of Vessel 1.  As Vessel 1 finished its jump the Operator of Vessel 1 turned to port; the Operator of Vessel 2 also saw Vessel 1 at this time and turned to starboard.  The vessels were too close to avoid collision and the port bow of Vessel 2 struck the starboard side of Vessel 1, breaking the leg of the Operator of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0024
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:49:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie/Sandusky Bay Rt.2-SR
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in operation, with the three Occupants aboard Vessel 1 engaged in fishing, at the time of the incident.  The fish being caught were loaded into the front of Vessel 1 and when Vessel 1 entered choppy water the front of Vessel 1 dipped (as a result of the extra weight in the now) resulting in the capsizing.  All three Occupants were able to safely self-rescue to shore prior to emergency services arrival on scene.


BARDID: OH-2012-0025
Date: 2012-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:05:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie/Bass Islands
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 left Put-In-Bay and was heading back to port; as Vessel 1 went around Gibraltar Island and then turned southwest, an Occupant aboard Vessel 1 looked up and observed the tree line in his view.  As the Occupant was telling the Operator of Vessel 1 what he was seeing, Vessel 1 ran aground, travelling all the way up to a cement wall and stopping when the bow of Vessel 1 collided with the wall.  A stringer was broken during the grounding/collision resulting in a puncture hole to the fuel tank of Vessel 1.   Approximately 100 gallons of fuel spilled a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2012-0026
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:27:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: Ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was travelling on plane and hit a wake causing operator to be ejected from vessel. Operator was complaining of tingling in legs while in the water. Operator was picked up by a pontoon boat and transported to shore. Operator was transported to Hospital by Paris Twp. fire rescue.


BARDID: OH-2012-0030
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seneca Lake
NearestCityTown: Senecaville
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Owner of Vessel 1 contacted law enforcement to report damage to Vessel 1 while it was docked at the Marina Campground Ramp.  Investigation of the damage to Vessel 1 led to a determination that Vessel 1 had been struck by another vessel causing heavy damage to the skirting on the starboard side of Vessel 1 from the stern to the side gate.  There were no witnesses to the event.


BARDID: OH-2012-0031
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dillon Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Zanesville
County: Muskingum
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading northwest at approximately 20 miles per hour, operating in the ski zone pulling one of the Occupants on a tube.  Vessel 2 was also heading northwest at approximately 25 miles per hour in a path parallel and to the port side of Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 turned slightly to starboard to try to throw a wake onto Vessel 1.  Realizing the imminent collision the Operator of Vessel 1 turned slightly to starboard; the Operator of Vessel 1 turned hard to port at the same time.  The speed and prioximity of the two vessels made the actions taken insufficient to avoid the collision and the starboard bow of Vessel 2 impacted the port side of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 both shiftted into neutral following the collision at which time the Occupant being towed behind Vessel 1 swung to the port side of Vessel 1 and impacted the port side of Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2012-0033
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lakewood
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was cruising east from Avon Lake back to Cleveland when the wind picked up and began gusting, creating whitecaps on the lake.  The Operator of Vessel 1 slowed Vessel 1 because of the choppiness and noticed that waves were beginning to roll over the bow, swamping Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 subsequently took on additional water, eventually capsizing and putting all of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 into the water.  Initially all of the Occupants tried to stay with Vessel 1, holding onto the hull, but were unable to do so and instead swam to shore.  All of the Occupants were able to make it to shore safely.


BARDID: OH-2012-0035
Date: 2012-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator piloted Vessel 1 in a roughly northern direction out of the main entrance of the Cleveland  Breakwall onto Lake Erie.  After clearing the entrance the Operator determined that the conditions on the lake exceeded his experience and he began turning Vessel 1 around to attempt to re-enter the main entrance back off of Lake Erie.  As Vessel 1 was being turned to port to attempt this maneuver, and as Vessel 1 came about to a position with the bow of Vessel 1 pointing east, the Operator became uncomfortable with the situation and instead decided that he would travel with the waves to the East Light to attempt re-entry into the harbor.  At aproximately half the distance to the East Light Vessel 1 collided with the breakwall due to the force of the waves.  The Operator held Vessel 1 off of the breakwall while everyone exited Vessel 1 onto the breakwall; in doing so, the Operator sprained his shoulder and hand.


BARDID: OH-2012-0040
Date: 2012-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Auglaize River
NearestCityTown: Defiance
County: Paulding
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling upstream at approximately 8 miles per hour when Vessel 2, approaching from the port stern of Vessel 1 at approximately 20 miles per hour, collided with the port stern of Vessel 1.  Damage was incurred by both vessels as a result of the accident; no injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2012-0041
Date: 2012-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:01:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Harveysburg
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were in a crossing situation with Vessel 2 to the port of Vessel 1 in a "give way" position and Vessel 1 to the starboard of Vessel 2 in a "stand on" position.  Vessel 2 was towing a skier at the time of the incident and did not "give way"; Vessel 1 did not react in sufficient time to avoid collision with Vessel 2.  As a result of the collision there were multiple injuries.


BARDID: OH-2012-0042
Date: 2012-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caesar Creek
NearestCityTown: Harveysburg
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by vessel equipm
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored (to allow the Occupants to go swimming); when the persons reboarded Vessel 1 and decided to leave the area, they forgot to pull the anchor first.  As Vessel 1 accelerated the anchor was propelled through the water and struck the Victim above the right eye, causing a laceration.


BARDID: OH-2012-0043
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Miami River
NearestCityTown: Oregonia
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator/Victim and a second Occupant were travelling downriver in Vessel 1 when the Victim jumped/dove out of Vessel 1 to swim, in the process striking his head on the bottom of the river.  The Victim lost consciousness as a result of the incident and was pulled to shore by the other Occupant aboard Vessel 1.  The Victim awoke with no feeling from the waist down and was life-flighted for additional care.  The Victim suffered a broken neck with a good prognosis following anticipated surgery.  Investigation revealed no indication of drug or alcohol involvement in the incident.  The Victim was not wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident.

On June 5, 2012, the Victim was reported as deceased based on complications of the spinal injury (development of rhabdomyeltis and tissue loss) as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2012-0044
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buck Creek
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was approximately 100 yards off the shoreline when the Operator throttled Vessel 1 up onto plane; as Vessel 1 came onto plane the steering mechanism gave way and caused a sudden "slam" of the motor resulting in Vessel 1's motor being torn from the transom.  Vessel 1 subsequently submerged as well.


BARDID: OH-2012-0045
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:35:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Lakeview
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was being towed behind Vessel 1 on a tube at approximately 15-20 miles per hour when the tube struck a wave and wind caught the tube, flipping over the tube and ejecting the Victim into the water.  Following the incident the Victim ended up on her back face up in the water and not moving; the Operator and an Occupant aboard Vessel 1 jumped into the water and stabilized the Victim's head and body.  Emergency services arrived on scene at this point and stabilized/backboarded the Victim who was then Medflighted to the hospital for injuries later diagnosed as an unspecified spinal injury.


BARDID: OH-2012-0047
Date: 2012-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Portage Lakes
NearestCityTown: New Franklin
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Occupant 2 attempted to board Vessel 1 not realizing that Vessel 1 was not tied to the dock; the Victim fell between the dock and Vessel 1 causing injury to the shoulder.


BARDID: OH-2012-0048
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Cincinnati
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was leaving the dock when it caught fire.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was able to extinguish the fire, although Vessel 1 was a complete loss.  The Operator claimed injuries, but following the incident returned to Dayton, Kentucky and was uncooperative in providing additional information regarding the cause of the incident and the extent of injuries received.  The only additional information available to investigating officers was from the remains of Vessel 1 which was left on scene.


BARDID: OH-2012-0050
Date: 2012-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:36:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Upper Sandusky Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Upper Sandusky
County: Wyandot
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements and evidence, the Victim launched Vessel 1 to go fishing.  Witness said Victim had difficulty rowing.  Victim rowed out of sight of the witness.  A short time later, another witness saw the Victim in the water trying to get back into Vessel 1.  Victim 1 indicated that he needed help; the witness called 911. Shortly thereafter the witness lost sight of the Victim.  When the police arrived, they located the Victim floating on his back.  A police Officer swam to the Victim and brought him back to shore.  Emergency Services transported the Victim to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
 
Investigation revealed that the capacity plate on Vessel 1 indicated a maximum capacity of 2 persons at 150 pounds; the Victim weighed 319 pounds.


BARDID: OH-2012-0051
Date: 2012-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:41:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was discovered on the rocks of the north side of Burke Lakefront Airport.  No one was on board or around the vessel.  The Coast Guard searched for Occupants that evening without success.  The owner was located at home the next morning.  He denied being on the boat, knowing who was on it, or how it came to be where it was found.


BARDID: OH-2012-0052
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:49:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Cincinnati
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was approximately 20 yards out from the Riverside Launch Ramp approaching the dock and waiting for another vessel at that location to launch.  Vessel 2 was running on plane approximately 20 yards out parallel to the shoreline and starboard to Vessel 1 when Vessel 2 impacted Vessel 1.  The bow of Vessel 2 went over the top of Vessel 1, striking the Operator of Vessel 1 in the head.  Vessel 2 continued to travel over the top of Vessel 1, exiting the stern area of Vessel 1 at an approximately 45-degree angle.  Two of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 suffered injuries, with the Operator of Vessel 1 later succumbing to his injuries resulting in his death two days after the incident.  The Operator of Vessel 2 left the scene following the incident.  None of the parties aboard Vessel 2 suffered injury.  Both vessels involved suffered damage.
 
Determination of charges will not be available until after a Grand Jury trial in 2013; damages on vessels are estimates as well until the case has been heard/settled.


BARDID: OH-2012-0058
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seneca Lake
NearestCityTown: Senecaville
County: Noble
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was at anchor in the boat swim area when the Victim, standing on the right side of the swim platform of Vessel 1, slipped and fell overboard.  While falling, the Victim's right leg was caught on the cleat located on the right side of the stern of Vessel 1 causing signifgicant injury.


BARDID: OH-2012-0060
Date: 2012-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Bratenahl
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading east into Newport Harbor with 16 persons on board when Vessel 1 struck an unidentified object in the water) and began taking on water; the Coast Guard responded to the scene and towed Vessel 1 (and its Occupants) to safety.


BARDID: OH-2012-0062
Date: 2012-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Fork/Harsha Lake
NearestCityTown: Bethel
County: Clermont
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was in operation approximately 100 yards from the shore and the boat ramp when it struck and became stuck upon the top of a submerged stump.  As a result of the impact, the stump pierced the hull of Vessel 1.  The two individuals aboard Vessel 1 were able to enter the water and swim to shore following the incident.  When the Owner/Operator returned to the scene to recover Vessel 1, it was discovered that the stump was protruding even further through Vessel 1, now protruding from the base of the floorboard all the way up to the steering wheel.  The stump was cut off, allowing Vessel 1 to be freed, at which time Vessel 1 was towed to the ramp to be trailered.


BARDID: OH-2012-0063
Date: 2012-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:21:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maumee River
NearestCityTown: Toledo
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was underway, travelling downstream on plane towards Lake Erie, when Vessel 1 entered an area where several larger vessels were creating significant wakes.  Vessel 1 struck one of these wakes and pitched downward, causing the Victim to be lifted from a seat in the open bow seating area.  Vessel 1 subsequently pitched back upward as the Victim was coming back down, causing the Victim to be compressed against the seat resulting in injury.


BARDID: OH-2012-0065
Date: 2012-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie - Sandusky Bay
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel purchased Vessel 1 and attempted to transport Vessel 1 back home by water to Chicago.  The Operator had never owned a boat before and was unable to fuel Vessel 1 on his own; he then decided to travel to Cedar Point Marina en route to Chicago to purchase fuel for Vessel 1.  As Vessel 1 was coming into Sandusky Bay it ran out of fuel.  Water conditions were rough at this time and Vessel 1 subsequently washed onto the rocks at the Cedar Point Breakwall.


BARDID: OH-2012-0066
Date: 2012-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Oak Harbor
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 reported that Vessel 1 was in operation when it began to act like it was out of fuel.  The Operator of Vessel 1 pulled Vessel 1 onto a sand bar west of the marina entrance and refueled.  When Vessel 1 was restarted and the Operator attempted to leave the area Vessel 1 stalled.  The Operator put out the anchor but it would not hold resulting in Vessel 1 washing up onto the rock breakwall.


BARDID: OH-2012-0067
Date: 2012-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:38:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie - Sandusky Bay
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
While in route from Lake Erie (Sandusky) to the Vermilion River Vessel 1 got too close to the Bay point Sand Bar and ran aground.  Vessel 1 then filled with water.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: OH-2012-0068
Date: 2012-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was approaching the Cedar Point Causeway when the depth of the water (unbeknownst to the Operator) becam quite shallow.  The motor intake on Vessel 1 took in mud, blocking the intake so water could not enter the motor.  As a result of the blockage the impeller on Vessel 1 was burnt up, at which time the motor on Vessel 1 also overheated.


BARDID: OH-2012-0072
Date: 2012-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St. Marys
NearestCityTown: Celina
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements and evidence, on 06/19/2012 at approximately 1430, victim #1 went out on vessel #1 to cool off. Late afternoon a witness reported vessel #1 was drifting close to shore by their residence and no one was on board. Officers checked the owners residence and found that victim#1 was to be out on Vessel #1. A search was conducted without results. On 06/20/2012 the search resumed and at approximately 1426, victim #1 was located. Victim #1 was tranported to Coldwater Hospital by Celina EMS and pronounced dead.


BARDID: OH-2012-0075
Date: 2012-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Milton
NearestCityTown: Lake Milton
County: Mahoning
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was operating at a high rate of speed towing occupant numbers 6 & 7 on a tube. Operator turned vessel #1 to starboard and as tube swung around it hit the wake of another vessel causing occupants 6 & 7 to be ejected from the tube. Occupants 6 & 7 were wearing lifejackets. Occupant number 7 complained of neck pain and was transported to the hospital, treated and released.


BARDID: OH-2012-0076
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mosquito Lake
NearestCityTown: Mecca
County: Trumbull
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Weather
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim (Occupant 2) left an unanchored vessel (Vessel 1) to swim without wearing a personal flotation device. Rescue attempts by owner/ operator failed. Victim went missing presumed drown. Victim was recovered approx. 2 hrs. 50 min. later by fire dept. personell. County Coroner ruled accidental death by drowning.


BARDID: OH-2012-0077
Date: 2012-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:06:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: Ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was operating on plane towing two persons on a tube. Operator of vessel #1 turned a sharp turn and tube traveled over a wake causing both persons on the tube to go airborn. Both occupants of the tube fell into the water and presumably  their heads made contact with each other as both occupants complained of head injuries and were transported to hospital.


BARDID: OH-2012-0079
Date: 2012-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Apple Valley
NearestCityTown: Howard
County: Knox
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements and evidence, on 06/29/2012 at approximately 2000, after a large storm had passed, vessel #1 was taken out on Apple Valley Lake by operator #1 and passenger #1.  Operator #1 said they were out approximately an hour, traveling along the the east shoreline, looking to help anyone from the storm, when vessel #1 hit a submerged item causing vessel #1 to turn sharply to the right, causing operator #1 to fall out of the seat to the floor and vessel #1 to crash into a concrete pier on a private dock. Upon impact, both operator #1 and passenger #1 were injured and vessel #1 became submerged.


BARDID: OH-2012-0080
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:26:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Lewis Center
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was rented by the Operator.  After departing from the rental area, the Operator and two additional Occupants noticed that Vessel 1 was performing poorly and that the seat was broken.  The Operator then returned Vessel 1 to the rental agency where it was determined that the bilge was full of water and the bilge pump wasn't working properly.  The rental agency pumped out the bilge with a spare pump and the Operator and Occupants aboard Vessel 1 again returned to boating.  After being put back into operation Vessel 1 again took on water at which time the Operator contacted the rental agency via cell phone and another boater in the vicinity was hailed for assistance.  Vessel 1 then capsized, putting all three parties into the water; all persons were safely brought on board the vessel in the area that had been hailed for assistance.  Vessel 1 was then towed to the ramp and removed from the water at which time it was determined that the prop shaft was bent (breaking the lower unit) and the prop was cracked and broken.  The rental agency claims that the damage was done during the rental term although the Operator denies this being the case.


BARDID: OH-2012-0081
Date: 2012-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pleasant Hill
NearestCityTown: Perrysville
County: Richland
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
BASED ON EVIDENCE AND STATEMENTS, VESSEL #1/OPERATOR #1 AND VESSEL #2/OPERATOR #2 WERE TRAVELING SIDE BY SIDE, WITH VESSEL #2 TO THE STARBOARD OF VESSEL #1, TOWARD THE MARINA, WHEN OPERATOR #1 SPED UP THEN CIRCLED TO THE LEFT AND CAME BACK AROUND TO SPLASH WATER ON THE OPERATOR AND PASSENGER OF VESSEL #2.  THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1  MISJUDGED THE DISTANCE AND STRUCK THE OPERATOR AND PASSENGER OF VESSEL #2 ON THEIR LEFT LEGS WITH THE BOW OF VESSEL #1, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY TO BOTH PEOPLE AND BREAKING THE HANDLE BAR OF VESSEL #2.


BARDID: OH-2012-0085
Date: 2012-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:11:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pymatuning Lake
NearestCityTown: Andover
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was leaving the dock, after being rented, with the Operator and one additional Occupant on board.  The Operator was located in the stern area and the Occupant was seated at the bow.  While idling away from the dock a wave struck the starboard side of Vessel 1, knocking both the Operator and the Occupant over the port side of Vessel 1.  Another boater in the area gave assistance and brought both persons back to the ramp; neither the Operator nor the Occupant were wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident.  Emergency services arrived on scene a short time later; the Operator was exhausted from treading water and was administerd oxygen but refused further treatment.   Vessel 1 suffered no damage although both persons on board suffered the loss of personal items.


BARDID: OH-2012-0087
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Kingsville
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with four persons on board, was headed south at approximately 30 miles per hour when the Victim stood on the swim platform and attempted to install the 360-degree white light at the vessel's stern.  While attempting to do so Vessel 1 struck a wave and the Victim fell overboard.  The Victim was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident and none of the other parties on board Vessel 1 was immediately aware that the Victim had fallen overboard.  Upon discovery (approximately 15 minutes later) of the Victim's absence the Operator of Vessel 1 turned Vessel 1 around to search for the Victim.  When the Operator was unable to locate the Victim the Operator contacted the Coast Guard who started a search and a short time later located the Victim.  The Victim was transported and treated for hypothermia but suffered no other injuries after being in the water for approximately 1 hour .


BARDID: OH-2012-0088
Date: 2012-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Lore City
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (a rented vessel) was being operated with two persons on board and one person being towed on a ski tube behind Vessel 1 when the tuber (the Victim) caught her leg in the rope as she fell off the tube.  The Victim was transported to the emergency room following the incident where she was treated and released with rope burns and bruising on her right leg.


BARDID: OH-2012-0089
Date: 2012-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork Lake
NearestCityTown: Cambridge
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: OPERATOR FATiGUE
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 entered the water in the vicinity of the Boaters Beach area in order to swim/pull Vessel 1 onto the shoreline.  The Operator  became fatigued while attempting to swim/pull Vessel 1 and went under the water for approximately 30-45 seconds, eventually being pulled out of the water by a bystander.  Emergency services arrived on scene a short time later and transported the Operator to the hospital where the Victim was treated for water inhalation caused by the near drowning.  The Victim was treated and released the same day of the incident.
 
Vessel 1 had no hull identification number due to the fact that it was an inflatable raft.


BARDID: OH-2012-0090
Date: 2012-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: improper tow
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Other
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
OtherAccidentEvent: vessel destruction
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating near the water treatment plant when Vessel 1 stalled and was unable to be restarted.  The Operator of Vessel 1 called the Coast Guard for assistance.  Upon arrival at the scene Vessel 2 placed Vessel 1 (improperly) in tow; specifically, Vessel 2 reportedly towed Vessel 1 by the handlebars rather than the bow eye of Vessel 1 resulting in the steering column of Vessel 1 being torn loose during the tow.  Vessel 1 later grounded and was recovered the following day.


BARDID: OH-2012-0091
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Vermilion
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was at anchor at the time of the incident; Vessel 1 was under sail at the time of the incident.  Vessel 1 was travelling on a course to collide with Vessel 2, however, the position of the sails on Vessel 1 affected the ability  of the Operator to see the danger and no additional lookout had been posted aboard Vessel 1.  At approximately 25 yards away from collision one of the Occupants aboard Vessel 2 saw Vessel 1 approaching and cried out; alerted of the danger the Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to avoid the collision by turning to port but was too close to avoid contact with Vessel 2.  The starboard side of Vessel 1 struck the port side of Vessel 2; the Operator of Vessel 1 then circled Vessel 2 a few times and then left the scene.  The Operator of Vessel 2 contacted USA Tow/USCG Station Lorain to investigate the incident.


BARDID: OH-2012-0092
Date: 2012-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Cleveland
County: Cuyahoga
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was headed north at 5 miles per hour; Vessel 1 was on plane and struck Vessel 2 with the bow of Vessel 1 striking the starboard side of Vessel 2 near the stern.  As a result of the collision the Operator of Vessel 1 was ejected; he was then assisted onto the swim platform of Vessel 2 by the passengers aboard Vessel 2 where he rested for several minutes and then re-boarded Vessel 1 and left the scene.  The Operator of Vessel 1 later transported himself to be checked out after experiencing soreness in his chest area.


BARDID: OH-2012-0094
Date: 2012-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Sheffield Lake
County: Lorain
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 launched (alone) in the early morning hours with the intention of paddling to the takeout; at the time of the incident Vessel 1 had 6-inch foam blocks placed on the gunwales from a car-top mount.  During the trip the Operator of Vessel 1 went to shore twice to wait out passing thunderstorms.  Following the two stops, after the Operator launched for the third time, one of the foam blocks fell off the gunwale into the water.  The Operator stood up in Vessel 1 and leaned over to reach the foam block, subsequently tipping Vessel 1 and falling into the water.  The Operator was not wearing a PFD at this time and the force of the wind and waves pushed Vessel 1 away from him.  The Operator remained in the water, unable to catch Vessel 1, while a third line of thunderstorms passed through the area.  Several hours later another boater in the area found Vessel 1 adrift and notified USCG Station Lorain.  Vessel 1 was recovered and a search began for the Operator.  A passerby on shore observed the Operator in the water and alerted a passing PWC to the situation who assisted the Operator (the Victim) who was three-fourths to one mile offshore, clinging to a foam block, and was very tired and dehydrated.  The Victim was transported to shore and then on to the hospital where he was admitted overnight for observation and released the next day.


BARDID: OH-2012-0096
Date: 2012-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Cincinnati
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was being operated on the Ohio River, just downstream from River Towne, when Vessel 1 struck an unknown submerged object; the collision resulted in the engine and mount breaking free from the transom and Vesel 1 beginning to take on water.  The Occupants aboard Vessel 1 were unable to bail water from Vessel 1 at a fast enough rate and another boater in the area was hailed for assistance.  The aiding vessel and respnding emergency services towed Vessel 1 to the ramp where it was tied to a tree on the shoreline; Vessel 1 was recovered the following day after becoming partially submerged.


BARDID: OH-2012-0098
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:21:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was under sail travelling south; Vessel 1 was travelling northeast on a path intersecting with the course of Vessel 2.  The Operator of Vessel 1 reported that Vessel 1 struck a large boat wake, dumping everything from the dash and glove box of Vessel 1 onto the floor of the vessel.  The Operator of Vessel 1 left Vessel 1 in gear while starting to pick up the materials from the floor; when the Operator looked back up he saw Vessel 2 approaching from his port side but it was too late to avoid collision.  Vessel 2 impacted Vessel 1 with the bow of Vessel 2 striking the port side of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0099
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:40:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Kelleys Island
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was tied to the dock (with the stern side in) with Vessel 2 docked (with its bow side in) in the slip to the starboard of Vessel 1.  As Vessel 2 was maneuvering out of its slip the throttle on Vessel 2 became stuck in reverse resulting in the starboard stern of Vessel 1 striking the starboard side bow of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0100
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:01:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toussaint River
NearestCityTown: Oak Harbor
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was approaching its dock at idle speed when Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 on the rear starboard side, also making contact with the Operator of Vessel 2 resulting in a broken leg.


BARDID: OH-2012-0102
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:49:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: CJ Brown Reservoir/Buck Creek
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
AccidentCause3: Hull failure
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was cruising at approximately 40 miles per hour; the Operator stated that Vessel 1 was "bouncing" while in operation, but he did not feel Vessel 1 strike anything in the water.  A short time later Vessel 1 began taking on water; a large hole was found mid-ship port side of the bottom of Vessel 1 presumably from having struck an unidentified submerged object.


BARDID: OH-2012-0106
Date: 2012-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St. Marys
NearestCityTown: Montezuma
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The owner of Vessel 1 reported that he was working on the engine; he had bypassed the starter with a screwdriver and when he tried turning over the starter it sparked, igniting gasoline under the engine.  The Owner was unsure of how the gasoline got under the engine.  The fire was extinguished by a local fire department and no injuries were sustained in the incident.


BARDID: OH-2012-0108
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian Lake
NearestCityTown: Huntsville
County: Logan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was taken back out on the water by the Occupants after meeting with friends on shore.  After Vessel 1 was in operation, one of the Occupants jumped from the moving vessel; she was not wearing a personal flotation device at this time.  The Victim was then struck by the propeller of Vessel 1 in the head, right hand, and left foot although the exact series of events leading to the strikes were unclear.  The Victim was transported to the hospital for treatment following the incident.  It was noted that several persons in the party were intoxicated. 

The group was uncooperative with investigators (would not identify the Operator amongst the group) and were later transported to the Logan County Jail for obstructing justice


BARDID: OH-2012-0109
Date: 2012-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St. Marys
NearestCityTown: Celina
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was travelling northwest when Vessel 1, also heading north (initially to the stern of Vessel 2) passed Vessel 2 along the starboard side of Vessel 2.  The Operator of Vessel 2 reported that he did see Vessel 1 in his peripheral vision at this time.  As Vessel 1 proceeded past Vessel 2, the Operator of Vessel 1 then made a hard turn to port, in front of Vessel 2, resulting in the pontoon of Vessel 2 striking the port side of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0114
Date: 2012-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: PARIS TWP.
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS TRAVELLING SOUTHBOUND AT APPROX. 18 MPH. OCCUPANTS 3 & 4 WERE RIDING ON AN INFLATABLE DEVICE. OPERATOR TURNED CAUSING INFLATABLE DEVICE TO CROSS THEIR WAKE AND COLLIDE WITH THE WAKE OF A PASSING VESSEL. OCCUPANTS 3 & 4 WENT AIRBORN AND OCCUPANT #4 KNEE HIT OCCUPANT #3 IN THE GROIN AREA. OCCUPANT #3 WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND TREATED AND RELEASED FOR A GROIN PULL.


BARDID: OH-2012-0115
Date: 2012-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alum Creek
NearestCityTown: Delaware
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was rented by a party of 4 adults and 8 children for the purpose of water tubing.  Once out on the lake, witnesses reported seeing multiple children from Vessel 1 in the water wearing lifejackets and two of the adults from Vessel 1 without lifejackets jumping into the water to assist the children.  Both of the adults who entered the water took on water as the children panicked, hanging onto the adults' shoulders and necks.  Both adults had no swimming experience and were additionally fatigued by waves made by other vessels in the area on the day of the incident.  After being assisted by others in the area the two Victims were both transported to the ramp in semi-conscious states and transported to the hospital where one was treated and released and one was kept overnight for observation before being released.


BARDID: OH-2012-0118
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:29:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Geneva
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Three persons on board Vessel 1 were fishing, then decided to pull anchor and head back to shore.  The Operator started to pull anchor, but did not notice that the line had drifted under the vessel as he started the engine.  The anchor line wrapped around the prop, causing Vessel 1 to stall out, and the waves turned Vessel 1 sideways to the waves.  Vessel 1 then took a wave over the side, partially swamping Vessel 1, and a second wave completely swamped the vessel.  One of the Occupants was able to use a cell phone to contact USCG Station Ashtabula for assistance; the USCG responded and pulled all three persons aboard the USCG vessel.  All passengers aboard Vessel 1 were checked by emergency services and refused any treatment.


BARDID: OH-2012-0119
Date: 2012-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:37:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Saybrook Township
County: Ashtabula
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating (with a trolling motor) approximately 6-10 miles northwest of Ashtabula when a roque wave struck the transom of Vessel 1.  The Operator then started the main engine and attempted to shift into forward gear at which time the main engine stalled.  The Operator was unable to get the main engine restarted and another roque wave struck Vessel 1 at the transom, swamping and sinking Vessel 1.  None of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 was wearing a PFD at the time of the incident, although they were able to grab onto floating debris after entering the water as a result of the incident.  All of the Occupants were rescued by Good Samaritans in the area and transported to the public dock where they were met by emergency services.


BARDID: OH-2012-0121
Date: 2012-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Lore City
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 had been unloaded from its trailer and was in the water near the launch ramp at the time of the incident.  The Operator and three Occupants entered Vessel 1, however, the Operator did not use the blower/ventilation system prior to trying to start the engine.  As the Operator turned the ignition key, the engine on Vessel 1 turned over several times (about 5 seconds) without starting; at this point an explosion occurred in the stern of Vessel 1 near the engine.  One of the Occupants near the explosion suffered first and second degree burns on her lower legs, thighs, and lower back.  A second Occupant was thrown into the air by the force of the explosion, landing back in the boat and sustaining an injured heel and a bruised right ankle.  The remaining Occupant and the Operator did not suffer any injury as a result of the incident.  The Operator used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire; the two injured parties were transported to the hospital for treatment of their injuries.


BARDID: OH-2012-0122
Date: 2012-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atwood Lake
NearestCityTown: Dellroy
County: Carroll
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored from the bow and the stern with eight persons on board; the Operator reported that Vessel 1 had to be "moved" several times during the day in order to stay in the position they wanted Vessel 1 in, which was done by leaving the stern anchor line in the water and pulling the bow anchor line.  When the party decided to pull both anchors and leave the area they discovered that the stern anchor line was entangled in the propeller, presumably due to the "moving" that was done earlier in the day.  One of the Occupants (the Victim) entered the water to free the stern anchor line from the prop at which time the Operator started Vessel 1 inadvertently resulting in a laceration to the right hand of the Victim which required stitches.


BARDID: OH-2012-0123
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Cambridge
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The Victim was wakeboarding behind Vessel 1 when she lost balance and fell.  After the fall the Victim complained of abdominal pain.  The Victim was taken to the hospital where she was diagnosed with a muscle strain.


BARDID: OH-2012-0125
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seneca Lake
NearestCityTown: Senecaville
County: Noble
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were both travelling southeast toward Sandy Beach at approxinately 35-40 miles per hour, in parallel, with Vessel 2 slightly ahead and to port of Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 turned hard to starboard, rotating 180 degrees and placing Vessel 2 directly head-on in the path of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 was too close to avoid collision and the bow of Vessel 1 impacted the bow of Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 then travelled up and over the top of Vessel 2, striking the Operator of Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2012-0126
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salt Fork
NearestCityTown: Lore City
County: Guernsey
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling through an open ski zone at approximately 25 miles per hour when the Operator stepped away from the helm to close a hatch.  When the Operator returned to the helm he realized that Vessel 1 had steered toward a point of land nearby.  The Operator tried to make steering corrections but was unable to and ran aground on the shoreline.


BARDID: OH-2012-0127
Date: 2012-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:33:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermilion River
NearestCityTown: Vermilion
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, running a charter with six persons on board, had engine problems and would not start.  Vessel 2, also running a charter with six persons on board, was in the process of towing Vessel 1 back to shore when the incident occured.  The Operator of Vessel 2, with Vessel 1 in tow, left the helm of Vessel 2 and let out additional tow line.  While the Operator of Vessel 2 was away from the helm, Vessel 2 got too close to the west side of the river (to starboard of Vessel 2) and almost struck Vessel 3 which was docked at the Waterworks Dock to the starboard of Vessel 2.  Although the Operator of Vessel 2 was able to swerve to port to avoid a collision between Vessel 2 and Vessel 3, as a result of the swerve Vessel 1 swung out to starboard and struck Vessel 3 causing extensive damage to Vessel 3.  Vessel 2 and Vessel 1 then left the scene without stopping as required by law.


BARDID: OH-2012-0130
Date: 2012-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Higginsport
County: Brown
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was travelling upriver approxinately 50 feet from the Ohio shoreline.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was changing a song on his cell phone when he looked up and then turned sharply to port to avoid a stump in the water.  As a result of this quick maneuver Vessel 1 then struck a tree on the Ohio shoreline at 40 miles per hour.  Vessel 1 suffered damage to the bow on the port side of Vessel 1; the Operator and one Occupant aboard Vessel 1 were transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the collision.


BARDID: OH-2012-0131
Date: 2012-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Curtis
County: Lucas
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
While in operation with two persons on board, the motor kept shifting out of forward gear on Vessel 1.  The Operator tried to return to port, but on the way the forward gear totally failed.  The Operator then tried to operate in reverse to get back to port, but the large waves on the day of the incident continued to come over the transom of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 then drifted onto the rocks along the shoreline at which point the Operator and Occupant exited Vessel 1 but continued to try to hold Vessel 1 away from the rocks.  The Operator slipped on the rocks during this time and fell, cutting his leg.  Marine Rescue arrived on scene a short time later and was able to pull Vessel 1 off the rocks with minimal damage.


BARDID: OH-2012-0132
Date: 2012-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Oak Harbor
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was trolling with four persons on board when the Operator left the helm to check a fishing line.  In doing so he noticed that water was coming in the starboard scupper and that the bilge was not working properly.  The Operator then tried to start the main engine and it would not start.  The Operator tried putting in a new battery but was still unsuccessful in gettting the main engine to start.  The Operator instructed everyone on board to don a PFD as Vessel 1 then submerged; Vessel 1 then capsized sending all four Occupants aboard into the water.


BARDID: OH-2012-0133
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was returning to Put-In-Bay to port via the Huron River at night.  One of the Occupants aboard Vessl 1 cried out that "there is an island in front of the boat" at which time the Operator slowed and turned hard to starboard to avoid collision with the island.  Despite this effort, Vessel 1 still ran aground on the southern tip of the island.  Investigation revealed that the island was not on Vessel 1's GPS.


BARDID: OH-2012-0134
Date: 2012-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Put-In-Bay
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was returning to Put-In-Bay from Pelee Island and, as Vessel 1 approached Buckeye Reef, the Operator of Vessel 1 observed that the water depth was getting shallower.  The Operator brought Vessel 1 down to idle speed and attempted to turn Vessel 1 around to gain deeper water; at this time Vessel 1 struck bottom and became stuck.  As a wave would pass Vessel 1 would lift slightly, allowing the Operator to gain a little distance into deeper water; another boater in the area saw what was going on and came to Vessel 1's assistance to try to pull them back into deeper water as well.  As Vessel 1 was being pulled out it struck bottom hard several times.  Once back in deeper water the Operator of Vessel 1 observed that there were 2-3 inches of water in the cabin (later determined to have been caused by damage to the bottom of the vessel).  Vessel 1 was able to be operated to Put-In-Bay.


BARDID: OH-2012-0135
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Port Clinton
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 had taken Vessel 1 our for a test drive and was travelling south into the entrance of West Harbor at planing speed when Vessel 1 struck a submerged rock, puncturing the hull of Vessel 1 and ejecting the Operator of Vesel 1 into the water.


BARDID: OH-2012-0136
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie - Sandusky Bay
NearestCityTown: Sandusky
County: Erie
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating at approximately 475 horsepower with two persons in tow on a tube following Vessel 1.  The Operator of Vessel 1, although significantly experienced in boating in general, was not aware of the growth in the sand bar in the area since last boating there.  Vessel 1 subsequently struck the sand bar causing one of the Occupants aboard Vessel 1 to propel forward and strike a seat; no other injuries to persons on board Vessel 1 or in tow behind Vessel 1 were reported.  Vessel 1 did sustain some minor fiberglass/hull damage as a result of the incident.


BARDID: OH-2012-0137
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Other
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
RedactedNarrative:
This incident occured during a sailing class offered by the ODNR Division of Watercaft.

Vessel 1, with 2 persons on board, began to list to one side.  The Occupant aboard Vessel 1 then moved toward the high side to try to provide provide balance.  As a result of these actions the Operator panicked and let go of the rudder resulting in the boom swinging around and striking the Occupant in the head and pushing the Occupant off of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0138
Date: 2012-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Erie
NearestCityTown: Lakeside
County: Ottawa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was at dock at the Mazurik Boat Ramp after being launched with Vessel 1 to starboard of the courtesy dock.  Vessel 2 was in open water to the stern and port of Vessel 1 and the courtesy dock waiting to be pulled from the water.  Vessel 2 was running in grass weeds where it was located and the Operator shut off the motor.  At this time Vessel 1 backed away from the dock, moving its stern to port as it did so, and quickly approaching Vessel 2.  The Operator of Vessel 2 tried to restart to avoid the collision but was unable to do so and the rail on the stern of Vessel 1 struck the port side of Vessel 2, causing damage to Vessel 2 and impacting the Operator aboard Vessel 2.


BARDID: OH-2012-0139
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Scioto River
NearestCityTown: Chillicothe
County: Ross
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, with a single person on board, was being paddled downstream on the river when it entered an area with a very strong current.  Vessel 1 wa pushed into a strainer in this area causing Vessel 1 to capsize and ejecting the Operator into the water.  Vessel 1 was unable to be recovered and all of the contents aboard Vessel 1 were lost; the Operator of Vessel 1 was rescued by the Ross County Sheriff's Office.


BARDID: OH-2012-0141
Date: 2012-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand Lake St. Marys
NearestCityTown: Celina
County: Mercer
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating on plane when it struck an unknown submerged object resulting in damage to the lower unit of Vessel 1.


BARDID: OH-2012-0142
Date: 2012-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: Paris TWP
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 operating on plane towing occupant #4 on an inflatable device when operator made a turn causing inflatable device to cross the wake. Occupant #4 was thrown from device going airborn and landing on device causing broken ribs and punctured lung on right side.


BARDID: OH-2012-0143
Date: 2012-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: Ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 traveling Westbound towing an inflatable device when Vessel 1struck bottom in a shallow area causing severe vessel damage.  Vessel #1 began taking on water and was towed to shore by a good samaritan.


BARDID: OH-2012-0144
Date: 2012-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: OH
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Branch
NearestCityTown: Ravenna
County: Portage
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Low Water Level
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 operating on plane towing two persons on inflatable device struck a submerged stump in low water conditions. Damage to prop, stabilization fins, drive shaft and fiberglass. No injuries.


