# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: TN-2011-0103
Date: 2011-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: NEW TAZEWELL
County: CLAIBORNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The missing was working on his vessel while afloat. He suspected it was out of gas. While looking at the engine he slid in the water and seemed to be joking until he sank and did not come back up.


BARDID: TN-2011-0104
Date: 2011-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: SHARP TURN
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary report:  On 08/01/11 at approximately 7:30PM, a male operator and female passenger leave Sonny's Marina in a 17'' Stratos boat after having supper and splitting two pitchers of beer.  At Pt. 22 the operator turns the boat downstream and goes to full throttle.  Shortly after, operator takes his eyes off the water to look at the occupant in passenger seat and say something.  Operator has right hand on steering wheel, no hand on the throttle, and does not have kill switch lanyard attached.  Operator stated he thinks they hit a wake and he felt the steering wheel turn to the right sharply.  The operator's hand comes off the steering wheel and boat turns sharply to the right.  Both operator and passenger and ejected.  Passenger sustains severe injuries from being struck by propeller and skeg.  The boat continues running unoccupied turning circles to the right.  A pontoon boat with 4 adults and 2 small children approach and aid the two out of the water.  the pontoon boat takes victim and operator to Sonny's Marina.  Victim is transported by Washington County EMS to Johnson City Medical Center where she undergoes emergency sugery.  Operator has only minor injuries and does not want medical treatment.  Operator submits to having a blood sample taken at investigating officer''s request.
To date, victim has had left leg amputated and undergone multiple surgeries to remove infectious material.


BARDID: TN-2011-0105
Date: 2011-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREENBACK
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both vessels were headed upstream on the Sinking Creek portion of Tellico Lake just beyond the bridge.  Vessel #2 slowed to a near stop when vessel #1 approached from behind.  The operator of #1 let off of the throttle to attempt to stop but was unable to.  He turned the bars to the right but still impacted #2 on the starbord side near the stern.  The passenger on vessel #2 was injured in the collision and was transported back to the house on Sequoyah RD where she was then transported to the ER.


BARDID: TN-2011-0106
Date: 2011-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: TEN MILE
County: MEIGS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, August 20, 2011 at approximately 18:00 hours, operator and his sister were swimming in Watts Bar Lake near the Wide Spot Access Area. They had driven a 60' Sumerset houseboat from Blue Springs Marina to the area where they decided to cool off with a swim. Both were swimming with the "pool type noodles". They noticed that the vessel (TN-3723-BN) was drifting away and operator swam after the boat with the "noodle" under him. The sister stated, "he was about 50 yards from getting to the boat and he just stopped swimming". The sister waved down another boat and told them what was going on and they called 911. The assisting boat found the brother face down in the water still on top of the "noodle" about 50 yards from the houseboat. EMS from Meigs County and bystanders helped get the victims and boat to the Wide Spot Access Area where CPR was performed. operator was unresponsive to EMS efforts and was pronounced dead on the scene by Director of Meigs Co. EMS.  TWRA was dispatched at 18:27 hrs. and arrived on scene at approximately 18:46 hrs. on above date.


BARDID: TN-2011-0107
Date: 2011-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANDRIDGE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 13, 2011 at approximately 13:45 hours, subject voluntarily left a rented pontoon boat to go swimming.  He was not wearing a PFD. The witness stated that after a couple of minutes, she noticed that subject was struggling to swim.  witness was laying on the sundeck and asked subject if he was OK.  She then dove into the water and attempted a rescue trying to push and pull subject to safety.  She stated that she was pulled under the water by subject.  witness told him to try and kick his legs and to lay on his back.  witness stated that she had to leave subject and swim back to the boat which was drifting away.  When she made it to the boat, she looked back and and did not see subject in the water.   

Rescue personnel located the victims body at about 9:50 pm in about 40 feet of water.


BARDID: TN-2011-0108
Date: 2011-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
On 20 August 2011, at approximately 9:15pm operator was operating his vessel on Center Hill Lake when he ran aground at the mouth of Raccoon Hollow. Upon hitting the shore with his vessel, two passengers were ejected. vessel travelled approximately sixty feet before if turned over pinning Operator and killing him instantly. The two occupants were both life flighted to Vanderbilt Hospital and were later released. Numerous bottles of beer and liquor were recovered from the vessel. Operator had been consuming alcohol and a BAC test is pending. This accident did occur in Dekalb County, TN.


BARDID: TN-2011-0109
Date: 2011-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: HIWASSEE RIVER
NearestCityTown: CHARLESTON
County: McMINN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ACCORDING TO STATEMENTS Operator and occupant ACCESSED THE HIWASSEE RIVER FROM THE CHARLESTON BOAT RAMP AT APPROXIMATELY 19:00HRS.  THEY TRAVELED A SHORT DISTANCE UPSTREAM AND THEN RETURNED DOWNSTREAM PASSING CHARLESTON BOAT RAMP.  THE VESSEL CONTINUED DOWNSTREAM PAST THE HWY 11 BRIDGE PASSING A PONTOON BOAT DURING THIS TIME.  Operator STATED THAT HE REACHED TOWARD A COMPARTMENT ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BOAT IN AN ATTEMPT TO RETRIEVE A CELL PHONE.  AS HE WAS REACHING FOR THE PHONE HE HEARD A "BOOM".  AS HE SAT BACK UP occupant FELL OVER IN THE BOAT WITH HER UPPER TORSO AND HEAD COMING TO REST IN Operator's LAP.  THE VESSEL CONTINUED DOWNSTREAM STRIKING A BRUSHY EMBANKMENT AND THEN FLOATING BACK TOWARD THE CHANNEL. Operator PLACED TOWELS ON THE VICTIMS INJURIES AND CALLED 911.  Both RECEIVED ASSISTANCE FROM A PONTOON BOAT UNTIL RESCUE AND EMS PERSONNEL ARRIVED ON SCENE.


BARDID: TN-2011-0110
Date: 2011-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on information to date V1 was approaching V2 while V2 was stopped.  As V1 neared V2, V2 began moving and turned abrubtly to port and into the path of V1 causing the vessels to collide.


BARDID: TN-2011-0111
Date: 2011-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Carbon monoxide exposure
AccidentEvent1: Carbon Monoxide Exposure
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-1-2011 at approximately 02:45 subject awoke from sleeping onboard the above described houseboat.  subject states that he was feeling dizzy, nauseous and lost conciousness twice.  After waking up from passing out subject states that he awoke the other occupants who all evacuated the vessel and turned off the generator.  Based on occupant statements the generator was running at the time of the incident and a ski boat was tied on the starboard side of the vessel towards the stern in front of the  generator exhaust pipe.  Mechanics report to be included in final report once completed.


BARDID: TN-2011-0115
Date: 2011-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PARKSVILLE LAKE
NearestCityTown: BENTON
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Dock owner visited his cabin on 8/28/11 on Parksville Lake after a two week absence and noticed his dock had been destroyed apparently by a vessel running into it.  Through an investigation with assistance by part time boating officer it was determined that operator ran his vessel into the dock on 8/20/11.  Operator stated it was very late at night and he thought he hit the shore or a tree near the shore.  Operator was charged with Failure to report a Boating Accident.


BARDID: TN-2011-0116
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:56:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, September 3rd 2011, I was dispatched to a boating accident at Island Point Drive. One subject was transported to Erlanger Hospital for lacerations to his leg and groin area. Witnesses state that victim was being towed on an inner tube and was near the back of the boat when they saw him fall off the tube and was pulled under by the prop. Witnesses state that victim shorts got caught in the prop and he was pulled under. He then came up and started yelling that he was hurt. They then called for an ambulance. He was treated at the hospital then released.


BARDID: TN-2011-0118
Date: 2011-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANDRIDGE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Very Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
ON JULY 4, 2011, Operator AND 5 PASSENGERS IN HIS VESSEL HAD LAUNCHED AND DEPARTED SHADY GROVE ACCESS AREA IN DANDRIDGE, TN IN operator's 1976 GALAXY RUNABOUT BOAT. THE WEATHER AT THE TIME OF LAUNCH WAS CLOUDY. AFTER OPERATING HIS BOAT UPRIVER IN AN EASTERLY DIRECTION FOR APPROXIMATELY 20-30 MINUTES, A SEVERE STORM THAT HAD WINDS IN EXCESS OF 40 MPH CAME FROM THE WEST. SOON THE BOAT WAS SURROUNDED BY HUGE WAVES FROM 5'-12' HIGH. operator TURNED THE BOAT TOWARD THE NEAREST SHORE AND WAS TRYING TO GET TO LAND WHEN SEVERAL WAVES CAME OVER THE BOW OF THE BOAT AND THEN WAVES BEGAN COMING OVER THE STERN AT THE SAME TIME, SWAMPING THE BOAT AND KILLING ALL POWER. THE BOAT BEGAN TO SINK AND ALL OCCUPANTS GRABBED EITHER A PFD OR A THROW CUSHION AND HAD TO SWIM TO SHORE. ALL BUT THE BOW OF THE VESSEL SANK BELOW THE SURFACE, AND APPROX 30 MINUTES LATER THE BOW WAS NO LONGER VISIBLE. THE 6 OCCUPANTS HAD BEEN ABLE TO SWIM APPROX 75-100 YARDS TO A NEARBY ISLAND. UPON MY ARRIVAL, ALL 6 OCCUPANTS WERE ACCOUNTED FOR, AND ALL DENIED ANY INJURIES. THE VESSEL WAS COMPLETELY SUBMERGED BELOW THE SURFACE AND NO LONGER VISIBLE.


BARDID: TN-2011-0122
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HENDERSONVILLE
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 3, 2011 at approximately 17:05 hrs, myself and Wildlife Officer received a call regarding a boating accident on Old Hickory Lake.  Based on witness statements and physical evidence the following is a synopsis of the accident.  Operator1 was operating personal watercraft (V1) and Operator2 a personal watercraft (V2) with a passenger.  Operator1 owns both PWC's.  Upon investigation, I observed that the registration numbers on the vessels were afixed to the wrong vessels.  Operator1 was operating the Sea Doo, with TN 6785 CD afixed to the vessel.  That certificate of registration number was assigned to the Bombadier Operator2 was operating.  The certification of registration number that was afixed to the Bombadier (TN 3896 CE), should have been diplayed on the Sea Doo Operator1 was oprating.  Operator1, Operator2 arrived on Old Hickory Lake at approximately 15:30 hrs.  While riding the PWCs they stopped downstream of Johnny Cash''s old home site and began to swim.  At approximtely 16:45, a cabin cruiser traveling upstream passed them while they were swimming.  The crusier was producing large wakes.  They decided to jump the boat wakes.  V1 was traveling ahead of V2.  V1 jumped a wake and V2 lost sight of V1.  V1 turned around and began traveling downstream towards V2.  The vessels were not visible to one another.  V2 jumped a wake and landed on top of the front of V1.  All persons were ejected from both vessels.  Operator1 was unconscious for approximately five minutes.  A nearby boat removed Operator1 from the water and transported her to the Saundersville Access in Sumner County.  Operator1 had a head injury and injuries to her left hand.  Neither Operator2 or occupant of V2 were injured.  Operator2 tied V1 to his PWC and he and occupant from V2 followed Boating Officer to the Access area.  Operator1 could not remember the accident.  She kept asking the same questions repeatedly, as if she had not asked them before.  Operator1 was transported by ambulance to Vanderbilt Hospital.  She received injuries to her left ear and left hand.


BARDID: TN-2011-0123
Date: 2011-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEATHAM RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
On September 11, 2011 at approximately 20:30 hours the documented vessel Distraction (TN5116EB), operated and owned by operator was crusing up stream on the Cumberland River near mile marker 177 at less than 10mph.  The vessel was traveling close to the right hand side of the bank.  Just ahead of the vessel laid 4 docked empty barges in a 2 by 2 configuration.  The operator did not see the barges until they were directly in front of him. opereatorput his vessel in reverse just before he struck the center of the left barge directly in front of him.  The barge he hit was a leed barge that sloped upwards which resulted in approximately $14000.00 of damage to the bow of operator's boat.  The barge was not damaged.  operator stated it was a full moon out at the time of the accident and he did not notice any mooring lights displayed on the barges.  No one aboard was injured during collision. TWRA was not notified at the time of the accident.


BARDID: TN-2011-0124
Date: 2011-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was driving his boat pulling his son on 2 water skis. victim apparently fell while skiing and said that the rope wrapped around his neck then the boat pulled the rope, causing the injury to his neck.


BARDID: TN-2011-0125
Date: 2011-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NICKAJACK LAKE
NearestCityTown: GUILD
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The boat was moored at Hales Bar Marina in a slip. It was noticed that the boat was taking on water. The ropes attached to the boat and the marina slip kept it from going completly under. The water level was over the engins and half of the cabin. The water was pumped out of the boat and it was removed from the water and placed on stands on land. Nothing was visible as to the cause of the leak. No one was on the boat at the time of the sinking.


BARDID: TN-2011-0126
Date: 2011-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: NEW TAZEWELL
County: CLAIBORNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
EquipmentFailure: OTHER
OtherEquipmentFailure: lift failure
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements vessel 1 was traveling downstream towards point 29.  Operator turned on his spotlight briefly to check for debris on the water and turned the light back off.  Operator stated after turning spotlight off he saw a vessel in front of him without navigational lights on. Operator turned his vessel hard right striking vessel 2 on the starboard stern.  The owner of vessel 2, stated he had placed his vessel upon a lift at his dock earlier in the evening.    Owner did not attach a line to his vessel after placing it on the lift at his dock.  The lift malfunctioned allowing vessel 2 to lower back into the water and drift out into the channel.


BARDID: TN-2011-0127
Date: 2011-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
victim was riding on an intertube being pulled by a boat,and was thrown off the tube and broke her right arm due to striking the water too hard. victim was transported to harton hospital in tullahoma, tn. where she was treated and was later taken to vanderbuilt hospital in nashville, tn. Due to her injuries.


BARDID: TN-2011-0128
Date: 2011-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORMANDY LAKE
NearestCityTown: TULLAHOMA
County: COFFEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated the vessel was on plane when his cap flew off. As he reached for it, he turned the steering wheel which caused the vessel to turn into a 90 degree angle. As a result, the vessel grounded into the lake bank.


BARDID: TN-2011-0130
Date: 2011-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: ELIZABETHTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
On September 4th 2011 at approximately 13:30 operator was operating a vessel on Watauga Lake in Carter County, TN.  The vessel was a 25ft Azure Registration NC8697DK.  The vessel was occupied by occupant1 and two juvenile children.   Operator was traveling upstream from the dam when he traveled to the Fish Springs Marina Side of the Big Island.  Once reaching the upstream side of the Big Island, Operator traveled between the Big Island and the marked submerged island.  At this point the vessel impacted the submerged island.  The vessel was travelling approximately 30mph at the time of impact. None of the occupants suffered any injuries.  

I, Officer, was notified by Regional Dispatch on September 6, 2011 in regards to the above accident.  On September 9th 2011, I interviewed Operator and occupant1 via a phone call.  Also on this date I located the vessel at Cove Ridge Marina, were I documented and examined the damage.  The Azure vessel was damaged on the lower unit of the I/O motor.  The lower unit was equipped with dual propellers, both propellers were damaged. The skeg of the lower unit was broken, the lower portion was missing.   The damages were conducive to striking a submerged object.


The contributing factor to the accident was operator inexperience.  This was not based on the operator''s experience operating this vessel but based on the operator''s experience on Watauga Lake.


BARDID: TN-2011-0132
Date: 2011-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:06:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JEFFERSON CITY
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, September 18, 2011 at approximately 16:06 hours, operator was operating a 1989 20 foot Sylvan pontoon boat on Cherokee Lake.  Onboard the vessel was occupant1, age 43, who was seated on the left side of the vessel; occupant2, age 7, riding on or near the front deck; occupant3, age 11, riding on or near the front deck; occupant4, age 11, riding on or near the front deck; and occupant5, age 12, being towed behind the vessel on an innertube.

According to operator and occupant1, the children were riding near the front of the vessel but not outside of the open gate on the front deck.  Occupant1 stated that Occupant4 must have went out the front but she did not see him.  Operator and Occupant1 both stated that they were looking back at the passenger on the innertube when the boat hit a wave.  Operator and Occupant1 stated that they felt the boat hit something and when the victim came out at the rear of the vessel he was screaming.  Occupant1 stated that the engine stopped and she dove into the water to help the victim, as did the passenger on the inner tube.  

An unidentified third party towed the pontoon boat back to the boat ramp at Cherokee Dam.  

Officer responded to the scene and upon his arrival, the emergency medical and rescue personnel were already gone.  

The victim was transported to Jefferson memorial Hospital by the Jefferson County EMS.  

The victim sustained two parallel lacerations to his left lower leg which appear to be caused by the vessels propeller.  

Further investigation is being conducted.


BARDID: TN-2011-0133
Date: 2011-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: BUCHANAN
County: HENRY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator running outside the marked channel and struck a submerged log which knocked the outdrive off the vessel and caused fiberglass damage.


BARDID: TN-2011-0137
Date: 2011-10-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday the 3 October 2011 I was contacted by Dekalb County Wildlife Officer at approximately 2:30am about a missing kayaker on Center Hill Lake near the Hurricane Bridge Recreation Area. I responded and when I arrived Officer was there with the wife of missing kayaker and several Dekalb County Deputies. Wife stated that her husband came to the lake around 6:00pm Sunday evening to kayak for a couple hours and then was suppose to be home for dinner. She stated that she fell asleep around 9:15-9:30pm and woke up approximately 11:30pm to find that he was not home. She began driving towards the lake and called 911. She arrived at Hurricane Bridge Recreation Area at approximately 1:00am and found her husband's vehicle in the parking lot. At approximately 3:30am myself and Officers began a search on the water for the missing kayak. At approximately 5:15am we located the kayak approximately 1 mile downstream of Hurricane Bridge Recreation Area. We anchored the kayak and returned to the shore. Dekalb County Rescue Squad responded and at daylight a search began on the water for subject. As of Wednesday October 5, 2011 at 4:00pm subject has not been found. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is also investigating the incident. This incident occured in Dekalb County on Center Hill Lake.


BARDID: TN-2011-0138
Date: 2011-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Great Falls
NearestCityTown: MCMINNVILLE
County: WARREN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator had the boat anchored at the time of fire.  He tried to start the engine and said it backfired.  He tried to start again and he heard the cowl "pop".  Operator then looked back and noticed smoke.  When he removed the cowl the flames flared up and caught the motor and back seat on fire.  Operator had two fire extinguishers on board and had to use them both in order to put out the fire.


BARDID: TN-2011-0139
Date: 2011-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2, (93 Bass Tracker bass boat) was moving to a new fishing location and observed Vessel 1 (03 Waverunner) cross in front of the boat from starboard to port and make a turn and come back towards them.  The PWC was coming directly towards the port side of the bass boat.  The bass boat operator saw the impact was imminent and started to change direction as PWC impacted the rear port side of the bass boat.  The PWC operator was ejected into the water and was not seriously injured.  The Bass boat passenger stated her neck was stiff and her left wrist was sore from the impact. She planned on going to the doctor the following day.


BARDID: TN-2011-0140
Date: 2011-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 26 October 2011 officers were dispatched to Cookeville Boat Dock in response to a missing persons report. At approximately 17:15, a worker at the Cookeville Boat Dock noticed victim's vessel floating next to the dock with motor running for an extended period of time with no sight of victim. Witness walked to the boat at approximately 17:45 and found that the boat was not moored to the dock, was still running, and in neutral. Witness checked the marina for victim and when he could not find him  he notified Dekalb County Sheriff''s Department. Upon arrival on the scene, a deputy looked underneath the dock and found victim's body in 7ft. of water. victim body was recovered and his boat was secured in the possession of TWRA for further investigation.


BARDID: TN-2011-0141
Date: 2011-10-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROCK Island
County: WARREN
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and occupant were fishing from a canoe near the Sandbar area at Rock Island State Park.  Current caused by the dam generating helped to cause the canoe to tip over.  Both occupants were thrown overboard.  occupant made it to the bank.  operator was missing till Wednesday the 26th day of October.  Cause of death was drowning. Neither were wearing life jackets.


BARDID: TN-2011-0142
Date: 2011-11-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:58:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HIXSON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, Hamilton County 911 contacted me about a 2 boat collision that occured on Chickamauga Lake.  Upon my arrival, Dallas Bay Fire and Rescue was towing the two boats into the dock.  The operator of vessel #2 was complaining of right shoulder pain and was taken to an awaiting ambulance.  He later refused treatment but indicated his shoulder hurt badly.  

Based on witness and operator statements, both vessels were headed downstream after the start of a bass fishing tornament they were participating in.  Both indicated they were in excess of 40 miles per hour.  Vessel #1 was following the right decending bank of the reservoir when he turned to port to cross the reservoir to his intended fishing spot.  He struck vessel #2 on the starboard rear corner.  As vessel #1 collided, it knocked the motor off of vessel #2.  Both vessels came to rest and called for help.  Upon my arrival I observed patchy fog in the area but both vessels indicated that fog was not a factor in the collision.  The evidence present on both vessels is consisted with their statements.


BARDID: TN-2011-0143
Date: 2011-12-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Sandy WMA
NearestCityTown: BIG SANDY
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
2 boats were running in opposite directions in a narrow ditch on Big Sandy WMA.  The boats collided head on in a blind curve resulting in property damage. 

A detailed narrative of the collision can be found in the case file.


BARDID: TN-2011-0145
Date: 2011-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Based on a statement given by subject, on Friday Nov. 18, 2011 he and two juvenile females were operating a vessel on Watauga Lake in Carter County.  One of the juvenile females was the operator of the vessel at the time of the incident. Subject stated he was sitting close by and supervising the young girl.  The vessel was traveling west down the reservoir close to the island commonly referred to as the big island, at approx. 16:20 the steering wheel jerked hard to the right and the engine shut off.  Subject stated that he suspected hitting something but upon looking around the area saw nothing that could have been struck.  There is a very sharp rock ridge in this area and it is believed this is what the lower unit of the motor struck.  This rock ridge is hidden just under the surface of the water at the current lake level.  All the damage was to the motor of the vessel.  The motor is a Yamaha 90 hp serial number 61PL11044085.


BARDID: TN-2011-0147
Date: 2011-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORMANDY LAKE
NearestCityTown: MANCHESTER
County: COFFEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel 1 was cruising when he struck vessel 2 who was drifting and fishing from bow of vessel. Vessel 1 struck vessel 2 on starboard side at mid section. At point of impact vessel 1 ramped over vessel 2 and landed on port side of vessel 2. No injuries but extensive damage to both vessels.


BARDID: TN-2011-0148
Date: 2011-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CLARKSVILLE
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday June 7, 2011 Operator was travelling upstream by Trices Landing in Clarksville, TN. He had been fishing and was returning to McGregor park where his truck and trailer were parked. He was the only person in a 12'' crestliner aluminum boat with a 9.9HP tiller handle motor. He said he hit something in the water and the motor pulled to one side and threw him out of the boat. He did not have the kill switch attached and the boat continued moving in circles around him. he reached out and grabbed the boat and the boats prop came up on him cutting his stomach, chest, chin, mouth, and nose. He pushed the boat away and swam to the southern shore of the river/lake. He was wearing his boots and no life vest. There was alcohol on board and he did submit to a blood test while at Gateway hospital in Clarksville.  He was rescued by a couple from Kentucky who were in clarksville for lunch. They were travelling on the river for a day cruise when they spotted him.

after discussing the accident with the District Attorney and Assistant District Attorney and at their recommendation no charges will be filed.


BARDID: TN-2011-0149
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NORMANDY
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/2011 at approximately 16:30 victim was injured while wakeboarding on Percy Priest Lake.  He was being towed by a Chaparral motorboat when he fell off and was struck in the head by his wakeboard.  The wakeboard collided with the top of victim's head creating a two inch cut.  victim was taken to Summit Medical Center in Nashville, Tn where he received twenty one staples in his head and was released.


BARDID: TN-2011-0151
Date: 2011-10-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: BIRCHWOOD
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
All vessels were preparing to participate in a fishing tournament on Chickamauga Lake.   Vessel #1 backed off the trailer at the Grasshopper Recreation Area ramp.  According to operator statement, as he backed away from the trailer the motor stalled.  He started the motor again and put it in forward but it did not go into gear.  He then placed the shifter back into neutral and returned it to forward gear.  The boat did not go forward so he applied more throttle.  The motor then engaged forward gear causing it to "rev" up.  The operator of vessel #1 indicated that the shifter would not return to neutral and he began to steer the vessel in an effort to avoid collideing with other boats.  After traveling only a few feet vessel #1 struck Vessel #2 on the starbord side just forward the operators seat.  Vessel #1 remained in contact with vessel #2 as it continued down its starbord side toward the stern.  As vessel #2 is being struck, its bow is pushed to the port side and strikes vessel #3 near the stern.  

Damage to Vessel #1:  Gelcoat scratches to underside, rubrail and broken light

Damage to Vessel #2:  Fiberglass and gelcoat damage to starbord side, windscreen and electronics damage, rear seat and all around white light broken, scratches to motor cowling

Damage to Vessel #3: Gelcoat scratches to starbord rubrail and scratches to motor cowling


BARDID: TN-2011-0152
Date: 2011-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tn. River
NearestCityTown: CLIFTON
County: WAYNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentCause3: SHARP TURN
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to witnesses on OPerator1 was "cutting donoughts" driving vessel in circles at a high rate of speed.  Witnesses said he was doing this 5-10ft. from the back of their boats.  They said they started hollering at him and he continued to do this for several minutes.  They feel like he lost control and ran the boat aground at 10-20mph.  The force of hitting the beach threw occupant from her seat next to the operator forward into the corner of the windshield which cut off the top half of her left ear and she was thrown into the floor in the bow of the boat.  He was thrown into the floor under the steering wheel.  Witnesses said it took 6-8 people to get the boat off the beach.

According to Operator1 and the group that was with them that day, (their friends) he just hit the beach too hard on purpose because his boat had drifted off 3 times earlier that day.  I did tell him that witnesses had reported him doing the donoughts and he then said that he did but he did not loose control, he intentionally was going to the beach and just went in a little too fast.


BARDID: TN-2011-0153
Date: 2011-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: BUCHANAN
County: HENRY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentCause3: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the morning of October 8, 2011, Operator1 was fishing alone on the East Bank of the Big Sandy River south of the powerlines in his Triton boat.   He decided to cruise to another fishing spot near Sulphur Wells Island using his outboard motor.   

Operator2 was sitting in the front pedestal seat of his Basstracker using a trolling motor to fish for crappie near Sulphur Wells Island.  He looked over his left shoulder and saw a vessel approaching at a distance.  When he looked up again, the vessel was approximately 20 yards away heading in his direction.   He started waving his arms and shouting and the Triton struck the rear of the Basstracker.   Operator2 was struck by the Triton and both he and his dog were thrown into the water.  The Basstracker''s trolling motor was still operational and the vessel continued going away from Operator2.   Operator2 was able to swim to his vessel.   Operator1 turned around and helped Operator2 re-board the Basstracker.   Operator1 then went a short distance to get assistance from friends of Operator2.   Friends towed the Basstracker to the Mansard Island Marina to meet the ambulance.  Operator1 went to Mansard Island in his Triton using the outboard motor.

The Triton operator stated he was looking off and did not see the Basstracker.  The Triton had a front pedistal seat that was mounted forward of the operator''s console that may have obstructed the operator''s vision.


BARDID: TN-2011-0155
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CUMBERLAND CITY
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator states he was operating a vessel downstream from Clarksville to the North Cross Creek boat ramp at night after watching fireworks.  His wife states that this was the first time they had been on that stretch of the river.  

After observing a bright light on the left descending side of channel, he slowed down and moved farther to the RDB.  He then struck the Old Lock C wall on the RDB which was submerged under approximately 6 inches of water.  The allision resulted in damage to the keel guard, fiberglass and a crack in the outboard casing.

There is no green buoy marking on the upsteam side of the wall as shown on the Cumberland River Chart nor does either the LMN 27/11 (July 6, 2011) or the BNM (July 11, 2011) mention an ATON discrepancy.

On July 12, 2011 at or around 1130 hours, I called the USCG Sector Ohio Valley and reported the missing buoy.


BARDID: TN-2012-0001
Date: 2012-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMYRNA
County: RUTHERFORD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On January 1, 2012 two people were on a boat at Percy priest at the mouth of stewerts creek. Their boat was loaded with two deer, treestands and hunting equipment. When they took off from shore the front end of the boat started under water. operator tried to trun it back to shore but the boat went down. the two were in the water for 30 and 15 minutes respectfully. They were rescued by the Rutherford Co. SORT team. They were transported to Stonecrest Medical Center where they were treated for Hypothermia.


BARDID: TN-2012-0002
Date: 2012-01-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEATHAM RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On Jan 21,2012 at approximately 10:00am operator left from Percy Priest Dam in a kayak and canoed down the Stones River to the Cumberland River. He then proceed to drift down river towards Nashville.   After he passed Shelby Park boat ramp(192.6 mile marker) at approximately 2:00 pm he fell out of his kayak.  He tried to turn the kayak upright and reboard it but he was not successful.  During this process he hit his head on the side of the kayak. He then lost grip on the kayak and became separated from it in the middle of the channel and started to swim towards the bank.  He had 2 PFD''s on board but he was not wearing one.  A bystander seen him in distress and call 911.  Nashville Fire launched a boat from Shelby park ramp a picked him up on the side of the bank.  EMT''s transported him to Skyline Medical.  He was treated for mild hypothermia and a small bump over his left eye then released.  When interviewed operator said he had been drinking beer and was on his 5th beer out of a six pack before he fell overboard.


BARDID: TN-2012-0003
Date: 2012-01-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:38:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: ASHLAND CITY
County: CHEATHAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Overloading
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday 01/29/2012 at approxiamtely 1300 hours a 14 foot tiller operated fishing boat, (V1), left Cheatham Dam boat ramp and proceded down river.  It was operated by the owner and carried two passengers. They were planning on fishing.  A short time later the boat motor stopped running.  An unidentifed fisherman,(V2), noticed the mechanical problem and offered to tow the boat back up river to the boat ramp where they had lauched from.  As the two vessels neared the boat ramp water condtions became rougher and ended up swamping the boat being towed.  The entire boat sank.  All 3 passengers ended up in the water and proceed down river due to a strong current from the dam.  All three were wearing their PFD''s and were picked out of the water by a bass boat nearby that witnessed what happen.  All three passengers were checked out by Cheatham County EMT''s at the boat ramp and were not transported to the hospital.  (Property damage only to V1; complete loss of vessel.)


BARDID: TN-2012-0005
Date: 2012-02-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: REELFOOT LAKE
NearestCityTown: TIPTONVILLE
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Call came in to lake co. 911 of fisherman waiving his arms as if in distress.  Rescue squad responded and found subject floating face down in water near point of caney island. He was transported to sunset boat ramp where he was transported by ambulance to baptist memorial hospital in union city. His boat was found washed up on bank in grooms pocket area of lake. Boat was full of water but not capsized. Weather apears to be cause of swamping. Winds were very gusty and this is most exposed area of lake. No other boats were in area to offer assisstance or provide better account of incident.

*The Vessel was found partially flooded on the bank and the motor was still in forward gear.  It is believed that the operator was ejected out of the vessel on his way across the lake due to the large waves and strong wind that day.  It is believed the the boat kept going leaving subject swimming in very cold water ultimately drowning due to onset of cold water immersion.


BARDID: TN-2012-0006
Date: 2012-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOUISVILLE
County: BLOUNT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The operator was cruising with 3 other occupants in the Ish Creek cove when vessel struck an object. The lower unit was completely separated/knocked off the transom.  Neither the operator nor the occupants were positive what the vessel lower unit struck.  Occupants observed water entering the vessel compartments faster than the bilge pump could remove it.  Occupants beached the vessel and waited for arrival of TWRA officers.  Officers observed low lake levels and multiple dangerous rocks visible as well as submerged rocks in the immediate area.  Lower unit was not recovered.  

04/24/12 Final Report

I made contact with owner of the vessel to obtain the damage estimate.  Estimate was $18,500.00 to replace lower unit and repair transom.  The boat has been totaled out by owners insurance.


BARDID: TN-2012-0007
Date: 2012-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
operator was operating the vessel heading upstream just on the east side of the channel close to river mile 476. operator stated that he had filled the wake bags on the vessel with water to see how much of a wake the vessel would make, they had started emptying the bags when one of the passengers saw a tree on a sand bar ahead of them. operator stated that he then started to slow down the vessel and at that very moment he hit the sandbar.


BARDID: TN-2012-0008
Date: 2012-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: NEW JOHNSONVILLE
County: HUMPHREYS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Sudden medical condition
EquipmentFailure: Seat Broke Loose
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the second of April, 2012, at 6:00 am, four people were fishing in the TVA steam plant harbor. The post of subject's seat broke and he fell into the water. subject was not a swimmer and his son jumped in to help him but was struggling to get him to the boat. another then jumped in to help and shortly thereafter yelled "Ow", went under water and did not resurface. operator got his father into the vessel and approximately forty minutes later subject had a fatal heart attack. The body of the second person to jump in was recovered around noon. The bodies were taken to Three Rivers Hospital in Humphreys County.


BARDID: TN-2012-0009
Date: 2012-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 3rd, 2012, I received a call from a subject with the local Hamilton County EMS that two PWC''s had crashed into each other. He advised that it was four young teenagers and that one of them had been transported to the hospital for a possible broken leg. The accident was reported to have happened somewhere around 2:30 to 3:00 pm. I was contacted around 3:30 pm and arrived on scene around 4:00pm. Four young girls were involved in the accident. Upon investigation it was found that subject was driving one of the pwc''s when the accident happened and she did not have the required boaters education certificate. Statements were taken and a citation given to the owner of both of the PWC''s. Statements taken at the scene indicate that the operators were trying to splash each other while operating to close to one another


BARDID: TN-2012-0010
Date: 2012-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMYRNA
County: RUTHERFORD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
EquipmentFailure: Seat Broke Loose
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The driver stated that they were headed down stream around the jefferson pike bridge on J. Percy priest. They were in a left hand turn when the steering went out. The boat went hard right, breaking the passenger seat and threw the operator out of the boat. The operator struck the Back of the boat. operator stated they were going about 30 mph. No alcohol was involved.


BARDID: TN-2012-0011
Date: 2012-03-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On March 16, 2012 at 7:00am I, Officer, received a call that a vessel had run aground opposite of Point 19 on Boone Lake in Washington County.  Upon arrival on scene, a 22ft Carolina Skiff was found aground across from Point 19 on an exposed flat.   Operator was the only occupant and said the grounding occurred at 5:30 am while he was on his way to a near cove to catch bait for fishing.  The vessel struck the exposed flat and traveled approximately 40 to 50 ft before coming to a stop.  Operator suffered no injuries during this event.  The vessel suffered visible damages to the hull, gel coat, and propeller.  Boone Lake was approximately 1370ft in elevation at the time of the accident.  Boone Lake is at or near full pool at 1382 ft in elevation.
Based on Operator Statements:
Operator launched his vessel around 5:15 am at Boone Dam Access Area and traveled up the Watauga Arm of Boone Lake.  Operator stated that he was traveling at one half to three quarter throttle, approximately 25 to 30mph.  Operator stated he was utilizing his GPS and graph to follow old tracks that he had traveled on the lake.  Operator then stated he looked away for a few seconds and when he looked back up, he seen the flat.   Once Operator saw the flat, he was unable to maneuver before grounding.  Operator grounded the vessel and waited for assistance to arrive.


BARDID: TN-2012-0012
Date: 2012-03-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caney fork river
NearestCityTown: CLIFTON
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was traveling upstream just passed the first interstate bridge 1/2 mile above Bettys Island ramp on the Caney Fork river.  The motor on the vessel quit running and the vessel started drifting back downstream.  The driver jumped up and went to the front of the boat to use the trolling motor. The trolling motor only worked for a few minutes and quit working. The boat began to drift back downstream and struck a bridge pilon and capsized. The occupants grabbed PFDS and swam to shore. They were picked up by other fishermen and taken back to the ramp. Upon arrival i did not find the boat at the accident site.  We shortly foun d the boat adrift just above Bettys Island and pulled it to the ramp.


BARDID: TN-2012-0013
Date: 2012-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel mentioned below is a 30'' rental pontoon boat owned by Elm Hill Marina in Nashville, TN.

On Saturday April 14, 2012 on J. Percy Priest Lake in Davidson county, at 14:45, Vessel 1 was approaching "Gilligans Island" from the south.  According to witness statements, as Vessel 1 approached the island at idle speed in an attempt to run ashore (victim) dove off the port side of the vessel head first, with his arms down at his sides. Vessel 1 was thirty to forty feet from shore in three to four feet of water. Witnesses on shore stated that the victim did not resurface and immediately went to search for him. The victim was unconscious when he was located, and was assisted to shore. Once onshore, subject called 911 at 14:47. The victim regained consciousness and remained motionless until emergency services arrived.

Operator consented to a BAC test, which is has been submitted to TBI, results pending. Operator stated he had not been drinking. VIctim stated to officers he had been drinking earlier in the day, exact amount unknown. 

According to rental agreements provided by Elm Hill Marina, Vessel 1, along with three other other pontoon boats, was rented. The boats were rented as part of an event organized and paid for by Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity of Vanderbilt University. 

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency was not notified of the incident by Nashville Emergency Communications Center.


BARDID: TN-2012-0014
Date: 2012-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HENDERSONVILLE
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29, 2012 at approximately 16:10 hrs, I observed operator operating a PWC on Old Hickory Lake.  Victim was a passenger on the back of the PWC.  I made contact with the two men at the Rockland Park Access.  Upon contact I observed Victim''s right shoulder was injured.  He stated that he had dislocated his shoulder while wake boarding behind the PWC Operator was operating.  Operator stated that he was operating the PWC approximately 100 yards outside of the "no wake" zone of Anchor High Marina and the Rockland Park Access.  He stated that he was traveling approximately 15 to 20 miles per hour in a straight direction while pulling Victim on a wake board.  Operator stated that Victim started to lean to the right, fell into the water and did not let go of the tow rope.  Upon impact with the water, Victim dislocated his shoulder.  I escorted Victim and his wife to the Hendersonville Medical Center for treatment.  Upon inspection of the PWC the registration had expired in August of 2011.  Operator stated he had purchased two PWC''s on April 28, 2012, but had not applied for a current registration.  There were not any mirrors, nor an observer aboard the PWC when the accident occurred.


BARDID: TN-2012-0015
Date: 2012-05-04 00:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
two people showed up at the Tellico Dam Access Area at or about 14:30 and noticed what appeared to be a life jacket in the water.  Upon further inspection it was determined to be a body approximately 40 yards from the ramp.  There was also a blue and silver boat partially tied to the dock (TN 5810 EC).  Shortly after I was notified from Loudon County Dispatch and responded from the Lenoir City Area.  Upon arriving, the body was floating at the ramp and the boat was still partially tied off.  The condition of the dock tie was documented and then the vessel was better secured.  The boat was determined to be the victim's.  There was no sign of trauma on the victim and also no sign of foul play.  Loudon County Rescue Squad secured the body and it was transported to Ft. Loudon Medical Center.  The boat was loaded onto it''s trailer and it and the victim''s blue Chevrolet Pickup truck was transported to the Loudon County Sherriff''s Office impound lot.  We are currently awaiting an autopsy from the UT Medical Center. Autopsy has shown that the victim died from cardiac arrest. Order of events of accident are unknown.


BARDID: TN-2012-0016
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Driver and owner was driving her 23ft Baretta open bow boat towards Four corners Marina from Hobson Pike Bridge.  Two younger adults were also aboard.  Operator did not follow the main buoy mark channel while headed toward Four Corner Marina.  She went through the shorter way and struck the lower unit of her vessels outdrive on the rocky bottom near the island. As they backed off the bottom she noticed the boat was taking on water and  proceded to drive it back to Virett Creek were she had launched from earlier that day.  On the way the boat continued to take on more water and fearing that it might sink she called 911.  Thats when I was contacted about the accident.  She managed to drive the boat to Virett and get it loaded on the boat trailer. That is where we made contact with her. Where operator went through the short cut headed towards Four Corners, normally at full pool lake level will allow for boat passage at that location, however the lakes water elevation was approximatley 4 ft below summer pool.  Her boats lower unit sustained damage as well as the propeller.


BARDID: TN-2012-0017
Date: 2012-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HIXSON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON APRIL 28, 2012 AT APPROX. 06:40 I WAS CONTACTED ABOUT A ONE VESSEL COLLISION WITH THE BANK NEAR CHESTER FROST STATE PARK.  UPON MY ARRIVAL THE OPERATON WAS ALREADY TRANSPORTED TO HIXSON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WITH MINOR INJURIES.  OFFICER WENT TO THE HOSPITAL TO GATHER INFORMATION FROM THE OPERATOR AND A STATEMENT.  OFFICER AND BOATING INVESTIGATOR DOCUMENTED THE SCENE AND GATHERED MORE STATEMENTS AND PICTURES.  
     Operator WAS ADMITTED AND RELEASED FROM THE HOSPITAL.  I THEN MADE CONTACT WITH HIM, WHERE HE STATED THAT HE LEFT THE BOAT RAMP AT CHESTER FROST FOLLOWING BY HIS GPS.  HE THEN STATED THAT HE WAS ABOUT TO COME UP ON PLANE WHEN HIS BOAT STRUCK THE BANK AND RAN AGROUND.  THE PASSENGER  CONFIRMED THIS SEQUENCE OF EVENTS.  
       NOTE:  (1) operator GAVE CONSENT TO DOWNLOAD HIS GPS TRACK.
                    (2) WEATHER WAS VERY FOGGY/ LIMITED SIGHT DISTANCE
                    (3) BOTH OPERATOR AND PASSENGER WERE INJURED.  PASSENGER REFUSED TREATMENT
                    (4) GPS DOWLOAD BY BOATING INVESTIGATOR.


BARDID: TN-2012-0018
Date: 2012-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Obion river
NearestCityTown: DYERSBURG
County: DYER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5-1-2012 around 1130 am Operator unloaded his boat at highway 78 bridge river boat ramp.  According to witnesses, Operator seemed to be under the influence of something. Witness helped Operator unload his boat then they unloaded their boat and talked to him some more. Operator left in boat floating down stream trying to get the boat started.  He got it started and headed up river.  This was around 1200 pm.  
Two subjects tried to call Operator at 0830 pm 5-1-2012 and were unable to reach Operator by phone.  I was notified around 21:30pm.  We found Operator''s boat around 23:55 pm 5-1-2012 about 4 miles up river from the bridge.  The boat was half swamped longways of river up against a log jam.  I notified the sherriff''s department at 0015 am 5-2-2012 that Operator was missing.  
On 5-2-2012 Operator''s cooler was found .8 of a mile down river from boat upside down in a drift on the east side of river and it had sixteen beers left in cooler.  On 5-3-2012 around 0900 am Operator''s body was found floating hung on a stick about .64 of a mile downriver from boat.  Operator was not wearing a PFD and non was found in boat or in the river.  The accident happend sometime between 1200 hours and 23:55 hours on 5-1-2012.


BARDID: TN-2012-0019
Date: 2012-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:34:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: BYRDSTOWN
County: PICKETT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person departs shore
RedactedNarrative:
On 11, May 2012 at approximately 20:34, subject called Pickett County Emergency 911 and stated that she and her husband had found an unresponsive female floating in the water near the shore at Cove Creek Recreational Area. Pickett County Sheriffs Deputy arrived on the scene at 20:48 and found subject2 standing near the shoreline. Deputy waded out 30 to 40 ft and pulled the female body which was face down in the water to shore. She had no ID on her at the time and after talking with several individuals at the campground found that she was with a male who was driving a Dodge Pickup which was parked next to the campsite. After searching the vehicle, Deputy found a wallet belonging to Victim that had her driver''s license in it. He identified the female in the water to be Victim. At that time Pickup owner had not been located. The body of Victim was sent to Nashville for an autopsy to determine cause of death. Pickup Owner''s vessel was found on the opposite shoreline floating against the bank. The vessel is a 1972 Surfrider 15ft in length. Registration on the vessel is TN 8253 X. The motor was trimmed all the way up, the throttle was in nuetral, and the key was turned to the off position. There was a rope tied to the bow eye with a loop tied on the end. The rope was floating in the water. The boat was pulled back to Cove Creek Recreational Area. Deputies and TWRA Officers packed up the campsite and took the truck and boat to JK Boat Storage on Cove Creek Rd. The search for the Pickup Owner was suspended until the following day due to darkness.
Witness from Jamestown was at Cove Creek Recreational Area and was interviewed by Officer. He stated that he had seen a female blowing up an air mattress at the campsite earlier that evening and that he did not hear any noise or fussing coming from the camp. There were no other witnesses identified who positively could say they saw anything.   
    On 12 May 2012 TWRA Officers inventoried items in the boat and truck. Two open Bud Light beer cans were found in the cab of the truck. One was in the floorboard empty and the other was in a drink holder and was half empty. Also found was a empty Bud Light case (18 beers). In a cooler in the back of the truck officers found 16 full Bud Light beers. Officers also inspected the vessel for any damage. No apparent damage was found. The search continued throughout the day for Pickup owner and was once again suspended due to darkness.
    On 13 May 2012 the search was suspended due to heavy rains throughout the day.
    On 14 May 2012, Pickett County Rescue Squad found the body of the pickup owner in 8ft of water near the area Victim was found. No apparent signs of trauma could be seen. At this time he will be sent to Nashville for an autopsy to determine cause of death.
    This incident happened in Pickett County.

Investigator assumes the following, "The truck and trailer were at the campsite...so they already launched it.  There is a boat ramp/courtesy dock there as indicated by the inserted photo but it is hard to see.  The rope was out in the water when we found the boat...so it appears that it may have came untied or ungrounded at their site...and either one or both started to swim for it....only an assumption."


BARDID: TN-2012-0020
Date: 2012-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:24:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CLARKSVILLE
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Subject had taken out a boat that he purchased from Craigslist for boating and fishing.  As he was motoring down the river along riverside drive in Clarksville he noticed water coming in the boat.  operator secured his boat to the dock as it sunk.  Officer saw the drain plug in the boat once the boat was recovered.  Appeared there is a problem with the hull of the boat.


BARDID: TN-2012-0021
Date: 2012-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: SPRING CITY
County: RHEA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday afternoon, May 4th 2012, two people were operating 2 PWC''s in the Piney River area of Watts Bar Lake.  Operator1 was operating vessel one, hereafter called ''V1,'' while Operator2 was operating vessel two, hereafter called ''V2.''  Based on the statement of the passenger on V1, the two vessels were going in a circle attempting to splash each other when V1 struck V2 and ramped over it causing serious injuries to the  the operator of V2 and his passenger.  v1 passenger rendered aid to the victims while operator1 went to shore to call 911.  The collision caused major damage to both vessels.  V1 sustained damage to it''s bow while V2 sustained damage to it''s steering console and surrounding area.


BARDID: TN-2012-0022
Date: 2012-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: TENNESSEE RIDGE
County: HUMPHREYS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was running down river on the right descending bank in 10 feet of water and struck a submerged log with his lower unit.  He says the only way he was able to find what he hit is when a great blue heron landed on it.  He was running outside the river channel but say he has local knowledge of the area.

He was able to proceed back to the ramp on his own power and called Houston County 911 once he realized there was damage to his motor.

There was damage to his propeller and propeller shaft and the mechanic recommended replacing the lower unit.


BARDID: TN-2012-0023
Date: 2012-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:33:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was towing the two girls on a tube in Dry Creek on Tim's Ford Lake.  Vessel 2 was riding along near vessel 1.  The two girls yelled to the operator of vessel 1 to stop, Operator1 stopped vessel 1 and was talking with the two girls on the tube.  Operator2 headed vessel 2 towards the tube and started to slow down.  When Operator2 got near the tube he pulled the kill switch on vessel 2 so that he could hear what operator1 and the the girls were saying.  As Operator2 got close to the tube he realized that he was going to hit the tube and tried to turn away, not realizing that he couldn''t steer the vessel with the engine off.  Before he could react, the front of vessel 2 struck the tube and the two girls on it. Operator2 and occupants of both vessels estimated that vessel 2 was going less than 10 mph when it struck the tube.  The front of vessel 2 struck tuber1 in the back of the head/neck and struck tuber2 on the side of the head.  At Southern Middle Tennessee Medical Center the ER doctor advised that tuber1 needed to be taken to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga to have surgery because of a fracture in the C-2 bone in the back of her neck. The SMTMC ER doctor/nurses also advised that tuber2was fine other than the bruises.


BARDID: TN-2012-0024
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: SEVIERVILLE
County: SEVIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 REPORTED HE WAS OPERATING A PWC IN AN AREA OF DOUGLAS LAKE KNOWN AS THE WILLOWS. THIS AREA IS CHARACTERIZED BY SHALLOW WATER AND NUMEROUS WILLOW TREES GROWING FROM THE LAKE BOTTOM. HE OPERATED HIS PWC THROUGH THE WILLOW TREES AND ULTIMATELY MET ANOTHER PWC PERFORMING THE SAME ACTIVITY. THE PWC''S COLLIDED ON THEIR PORT SIDES. THIS CAUSED Operator1 TO BE EJECTED INTO A TREE. THE OTHER PWC DROVE OFF AND WASN''T FOUND. THE ABOVE NARRATIVE IS SOLELY BASED UPON Operator1's MEMORY OF THE ACCIDENT. THIS EVENT OCCURRED IN SEVIER COUNTY TENNESSEE.


BARDID: TN-2012-0025
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:42:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: OLD HICKORY
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was headed upstream at mile marker 224 on the Cumberland River.  At approximately 23:10 hours the vessel struck a red channel marker buoy at the Davidson/ Wilson county line on the river. At the time it was in Davidson County.  After striking the buoy the vessel came to a stop and started to take on water.  In ~25minutes the vessel sank near the right side ascending bank.  All six people aboard had time to put on there life jackets and were picked up out of the water by a fishermen nearby and taken to a nearby residence.  No injuries were sustained during the accident. Fire and EMS were called to that location because it was thought that two indivduals were still in the water. However all six people were accounted for and not injuried.  The driver was tested at the scene for impairment and passed.


BARDID: TN-2012-0026
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:10:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANTIOCH
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Female driver and passenger were on a Yamaha PWC near Hamilton Creek Cove on Percy Priest Lake. The PWC was pulling rider on a tube float. The PWC made a sharp turn into some large waves causing the tube to flip over and the rider to sustain a back injury.  (Speed was estimated at 25-30 mph) At the time of the accident she said she was having trouble feeling her legs. She was transported by ambulance to Summit Hospital.  She was treated and released the same day.  The driver was also transported to Summit hospital and blood was taken.  It was summited to TBI for alcohol and drug testing due to the nature of the victims injury at the time of the accident.


BARDID: TN-2012-0027
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was headed towards Four Corners Marina to refuel.  Driver did not stay in the channel.  He tried using the short cut headed towards Four Corners Marina and struck bottom.  Driver and passenger were not injured.  The lake is approximatley 3.5 ft below summer pool level.  The vessel sustained lower unit and prop damage.  Owner and driver called in 3 days after accident occured.


BARDID: TN-2012-0028
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOUDON
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and 2 were docked at the Tugaloo Beach area of Tellico Lake when vessel 3 struck them both.  This happened some time previous to May 28 but the exact date and time is unknown.  Vessel 3 left the scene without reporting the incident.  Vessel 1 and 2 were both struck from the stern side.  There was a piece of fiberglass left onboard one of the vessel presumed to be from vessel 3.


BARDID: TN-2012-0029
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:38:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PInOak Lake
NearestCityTown: LANCASTER
County: HENDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6, 2012 at approximately 18:30 p.m.  Victim fell overboard from a pontoon boat that his father was operating.  The accident occured on PinOak Lake located in Henderson County.  Victim was sitting on the front on the vessel with his feet dangling in the water.  He fell in the water and was struck by the propeller of the 40 hp motor.  the other occupant jumped in to rescue his friend Victim.  the operator turned the vessel around and retrieved both. The accident happened in front of the swimming area, close to the no wake, near the campground on PinOak Lake. 
Victim was taken to the Henderson County Hospital in Lexington, Tn by his father.  From there he was transported by air to Lebonheur Hospital  in Memphis, TN.  He suffered a broken tibia and febula in his left leg, injured his right ankle, and had large lacerations on his leg.  

This accident was not investigated at the scene or at the time it occured.  TWRA was notified a couple of days after the accident. The family was at the hospital for approximately a week, and became difficult to contact. 

Henderson County''s District Attorney was contacted and she concluded that at this time no charges would be brought against the family.


BARDID: TN-2012-0030
Date: 2012-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:55:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GALLATIN
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: tow line
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On May 21, 2012, I received a phone call from Sumner County School Resource Officer.  He asked about a possible boating accident with injuries that occurred on Sunday, May 20, 2012.  He stated an employee at the Hendersonville High School had read a prayer request for Victim on the internet.  The prayer request stated that he was injured in a boating accident.  I contacted the Sumner County Emergency Medical Services and Hendersonville Police Department to see if they had responded to a boating accident with injury call on Sunday, May 20.  Both departments stated they did not respond to any boating accident calls.  I located an address for Victim and a phone number.  No one was at the residence when I arrived at the house and the phone had been disconnected.  On May 25, 2012, I discovered Sumner EMS did respond to a boating accident and transported Victim to Vanderbilt Hospital. 

On May 24, 2012, Chief called me and asked if I was looking for Victim, possibly injured in a boating accident.  He stated that Victim was admitted to Vanderbilt Hospital.  I located Victim at Vanderbilt Hospital.  He was unable to speak to me at the time.  His mouth was wired shut and he had a trach tube in his throat.  I spoke with another person and victim’s father.  The other person observed and captured the accident on her phone.  An earthen ramp had been constructed on the shoreline on the Army Corps of Engineer''s property.  Using a personal water craft to tow the ski tube, people were jumping the ramp on the tube onto the lake.  Several witnesses stated that Victim and another person were riding on the tube.  Operator was operating the personal water craft tied to the tube.  Three ropes and a large bungy-style rope was used to attach the tube to the personal water craft.  When the personal water craft began to pull the tube, the bungy rope stretched and the tube began to move.  When the bungy rope stretched as far as it could, it broke at the end closest to the personal water craft.  As a result the bungy rope snapped back towards the two men on the tube, striking Victim in the head and upper chest, causing his injuries.

On June 21, 2012 I spoke with two others.  One person stated that someone asked her several times to use her PWC to pull people on the tube and off of the earthen ramp.  She refused several times, but eventually allowed the use of her PWC to pull people on the tube.  The PWC invovled in this accident was a black and yellow Sea Doo, HIN:  ZZN23869C404.  The other person was not aware that his PWC was invovled in this accident until I spoke with his wife on May 31, 2012.



I was never contacted by Sumner EMS, the operator of the PWC, nor the owner of the PWC to notify me of the accident.


BARDID: TN-2012-0031
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was being pulled on a tube behind a vessel owned and driven by operator.  The vessel made a turn causing slack in the tow rope.  When the vessel was straightened out and the slack came out of the tow rope a sudden jolt caused the tube to jerk. By all indications Victim was holding on to the tube by one hand at that time causing his right arm to jerk which dislocated his right elbow.  He was then held up by another tuber until they could get him loaded in the boat.


BARDID: TN-2012-0032
Date: 2012-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:43:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CALHOUN
County: McMINN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Subject had his 40 foot houseboat partially grounded, and was in the process of restoring the vessel.  There were additional lights on board connected to shore power.  The boat caught fire in an undetermined fashioned and burned to the hull.  The cause of the fire is unknown.


BARDID: TN-2012-0033
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: DECATUR
County: MEIGS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 8:50pm on Sunday night, June 3rd Operator was operating a 1988 Norris Craft bass boat on Hiwassee River near the mouth of Agency Creek.  He had 5 additional passengers on board with him. The victim stated she was sitting in the front fishing seat when the boat hit a wave and threw her over the port side of the boat.  Her arm caught on a storage lid hasp on the boat causing a deep laceration to her right bicep.  Another passenger on board, stated all the adults on board had been drinking prior to boarding the boat.  Operator was given field sobriety tests and arrested based on his performance of the tests.  A blood sample was also obtained from him.


BARDID: TN-2012-0034
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GALLATIN
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On may 6th 2012, at approximately 6:30 p.m., i responded to a boat accident at blackjack cove on old hickory lake.  Upon contact with the boat owner, i smelled a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage about his person.  His eyes were bloodshot and watery.  His speech seemed to be confused.  Operator could not properly remember where the boat accident happened.  Operator was submitted to a series of field sobriety tasks, in which he was unable to perform correctly.  Operator refused to submit to a blood alcohol test and was charged with boating under the influence and violation of implied consent.  He was placed under arrest and transported to sumner county jail.  
       upon investigating the boat accident, operator''s boat was tied to a dock and he started his boat and took off without first freeing the boat from the dock.  The ropes pulled the cleats out of his boat on each side.  Operator''s boat continued in gear to the dock accross from the one he was tied up to, and he struck a 44'' gibson house boat damaging the railing on the back of the boat.  Also, operator vessel struck a second boat tied to a dock.  The second boat was a 32'' carver, but did not appear to have any damage to it.


BARDID: TN-2012-0036
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAVERGNE
County: RUTHERFORD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel was towing two skiers near Bryant''s Grove  Boat Ramp. Skier1 had her arm ran through the handles on the tube, instead of grabbing them with her hands. The tube hit some wake and began to flip, Skier1 was unable to let go of the tube because the handle was near her elbow, which caused the dislocation of the elbow. Skier1 was assisted to Bryants Grove Boat Ramp, where she was checked out by EMTs. They placed her arm in a sling, but she refused to be transport by ambulance. Skier1 went to Stone Crest Medical Center where she was treated for a dislocated elbow and released.


BARDID: TN-2012-0037
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:25:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday 28 May 2012 at approx. 5:25 am individuals in the immediate area were awakened to the sound of popping and explosions.  Individuals exited their vessels and observed a cabin vessel engulfed in flames.  The vessels was docked on a lifted in a slip of the "new house boat" dock of Fish Springs Marina on Watauga Lake in Carter County.  Several residents of boats at the marina and the night watchman attempted to fight the fire using fire extinguishers and garden hoses.  According to statements given by witnesses and supported by photographs taken by witnesses, the fire started on the cabin vessel (vessel  #3).  The fire then jumped accross a walk way to vessel #1 and then progressed on to vessel #2 and vessel #6.  There were runabout type open vessels in slips adjacent to vessel #3 that were damaged by the heat generated.  These were vessel #4 and vessel #5.  Vessels 1-5 are all considered to be total losses based on the amount of damage done to them.  Vesssel #6 received minimal damage as it was very quickly extinguished and relocated to an area away from the fire.  The State Fire Marshal''s Office was contacted on Monday 28 May 2012 and set a tentative date for investigation.  The scene was documented, photographed, and secured.  Officers attempted to locate and interview witnesses and obtain photos that were taken of the early stages of the fire.  The Fire Marshal''s report is pending and it was determined V3 had an electrical failure.


BARDID: TN-2012-0039
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: HIWASSEE RIVER
NearestCityTown: DECATUR
County: MEIGS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3rd, 2012, Operator was out fishing on the Hiwassee River. Operator stated that he was traveling west down the Hiwassee River at about 50MPH and the sun was in his eyes and he hit a buoy causing damage to the port side of his boat.


BARDID: TN-2012-0040
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PICKWICK LAKE
NearestCityTown: COUNCE
County: HARDIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR STATES SHE WAS PULLING TUBE WHEN THEY STRUCK AN UNUSUALLY LARGE WAVE, POSSIBLY A WAKE FROM A PASSING CRUISER, THIS CAUSED THE INDIVIDUALS ON THE TUBE TO COLLIDE.  THE VICTIM STATED THAT THE OTHER TUBER HAD STRUCK HER WITH HER MOUTH WHEN THEY COLLIDEd CAUSING THE INJURY. THE OPERATOR AND AN ADULT OCCUPANT BOTH STATED TO ME AT THE SCENE THAT THIS OCCURRED JUST DOWN STREAM FROM YELLOW CREEK NEAR RIVER MILE 215. THEY ALSO STATED THAT THEY NOTICED THE FUEL TANK ON THE PONTOON HAD FALLEN OFF AFTER THE INJURY. THEY LATER STATED TO ME THEY DIDN''T KNOW HOW THAT OCCURRED.


BARDID: TN-2012-0041
Date: 2012-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator tried to start his boat that was tied to the bank, the boat caught on fire due to an electrical problem and he jumped off the boat back onto land.


BARDID: TN-2012-0042
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:09:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CLARKSVILLE
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was travelling downstream on the Cumberland River in Clarksville TN at approx 13:00hrs on Sunday May 27, 2012, when he had throttle and steering problems. He was approx. 1 mile upstream from the Conservation Club (Commercial Dock). He was in his 1990 jet drive 19'' Young Blood boat with approx. 850 hp and travelling approx 40mph.  As the boat left the river and started to slide up the river bank, his passenger placed her right arm in front of her face to shield herself from a large tree (branches) as the boat passed through the tree. The boat continued up the river bank and stopped approx 30 yds away from the river and approx 40 feet above the waters edge. 

There was very minor damage to the boat (scratches) but the Passenger had an injury to her arm, head, and side.
The driver Operator had a very minor abrasion to his left leg just above his ankle. He did not want any medical assistance. Although he did allow Clarksville Fire and Rescue to bandage his leg.

Occupant was transported by Clarksville Fire and Rescue on their boat to the Conservation Club. At that point she refused treatment and refused to be transported by ambulance to Gateway Hospital. Her friend transported her to Gateway hospital where she received 4 stitches to a laceration on her right elbow. She had a small bruise on her forehead and bruising to her right side. She was treated and released the same day.

Clarksville Police Dept arrived on the accident shortly after the Fire Dept got there and secured the scene until TWRA arrived. Several people were trying to move the boat off the bank before TWRA 2105 and 2172 could investigate.

After the accident was investigated Operator was allowed to pull the boat off the bank.


BARDID: TN-2012-0043
Date: 2012-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: HERMITAGE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday June 17, 2012 on J. Percy Priest Lake in Davidson County, operator was operating a 20'' Mastercraft (Vessel 1) while towing a skier near Seven Points Recreation Area. According to his statements, he towed his skiier behind the island West of Seven Points Recreation area but was unaware of the depth. Once he realized how shallow it was, he slowed down under 10 m.p.h. but continued behind the island. At that time Vessel 1 ran aground in less than two feet of water.


BARDID: TN-2012-0044
Date: 2012-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: KNOXVILLE
County: KNOX
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was leaving Sinking Creek and returning to the public boat ramp at Concord Park.  As he approached the Northshore Drive bridge he noticed there were three boats stationary/fishing under the bridge.  Two boats were to the left and one was to the right.  As he proceeded at idle speed under the middle section of the bridge a large cabin cruiser boat appeared from down river and headed toward Operator1 at a high rate of speed.  Operator1 turned his boat sharply to the right and throttled up to avoid a collision.  Both boats had navigation lights illuminated.  After the boat passed Operator1 turned his boat back to the left to avoid the bridge pillar.  At the same time the wake from the cabin cruiser pushed Operator1 boat into the bridge pillar.  Contact was made on the starboard rub rail just behind the operators seat.  The rub rail was damaged and the fiberglass was cracked, There was also induced damage from the fiberglass flexing.  Striations and cracking were visible away from the impacted area.


BARDID: TN-2012-0045
Date: 2012-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: TAZEWELL
County: CLAIBORNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator, his wife, and their five children had been staying on a houseboat at Lone Mountain Boat Dock since May 31, 2012.  On June 11, 2012, the family was packing their belongings preparing to go home.  Operator left the houseboat around 7:30 pm to take the four youngest children and some of the belongings from the houseboat to Lone Mountain Dock.  Operator’s wife stated Operator was gone for about two hours and she was beginning to get worried.  When Operator returned to the houseboat Operator’s wife stated he had been drinking and they began to argue about his drinking.  

Operator’s wife stated the entire family boarded the pontoon and Operator began driving extremely fast towards Lone Mountain Dock.  Operator’s wife stated she kept telling him to slow down but Operator refused and acted as if he was going to jump out of the vessel.  As the pontoon got close to Lone Mountain Dock Operator turned the vessel around and started heading away from the dock.  Operator’s wife stated she and Operator continued to argue and Operator hit her in the face knocking her unconscious.  When she came to, Operator’s wife stated Operator was on top of his step-daughter and she pulled him off of her at which time Operator struck her in the face again.  

Stepdaughter stated they were all screaming for Operator to go back to the dock.  Operator’s wife stated Operator said, " I''ll show all of them" and got out from behind the steering wheel and jumped out of the vessel.  Operator’s wife stated she threw Operator''s lifejacket out because she knew he was not a good swimmer, but the boat was going too fast and they had already gone too far past him.  Operator’s wife stated they were all too scared to jump in for fear of him trying to drown one of them.  During the panic of Operator jumping over board, the kill switch on the pontoon was pulled out and Operator’s wife did not know how to restart the vessel.  

Subject and family were on a houseboat nearby and heard the kids screaming for help.  When Subject got to the scene, stepdaughter told him what had happened and showed Subject where Operator had jumped in.  Subject found Operator floating face down close to the area stepdaughter had pointed out.  Subject is CPR certified through his work and began CPR on operator as soon as he was pulled from the water.  Operator was transported to Lone Mountain Dock where Claiborne EMS was waiting.  He passed away.


BARDID: TN-2012-0046
Date: 2012-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:34:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: OLD HICKORY
County: WILSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
BOTH Operators HAD JUST BOUGHT THE VESSELS.  ON MAY 19, 2012 AT APPROXIMATELY 4:30 P.M., operators TOOK THE PWC''S OUT FOR A TEST DRIVE.  AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES  Operator2 PWC STALLED AND WOULD NOT START.  V1 DROVE UP TO HER TO HELP.  HE LET OFF THE THROTTLE BUT DUE TO OFF THROTTLE STEERING HE STRUCK V2 ON THE STARBOARD SIDE.  THE IMPACT CAUSED NO DAMAGE TO VESSELS, BUT INJURED/BRUISING V2 RIGHT LEG FROM KNEE TO HIP.


BARDID: TN-2012-0047
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HENDERSONVILLE
County: WILSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator WAS RIDING DOWN THE LAKE WHEN A LARGE CRUISER PASSED THEM AND CAUSED A BIG WAKE.  Operator DID NOT LET OFF THROTTLE AND HIT THE WAKE THROWING victim UP OUT OF HER SEAT AND INTO THE WINDSHIELD.


BARDID: TN-2012-0048
Date: 2012-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERSVILLE
County: HAWKINS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements given by the operator: On 6/5/2012 at approximately 1810 hours Operator was participating in a bass tournament and he had just left the Quarryville boat ramp on Cherokee lake heading downstream. At approximately point 26 Operator was attempting to pass another vessel on the other vessels port side, at which time the vessel being passed made a hard left turn and he had to make a hard right turn to avoid the other vessel. At which time he crossed the wake of the vessel being overtaken and the bow of his boat caught and suddenly caused his vessel to make a hard right hand turn, throwing him against the port side of his vessel and then overboard the port side. Operator stated that he was traveling approximately 65mph at that time. There was no apparent damage to Operators vessel.  Operator was injured.


BARDID: TN-2012-0049
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WOODS RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: MANCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victims were fishing when severe wind and thunderstorm caused water to swamp and capsize vessel. Both victims were wearing a PFD. Vessel remained capsized until recovered the next day.


BARDID: TN-2012-0050
Date: 2012-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:47:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERSVILLE
County: HAWKINS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of 06/08/2012 at approximately 19:47 hours, I was contacted by dispatch that a single vessel boating accident had occurred on cherokee lake resulting in a serious injury.  I was informed that the accident occurred in the clouds creek area and the victim and vessel were being towed to the malinda''s ferry boat ramp.  Ems were on scene and awaiting the arrival of injured victim.  Upon my arrival, the injured victim and operator had already been loaded and was enroute to holston valley hospital.  

Operator was operating his 21''0" 1987 southern skimmer vessel in the clouds creek area located on cherokee lake in hawkins county.  Operator stated that he was traveling upstream towards the bridge from the lake.  He stated that he was distracted by looking at some campers and a campsite on the opposite bank.  When he looked where he was going, he noticed he was going to impact one of the bridge columns. He was unable to avoid the impact.  The vessel struck the upstream column first causing impact damage to the bow on the port side of the centerline.  After initial contact there was a secondary impact with the downstream column resulting in damage to the starboard side of the rail just in front of the transom.  Operator was thrown to the floor of the boat striking the front deck.  Operator estimated that he was traveling approximately 30 mph.

Two people were fishing upstream of the bridge.  They heard a loud crash and thought that a car had run off the bridge.  They looked towards the bridge and saw a white boat floating upstream of the bridge angled toward them.  They saw Operator attempting to lift himself up with his arms.  At this time, subject got his binoculars and looked at Operator and saw him ask for help.  They rendered aid and towed Operator and damaged vessel to the boat ramp at malinda''s ferry.  Operator was transported by ambulance to holston valley hospital.

Two campsites were located that evening in the clouds creek area. The first campsite was occupied by a man and woman who stated they had set up camp at dark.  The other campsite was occupied by three male fisherman that stated they were up the lake fishing and setting out jugs at the approximate time of collision.


BARDID: TN-2012-0051
Date: 2012-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 2, 2012 at 19:00, I received a call from dispatch in reference to a boating accident on Boone Lake.  I responded to the scene and arrived at approximately 20:00.  The vessel was secured to a dock.  Washington County EMS had already transported the one occupant of the vessel to Johnson City Medical Center.  The vessel was a 21 ft Ranger TN 0744ED.  Operator was the only occupant in the vessel and the only injured individual.  Operator suffered an open book pelvic fracture.   

Based on Statements:

Operator was participating in a bass tournament that blasted off from Wing Deer Park on the Watauga arm of Boone Lake.  Operator was running approximately 50 to 60mph down the Watauga arm headed in the direction of Boone Dam.  Operator stated that his hat fell off and he went to grab it when a wave impacted his vessel.   Operator stated that his vessel impacted a wake on the right side and was ejected out of his vessel.   Operator stated that he was ejected out of his vessel and his feet went over his head while being ejected.   Operator''s vessel was equipped with a Hot Foot which reduced the vessel to idle speed after ejection.  Another vessel in close proximity took control of Operator''s vessel.   Another vessel was in close proximity to Operator when the ejection occurred was occupied by two people.  One person stated that Operator overtook him on his port side traveling in the same direction going approximately 65 to 70mph.    Subject also stated that another vessel passed in between subect’s vessel and Operator''s vessel.  Subject stated it was a wakeboard type vessel.  The two subjects also describe Operator''s vessel chine walking before the ejection.  Subjects rendered aid to Operator.


BARDID: TN-2012-0052
Date: 2012-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA RIVER
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 06/18/2012 AT APPROXIMATELY 3:50 P.M., VESSEL #2 WAS DRIFTING AT THE WESTERN POINT OF HODGE ISLAND IN THE WATAUGA FLATS AREA OF THE WATAUGA RIVER IN WASHINGTON COUNTY. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 STATED THAT HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO SPRAY THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL #2. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 STATED THAT HE HAD GOTTEN TOO CLOSE AND HAD LET OFF THE THROTTLE. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 STATED HE COULD NOT STOP OR TURN THE VESSEL IN TIME TO AVOID COLLISION. VESSEL #1 STRUCK VESSEL #2 IN THE STARBOARD SIDE ALSO STRIKING THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL #2 IN HER RIGHT SIDE KNOCKING HER FROM THE VESSEL. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #2 WAS TRANSPORTED TO JOHNSON CITY MEDICAL CENTER WHERE SHE WAS TREATED AND RELEASED.


BARDID: TN-2012-0053
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:07:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27th 2012 at 19:07 we were notified of a boating accident on Watauga Lake in Carter County.  I responded from the Watauga Arm of Watauga Lake to the Lakeshore Area of Watauga Lake via patrol vessel.  Officer also responded to the scene by land.   I arrived on scene on May 27th 2012 at 19:30.  Two vessels had been involved in a collision and the occupants were on the dock being treated by Carter County Rescue Squad.    

Vessel one was TN 2032 DJ an Aqua patio 22ft'' and had damage to the starboard side of the vessel.  Vessel two was NC9589 DT an Islander 24ft'' and had damage to the bow starboard area of the vessel.  The aqua patio had 5 occupants with injuries, all injured refused treatment.  The Islander had 1 occupant with injuries, injured refused treatment.   The operator of the Aqua Patio showed signs of impairment and was asked to submit to a blood sample on scene due to the injuries that had occurred to the occupants in reference to the law 69-9-217(h).  Operator1 voluntarily submitted to the blood sample at 20:03.  Operator1 was then administered a field sobriety test and was not arrested based on his performance. 

Based on Statements from occupants of the Aqua Patio:
The Aqua Patio was traveling from the Big Island Area of Watauga Lake to Lakeshore Marina.  The occupants state the Islander was traveling out of lakeshore Marina pulling an individual on a knee board.  The operator of the Aqua Patio, Operator1, stated that the Islander was traveling towards them on the starboard side.  Occupants of the Aqua Patio stated that the operator of the Islander was maneuvering his vessel to increase the side to side motion of the knee boarder in tow.  The occupants stated that the Islander was traveling at full speed.  Operator1 stated that before impact, he tried to turn the vessel and put the throttle into reverse.  

Based on Statements from the the Islander:
The Islander was traveling from Lakeshore Marina out in to the lake to tow an individual while knee boarding.  The operator of the Islander stated he was towing and looking back at the knee boarder when he began to look forward the impact occurred.  Operator2 stated that his vessel was travelling on plane approximately 20 mph.  The Occupants stated that the Aqua Patio was traveling at a decent speed.  A subject was ejected upon impact into the water.    

Damage Assessment
TN 2032 DJ Aqua Patio 
Starboard Bow seat displacement, Starboard Bow railing and pontoon impact damage
NC 9589DT Islander
Bow railing impact damage, Starboard Bow pontoon impact damage


BARDID: TN-2012-0054
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based upon interviews and statements provided, on 06/23/12 at approximately 7:50pm , a two vessel boat accident happened in the Reedy Creek area of Boone lake In Washington County.  A 20'' Javelin bass boat (V1) was traveling to the back end of the Reedy Creek cove to fish.  There were two PWC''s in the same area traveling in the same direction as the bass boat.  The bass boat was traveling in the middle of the cove and the two PWC''s were on the North side of the cove.  Witnesses state one PWC (V2) made a sharp left turn toward the South side of the creek and his PWC and the bass boat collided.  

V1 operator stated he was traveling to the back of the cove and saw two PWC''s on his right traveling about the same speed.  Operator1 also stated the rear PWC slowed down after making eye contact, Operator1 passed it, and started watching the front PWC (V2).  Operator1 said the front PWC (V2) made a sharp left turn toward him and the operator was looking to the right, never making eye contact or looking in his direction.  Operator1 stated he slowed down, turned to the left (South side of the cove), and yelled at the PWC (V2), but he hit the PWC (V2).

Operator2 stated he and a friend had worked on the PWC (V2) exhaust for approximately 2 hours prior getting on the PWC.  Operator2 also stated he rode the PWC around the cove for about five minutes in a few circles before being hit.  Operator2 said he veered away from what hit him, but does not remember exactly what he was doing at the time of impact.  Operator2 remembered being hit from rear left, but did not have total memory of the accident.

Two witnesses said the bass boat (V1) came into the narrow cove at a high rate of speed, while another witness stated the bass boat was going the same speed as the PWC (V2)  Two witnesses stated the bass boat was passing the PWC on the left when the PWC operator turned left and hit the bass boat on the right side.

On impact, the PWC operator, Operator2, was ejected from the PWC and sustained several injuries.  Operator2 was transported by Washington County EMS to Johnson City Medical Center by ambulance.

Both operators submitted to blood samples being taken.

Inspection of both vessels showed the vessels collided on the right side of the bass boat (V1) and the left side of the PWC (V2), matching the witness statements.


BARDID: TN-2012-0055
Date: 2012-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was pulling two tubes carrying two passengers each behind his boat on Wolftever Creek on Chickamauga Lake.  One of the passengers on one tube fell off, so Operator slowed down and turned around to pick him up.  The victim fell off the other tube during the maneuver striking her forehead on something in the water.


BARDID: TN-2012-0056
Date: 2012-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: DECATUR
County: MEIGS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling upstream on the Hiwassee River approximately 2 miles west of the Highway 58 bridge when V1 encountered a large wake from a downbound large vessel.  The wake from the unknown vessel caused V1 to collide with a navigation buoy making a whole in the hull on the starboard side of the bow and causing damage to its lower unit.  The accident occurred in a portion of the river where the main channel is narrow and the waters outside the main channel are very shallow.


BARDID: TN-2012-0057
Date: 2012-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERSVILLE
County: HAWKINS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to operator statements obtained to date:

     On Sunday, June 24, 2012, at approximately 16:00 hrs, three personal watercraft (PWCs) were traveling downstream in a West-Southwest direction on Cherokee Lake near Holston River Mile 95.  Vessel 1 was a 1994 Yamaha.  Operator1’s sister was operating Vessel 2.  Operator’s husband was operating the third (uninvolved) PWC.  V2 and v3 were ahead of the v1.

     Vessel 2 slowed and came to rest, and Operator3 turned behind Vessel 2 and went from the port (left) side to the starboard (right) rear of Vessel 2.  Operator1 was concerned about the wake created by Operator3''s PWC, and slowed to cross it in such a way as to reduce the impact upon Vessel 1.  When Vessel 1 crossed this wake, Operator1 realized that she was about to collide with Vessel 2.  Operator1 yelled at Operator2, turned hard to starboard, and throttled up in order to try to steer enough to avoid Vessel 2.  Operator2 also accelerated Vessel 2 in an attempt to avoid the collision.

     Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 in the starboard rear, with the bow of Vessel 1 striking Operator2 in her right mid-back.  Vessel 1 continued forward over the starboard aft portion of Vessel 2, separating from Vessel 2 just aft of the handlebars. 

     After the collision, all three PWCs traveled to the lake shore just to the North of the accident site.  Operator2 was transported to the Caney Creek Access Area by an unknown subject in a pontoon boat, then transported to Hawkins County Memorial Hospital.


BARDID: TN-2012-0058
Date: 2012-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements by the two occupants. Operator and passenger were operating a jet ski after dark. They were attempting to leave Stardust Marina on the jet ski. They hit a no wake buoy on the way out of the marina no wake zone.  Operator was ejected and suffered an injury.


BARDID: TN-2012-0059
Date: 2012-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: DAYTON
County: RHEA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was wading in the water at a TVA access area known as Donkey Grounds in Rhea County on Chickamauga Lake.  The victim and witnesses stated Victim was struck in the right side of her back and hip by a PWC with two riders.  This happened on Wednesday June 27th, 2012 at approximately 3:30 pm.   Operator and others had put the PWC in the water at Frazier Landing and was taking turns riding the PWC in the area.  Operator and passenger, stated that Operator saw Victim in the water while they were riding and wanted to go splash her with the PWC.  When they got close to her, Operator let off the throttle but didn''t realize the effects of off-throttle steering.  Occupant realized the PWC was going to hit her head-on, so he pressed the throttle for Operator causing the PWC to veer slightly hitting Victim in the side instead of directly.  Operator drove the PWC back to Frazier Landing where the boys loaded it on the trailer and left the area.


BARDID: TN-2012-0060
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Carbon monoxide exposure
AccidentEvent1: Carbon Monoxide Exposure
RedactedNarrative:
On or about the above date and time the above victim was swimming behind the above listed vessel.  The generator on board the vessel was running with the exhaust routed directly under the rear deck near the boarding ladder.  When the victim attempted to use the boarding ladder he lost conciousness for a period of approximately 30 seconds.  Victim was transported via ambulance to local ER where he was treated for mild CO poisoning.


BARDID: TN-2012-0061
Date: 2012-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:55:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: MAYNARDVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to witnesses on July 3,2012 at or around 2245 vessel 1  departed from the loading dock at Hickory Star Marina with twelve occupants onboard. Approximately two to three hundred yards from the loading dock vessel 1 began to take on water due to overloading. Vessel 1 swamped and capsized forcing all twelve occupants into the water. All twelve occupants swam safely to the dock.  Alcohol was also listed as a cause.


BARDID: TN-2012-0062
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: MAYNARDVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Subject rented a pontoon from Beach Island Marina on July 5, 2012.  Five people all boarded the pontoon at Beach Island Marina at approximately 10:00 am.  The vessel departed from Beach Island Marina heading downstream to Lost Creek to go fishing.  According to the victim''s statement the water was too warm in Lost Creek and the fish were not biting. Operator, who was operating the vessel, began traveling out of Lost Creek back to Beach Island Marina. Two people were riding on the front portion of the pontoon outside the railing.  According to witness statements. victim was laying on the front deck of the pontoon reaching over into the water to splash it on herself to cool off as the vessel was underway.  Victim fell from the deck into the water and was struck by the propeller as the vessel went over her.  Victim sustained multiple lacerations from the propeller to her right leg, right arm, and right breast.  Victim''s left leg was nearly amputated by the propeller strike.  Operator shut the vessel off and dove into the water to assist Victim.  Operator, along with the other passengers, were able to get Victim back onto the vessel and an occupant called 911 as they went into Lost Creek Campground.  Victim was loaded into an ambulance and taken to the landing zone where she was flown to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.


BARDID: TN-2012-0064
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: SPRING CITY
County: RHEA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
operator was operating his 1993 4Winns vessel north of Watts Bar Dam on Wednesday evening July 5, 2012 when a violent wind storm came through the area.  Based on witness statements, waves quickly reached 4 feet with strong winds.  operator stated he pointed his vessel into the waves, but the waves were too large and came over the bow swamping the vessel.  All passengers went into the water and were rescued by a witness at the scene.


BARDID: TN-2012-0065
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: bystander behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was cruising in a southern direction on Big Creek of Norris Lake going under the Demory Rd(White) bridge. The victim jumped off the south side of the bridge and landed in the center of the vessel as it passed underneath.


BARDID: TN-2012-0066
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:55:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: MT JULIET
County: WILSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6, 2012 on Old Hickory Lake in Wilson County, subject was a passenger on a PWC traveling into a cove near the area known as "Two Foot" when a wave caused him to fall off the vessel, seperating his shoulder. 

subject could not provide the name of the operator nor the identifying numbers of the PWC. 

TWRA was notified by Summitt Medical Center of the incident.


BARDID: TN-2012-0067
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: Rock Island
County: WARREN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was coming out of the NO-WAKE zone at rock island state park.  He came up on plane just outside the zone heading downstream. He was unaware of the shallow area caused by current lake levels and ran aground causing exstinsive damage to the vessel''s lower unit.


BARDID: TN-2012-0069
Date: 2012-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating the SEADOO, TN-3163-EC, that had been rented from Lakeview Market Marina at Tim''s Ford State Park.  Operator said that he was operating the vessel near the dock at the house where they were staying, His daughter was riding on the vessel with him.  Operator said that he was driving circles playing near the dock and he circled to wide and struck the dock.  Operator and other witnesses said that there was no visible damage to their dock but the hull of the SEADOO was cracked from the top nearly to the keel of the vessel.  The vessel sank about halfway and they tried to start it but it wouldnt run.  They contacted Lakeview Market and had them bring the trailer for the vessel around to the Hopkins Point Boat Ramp nearby and the pushed the vessel to the boat ramp to load it on the trailer.


BARDID: TN-2012-0070
Date: 2012-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:06:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: LEBANON
County: WILSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unsecured object
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb tangled in equipment
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday , May 31, 2012 at approx.  12:06 , operator and family were boating on Old Hickory lake in Wilson Co. TN. Operator was operating a Ski Nat. ski boat pulling his son and others on a tube. They had concluded their outing and were headed back to their lake house. Operator secured the tube to the head ache rack in the boat with the tow line hanging down in the passenger compartment. His son was sitting in the passenger compartment with the rope coiled on the floor. The tow rope had gotten wrapped around victim’s left big toe, and when the tube came unsecured and exited the boat the tow rope snapped tight amputating victim’s big toe. victim was transported to Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital were he was treated.


BARDID: TN-2012-0072
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CLARKSVILLE
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The boat driver was pulling wakeboarder on the Cumberland River at around mile marker 135.5. This was the first time she had ever attempted to wake board and as she was being pulled at approx. 19mph she lost control and fell. She injured her neck and chest in the fall and was transported by boat to the Conservation Club and then on to Gateway Hospital ER in Clarksville, TN by ambulance. She was examined and 
released the same day. Neck sprain and chest bruising was the result of the fall. no attachments and no diagram........simple wake boarding injury around the Lock B North area of Montgomery county


BARDID: TN-2012-0073
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:19:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: BEAN STATION
County: GRAINGER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: stray current
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/04/2012 at approximately 14:24 I received a call from Grainger County 911 stating that 4 children had been electrocuted while swimming from a houseboat at German Creek Marina Bean Station, TN.  I wasn''t on duty so I notified Region IV dispatch to relay the message to someone in-service on the water.  I arrived on scene at approximately 15:10 where four officers along with other part time officers, Grainger County Sheriff''s Deputies, Rutledge Police Department, and THP had secured the scene and evacuated the docks.  All of those injured had either been transported, or were being driven by personal vehicles to area hospitals.  

Agency personnel secured evidence:  pedestal power outlet with meter, and entire vessel TN 8734 AJ.  According to witness statements, three people were jumping from the top of TN vessel 8734 AJ into the water between their vessel and TN 5283 BP.  Those witnesses heard screams from the children and discovered two people floating face down in the water, and one other floating face up.  Several family members and bystanders jumped into the water to rescue the children, all of which encountered electrical current/shock during this process.  One person was pronounced dead on arrival to Morristown Hamblen, while another was revived en-route to Morristown Hamblen, and then flown by Lifestar to East Tennessee Childrens Hospital where he stayed on full life support until his family ceased care and attending physician pronounced him dead at 19:35 on 07/05/2012.  All of the other injuries were admitted for overnight observation, treated and released, or refused care. The final meeting with the D.A.G. took place on October 4, 2012, where it was determined that no criminal charges would be filed. This incident occurred on Cherokee Lake in Grainger County, Tennessee.


BARDID: TN-2012-0074
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON LAKE
NearestCityTown: BRISTOL
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/04/12 at 1950 Officers were inspecting a vessel on South Holston Lake in Sullivan County. We were approximately one-half of a mile below the Virginia line when another vessel approached us and said there was a boat accident at the Cut-Through.  Officer and I arrived in the area of the Cut-Through at approximately 1955. We observed a vessel, AL 3131 ES, that was positioned upside-down in the water with four individuals in the water around it. The vessel was a 13 foot 1994 Sea-Rayder.  The four individuals were trying to flip the boat back right-side up.  Officer and I attached a rope to the front of our patrol vessel. The rope was wrapped around the overturned vessel. We backed the patrol boat and turned the vessel back to its normal position. Two of the individuals in the water were aboard the vessel at the time the incident occurred. We began questioning those individuals on how this situation began.  The other individuals that were aboard the vessel at the time of the incident were on a pontoon boat that came by after the incident occurred.  There were 5 people on the vessel at the time of the incident. Officer and I began taking a statement from the driver of the vessel, and passenger. Officers arrived at the scene at about 2005. They took statements from passengers. The occupants of the vessel bailed water out of the boat with a bucked and towed it to Observation Knob boat ramp with a friends boat. Officers followed them to the ramp in their patrol boat. 

After reviewing statements from the occupants of the vessel AL 3131 ES, it appeared that Operator was operating the vessel down stream of the Cut-Through. The back hatch of the vessel was opened and water was discovered to be inside the engine compartment. Operator turned the vessel around and headed back through the Cut-Through, trying to return to the ramp at Observation Knob.  At the North end of the Cut-Through, a wake from another vessel came over the bow of Operator''s vessel. The bow of the vessel stayed under the water. Operator tried to reverse out of the water but did not succeed. Two people jumped out of the vessel followed by another. Operator and one other person stayed on the vessel as it slowly capsized and eventually turned over. Operator and the other person stayed with the vessel until a passing boat stopped to give assistance and Officer and I arrived.


BARDID: TN-2012-0076
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:46:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: MORRISTOWN
County: HAMBLEN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 7, 2012 at approximately 20:40 hrs I and Officer were working boating enforcement on Cherokee Lake.  I overheard a 2 personal watercraft collision be dispatched over my county radio.  They dispatched medical personnel and Hamblen County Sheriff Deputies to the scene.  I called the county dispatch and advised them that I had copied direct and would be enroute.  I notified my dispatch of the collision and that Officer and I were responding.

Based on verbal and written statements:

At approximately 20:35 hrs, two personal watercraft were being operated just off shore from Greenlee Campground at Fall Creek on Cherokee Lake.  Both men stated that they wanted to "cool off" before dark so they were driving their PWC''s out from their campsite.  A family member of Operator2 hollered at him from shore.  Operator2 stopped his PWC just off shore to speak with the family member.  Operator1 did not see Operator2 stop.  Operator1 advised that he tried to make a hard right turn to avoid colliding with the PWC operated by Operator2.  Operator2 said he looked over and saw that he was "fixing to get hit" and advised that he tried to jump off to the left of his PWC.  Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 on the starboard side in line with the steering console ramping up and over towards the bow of Vessel 2.  Operator2 received a laceration to the top of his right foot as his foot struck the throttle bolt on his handle bar.  Tissue and blood were present on the bolt and throttle lever.  Multiple people from the campsite pulled both men and PWC''s to shore.  Operator2 refused ambulance ride to hospital.  He was transported by his sister, Operator1''s wife, to Lakeway Regional Hospital in Morristown, TN.

Alcohol was present at campsite.  However, both operators immediately consented to blood draws when advised of TCA 69-9-217.


BARDID: TN-2012-0078
Date: 2012-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday July 3, 2012 at Nashville Shores Marina in Davidson County, a 30'' Sea Ray caught on fire while docked in its slip, burning to the water line and subsequently sinking. (Vessel 1) 

As Vessel 1 burned, it caused fire damage to vessels docked immediately on either side. Vessel 2, a 43'' houseboat, received fire damage on its starboard side. 

Vessel 3, a 39'' Chris Craft, received fire damage on the port side.



Accowner, he dectected smoke originating from his bilge pump while adrift in open water. At that time he returned to dock at Nashville Shores Marina, when 30 to 40 minutes later his friend noticed more smoke and flames from the same location. They immediately attempted to put out the flames with the vessels fire extinguisher, but was unsuccessful. The bilge pump was located at the stern of the vessel in the engine compartment.

Due to the amount of fire damage, it was impossible to inspect any equipment.


BARDID: TN-2012-0079
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:05:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/07/2012 at about 21:05 Operator was operating his vessel in Boiling Fork Creek on Tim''s Ford Lake.  Victim was in the front seat opposite Operator with two people on the rear seat.  Operator was heading towards the Winchester Bass Club.  It was dark and He advised that he was heading towards the lights of the Bass Club and trying to stay near the north bank near Lakeview Way.  The vessel hit a gravel bar created by low water off of a small point and came to a stop completely out of the water on the point.  Operator said that he did not realize that the point was between the vessel and the Bass Club.  Operator was not using a spotlight to see where he was going.  When the vessel struck the bank Victim hit his head on the edge of the windshield and cut a gash on his left eyebrow.  Victim was taken to Southern Middle Tennessee Medical Center in an ambulance. The ER doctor advised that there were no other injuries other than the laceration.  Victim received seven stitches and was released from SMTMC.  The only visible damage was some scrapes along the bottom of the hull and some small nicks to the prop and lower unit.


BARDID: TN-2012-0080
Date: 2012-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:10:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 8th, 2012 at around 20:10 operator was operating a SeaDoo in the No Wake Zone at the Winchester Bass Club.  According to witnesses she was operating the PWC without a PFD, She tried to approach the dock at the Bass Club and she missed the floating part of the dock and started to go under the metal walkway and tried to use her foot/leg to keep from going under the walkway.  She caught her leg in the metal walkway and both of the bones in her lower right leg were broken.  She was taken to Southern Middle Tennessee Medical Center and from there she was sent to Vanderbilt Hospital.


BARDID: TN-2012-0081
Date: 2012-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:55:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 6, 2012, at approximately 17:55, subject was wakeboarding and while performing a trick he came down but was unable to complete the trick, hit the water and received a compound fracture to his tibia and fibula bones. This all occured on Watts Bar Lake in Roane County.


BARDID: TN-2012-0082
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORMANDY LAKE
NearestCityTown: TULLAHOMA
County: COFFEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operators of both vessels were traveling on plane in the NW direction to Riley Creek from the Barton Springs boat ramp on Normandy Reservoir. As vessels approached the mouth of Riley Creek, operator of vessel #1 caught up to a slower vessel, #3, traveling in the same direction and navigated to the port side of this vessel to pass. Operator of vessel # 1 also stated he noticed a pontoon boat sitting on his starboard side at the mouth of Riley Creek. Both operators of vessel #1 and vessel #2 veered to opposite directions to avoid collision prior to impact.  

Vessel #1 has some scratches, transfer and striation marks to rear port side of lower hull and rub rail.
Vessel #2 has noticeable stress fractures which include both spider webbing and hairline fractures to starboard side of hull. There''s also a clean break from impact to the trottle control area.


BARDID: TN-2012-0083
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:35:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEATHAM RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: ASHLAND CITY
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and occupant had left Riverview Marina and were headed down stream on the right hand bank.  Operator did not have much experience operating a vessel after sunset.  The driver noticed the floating boat dock and tried to manuver his boat but was unable to do so in time.  He struck the boat dock and jumped through it.  He nor the passenger sustained any injuries.


BARDID: TN-2012-0084
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was driving towards Four Corners Marina and went through the short cut on the west side of Pelican Island.  This area is outside the main marked navigation channel.  The lower unit of his boat struck bottom on the rocks and sustained approximately $3500.00 in damage. There were four other people on board that were uninjured.  Operator called in the accident the following day to report it.   Percy Priest lake is approximately 3.5 feet below Summer Pool level.


BARDID: TN-2012-0085
Date: 2012-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEECH LAKE
NearestCityTown: LEXINGTON
County: HENDERSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he had just bought the pwc and was trying it out. He left the boat ramp and proceeded towards the spillway at beech lake. once near the spillway, he said that the motor was trying to die and when he applied the throttle the bow of the vessel started to sink .  At this time,he "gunned it" and turned  to the right, the vessel listed to the right and he fell overboard.  He tried to reboard the vessel but it was sinking bow down and all that was visible above the water was the stern. A bystander on the bank contacted henderson co 911 and they dispatched rescue squad, a subjectct jumped in and pulled operator to shore. Both operator and subject were transported to henderson co. Hospital to be treated for hypothermia and operator  was also treated for a possibly sprained ankle.  
Once the vessel was retrieved from the water, i found a  crack in the hull on the keel just down from the rub rail on the bow(photos included). I observed water exiting the motor compartment from this crack once the vessel was placed on a trailer. It appears all through hull fittings are intact.  I asked operator if he struck anything and he stated "no". Witness also stated they hadn''t seen operator hit anything..


BARDID: TN-2012-0086
Date: 2012-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: BUTLER
County: JOHNSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1, 2012 at approx. 12:00 pm Operator and three other occupants onboard TN vessel 0077 BD 115, a rental from Lakeshore Marina were adrift on Watauga Lake in Johnson County.  The occupants decided to go for a swim and Operator was the first into the water.  Operator is unsure exactly how that she came in contact with the vessel, but entered the water from the rear of the vessel.  Upon jumping into Watauga Lake Operator''s leg ended up underneath the transom and/or lower unit of the vessel.  Operator either struck some portion of the vessel when she jumped in or when she kicked her legs to swim to the surface.  Operator suffered severe laceration to the front of lower left leg and also lacerations and abrasions to the ankle areas of  both right and left legs.  Operator was transported to Emergency Room, treated, and released.


BARDID: TN-2012-0087
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: KINGSTON
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, July 5, 2012 at approximately 16:45, a personal watercraft (V2) was towing a tube (Puke Tube), which a juvenile female was riding inside, came too close to another personal watercraft causing the tube to strike the drifting other watercraft (V1), which in return injured the juvenile (dislocated hip).  EMS transported to UT Childrens Hospitol. This all occured on Watts Bar Lake in Roane County.


BARDID: TN-2012-0088
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:48:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NOLICHUCKY RIVER
NearestCityTown: ERWIN
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/30/2012 at approximately 10:40 a.m., vessel #1 was traveling on the nolichucky river along a.j. willis road in the embreeville area of washington county. Vessel #1 is an unregistered 12 ft sears jonboat with two motors attached, one homemade shindaiwa motor of unknown horsepower and a johnson seahorse 5.5 horsepower. Vessel #1 was occupied by the operator and occupant. Vessel #1 pulled up to the bank along a.j. willis road to pick up three additional passengers. Based on witness statements, after loading the vessel, the operator of vessel #1 started the motor and began to travel upstream. At this time, water started coming into the vessel over the bow. The vessel started to capsize and all five occupants bailed out. The juveniles on board were wearing personal flotation devices and made it safely to the bank. The adults on board were not wearing personal flotation devices. Passengers made it safely to the bank. The operator of vessel #1 was attempting to swim to the bank and started to struggle. Two life jackets were thrown into the water in an attempt to rescue Operator. Operator went under and did not resurface. At approximately 10:48 a.m., washington county 911 was notified. Emergency medical services and search and rescue divers responded to the scene and began searching for Operator. The body of Operator was recovered on 07/01/2012 at 6:10 p.m. in eight (8) feet of water  and approximately forty (40) yards from the accident site.


BARDID: TN-2012-0089
Date: 2012-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: ESTILL SPRINGS
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/2012 around 10:30 pm I received a call from TWRA dispatch about a boating accident on Timsford lake at the Loop Island and that the injured person was already at STMC hospital in Winchester,TN.  When I arrived at the hospital I spoke with the victim and his wife about the accident and the details of that night.  Wife began telling me that there were six people onboard the vessel that night and that they put on the water at bluegill grill around 5:30 pm and they started down the lake and that everybody on the boat was drinking but her.  I called the owner and told him to meet me at the rock creek boat ramp in which he did. Owner, the operator, gave me a statement that said they put on the lake around 5:30 pm and they headed toward the cliffs which was around Lost Creek area in Moore Co. where he had four or five beers then they proceeded to Rock Creek. When they got to the Rock Creek no wake area they turned around and started to head back to the bluegill grill.  When Owner came to the Loop Island he said he went around the left side of the Loop Island about 35mph and thought he was past it enough so he turned back right running his vessel aground on Loop Island. He said it was about 9:15 pm when the crash occured and that he had never been up there at night.  Owner miscalculation caused him to strike the Loop Island  almost dead center of it and at his speed caused his vessel to travel about 29yds to the center of the Loop Island. I had an Estill Springs police officer to take Owner to the hospital to draw some blood from him due to the accident with injuries.  I went to the accident scene to take pictures and collect evidence with one of the persons that was involved in the accident.  See notes and statements for more infomation on this accident.


BARDID: TN-2012-0091
Date: 2012-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: ESTILL SPRINGS
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/28/2012 around 1630 hrs V1 was towing two tubes with two skiers on each tube. A rouge wave caused the persons onboard each tube to be tossed about and thrown from the tubes in which victim was thrown off and onto the other tube where he landed on a spring loaded metal clevis which tore into his tricep and continued to tear around to his bicep. V1 operator stopped the vessel and rendered aid to victim and transported him to the hospital.


BARDID: TN-2012-0093
Date: 2012-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:46:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, 24th day of July, I was dispatched out to a pwc accident off of Savannah Hills Drive in wolftever creek.  Both subjects state that they were riding near a dock and turned sharp to avoid it and were ejected from the pwc. operator stated she turned sharp left to avoid the dock and she was ejected into the dock and sustained serious injury from the impact. occupant was not injured. operator was transported to Erlanger Hospital and was treated for broken bones in her leg, lacerations,bruising, and a dislocation of the knee.


BARDID: TN-2012-0094
Date: 2012-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: BYRDSTOWN
County: PICKETT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel traveling upstream near Big Hollow. Operator stated he hit something in water then hit the bluff.  Vessel took on water and sunk at teh ramp.  occupant impacted the windshielf after the crash and needed 20+ stitches to the head. Scratches and damage on vessel are from gunwales to bottom of vessel.


BARDID: TN-2012-0095
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:10:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: PINEY FLATS
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: line failure
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 20th, 2012 at approximately 12:00 I, Officer, became aware of a boating accident that occurred on Boone Lake in Sullivan County on July 7th 2012 at approximately 03:30.  I received a copy of Sullivan County Sheriff''s Department report on the accident from Investigator.  The Sullivan County Sheriff''s Office report states that Officer responded to Lakes Edge Drive in Piney Flatts at 04:26 were he spoke with a Operator1.  Operator1 state while traveling on Boone Lake he struck a Yamaha PWC (Registration TN 3807 ED)  with his Ranger bass boat ( Registration VA 4543 BV).  Owner2 was contacted by phone by Officer and she stated that the PWC had been tied to her dock and must have come loose.   I, Officer, then contacted the individuals involved and located the vessels involved and began an accident report.  
Based on Statements:
Operator1 was operating a Ranger bass boat, registration VA 4543 BV, at approximately 4:00 am on July 7th 2012.  Operator1 was returning from Davis Marina traveling downstream to Lakeview Campground with his fishing partner in the vessel.  Operator1 stated he was traveling between 20-25mph when he seen a PWC five feet in front of his vessel.  Operator1 state that upon impacting the PWC, he was thrown into the back seat of his vessel.  Operator1 did not have a kill switch attached to his person.   Operator1 stated his vessel started to travel hard right when he recovered and pull the kill switch.  Operator1 stated there was a no one around the PWC and there was a 6 inch frayed rope attached to the PWC with a hook on it.  The PWC had no lights of any kind on at the time of the accident.  At this point Operator1 and occupant contacted Sullivan County 911 to report the collision.  Operator1 and occupant later meet with Sullivan County Sheriff''s Department Officers to do a report.   Operator1 stated that no injuries occurred to himself or occupant.

Owner2 stated that she had not been to the Dock on the day of the accident and for a few days prior.  Owner2 stated that the PWC was attached to the floating dock by a rope and a metal hook, and that the PWC was difficult to slide off of the floating dock.  

Based on Investigation:
Vessel 1 received minor gel coat damage and damage to the propeller. Vessel 2 received significant damage to the starboard bow area.  Vessel 2 did have a rope attached to a metal hook attached to the bow eye.  The rope was frayed at the end.  There was no rope matching the rope on vessel 2 at the location that vessel 2 was said to be docked.  The diagram above shows the impact scenario of the two vessels.  Severe storms where in the area of Boone Lake on 7- 5-2012.  A resident who resides at Lakeview Dock stated that he had seen the PWC drifted against the shore in the cove at Lakeview Campground for approximately 2 days before the accident.  
Damage assessment:
Vessel 1: Ranger Bass Boat
Impact damage to hull on keel and on port area of Hull
Impact damage to propeller 

Vessel 2: Yamaha PWC
Impact to the starboard bow: Bow eye impact to starboard bow
Propeller Strike to starboard bow railing and Hull


BARDID: TN-2012-0096
Date: 2012-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: PINEY FLATS
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/16/2012 I made contact with subject in regards to a boating accident where property damage had occurred. I arrived around 1700.  I met subject. Subject showed me the vessel that sustained damage to the starboard side of the stern. The vessel TN 0525 CG belonged to his sister. Subject stated the vessel received the damage sometime between 07/08/2012 at 1900 and 07/10/2012 at 1000. Subject stated that he saw the boat on 07/08/2012 and his son reported noticing the damage to him at around 1000 on 07/10/2012. Owner met us at the dock and provided the registration to the vessel. I photographed the damage and took notes at the scene. Subject stated no one was supposed to have taken the vessel anywhere during the time the damage occurred. Subject also stated that the vessel was in the same slip when he last observed it prior to the damage. There was a significant amount of damage above the pontoon on the aluminum paneling and railing. I observed and photographed a small amount of purple paint transfer on the paneling. There was no damage or transfer to the pontoon or floor of the vessel. The damage to the vessel began at around 16"-17" above the water level to 37"-40" above the water level. There was no fresh damage to the wood dock next to the vessel. 

The vessel travels a distance greater than 24" forward and backward while in the slip at the dock. This allows the area that sustained the damage open from the edge of the end of the wood dock.


BARDID: TN-2012-0097
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: KINGSTON
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL WAS ENTERING CANEY CREEK MARINA UNDER POWER when the vessel struck a submerged object. TRANSMISSION  EXPLODED, TRIM ON THE FOOT WAS UNRESPONSIVE. WATER BEGAN ENTERING THROUGH Transom. CALLED 911 COAST GUARD Vessel, THE Guardian, TOWED VESSEL TO CANEY CREEK RESORT


BARDID: TN-2012-0107
Date: 2012-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:46:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 28th 2012 I Officer was notified of a capsizing of a vessel by TWRA dispatch at 11:00am.  The vessel had capsized at Rat Branch Boat Ramp on Watauga Lake in Carter County.  I arrived on scene at 11:46 and located the vessel in question. The vessel was three quarters submerged and upside down tied up to the dock at Rat Branch.  There were two occupants on the vessel at the time of capsizing.  No one suffered any injuries. 
Based on Statements:
Operator launched the vessel at Rat Branch and forgot to put the plug in the vessel.  Operator ran to the vessel and tried to put the plug into the drain.  Operator stated that the water kept coming in and he then attempted to put the plug in and  put the plug into the wrong hole.  Operator stated that that the vessel capsized and Operator and a female juvenile swam back to the dock.  Operator then stated that another vessel towed the capsized vessel back to the dock and secured it.


BARDID: TN-2012-0108
Date: 2012-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday July 30 2012 at approximately 16:56, I received a call from Tennessee Wildlife Dispatch advising that there was a boat accident on Boone Lake in Washington County. Officers responded. After assessing the damage and interviewing all parties involved, I determined that Operator2, 11 years old, was operating a 1995 Kawasaki personal watercraft (V1) when he struck the port, bow of a 1989 Mastercraft run-about style boat (V2) operated by Operator1. Operator2 left his dock on a personal watercraft with one 13 year old passenger on the back and headed across the channel. Operator1 was traveling upstream approximately 1/4 mile upstream of Pickens Bridge when his vessel was struck by the personal watercraft. When Operator1 saw the personal watercraft coming toward him, he slowed down and put his boat into reverse to attempt to avoid collision. Operator2 lost control of the personal watercraft and was not able to recover before the collision. At the time of the collision, the personal watercraft was traveling approximately 20 miles per hour and the mastercraft was traveling about 10 miles per hour. The personal watercraft ramped up on the port gunwale of the Mastercraft, rotated counter clockwise and then slid backward off the port gunwale. Operator2 was ejected from the boat, but did not sustain any injuries. The passenger, was not ejected, but jumped in to help Operator2. Both Operator2 and v2 occupant were wearing lifejackets. Operator2 was not wearing the kill switch lanyard. No one in the Mastercraft was ejected or injured. Both parties drove to Operator2''s dock and waited for TWRA to arrive.  Mother of Operator2, gave permission for her 11 year old son to operate the personal watercraft. This case has been presented to a Washington County Assistant District Attorney and charges are pending.


BARDID: TN-2012-0109
Date: 2012-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements given by operator and victim ( who were the only occupants of vessel )  they were fishing from vessel. Victim was sitting in seat at the stern of vessel when she leaned port side to reach for coffee. Victim fell overboard, getting her left calf muscle caught on port side boat cleat. The muscle was almost completely torn from her leg. Operator was able to get victim back into vessel and transport her to Pates Ford Marina, where she was taken by Dekalb EMS to nearby landing zone. Victim was transported by Lifeforce helicopter to Vanderbilt Univ. Medical Center for treatment.


BARDID: TN-2012-0111
Date: 2012-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On or about the above listed date and time one individual was injured while tubing behind the above listed vessel operated by the above listed operator.  The vessel was traveling at approximately 15 miles per hour while pulling two tubes when one tube occuppant fell from the tube.  As he exited the tube his leg became entrapped in the tube and was manipulated in such a way to break the femur of the victim.


BARDID: TN-2012-0112
Date: 2012-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: KNOXVILLE
County: KNOX
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24,2012 at approximately 12:30m P.M. operator was ancored at I.C King park. operator started the port side engine and lifted the stern anchor. Before operator could lift the bow ancor, the wind blew the vessel a ground. This caused damage to the port side engine. Sea Tow was called and they towed the vessel back to Volunteer Landing Marina.


BARDID: TN-2012-0115
Date: 2012-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: MT JULIET
County: WILSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
BASE ON OWNER'S STATEMENTS AND MY OBSERVATION OF THE BOAT, THE BOAT STARTED SINKING WHILE AT ANCHOR IN THE BACK OF THE COVE DUE TO THE RUBBER BOOT AROUND THE OUTDRIVE DRY ROTTED AND CRACKED LETTING WATER INTO THE HULL.  THERE WAS NO DAMAGE ON BOAT INDICATING THAT IT HAD STRUCK ANYTHING.  THE BOOT HAD A LARGE CRACK IN IT ,AND UPON INSPECTION THE BOOT FELL APART IN MY HAND BECAUSE IT WAS SO ROTTEN.  GIRLFRIEND WENT IN THE CABIN AND FOUND WATER ALREADY DEEP IN THE CABIN.  operator STARTED THE BOAT AND WAS ONLY ABLE TO MAKE IT A SHORT DISTANCE( APPRX. 50 YARDS) BEFORE THE MOTOR DROWNED OUT.  HE THEN AND TO JUMP IN THE WATER AND PULL THE BOAT TO SHORE BY SWIMMING IT THE REST OF THE WAY IN.


BARDID: TN-2012-0116
Date: 2012-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (pontoon boat) was adrift near point 9 on Norris lake in Campbell County.  The operator stated he had the navigation lights illuminated on his vessel as well as a lantern  on the deck of the pontoon.  They occupants were using the lantern to play cards on the pontoon table.  At approximately 11:15pm the occupants of the pontoon boat noticed a boat coming downstream toward them.  The boat approaching them appeared to be on a collision course with the pontoon.  The pontoon occupants started screaming and waving their arms at the oncoming boat.  operator jumped out of the pontoon and into the lake thinking he was about to be hit by the oncoming boat .  The operator of Vessel 2 (bowrider type) stated he noticed the pontoon at the last second and turned in an attempt to avoid a collision.  The boats made contact.  The pontoon has damage on the port side aft corner.  Damage includes bent/broken decking, bent railing, bent sheet metal and bent transom.  The bowrider has transfer marks, cracked fiberglass and holes along the starboard side midship area.  The operator of the bowrider claims the pontoon had no lights of any type illuminated. After exchanging information both boats left the area.


BARDID: TN-2012-0117
Date: 2012-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: BUTLER
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on interviews and statements provided, on 07/28/12 at approximately 4:30pm, a single vessel boat accident happened near point 11 on the Elk River of Watauga Lake in Carter County.  A 21'' Mastercraft boat was traveling upstream in the Elk River portion of Watauga Lake when it hit a submerged rock.  The boat came to an abrupt stop on the rock and a front passenger was ejected from the boat.  Victim impacted the boat with her forehead as she was ejected and went into the water.  There were 5 people on board the boat and the boat owner was being towed on a wakeboard.  Another occupant and husband to Victim, jumped from the boat into the water to assist his wife.  Victim was helped back into the boat and assisted with the bleeding from her forehead.  The boat occupants flagged down a passing boat and were towed back to Mallard Cove Marina.  Victim was taken by private vehicle to Jonson City Medical Center where she was treated and released.

At writing of this report, no estimate of damage to the boat has been reported to investigator.


BARDID: TN-2012-0118
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: PINEY FLATS
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
ON 08/04/2012 AT APPROXIMATELY 3:50 P.M., BOTH VESSELS WERE TRAVELING IN THE ALLISON COVE AREA OF BOONE LAKE IN SULLIVAN COUNTY. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 STATED THAT HE WAS LEAVING THE AREA AND OBSERVED VESSEL #2 OPERATING ERRATICALLY. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 STATED THE SPEED OF VESSEL #2 INCREASED SUDDENLY AND HEADED IN HIS DIRECTION. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #2 STATED THAT HE WAS TURNED AROUND BACKWARDS RIDING ON THE BOW OF THE PWC AND WAS GOING IN CIRCLES AND DOING TRICKS. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #2 STATED THAT HE OBSERVED VESSEL #1 GETTING CLOSER AND BAILED OFF OF THE PWC. VESSEL #1 STRUCK VESSEL #2 IN THE STARBOARD SIDE. AFTER THE COLLISON, VESSEL #2 CONTINUED TO TRAVEL STRIKING A RETAINING WALL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED IN THIS INCIDENT. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #2 WILL BE CITED FOR RECKLESS OPERATION OF A PWC AND FAILURE TO ATTACH LANYARD.


BARDID: TN-2012-0119
Date: 2012-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:28:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON LAKE
NearestCityTown: BRISTOL
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/05/2012 at approximately 4:15 p.m., vessel #1 was towing a tube with two juvenile male passengers at hwy 421 bridge on south holston lake in sullivan county. Based on witness statements, vessel #1 pulled up to the bank near the bridge to unload and go ashore to the rope swing. The two juvenile male passengers got off of the tube and the tube was secured to the vessel. One juvenile male remained in the water and was swimming near the vessel. The subject stated he was attempting to go to the rear of the vessel and climb the ladder. Operator of vessel #1 stated that he thought everyone was out of the water and looked around and did not see anyone near the vessel. At this time, he started the engine and put the boat into gear in attempt to move farther up onto the bank to secure the vessel. The juvenile male stated he heard the engine start and tried to kick away from the vessel and the propeller struck him in the lower left leg. An occupant of vessel #1 called 911 and advised sullivan county of the incident. The operator of vessel #1 transported the male juvenile to painter creek marina. Sullivan county ems arrived on scene and transported the male juvenile to bristol regional medical center where he was admitted for treatment and released on 08/07/2012.


BARDID: TN-2012-0120
Date: 2012-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 11, 2012 at 19:40 I, Officer, was notified by TWRA Dispatch of a two vessel boating accident on Watauga Lake in Carter County, Tennessee.  I arrived on scene at 20:00  in the location of Rat Branch Boat Ramp.  The collision was a between a 20ft Triton bass boat (TN 2592 ED) and a 8ft Kawasaki Personal Watercraft (TN 3214 EC).  Operator did not possess a valid boating education course certificate but was not required due to passenger possessing a valid boating education course and being in a position of immediate control of the vessel.  No one involved in the collision suffered any injuries.    
Based on Statements:

Vessel One operated by Operator1 was traveling upstream from QLakeshore Marina at approximately 19:30.  Operator1 stated that he was traveling 30mph.  The occupant of vessel 1 stated that the vessel was traveling approximately 40mph.   Both occupants stated that they viewed a PWC crossing from right to left ahead of them.  Operator stated that he observed the PWC in direct course for collision and steered the vessel hard left and gave it full throttle.  During this maneuver impact with the PWC occurred.  Operator then circled to the PWC to aid  the two female occupants of the PWC.  No injuries occurred to V1 subjects.

Vessel Two operated by Operator2.  Operator2 stated that she was turning left and operating at a speed of 21 mph when passenger said “watch out”.  Operator2 stated that she slowed down and then crashed.  Operator2 stated that she did not see the boat at all before impact.  operator was ejected off of the PWC but received no injuries.  passenger stated that the PWC was operating at approximately 20 mph and was in a left turn when she seen a boat at 20 ft.  passenger stated at the last moment she yanked the wheel to the right. Impact occurred and passenger was ejected but suffered no injuries.  

A witness was interviewed on scene.  A witness was operating a Pontoon boat on Watauga Lake and in close proximity to the collision.  witness stated that he observed two females on a PWC pass his boat at approximately 200-300 yards on the left side.  At the same time witness stated a bass boat with two males in it pass on the right side of his pontoon at 200-300 yards and at wide open throttle.  witness stated that he thought the PWC was going to cross my wake but the PWC continued pass my pontoon and turned towards the bass boat.  witness stated that he then observed the bass boat reduce throttle and the PWC stop fast.  witness stated that both the PWC occupants went into the water .   

Damage Assessment.
Vessel One Triton Bass Boat
Significant impact damage on starboard towards the stern of the Vessel.  The impact was a complete puncture through the fiberglass below the rub rail.

Vessel Two Kawasaki PWC
Impact damage to the bow area both above and below the rub rail.  Impact damage on port side  bow rub rail.


BARDID: TN-2012-0122
Date: 2012-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25, 2012, Operator2 left Waterside Marina on a Kawasaki personal watercraft (pwc) at approximately 7:30 pm.  Operator2 stated he had been riding around near the marina, and just before sunset the pwc stopped running.  Operator2 tried to start the pwc back but was unsuccessful.  Operator1, and two passengers, left Waterside Marina at approximately 9:35 pm in route to Stardust Marina.  Operator1 stated he came by the no wake buoys and throttled the pontoon up to get on plane. One person was seated in the front of the pontoon as lookout, and stated they had gone about a half a mile upstream when they struck a small watercraft. The pwc was not easily visible due to the lack of navigational lights on the vessel.  Operator1 stated he tried to avoid the collision but was unsuccessful. The right pontoon of Operator1''s vessel struck the pwc on the right rear. Operator1 stated they immediately turned around to see if anyone was injured in the collision.  Operator2 was ejected from the pwc but did not sustain injuries that required medical treatment.  Operator1 towed the pwc back to Waterside Marina.


BARDID: TN-2012-0123
Date: 2012-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HENDERSONVILLE
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday Sept. 1, 2012 at or about 22:30 on Old Hickory Reservoir, Operator was leaving the area of "Two Foot" Island heading downstream to Rockland Access Area when Vessel 1 struck a floating object. Passenger  who was seated on the port side bow of the boat, was ejected. She was wearing a PFD and was recovered uninjured. At that time operator observed the boat taking on water and called 911 for assistance. His vessel was assisted to Saunders Ferry Park.


BARDID: TN-2012-0124
Date: 2012-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:07:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 28th 2012 at approximately 04:15 I, Officer, was notified by Carter County Comm Center of a serious injury boating accident on Watauga Lake.  I, Officer, arrived on scene at approximately 04:30.  Upon arrival, Carter County Rescue was treating the operator. Operator stated that he was operating a bass boat (TN5282 EA) at approximately 30mph when he struck an island.  Upon impact with the island Operator stated that the passenger was ejected from the vessel and into the water.  Two nearby fisherman came and render aid to both Occupant and Operator.  Occupant and Operator were transported by ambulance to the Johnson City Medical Center to receive treatment for their injuries. 

Based On Statements:
Operator and Occupant where fishing on Watauga Lake and had went from the area of Fish Springs to the area of the Dam.  Operator said that he had his gps unit running the entire evening, logging tracks.  On the way back to Fish Springs from the Dam, Operator stated he was following the tracks from earlier when he impacted the island.  Operator was wearing an inflatable PFD and so was Occupant.   Occupant the passenger was ejected during the impact, his inflatable PFD deployed when he struck the water.  Occupant stated that he thought that the straps had broken on his inflatable PFD because he had to hold the PFD on while in the water.  Operator did not get ejected during the impact and used the trolling motor to retrieve Occupant from the water.  Operator suffered broken bones in his left arm, contusions, and broken left ribs.  Occupant suffered broken ribs, bleeding on the brain, and contusions.  

Based on Investigation
Vessel: TN 5285 EA 18'' Stratos bass boat
Damage assessment:  Significant hull damage, Damage to left Console, Significant Damage to right rub rail toward front of vessel, Damage to motor mounts and lower Unit.
Occupant''s Inflatable PFD showed no breaks or tears preventing it from functioning. 
Based on Pictures of the tracks on the vessels gps unit, it shows the vessel running south of the initial track around the impact island.  The angle of the initial impact of the island was approximately 45 degrees, total height from the water was 3 feet 1 inch, and total length of the ramp was 6 feet 8 inches.  From the ramp to the landing impact on the island was a distance of 51 feet.


BARDID: TN-2012-0125
Date: 2012-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:25:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANDRIDGE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
operator stated two people wanted to ride the tube before returning the boat.  Both men refused to wear PFDs.  She stated she was traveling about 10mph and was "zig-zagging" and circling.  She had just circled and "hit a bump".  Someone looked back and both men were in the water.  She threw 3 PFDs toward the men as they tried to get the tube closer for them to swim to.  She dove in the water and swam to one person with one of the jackets and attempted to place it over his head.  He struggled and went under.  When operator dove in she stated she left the boat in gear.  Another subject was observed operating the boat after the men went under.  Both operator and second operator admitted that all three men had been drinking.  Blood was drawn at the scene by EMT.  Autopsies were requested on both deceased.  One victim had a BAC of .103.  The others were negative.


BARDID: TN-2012-0126
Date: 2012-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clinch River
NearestCityTown: NORRIS
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 13:00 hours on September 7, 2012 one individual fell overboard and into the Clinch Tailwater just above the weir dam below Norris Dam, the victim and vessel were swept over the dam.  The victim was pinned under a log at the base of the dam and drowned.  Based on witness statements the victim had already fallen overboard and was in the water prior to going over the dam.  Witnesses state that the victim was attempting to swim away from the dam when he was swept over.  The individual was seen prior to the accident working on the engine of his vessel with apparent mechanical issues.  It is unclear what caused the victim to fall overboard.


BARDID: TN-2012-0127
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2012, operator boarded a jet ski on Norris Lake. The jet ski belonged to his friend and was tied to the side of a grounded house boat. When operator pushed the ignition the jet ski exploded, sending the operator flying in a cloud of smoke and fire.


BARDID: TN-2012-0128
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: PARIS LANDING
County: STEWART
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
victim had been pulled on tube.  The operator decided to stop the vessel and drift and also got into the water to swim.  A short time later, victim decided to reboard the vessel from the port stern.  There was no swim ladder and as she attempted to reboard, she slipped and her right foot struck the outdrive resulting in a laceration on the bottom of her right foot between her 4th and 5th digit.  Examination of the outdrive showed several places where she could have cut her foot including the propeller, anti ventilation plate and trim cylinder.


BARDID: TN-2012-0129
Date: 2012-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON LAKE
NearestCityTown: BRISTOL
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25 2012 I, Officer, was dispatched to a boat accident on South Holston Lake at around 10:40. I arrived at Lakeview Dock on South Holston Lake at around 11:03. I observed an injured Operator2 on the walkway of the dock. Operator2 had visible injuries to his left leg. subject was with Operator2 on the walkway. Subject2 was also near Operator2 and stated he had witnessed the incident and was with the two involved on vacation. Subject2 gave me his personal information and went to get the other operator and owner of the vessels involved. Emergency rescue personnel arrived at around 11:15 and began treating Operator2''s injuries. Operator2 was transported to Bristol Regional Medical Center. 

Subject2 returned to the dock with Operator1 by a third vessel that was not involved in the incident. I obtained statements about the incident from Operator1 and Subject2. Officer arrived at Bristol Regional Medical Center to gather information and statements from Operator2.  Officer arrived at Lakeview dock to retrieve the two vessels involved in the incident. Operator1 consented to a blood test. I transported Operator1 to Bristol Regional Medical Center where a blood sample was obtained. Officer met at Little Oak Campground to load and retrieve the personal watercrafts involved in the incident. Operator1 and I met Officers at the Highway 421 boat ramp. 

Operator1 looked for personal belongings in his personal watercrafts that he might have needed. Subject2 arrived at Highway 421 boat ramp by water to pick up Operator1 and took him back to Little Oak Campground, where they were staying.  I transported the personal watercrafts to our TWRA compound in Gray. On August 27, 2012 Boating Investigator, Officer, and I did a baseline/offset damage assessment of the personal watercrafts. On August 29, 2012 I met with Assistant District Attorney and informed her of the boating incident. DA requested that I send her copies of statements and copies of Navigation Laws that were possibly violated. On September 5, 2012 I emailed operator and witness statements,  a copy of our Rules and Regulations concerning the adoption of the Federal Codes and Regulations, and the link to the Federal Codes and Regulations concerning Navigational Laws. I have not received a reply of direction from Assistant District Attorney as of 09/06/12

Based on Witness Statements Operator1 and Operator2 were riding personal watercrafts in the middle of the lake at around 50 mph.  Operator2 made a left turn in front of Operator1. Operator1''s vessel struck the vessel Operator2 was operating and then struck Operator2''s left leg. Operator1 was ejected a distance into the water and Operator2 fell off the vessel he was operating.

The vessel Operator1 was operating sustained significant damage to the bow of the vessel. The vessel Operator2 was operating sustained heavy damage to the port side of the vessel.

THIS REPORT IS NOT COMPLETE


BARDID: TN-2012-0130
Date: 2012-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:25:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: NEW TAZEWELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 1, 2012, at approximately 10:15 am, operator fueled his 2000 Crownline up at Cedar Grove Marina.  operator stated after fueling he began heading back to his houseboat and heard an explosion in the rear of his vessel.  He instructed his two children to jump off the vessel and began to look for the fire extinguisher.  operator was unable to reach the fire extinguisher and jumped from the vessel into the water. operator was not sure if the blower had been used after fueling.


BARDID: TN-2012-0131
Date: 2012-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: MCKELLAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: MEMPHIS
County: SHELBY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator WAS FISHING IN MCKELLAR LAKE AND WAS SPOTTED NUMEROUS TIMES BY LOCAL FISHERMEN. APPARENTLY WHILE FISHING A DEEP HOLE 400-500 YARDS FROM THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER HE FELL OVERBOARD = STROKE, ANUERYSM, ETC. 
YET TO BE DETERMINED BY CORONER. INITIAL CORONER''S REPORT SAYS NO FOUL PLAY AND CAUSE OF DEATH IS DROWNING. 

LIVE WELL CONTAINED 4 LARGE MOUTH BASS, 11 BAIT CAST RODS, 2-3,000 DOLLARS WORTH OF FISHING LURES, 2 LIFE JACKETS


BARDID: TN-2012-0132
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:02:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HARRISON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Very Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON JULY 5, 2012 AT APPROXIMATELY 7:45 pm THIS VESSEL AND IT 12 OCCUPANTS WERE SWIMMING AND HAVING FUN IN PUMP HOUSE SLOUGH.  THE FAMILY NOTICED THE CLOUDS BEGAN TO GET VERY DARK SO THEY ALL GOT ABORD THE VESSEL PREPARED TO CROSS THE CHANNEL TO LAKE SHORE MARINA.  WHEN THE VESSEL ENTERED THE MOUTH OF THE SLOUGH THE WIND AND THE WAVES WERE VERY STRONG.  THE VESSEL BEGAN TO TIP.  SEVERAL OCCUPANTS WERE ABLE TO JUMP OVER BOARD PRIOR TO THE VESSEL CAPSIZING.  THERE WERE (2) ADULTS AND (2) CHILDREN STILL IN THE CABIN WHEN THE VESSEL CAPSIZED.  ONE CHILD EXITED THE CABIN VERY QUICKLY FROM THE FRONT DOOR.  THEN ONE OF THE ADULTS WAS ABLE TO SWIM TO SAFETY.  THE TWO VICTIMS WERE UNABLE TO ESCAPE.  THE FIRST VICTIM WAS BROUGHT out BY HER SON, AND VESSEL OPERATOR.  IT IS BELIEVED THAT the operator THEN SWAM BACK INTO THE VESSEL WHERE HE WAS ABLE TO FIND THE SECOND VICTIM, HIS DAUGHTEr.  THE REST OF THE FAMILY SWAM TO FISHING VESSELS THAT WERE CLOSE TO SEE WHAT WAS GOING ON.  


NOTE:  AFTER VESSEL CAPSIZED IT DRIFTED TOWARD A DOCK WHERE IT WAS TIED UP UNTIL MY ARRIVAL.  THERE WAS MINOR ABRASIONS TO THE DOCK.  THERE WAS NO VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE VESSEL IN THE SLIP.  THE VESSEL IN THE SLIP HAD SPIDER WEBS AND THE OXIDATION ON THE FOOT.  THE PROP AND THE FOOT HAD NO VISIBLE DAMAGE.


BARDID: TN-2012-0133
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: KINGSTON
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Going upstream on Tennessee River. Passed under HWY 58 bridge due to weather conditions, primarily fog, could not see the green can marking the left side of channel. Struck the can with the bow of the vessel.


BARDID: TN-2012-0134
Date: 2012-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: KNOXVILLE
County: KNOX
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
The operator was traveling downstream when the outdrive of the vessel struck an object floating beneath the surface of the water. Passengers of the vessel were uninjured, the outdrive of the vessel was, however significantly damaged.


BARDID: TN-2012-0136
Date: 2012-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: BYRDSTOWN
County: PICKETT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Occupants returned to houseboat after skiing. Came in rear door and found smoke inside. Owner went to front of vessel and found fire at steering station caused by RC Boat battery being charged. Owner used fire extinguisher to put out fire. Significant damage done to console and flooring by fire. also smoke residue throughout cabin.


BARDID: TN-2012-0137
Date: 2012-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: DECATUR
County: MEIGS
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday September 2, 2012 at approximately 8pm, two vessels collided in Sugar Creek on the Hiwassee River which is part of Chickamauga Lake.  Operator1 was operating a 20ft 1995 Norris Craft bass boat, hereafter known as V1, in a southerly direction.  Operator2 was operating a 21ft 2207 Supra wakeboard boat, hereafter known as V2, in a northerly direction.  Statements from occupants onboard V2 stated they were heading out of Sugar Creek towards Hwy 58 bridge, so they could get under the bridge and wait out a severe thunderstorm.  They saw V1 coming south in Sugar Creek near the bank of the Hwy 58 causeway.  At approximately 100 yards, they state that V1 veered in front of them causing them to strike V1 in the front right section of the boat.  The angle of impact is approximately 27 degrees.  Occupants from V2 recovered Operator1 and called for help.

After inspection of both vessels, it was determined that neither boat had their navigational lights on at the time of the collision.

Operator 1 passed away.


BARDID: TN-2012-0140
Date: 2012-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: HARRIMAN
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator had just filled up his vessel and was getting ready to pull away from the fueling dock at Caney Creek Marina. Operator turned the key over to start the engine and the vessel exploded. Operator stated that he had the vent blower running the entire amount of time that the vessel was fueling. Operator also stated that he had done some engine work to the vessel previous to the incident.


BARDID: TN-2012-0141
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 4 August 2012 at approximately 15:00, operator was operating his vessel on Center Hill Lake and towing his son who was skiing on two skis behind the boat using a rope. Victim was skiing back and forth through the boat''s wake when he fell. One of his skis came off his foot and struck him in the head. When his father came back around to pick him up he noticed that Victim''s head was bleeding. Victim''s parents transported Victim to the Dekalb Community Hospital where he received several staples to his head. He was later released the same day. 
This boating incident happened near Pates Ford Marina but the boat operator was not clear on an exact location. I received a call after the incident happened and took information for the report over the phone from mother.


BARDID: TN-2012-0142
Date: 2012-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: REELFOOT LAKE
NearestCityTown: TIPTONVILLE
County: OBION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
A passenger in the fatal boating accident, was interviewed and is the only witness to this incident.  Operator, driver of the 15 ft Reelfoot Lake Boat and the only vessel involved in this incident, lost his life during this incident as described by Occupant, At the onset of the accident, Occupant was sitting directly in front of Operator, as the only passenger while the two were headed in from a fishing trip. They were cruising at the boat''s absolute lowest speed and ran up on a stump that was barely submerged beneath the water. According to Occupant, the ultra slow  careful speed caused the boat to "stick" (stop) on the stump instead of "jump over" and continue forward movement. Occupant said this slow careful speed was the main reason for the boat sinking. When the boat stopped it was tilted to the port side and when Occupant looked back Operator was slumped over the side of the boat.  With all of the weight of Operator on the port side of the boat, the boat began to take on water. At that point, Operator rolled over the boat side into the water and Occupant jumped into the water in an attempt to keep the boat from getting any more water inside the hull.  During the commotion, Operator managed to grab a cooler lid and Occupant was holding on to a type II PFD. Neither Operator or Occupant were wearing a PFD when the incident occurred. 

A Type !! PFD was used by Occupant to help support him while in the water.  With both passengers in the water, Occupant recalled that Operator was spinning around in a circle with the cooler lid and would not respond when his name was yelled by Occupant.  Occupant then noticed that Operator took a big breath and passed out. Occupant grabbed Operator and held him up using a stump for support. As far as Occupant knows, head never went underwater and Operator did not drown. Occupant supported Operator''s body on the closest stump with the suspenders worn by Operator. Occupant noticed at this point that Operator''s lips and face were a deep purple in color. The boat ultimately sank with only the bow showing while the two were in the waters of Half Moon Basin and being supported by only a stump.  Approximately 30 minutes after the incident described occurred,  someone headed in from a day of fishing in the area,  heard Occupant yelling for help. 

Good samaritan helped Occupant get into the boat and the both of them pulled Operator''s unconscious body into the boat.  Upon arrival at the nearest boat ramp near the TWRA Reelfoot Office,  EMT of the Lake Co. EMS met the parties involved.  EMT made the comment that, in his opinion,  the victim had a massive heartattack. Occupant noted that during the incident while in the water or during the boat ride to the boat ramp he never felt cold. When the incident was over and he was in his truck he started to feel cold and started to shiver. Occupant indicated that he refused to go to the hospital and Brent EMT insisted that he go. Occupant ultimately was admitted to the Union City Baptist Hospital and treated for hypothermia. Occupant had undergone 2 heart surgeries in the previous years and began to have "enzyme complications" when his heart started to slow down from the commotion of the incident. Occupant was in the hospital for two days before being released.  No blood EMT or autopsy was done on Operator. The Lake Co. Coronor indicated that on his report the cause of death was noted to be "pending".  The Medical Examiner for Lake Co indicated that the cause of death was Acute MI.


BARDID: TN-2012-0143
Date: 2012-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HENDERSONVILLE
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday Sept 9, 2012, on Old Hickory Lake, operator was operating a PWC while returning to Drakes Creek Marina. As he approached the marina, he did not see and then impacted the marina's break wall located in the No Wake Zone. The impact ejected operator, leaving the PWC resting on the wall. This took place 20-25 minutes after legal sunset.


BARDID: TN-2012-0144
Date: 2012-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 5 August 2012 at approximately 12:30pm operator was operating a PWC and pulling her husband who was on a knee board in Eagle Creek on Center Hill Lake. While changing her speed on the PWC, kneeboarder was pulled under water while his knee board came off his knees striking him in the back of the head causing a laceration. He was taken to Dekalb Community Hospital in Smithville, TN where he received five staples and was released. I spoke with kneeboarder about the accident at 18:30 that evening when I was given information that an accident had happened earlier in the day. A report was taken over the phone. kneeboarder was unsure of their direction of travel and the exact accident location. There were no violations involved in the accident and no charges will be filed.


BARDID: TN-2012-0145
Date: 2012-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: VONORE
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was operating on Tellico Lake headed upstream towing a tube with two persons.  The vessel was going in a serpentine manner when the operator did not notice a red channel marker.  The tube impacted the marker injuring one of the two persons riding.  The vessel returned to their home dock in Bat Creek (Rarity Bay) and the injured was transported to Ft. Loudon ER.


BARDID: TN-2012-0146
Date: 2012-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On the morning of June 1, 2012, operator stole the Moomba Mobius XLV from a private slip at Ft. Loudon Marina and proceeded to joy ride the vessel on the waters of Ft. Loudon and Tellico Lakes adjacent to the marina.  The subject is a juvenile and is facing criminal charges from the Lenoir City Police Department.  During an interview after his arrest the subject''s mental status was placed into question, therefor I was unable to obtain useful "operator" information.  Based on witness information and evidence from the boat I was able to determine that the boat had struck a submerged object.  The boat lost power and steering (the rudder was broken off) and then drifted onto the rip rap bank.  There was a thunderstorm with high winds and heavy rain that beat the boat against the rocks.  Sea Tow was called by Loudon County Dispatch and they responded and pulled the vessel from the rocks and towed the vessel back to Ft. Loudon  Marina.


BARDID: TN-2012-0147
Date: 2012-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: VONORE
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was headed downstream on Tellico Lake when it struck a green channel marker.  There were no injuries, property damage only.


BARDID: TN-2012-0148
Date: 2012-10-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Beech Lake
NearestCityTown: LEXINGTON
County: HENDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On October 18, 2012 three people launched a 17ft Nitro to repair the engine on Beech Lake located in  Lexington, TN.  Just  past the no wake sign Operator tried to give the boat some throttle and it didn''t appear to have much power.  He began working on the engine.  At this time the motor trimmed up all the way out of the water, exposing the propeller.  They noticed the boat was taking on water from somewhere.  The motor would not trim down.  Most of the weight of the passengers was located in stern at this point.  Then waves from a boat wake came over the splash well.  The boat began to sink at this point. The gentlemen called 911 and was rescued by Henderson County Rescue Squad.  

Upon further investigation of the vessel, it appears that water was able to seep in around the plug and livewell hoses on the transom due to poor seals, cracks and age of the vessel.   The weight of the water in the boat and the 3 adult males in the rear of the boat caused the vessel to begin sinking.
The engine would start, but the trim would not allow the motor to lower the propeller in the water.

Damage done to the vessel was extensive while trying to trailer at the boat ramp.


BARDID: TN-2012-0149
Date: 2012-10-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 14 October 2012, operator2 was operating his houseboat on Center Hill Lake with a 19'' Supra tied to the starboard side of the vessel. The high winds and chop were pushing his houseboat towards the shore. Trying to keep his boat away from the shore he began to back the houseboat. At that time, water came over the back of the Supra filling it with water. When Operator realized that his Supra was going to sink, he pulled the boat to the west side of the mouth of Cherry Hill Creek where he untied it from his houseboat. The Supra sank with the bow of the vessel still pointing straight up just out of the water. Operator secured the vessel to the bank and called Wildlife Officer. Officer gave me the information and let Operator know to contact the USACE Resource Office on Center Hill Lake to report the accident and that his vessel was still in the water. At this time Operator is making arrangements to have his boat removed from the water. This incident happened on Center Hill Lake in Dekalb County.


BARDID: TN-2012-0150
Date: 2012-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:02:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1:30 am on 9-23-12, (Vessel #1) plugged in a ceramic heater in the rear of his boat. After turning on the heater, a breaker flipped off. He checked the breaker located underneath the steering column and it had not flipped. After turning off his heater, he then exited his boat and checked the breaker box on the dock. This breaker on the dock did flip. He reset the breaker. He returned to the inside of his boat and turned the heater back on with a low setting. The breaker never flipped again, and he went to bed no later than 2:10am with his back bedroom door closed.
At approximately 3:00am, he was awakened to the sound of his engine turning over. When he opened his door of the bedroom, he realized the front of the boat was engulfed and full of smoke. He exited the rear back door and yelled for help and called 911. 
A water hose and fire extinguisher were used to fight the blaze until it was too dangerous and out of control. 911 was notified at 3:07am and the LC Fire Department arrived at 3:15am. 

Vessel #1 burned until what was left sank to the bottom of the Marina. Vessel #2 was in the slip next to vessel #1 and was totally destroyed except for the steel hull. Vessel #3 was damaged due to heat from the flames.


BARDID: TN-2012-0151
Date: 2012-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
subject lives near and works at Springs Dock.  He was awoken at 3:15am by explosions. He looked out the window and saw Springs Dock/Marina was on fire.  He called 911 and then called the dock owner.  subject then went to the dock and attempted to save several boats by cutting them loose and pushing them out of the slips.  owner joined subject soon after.  The fire department arrived and extinguished the flames.  TN Bomb and Arson investigated the source of the fire.  The video surveillance shows the fire starting at approximately 2:30am near the middle of C dock.  Investigators were unable to determine what started the fire because that section of dock sank as a result of the fire.


BARDID: TN-2012-0152
Date: 2012-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:27:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/13/2012 at approx. 20:10 operator and the other occupants of the vessel were ending a fishing trip they had been on. The group was fishing at the Rock bluffs accross from the vincent Access area boat ramp where they had put in at. When they went to leave, one of the passengers stated that they wanted to go look at the Chickamagua dam (south of where they were fishing). The Vessel traveled across the river (east) instead of south. Heading toward the bank, subject was standing up in the center of the vessel and saw a dock and shouted "watch out". Operator swerved to miss one of the docks and impacted the dock north of the dock they missed.


BARDID: TN-2012-0154
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: SODDY DAISY
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both PWC''s were cruising back to the boat ramp. As both looked to an Eagles nest on the bank, the operator of vessel 2 accidently pulled his kill switch.  The operator of vessel 1 did not see until he was upon vessel 2, vessel 1 turned and struck above the knee of operator 2.


BARDID: TN-2012-0156
Date: 2012-10-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: VONORE
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Owner of vessel states that his pontoon boat was tied up at the Kahite Community Dock at slip "KC 12". He went down to check on his vessel on October 25,2012 and noticed that it appeared that another vessel had struck the outboard engine on his vessel sometime between Oct 11 and Oct 25, 2012. Owner states that there were cracks, scratches, and paint scuff marks on his outboard cowling. Owner states that he took his vessel to Madisonville Marine in Madisonville for a damage estimate where they determined both the top and bottom cowling assemblies were cracked and estimated the damage at $4500.00. It is unknown exactly when or how the damage occurred.


BARDID: TN-2012-0157
Date: 2012-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:55:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: MT JULIET
County: WILSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating his pwc and towing a tube with two people on it.  He pulled them toward the  bank and through the restricted boat area.  As he approached the bank he realized he was towing them toofast and turned back out toward the channel.  In doing so, this swung the tube toward the bank and it struck the parked boat.  Victim1 side hit first and victim2 did not have any injuries.


BARDID: TN-2012-0158
Date: 2012-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caney fork river
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Very Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and Occupant were in a15'' Gheenee boat below Center Hill dam. The dam was under generation and sluice. Operator wanted to fish near the dam on the sluice gate side. When they got close to the rough water near the sluice he decided it was too rough and turned around and headed back toward the ramp. Waves came over the side of the boat and swamped the boat. The boat sank. Occupant was able to swim to the bank on the left side near the spring. Operator was carried by the current toward the dam and clung to the dam wall near the sluice gate. The boat was sucked into the sluice current and slammed into the short wall in front of the sluice gate. A fisherman near by saw the woman on the rocks and heard her yelling.  He took his boat and went to the woman and took her back to the ramp then went back and rescued Operator from the sluice gate and took him to the ramp.  boat was a small jon boat. The sluice gate and generators were shut off by the Corp. Operators'' boat was recovered in two pieces.


BARDID: TN-2012-0159
Date: 2012-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
operator was pulling his son on a tube. He went to make a turn and son was thrown from the tube. When he hit the water he dislocated his shoulder.


BARDID: TN-2012-0160
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Melton Hill
NearestCityTown: OAK RIDGE
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (Bass Boat) was traveling upstream on plane. Vessel 2 (PWC) was following behind and jumping the wake of the bass boat.  The operator of the bass boat throttled down and came off plane.  After coming off plane the operator of the bass boat noticed the PWC in his peripheral vision.  The PWC appeared to be on a collision course with the bass boat.  The operator of bass the boat throttled up in an attempt to avoid a collision.  The PWC then impacted the outboard motor of bass boat.  Damage to the bass boat was limited to the motor and motor mount.  Damage to the PWC was found at the bow rub rail, bow eye and underside of the PWC.


BARDID: TN-2012-0161
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HIXSON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On june 3, 2012 this vessel was cruising across the channel from chester frost to party cove.  The vessel struck a large wake that caused the victim leave her seat then coming back down striking her seat. Subject suffered a compression fracture of her t12 vertebrate.  There was no damage to the boat.  


BARDID: TN-2012-0162
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:10:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was cruising on Boone Lake in Washington Co. near Devault Bridge Access Area and collided with vessel #2. Operator1 stated he did not see the vessel because of reflection of dash lights and shore lights. He also stated there were two other vessels in the area and he was going between those vessels when he collided with the vessel. Damage to vessel 1 was on extensive on left side from the middle of the vessel toward the rear. Damage to vessel 2 was on the left side consisting of scratches and rub marks. Operator of vessel 1 was charged with negligent operation. fines and cost were paid. Oerator of vessel 2 was charged with unregistration of vessel fines and cost were paid.


BARDID: TN-2012-0163
Date: 2012-12-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HIXSON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On december 28, 2012 i was contacted about a possible vessel fire at harbor lights marina.  I called and confirmed with hamilton county dispatch that a vessel was indeed on fire.  I then made contact with the vessel owner who stated that he didn''t know what happened.  The boat was completely burned.  

     district 32 boating officer spoke with the marina owner who stated that the power board had been at the dock working on the power issues right before the fire started.  

     the hamilton county fire department was on scene and was going to do a follow up investigation to determine the cause of the fire.  There are no charges being filed at this time.


BARDID: TN-2012-0164
Date: 2012-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday November 11, 2012 the victim left Hamilton Creek Marina traveling east on his sail powered Triack vessel. The gusting wind conditions caused his vessel to overturn, ejecting the victim into the water. Wearing his PFD, he swam for over thirty minutes toward the shore until another vessel picked him up. He was then transported to Summit Medical Center and treated for mild hypothermia. The water temperature was 56 degrees. 

The vessel was not registered.


BARDID: TN-2012-0165
Date: 2012-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: CELINA
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 14, 2012 at approximately 12:00 a personal watercraft operated was involved in a boating accident. As a large ski boat passed by the PWC turned into the direction that the boat passed to cross the waves that the large boat produced.  While crossing the waves the PWC began to lean from side to side.  The PWC leaned hard to the starboard side and all three people aboard the PWC fell off.  occupant who was seated in the middle had the wind knocked out of her.  Initially all three occupants reboarded the PWC and thought they were unharmed, but with time victim began to feel pain in her stomach and right side.  victim was transported to Cumberland River Hospital by other members of the group she was with to make sure she was ok.  victim was treated and released.


BARDID: TN-2012-0166
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:21:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: CARYVILLE
County: PICKETT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Owner and wife left ramp at south end of Obey River Campground in their vessel (OH 7407 MB) . As operator accelerated, he heard a loud noise at the stern of the vessel. Shortly after that he and his passenger (wife) noticed water being taken on quickly .  operator continued towards the shore and eventually the engine failed . His passenger attempted to move the battery above water in an attempt to restart the motor and shortly after this movement the water shifted within the vessel ,possibly causing the vessel to overturn.  Subject were both thrown into the water and stayed with the boat , pulling it to within 50 yards of the shoreline .  The vessel was pulled from the water a couple of hours later and taken by the tow service to an unknown (at this time) location.


BARDID: TN-2012-0167
Date: 2012-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:02:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: CARYVILLE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating his vessel going up Cove Creek. He was meeting a jet ski driven by operator2. Operator2 was thrown from the jet ski leaving it out of control. The jet ski went on with forward momentum and struck Operator1' vessel on the port side with the nose of the jet ski causing a hole in the side of Operator1'' vessel.


BARDID: TN-2012-0169
Date: 2012-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERSVILLE
County: HAWKINS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements and operator statements there is reason to believe that two vessels did collide in the poor valley creek area of cherokee lake on 9-3-12 at approximately 1130 am. Based on operator1 statements there is reason to believe that vessel one was traveling north on cherokee lake towards the entrance of poor valley creek and at that time did impact with vessel two at approximately a ninety degree angle near the entrance of poor valley creek. After impact operator1 stated that he called 911 and pulled v2 occupant out of the water, stating that he had been ejected from vessel two during the impact. At that time v2 occupant was placed on the front deck of vessel one and operator1 then boarded vessel two where operator2 was still onboard. At that time v1 subjects did operate both vessels to a nearby point adjacent to lakemont drive where emergency personnel were standing by. V2 occupant was declared dead at the scene by the medical examiner.


BARDID: TN-2012-1000
Date: 2012-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Horn's Creek
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
This accident was entered by the Coast Guard because it occured on a private lake in TN.  According to a news report, a group of Jacksonville State University students were on a retreat at Horn's Creek Resort.  Four students took a canoe on a pond and about 25 yards in, capsized.  The victim did not know how to swim and never surfaced.  http://www.jsu.edu/news/articles/2012/09/jsu-family-mourns-tragic-loss-of-international-student-maucler-charles.html


BARDID: TN-2013-0001
Date: 2013-01-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 01-19-2013 at approximately 08:00 there was a fire at the Whitman Hollow Marina on Norris Lake in Campbell county, TN.  There were 12 vessels damaged during the fire ranging from minor damage to complete loss of the vessel. Vessel (1) one had minor burn damage to seats and plastic.  Vessel (2) two had extensive burn damage.  Vessel (3) three, Vessel (4) four and Vessel (6) six all sank.  Vessel (5) was  burned and over turned.  Vessel (7) had major burn damage to top and seats.  Vessel (8) had extensive burn damage.  Vessel (9) had minor damage to seats and charring.  Vessel (10) had major burn damage to seats and top.  Vessel (11) had minor burn damage to the seats.  Vessel (12) had minor damage. Cause of fire was electrical in nature due to a battery charger on an unknown boat.


BARDID: TN-2013-0002
Date: 2013-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cumberland River
NearestCityTown: CARTHAGE
County: SMITH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that he was standing in the rear of the vessel using a cast net when it became hung on the bottom of the river. Vessel was drifting until cast net became hung. Passenger, who was seated in front of vessel moved to rear of vessel to assist operator in freeing the entangled cast net when water entered the vessel over the stern, swamping the vessel which placed both operator and passenger in the water. Both swam to shore and called for helpwhile walking toward a light where employees of th Cumberland Zinc Mine assisted in warming until ambluance arrived. Passenger was treated for hypothermia at Riverview Regional North Hospital and released same date. Operator gave a written statement while at the hospital and included in case file.


BARDID: TN-2013-0003
Date: 2013-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:59:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MARYVILLE
County: BLOUNT
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/17/13 my dispatch gave me a call that came from the Blount County 911 Center. The call was that there was an overturned canoe at Harrison Branch boat ramp off of US Hwy 129.  Upon my arrival I learned that there had been three people in the canoe and that one swam to shore safely.  One individual had been transported to the hospital by ambulance, he was treated and released.  I also learned that one occupant was missing/underwater.  The missing person was located a few minutes after midnight.  The following day I learned that there had been another person onboard the canoe.  He had swam to shore safely and left the scene.  Based on evidence at the scene and statements from occupants and witnesses there were no PFD''s onboard the canoe.
  Facts of the case were presented to the district attorney of Blount County.  Three people were charged with interfering with a TWRA employee.  A fourth was charged with interfering with a TWRA employee and unauthorized use of a vehicle/joyriding.  All four individuals are scheduled to appear in court on July 26, 2013 in Blount County.


BARDID: TN-2013-0004
Date: 2013-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
operator1 and subject were breaking in the motor on their recently purchased boat.  They launched the boat at Lakeview Marina on Norris Lake.  operator was operating the boat and cruising up the Powell River.  operator stated he became distracted by occupant as she was looking for something in the floorboard.  operator looked away for approximately 10 seconds.  When he looked up the boat was hitting the shore.  The boat grounded on Chuck Swan Wildlife Management Area at Phillips Branch.  Both refused medical treatment.  operator stated he was cruising at around 30mph before the impact.


BARDID: TN-2013-0005
Date: 2013-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On April 2, 2013, I was dispatched out to Harrrison Bay State Park for a marina fire. Upon arriving on scene the local fire department was trying to put out the fire on two boats and remove them from the boat slips. Two boats were burned completely and approximately eight other boats had fire damage and smoke damage. The Harrison Bay Park marina had extensive damage totaling an estimated amount of 354,000 dollars.


BARDID: TN-2013-0006
Date: 2013-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:25:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: WHITE PINE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Seat Broke Loose
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Based on available evidence and witness statements:

On April 3, 2013 at approximately 16:25 hours, operator was fishing from a 1992 17 foot Basstracker boat with his ten year old granddaughter on Douglas Lake in Jefferson County, TN.  Operator stated that he was sitting in a pedestal seat in the front of the boat when he reached down for a fishing pole and his seat broke and he fell into the water.  He was unable to get himself back into the boat and told his granddaughter how to operate the trolling motor.  She drove the boat to a private boat dock at East Atherton Lane in Baneberry where a bystander assisted him in tying off his boat and he was able to get out of the water.  

Operator stated that the water temperature was about 50 degrees and that he was in the water for about 20 minutes.  It was around 30 minutes before he got into the ambulance and his core body temperature dropped to around 92 degrees.  He was admitted into Newport Medical Center.


BARDID: TN-2013-0007
Date: 2013-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON LAKE
NearestCityTown: BRISTOL
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/18/2013 at approximately 09:15 I, Officer, received information from TWRA dispatch about a possible boat accident that occurred on South Holston Lake on 4/17/2013. I contacted Sullivan County Sheriff''s Office dispatch and confirmed the accident.  Officer and I then responded to the Sullivan County Sheriff''s Office and the Sullivan County EMS to obtain further information on the accident.  We then responded to Bristol Regional Medical Center and conducted an interview on an injured. Following interview, we traveled to Laurel Marina and conducted an interview with occupant and Operator.  We then documented the vessel involved and obtained consent to download information from a Lowrance GPS that was on board during the accident.
Based on Witness Statements:
On 4/17/2013 at approximately 20:15 Operator was operating a vessel, VA 1464 BN, with passengers on South Holston Lake. Operator was operating the vessel on the starboard side, Occupant1 was seated in the middle and Occupant2 was seated on the port side. The vessel was returning to Laurel Marina traveling at approximately 30 miles per hour in the main channel out from the Laurel Marina No-Wake zone.  The vessel made a turn to the starboard side at the same time passenger Occupant2 was attempting to lean up from the seat. Occupant2 was ejected from the port side of the vessel into the water.  Occupant2 was struck by the vessel, the vessel motor''s lower unit and the propeller.  Operator circled around to the starboard side to Occupant2. Occupant1 and Operator pulled Occupant2 out of the water into the vessel. Occupant2 was taken to the Laurel Marina dock.  Occupant1 and Operator applied first aid to Occupant2''s injuries and called for emergency responders. Occupant2 was taken to Bristol Regional Medical Center by Sullivan County EMS.   

Based on statements from Occupant1:
On 4/17/2013 Operator, occupant2 and Occupant1 were traveling in vessel VA 1464 BN on South Holston Lake. Operator was operating the vessel, Occupant1 was a passenger in the middle seat and Occupant2 was a passenger on the port side.  The vessel was traveling at about 30 miles per hour when Operator made a turn to the starboard side. Occupant1 stated that Operator had made a starboard side turn as if he was going to circle back around to the marina.  Occupant2 was leaning up at the same time the vessel was turning.  Occupant2 was then ejected out of the port side of the boat.

Based on statements from Operator:
On 4/17/2013 Operator, Occupant2, and Occupant1 were traveling in vessel VA 1464 BN on South Holston Lake. Operator was operating the vessel, Occupant1 was a passenger in the middle seat and Occupant2 was a passenger on the port side.  The vessel was traveling at about 30 miles per hour when Operator started to make a starboard turn towards the dock. The vessel then impacted the wake from a bass boat.  The wake caused the vessel operated by Operator to turn further starboard.   Occupant2 was leaning up at the same time the vessel was turning.  Occupant2 was then ejected out of the port side of the boat.
Based on statements from Occupant2:
On 4/17/2013 Operator, Occupant2, and Occupant1 were traveling in vessel VA 1464 BN on South Holston Lake. Operator was operating the vessel, Occupant1 was a passenger in the middle seat and Occupant2 was a passenger on the port side.  The vessel was traveling at about 30 miles per hour when Operator made a turn to the port side.  Occupant2 was leaning up at the same time the vessel was turning.  Occupant2 was then ejected out of the starboard side of the boat.
DAMAGE ASSESSMENT: No Damage to Vessel
INJURIES: Occupant2 sustained injuries to the upper body including a broken righ...


BARDID: TN-2013-0008
Date: 2013-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:38:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: DOVER
County: STEWART
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was pulling up to the courtesy dock at Lick Creek Boat Ramp to tie up.  When the boat was around 1-2 feet from the dock, the occupant attempted to step to the dock and her torso landed on the dock and her legs in the water resulting in a fractured left wrist.

Occupant was transported by Stewart County EMS unit 602 to Henry County Medical Center in Paris, TN.

Operator says that he was in neutral and did not give any throttle or steering commands before the occupant fell.

Occupants says she lost her balance when she attempted to step to the dock.


BARDID: TN-2013-0009
Date: 2013-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON RIVER
NearestCityTown: BLUFF CITY
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday April 29 2013, I Officer responded to a boating accident that was reported on South Holston River.  Upon arrival I found that Sgt. had arrived at the scene and picked up Operator and Occupant in the area of 1300 Bullock Hollow Road.  Both Operator and occupant were ejected from the vessel, (2005 14''00” Tracker Grizzly 1448, TN 2540, Hull ID# BUJ61678A505), when it capsized.  Sgt. and I returned to Bluff City Boat Ramp where Operator''s truck and trailer were parked.  Upon arrival Sgt. and I gathered statements from Operator and Occupant about the accident.  Operator stated that he was floating downstream with the bow on the boat facing upstream.  Operator stated that the stern of the boat struck the tree partially submerged in the water.  When the stern struck the tree, the bow of the boat turned to the right (starboard) causing the boat to capsize and eject both Operator and Occupant from the boat.
  
On April 30 2013, Officer and I met with Operator to find the exact location where and how the accident took place.  The accident happened 0.49 miles upriver from where the boat came to rest upside down in the river.  Operator and Occupant floated down river approximately 0.28 miles before making it to shore and climbing out of the water after the boat capsized.
    
Occupant had a minor cut and contusion just below her left knee and a partially torn off toe nail on her left foot with some minor cuts on her left foot.  Occupant also had minor cuts on the top and bottom of her right foot.  
Operator stated that he had soreness in the back of his neck.  Both individuals refused any treatment beyond first aid.

I talked with ADA Sullivan Couny Justice Center about possible charges against Operator for improper lookout.  ADA came to the conclusion to not press charges against Operator after hearing the case facts.


BARDID: TN-2013-0010
Date: 2013-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: REELFOOT LAKE
NearestCityTown: TIPTONVILLE
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday May 1, 2013 a call was made to the Lake Co. Rescue Squad regarding two fishermen that were lost stranded etc. since they had not returned home. On Thursday, May 2, at approximately 8 am the Lake Co. Rescue Squad contacted TWRA  Asst. Supervisor who alerted Officer who arrived on site approximately 300 yds north of the Keystone Boat Ramp at approximately 8:30 am. Officer and rescue members in rescue boats were able to recover the sunken vessel in water approximately 6 ft deep. The vessel was completely submerged upside down with the boat hull bottom being visible. Victim1’s (the older victim) body was trapped underneath the boat when found. The owner of the vessel’s body was found a few yards northwest of the sunken vessel. The vessel was a 15 ft. Alumacraft boat powered by a 50 hp Mercury motor with power trim. No gas tank was recovered. The boat had been altered with additional boat flooring made of 3/4 inch marine plywood and diamond plate aluminum metal work  including an added large livewell made of aluminum. The boat contained 2 anchors, one approximately 30 lb. and one approximately 20 lb. with anchor rope, two 12 volt batteries,  two windsocks, fishing poles, scattered tackle, rod holders, a Motor Guide trolling motor, two wearable life vest and a fire extinguisher. Overloading was determined to be a cause.


BARDID: TN-2013-0011
Date: 2013-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:11:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 11, 2013 near "Hole in the Wall" Island, GPS coordinates listed above, Vessel 1 was occupied by (Witness), (Victim), and (Operator). About 18:45 vessel 1 was adrift on the East side of the island so victim could swim. Victim left the boat voluntarily and began swimming between the boat and the island. After several minutes he approached the boat and grabbed a rope. He then let go of the rope and went under water. The other parties became concerned and jumped into the water to assist but were unsuccessful. 

Remains of victim were recovered May 25, 2013 about 13:00 near location he went missing. 

According to autopsy results, cause of death ruled accidental drowning. Victim''s BAC was documented as 0.24.


BARDID: TN-2013-0013
Date: 2013-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The victim was leaving the No-Wake Zone at Tims Ford Marina in Anderson Branch , Tims Ford Reservior . He was maneuvering the PWC as to accelerate in speed and turning  to the right when he encountered a large wave ( wake ) which threw the victim up and away from the seat and handle bars .When he came down to the PWC his knee impacted the vessel causing injury to his right knee . Victim was taken to Southern Tennessee Medical Center.


BARDID: TN-2013-0014
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA RIVER
NearestCityTown: WAtauga
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday 05/16/13 Operator1 and Occupant were paddling the Watauga River in a canoe. The canoe encountered a set of rapids at approximately 1630 hours between river mile 19 and 20. Operator1 stated that "he had never seen the rapids that ruff before". The occupants of the canoe tried to paddle through the rapids but were hit by a wave that ejected them from the canoe. Operator1 and Occupant were able to swim to shore but they were unable to find their canoe and the possesion that were in it.


BARDID: TN-2013-0015
Date: 2013-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:37:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27th 2013  I Recieved a call that two PWC''s had collided I responded to the sene and Found one operator was complaining that his leg and side was hurt he was taken to the shore by the Hamiltion Co. Marine Patrol to be taken to the Hospital for treatment. The other operator was still on his PWC, I directed him to the shore to speak with him. Upon interviewing the operators of the PWC''s and withnesses at the bank. It was clear the the two PWC''s had been traveling North up the TN river when the PWC2 decided to do a 360% manuver. Then the PWC in Back Driven by PWC1 Collided with PWC2, Witness statments added that there was only about 25 yrds between the two PWC''s as they were headed up the river and that they were going pretty fast. OPerator1 was arrested for BUI.


BARDID: TN-2013-0016
Date: 2013-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:05:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERSVILLE
County: HAWKINS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ACCORDING TO PARTICIPANT STATEMENTS:

On Monday, May 27, 2013, two people put a 10-foot jon boat in at the location of the old railroad trestle just above the Hugh B. Day Bridge on Cherokee Lake.  When Operator and Occupant had loaded their gear in the jon boat, Operator paddled away from the bank far enough to start the boat''s motor.  When he had the motor started, he proceeded upstream in the direction of the John Sevier Steam Plant.  Occupant began to feel water hitting her in the back and coming over the front of the boat.  She told Operator there was water coming in, and Operator told her to sit still, but Occupant moved to get away from the water.  Due to her sudden movement, the boat capsized.

Occupant was wearing a Type II Personal Floatation Device, but when she went into the water it came off.  Occupant managed to grab the boat, but went under water two or three times.  Operator was able to help Occupant hang on to the boat until help arrived.  Personnel from the Hawkins County Emergency Medical Services arrived and swam out to the boat.  These EMS personnel swam the boat, Occupant, and Operator back to shore.  Once on shore, Occupant lost consciousness and was flown to the Holston Valley Medical Center.


BARDID: TN-2013-0017
Date: 2013-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: TAZEWELL
County: CLAIBORNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he and his brother were on Norris at around 2pm.  They had two vessels.  A pwc and a bass type boat.  Operator pulled Brother on a tube behind the bass boat.  After that Operator got back on the pwc and Brother followed him in the bass boat.  At around 5:30pm they were headed upstream at Big Sycamore Creek and as they approached the train trestle Operator saw a red and white run-about boat headed directly toward him.  Operator estimates he was traveling between 21 and 40 mpg.  He turned the pwc hard to the left to avoid hitting the run-about head on and was ejected from the pwc.  Brother stated the same thing occurred.  After Operator was ejected, Brother pulled him into the bass boat to make sure he was ok. The red/white boat did not stop.  Operator complained of his head and neck hurting.  Brother stated that Operator lost consciousness multiple times.   After a period Operator reboarded the pwc and both returned to Lone Mountain Boat dock.  After docking the vessels Operator purchased a six pack of beer at the marina and Brother drove him home.   Operator and Brother stated that both drank a few beers at home.  They called Operator''s wife. She came home from work and took Operator to the hospital.  Operator was admitted to the hospital and treated for a concussion.  He was later released.


BARDID: TN-2013-0018
Date: 2013-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: TENNESSEE RIDGE
County: HOUSTON
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was driving the 18ft Skeeter Bass boat going upstream (south) on Kentucky Lake in Houston County, TN on 05/23/15 at approximately 4:30pm.  Operator1 said some of the previous fiberglass work on boats right(port) side feel off in the rough waters.  The boat began to take on water from that spot as well as from the waves crashing over the rear of the vessel.  Operator1 turned on bilge pump but it was not pumping water out quick enough. Operator1 then drove the boat to the bank just south of Cane Creek in Houston County, TN. The boat owners were both on board the vessel.  No persons were injured during this accident.


BARDID: TN-2013-0019
Date: 2013-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: CELINA
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 26 May 2013 at approximately 15:25 myself and Officer were operating our patrol vessel away from the Mitchell Creek Marina dock when we were waved down by SUBJECT who stated that his boat had been involved in an accident ten minutes earlier at the end of the dock with a houseboat. When we arrived on scene we found the houseboat involved to be moored to the dock on it''s starboard side. Subject2 was on the dock and stated he was responsible for the houseboat and that he had rented the boat from Hendricks Creek Resort earlier that day. 

Subject2 stated that Operator2 was operating the houseboat (Vessel #2) at the time of the collision and was trying to moor to the end of the dock at Mitchell Creek Marina. Subject2 made a circle in the "No Wake Zone" and while bringing the starboard side of the houseboat around to the dock made contact with the Mastercraft (Vessel #1) which was also moored to the dock on the starboard side. He stated that he tried to make evasive maneuvers after making contact with the vessel.

The Mastercraft (Vessel #1) sustained damage to both the port side from the collision with the houseboat and damage to the starboard side from the subsequent collision with the dock. After speaking with the owner of Vessel #1, owner1 stated that it would cost $1,500.00 to replace the leg on his wakeboard tower and approximately $2,000.00 to replace the rub rails and fix the gel coat scratches. 

Since the houseboat was a rented boat from Hendrick''s Creek Resort, I spoke with subject3 who spoke with Operator2 and Subject2 when they rented the boat. He told them not to take the houseboat into a marina without first taking their jonboat first and requesting permission from the dock to come in and also have them operate the boat in for them if they were not comfortable. Operator2 also stated to me that he does not have many hours of boat operating experience.
This collision occured in Clay County, TN.


BARDID: TN-2013-0020
Date: 2013-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05-24-2013 around 1633 hrs i officer was notified by dispatch of a boating accident at the canal boat ramp on tellico lake. Upon my arrival i was approached by subject who advised me that his vessel (v-2) had been struck on the port side by  vessel( v-1) while trying to load at the ramp . Upon talking to v1, he advised that he also was attemping to load his vessel when the throttle stuck causing him to strike vessel number 2 on the port side causing damage to vessel number 2.vessel number 1 had very minor damage but  vessel 2 had damage to be estimated over 2000.00 .both vessel had all safety equipment on boa rd and both operators where wearing there pfd''s and safety lanyard''s. This accident did happen in loudon co. Tn on tellico lake .


BARDID: TN-2013-0021
Date: 2013-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: ESTILL SPRINGS
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, May 26th, 2013 at around 1900, Operator was operating his vessel in Big Hurricane Creek on Tim''s Ford Lake near Awalt Bridge.  Operator was towing his Stepdaughter and subject2 on a tube.  They were headed southeast away from Awalt Bridge when the girls on the tube signaled for Operator to stop.  Operator stopped the vessel and the tube drifted near the stern. When Operator tried to go forward again the vessel started going in reverse. Operator then shifted to neutral but the vessel continued in reverse.  Operator then cut the engine off.  When the vessel was in reverse the two girls jumped off of the tube to get out of the vessels path.  Stepdaughter was able to get clear but victim got her left leg against the stern in the swim ladder and her right leg was cut near the shin by the prop before it stopped spinning.  Operator jumped in to help victim and subject helped lift Victim into the vessel. Operator was still unable to get the vessel to shift out of reverse so they flagged down another boat to tow them in.  Officers were the first to make contact with the vessels'' as they were about to enter the No Wake Zone at Holiday Marina.  After making it to the dock at Holiday Marina, Victim was taken by ambulance to Harton Hospital in Tullahoma, Tn where she was treated and released. Victim recieved 11 stitches to two cuts on her leg. Officer confirmed that the vessel was indeed stuck in reverse and Officers assisted Operator in loading his vessel onto its trailer.


BARDID: TN-2013-0022
Date: 2013-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: CELINA
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 26 May 2013 at approximately 22:04, Clay County 911 received a call from subject stating that a boat had just ran into their houseboat on Dale Hollow Lake and that the driver of the boat appeared to be intoxicated. Sergeant was dispatched to be in route to the scene. Hearing Sargeant being dispatched I advised Officer to meet up with me at Horse Creek Marina and we would be in route to the scene as well. At approximately 22:49 Sargeant arrived to find Operator2 inside his boat acting very nervous and appearing to hide things. Sargeant secured the scene and had Operator2 sit on the bow of his vessel. Myself and Officer arrived on the scene a short time later and Sargeant briefed us on what happened and advised me to talk with the Operator2 who appeared impaired. I took Operator2 off of his vessel and placed him in my vessel to talk with him about the incident and have him perform a series of field sobriety tests. 

Operator2 could not perform the test properly and was placed under arrest for Boating Under the Influence. Officer and I transported Operator2 to Cedar Hill Marina where Clay County Deputy met us to transport him to the Clay County Jail. We then returned to the scene of the boat collision to begin gathering evidence. While we were transporting Operator2, Sargeant could see a bag of what appeared to be a green leafy substance consistent with marijuana in plain view on the floor of Operator2''s vessel. During a survey of the scene officers also found rolling papers and a pair of hemostats that Operator2 admitted to throwing in the water. 

Operator2 stated that he remembered the engine missing and while the boat was still on plane went to the engine compartment to look inside when his vessel collided with the houseboat. However there were things on top of the engine compartment that would have kept him from looking inside. Operator2 later stated that he didn''t really remember what he was doing at the time of impact and that his impairment level may had contributed to why he didn''t remember. the only occupant on the vessel when it was impacted was asleep in a bed on the port side of the houseboat which is also the same side that was impacted. Witnesses who were in the houseboat moored next to the impacted houseboat stated they heard a boat getting louder and louder. Within seconds they heard a loud noise and felt the impact of the vessel impacting the houseboat next to them. The witnesses went to check on occupant who was not injured. They confronted the operator and only occupant on the vessel who impacted them and believed that he was acting impaired. Witnesses went and took the keys out of Operator2''s boat fearing he was going to try and leave. During the period of time they waited on officers to arrive they observed Operator2 throwing several things in the water.
Operator2''s vessel impacted the houseboat on the port side causing major damage to the steel hull of the houseboat. An anchor was sticking off the front of the bow of Operator2''s vessel which went completly inside the port side walls of the houseboat. 

This incident is still under investigation and other charges are currently pending upon the advice of the Office of the Attorney General. This incident occured in Clay County, TN.


BARDID: TN-2013-0023
Date: 2013-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROCKWOOD
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, May 27, 2013, vessel #1 was drifting in front of the Tom Fuller access ramp in Rockwood waiting to load her vessel onto the trailer when another vessel struck her vessel. According to Operator1, both parties exchanged comments regarding one another well being and then vessel #2 drove off toward the main channel, this is where Operator1 recorded the TN registration number of vessel #2 and followed the vessel. Vessel #2 stopped and words were exchanged, but both parties agreed to go back to the ramp to trailer their vessels and exchange information. Once back at the ramp, the operator of vessel #2 loaded his vessel and drove off with out giving any information to Operator1, and it is here where Operator1 contacted Roane County 911 where they contacted the TWRA Officer.

The Operator1 vessel was damaged on the left side with the bulk of the damage was done to the ski tower where it was dented and loose from the mounted position, also a clete was broken off where it appeared vessel #2 ramped upon vessel #1. Vessel #2 operator left the scene of the accident without providing any information, and afterwards when TWRA Officers tracted down the operator by running the TN registration provided by Operator1.  Operator2 admitted operating the vessel that struck the operator1 vessel, and also claimed the boat was stored at another location. Operator2 later refused to talk with officers and claimed he was going to speak with his attorney. This all occured in Roane county


BARDID: TN-2013-0024
Date: 2013-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
May 11, 2013 Two people were on their pontoon boat that is docked at Four Seasons Marina on Center Hill Lake.  There was no property damage to their boat at that time.  On May 13, 2013 a friend informed them that they had damage to their boat.  May 14, 2013 I was called to do a boating accident report.  It appears that an unknown vessel struck the pontoon boat while it was docked in slip D4 at Four Seasons Marina.  The point of impact was on the outboard 75 horsepower motor, which was damaged.  The momemtum of the collision caused the boat to hit the pier.  The impact dented and cracked the port pontoon.  There was white/off-white transfer paint on the cowling of the outboard motor.   It seems that the accident probably occured on May 12, 2013


BARDID: TN-2013-0025
Date: 2013-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: BAXTER
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
According to statement by operator he was driving vessel upstream in Taylor Creek area of Center Hill Lake. Operator stated that, when vessel depth finder was in approx four feet of water, he throttled engine back and put vessel in neutral. He continued operating vessel upstream, bumping in and out of gear, when he grounded vessel in approx two feet of water. Vessel began taking on water from the stern area and sank until it was resting on bottom. Operator and his two juvenile passengers were picked up by owner of Cookeville Boat Dock and, a few minutes later, met with Officer , who transported them back to their campsite at Ragland Bottom Recreation area.                                                                                                                                                            
                  A damage estimate will be given to Officer by an expert marine repair man.


 Officer spoke with Operator by phone on 12/06/13 --- Operator advised that he had been told by his insurance carrier that it appeared some of the damage had occurred prior to the accident date and insurance would not pay for repairs. Operator said that he had been told by a marine repairman that vessel damage could be up to $4000-$5000. No official documentation or estimate has been provided.


BARDID: TN-2013-0026
Date: 2013-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: KINGSPORT
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/1/13 I was dispatched to a boating accident on Boone Lake just out from Lakeview Marina. I obtained a call back number from dispatch. 

Operator2 stated that the vessel that struck his vessel left the area and went towards Lakeview Marina. Operator2 also stated that that same vessel came back to check on them. Captain and I arrived at Lakeview Marina on 6/1/13 at 1703 hours. I met with two Sullivan County Sheriff''s Officers at the marina. The officers had collected information from the individuals involved in the incident and gave that information to me.  I observed vessel TN 0576 DN, a 20'' 6" white and yellow Tahoe, docked near the Lakeview Marina ramp.  The vessel had damage to the rear and middle starboard side hull, glass shield, and interior. I spoke with the operator of the damaged vessel, and the operator of the other vessel involved. 

I observed visible cuts to Operator2, and his wife. Operator2 stated he obtained the cuts when the glass shield broke upon impact with the other vessel. occupants of Operator2''s vessel, were also on the dock. Captain began photographing the damage on vessel TN 0576 DN. Operator2 gave me his account of the incident. I spoke with Operator1 who stated he was the operator of the other vessel involved. Operator1 gave me his account of the incident. I asked Operator1 where his vessel was at that time. Operator1 stated that it was tied up in the slip where he normally keeps it. Captain and I walked down the dock with Operator1 to his vessel.  Operator1''s vessel was a 18'' red and white Sea Doo Challenger with registration of VA 4702 BU. I observed damage to the port bow just above the waterline. Captain photographed Operator1''s vessel and the damaged area.  Operator1 and I walked back to my truck where I obtained his statement on the incident. Officer arrived at Lakeview Marina and obtained Operator2''s statement. Captain obtained statement. Captain and I told Operator1 that we would meet him the next day to raise his vessel out of the water and photograph the damage beneath the waterline. 
On 6/2/13 at approximatelly 1100 hours, Captain and I met with Operator1 at Lakeview Marina. Operator1''s vessel was raised out of the water and Captain photographed the damage to his vessel.


BARDID: TN-2013-0027
Date: 2013-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CLIFTON
County: WAYNE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling downstream from Clifton, approximately half way between River mile155 and 156.  Vessels #2 and #3 were beached on the west side of the river.  When vessel #1''s wake reached the beached vessels, it picked up Vessel #2 and caused it to strike Vessel #3.  It damaged both side panels on the Manitou and the starboard side pontoon and possibly cracked the fiberglass on Vessel #3.  Vessel #1 was approximately 100-150 yards from the beach in the river channel.  Vessel #1 was traveling at a high rate of speed.  Vessel #1 was on its way to Chicago, Illinois.


BARDID: TN-2013-0028
Date: 2013-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:35:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 8th, 2013 at around 15:35 Operator was operating his boat on Tim''s Ford Lake near Leatherwood Island.  As Operator drove his boat around the southwest side of Leatherwood Island the lower unit struck something submerged under the water.  Operator and the passengers said that they never saw what they hit either before or after the impact.  The operator and witnesses said that the engine started to smoke almost immediately after the impact and they also noticed that they were taking on water.  They shut off the engine and put on their PFD''s, and phoned for help.  Officers arrived on scene about 15 minutes after it happened and towed the vessel to Lakeview Marina where we conducted the investigation.  We examined the motor once on shore and saw that the inside of the motor cover appeared to have some burn marks on it and most of the plastic parts and hoses on the motor had melted.  We also saw that the transom had cracked on both sides of the motor right next to the motor mount.  The rear compartments had flooded and had to be drained once on shore.


BARDID: TN-2013-0029
Date: 2013-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GALLATIN
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 8, 2013, at approximately 18:10, operator put his boat on the water at the Bull Creek boat ramp, also know as Flippers, on Old Hickory Lake, Gallatin, TN.  Operator was the operator of the boat (V1).  Two others were passengers in the boat.  Operator’s son was seated in the middle seat and Occupant2 in the left passenger''s seat.  All three persons were wearing type III personal floatation devices.  Operator drove the boat from the ramp and proceed upstream towards the Gallatin Steam Plant.  Operator was operating the boat at approximately 45 miles per hour.  Approximately 0.9 miles upstream from the Bull Creek access, and adjacent to the Gallattin Steam Plant''s ash pond discharge, the bolts conecting the steering control on the motor broke.  The boat turned sharply and abruptly to the right, ejecting Operator’s son and Occupant2.  Operator did not connect the engine''s kill switch to himself.  Operator jumped out of the boat and into the water to assist Operator’s son and Occupant2.  He did not put the boat into neutral before exiting the vessel.  The boat was equiped with a Hotfoot throttle control.  The boat proceed to stay in motion, at idle speed, in a circular pattern.

A witness observed the accident and provided assisted to the victims.  Good sam was operating his boat (V2), traveling downstream, when he observed the accident occur.  He assisted all three victims into his boat.  Occupant2 was "dazed".  Once in Good sam''s boat, Operator called 911.  Good sams used the left side of his boat''s bow to stop V1.  This action caused paint transfer scuff marks on V2.  Operator got into his boat (V1) and took control of it.  Good sams took Occupant2 and Operator’s son to the Bull Creek access area to meet Sumner County EMS.  Operator stayed with his boat (V1) and was towed back to Bull Creek by another vessel.  Occupant2 was transported, by ambulance, to Sumner Regional Medical Center.  They evaluated him there and decided to send him to Vanderbilt Emergency Center, via Life Flight.  

Officer and I spoke with Occupant2 at the Vanderbilt Emergency Room.  He had no recollection of the accident.  Within 20 minutes of interviewing Occupant2, he asked several times if he had been involved in a boating accident.  The doctor on duty stated Occupant2''s right zygomatic arch was fractured, and he had a laceration approximately four inches long on the right side of his head.  The laceration was between his right eye and ear.  It is not clear what caused the laceration.  I''m not sure if the cooler in the boat struck Occupant2 in the head, or if he struck his head on the boat.  Occupant2 also sustained a concussion.

There was no evidence of alcohol use or possession during this incident.  I observed no evidence of operator impairment during this investigation.


BARDID: TN-2013-0030
Date: 2013-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HERMITAGE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On Thurdsay June 13, 2013 on Old Hickory Lake near Lock 3 Access Area (River Mile 218.2) Operator was operating his vessel down river. Winds were blowing WNW from 23 to 37 mph causing very rough conditions. His vessel began taking water over the transom from high waves so he navigated to the western shore. Once his vessel was moored to a wooden dock, the winds and excess water in the vessel caused it to capsize. He and his passenger swam to shore and were assisted by a fisherman to call for help.


BARDID: TN-2013-0031
Date: 2013-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:56:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/13/2013 at approximately 16:56 hrs I received a call from TWRA Dispatch regarding a boating accident with injuries on Timsford Lake, around Awalt bridge area.  Later I spoke to sheriff''s deputy by phone, who was on scene with the vessel and I told him that I was in route, and instructed him to preserve any evidence that might be of any help to me, and to keep all person''s involved there.  As I passed the Awalt bridge by vessel, I saw that the rescue squad had already began their search for the location where the person went down.  Upon arriving at the scene, I asked them where the pontoon in question was located at. They said that it was down the lake, pointing southeast.  I finally found the pontoon vessel close to the mile marker 9 bank, with another vessel that was assisting them. I spoke to deputy, and told them that we needed to get the vessel to the Holiday Landing boat ramp, so I could talk to the witnesses, and get statements, while the rescue squad got their team together. 

Note: The wind and waves on the lake were very bad, making vessel operation very challenging. When we arrived at the boat ramp of Holiday Landing, I began getting witness statements about the accident, and the location of where the victim went down.  Based upon statements from the witnesses, the family had rented a party pontoon from the Holiday Landing and Resort around 2:30 pm on 06/13/2013 to do a little promotional outing for the victim’s work place, which was a local radio station.  The victim was the operator of the vessel that day, while the other family and friends gave out drinks(sun-drops) and T-shirts for the radio promotiom.  The pontoon that was rented, was a two tier with a slide on the top tier extending down to the water.  (Wife), (Step-mom), and two small children where located on top and (Victim), (His Dad) and (Friend) were located on the bottom tier.  The vessel was drifting southeast, in the middle of Big Hurricane Creek, close to Awalt bridge, when every body was telling the operator’s step mom to go off the slide, which she did.  When she surfaced, the vessel had drifted about forty yards, and as she tried to swim back to the vessel it was drifting away faster than she could swim, and as the waves started to over take her, Operator was trying to get the vessel started to go and pick her up, but it would not start, so Operator dove into the water to try and save Stepmom, as Operator’s dad tried to get the vessel started.  Operator was having to fight the waves as he tried to make it to Stepmom, which was now along way off, and as he made it to her, he grabbed her wrist and helped her roll over on her back and then let go.  Operator’s dad got the vessel started and headed to Stepmom,  once there, with help, lifted her over the rail and into the front of the vessel, and then turning their attention to Operator, he was nowhere to be seen.  The  Rescue squad resumed the search till dark when equipment failure stopped the search till the next morning.  body was found by sonar 06/14/2013 around 11:30 am and was recovered 06/14/2013 around 13:00 hrs


BARDID: TN-2013-0032
Date: 2013-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOUDON
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel had just been purchased from an individual that lived on Tellico Lake and was being transported by the new owners to their home on Chickamauga Lake.  They had locked through the FT. Loudon Dam and were headed down stream when they navigated out of the channel and struck submerged rocks under the rail bridge near TRM 592.  The incident was witnessed Officer of the Loudon Police Department.  Loudon Fire Dept lanuched their rescue boat and was able to tow the vessel to the public ramp in Loudon.


BARDID: TN-2013-0034
Date: 2013-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:37:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6-12-13 at approximately 21:02 a vessel was pulled into the boil/spillway of Ft. Loudon Dam where it was swamped and subsequently capsized. Operator and two other occupants were thrown into the water where they were retrieved by nearby fishermen.  The occupants were fishing near the dam when the generated current began to pull them very close to the spillways.  As the operator attempted to start the vessel in order to move further from the dam the engine would not fire and they were pulled under the spillway.  The vessel traveled under one spillway and was pushed aside and under a second spillway.  While under the second spillway the vessel filled with water, was swamped, and capsized.  Two of the three occupants suffered minor injuries and were transported to Loudon ER.  All three individuals were wearing Coast Guard approved type III PFDs.


BARDID: TN-2013-0036
Date: 2013-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: KINGSTON
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 15, 2013,  operator was towing a skier on Watts Bar Lake when the skier attempted to cross the wake of the boat but did not succeed. Victim fell and the felt that he had a right hip injury. Operator called 911 and it is here where they pulled Victim onto their vessel and went to the dock to wait on EMS to transport to Roane Medical Center. Roane Medical treated and released Victim the same day, and the injury was a contusion of the right hip. This all occured in Roane County.


BARDID: TN-2013-0037
Date: 2013-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: TEN MILE
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On June 20, 2013, according to operator, he was driving his vessel up to the TWRA access area off hwy 304 to let his friend off to retrieve the vehicle when he accidently pushed the throttle forward sending the vessel up a portion of the concrete ramp scraping the bottom of the vessel.  He later called Roane County Dispatch to file a report, who in return called and reported the accident to the Roane County Wildlife Officer. The all occurred on Watts Bar Lake in Roane County.


BARDID: TN-2013-0038
Date: 2013-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: OLD HICKORY
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
This accident happened on 06/12/13 at Blackjack Cove Marina in Old Hickory, TN.  I received a call at approximately 13:00 stating that a docked boat had been damaged by the wake of another vessel coming in for fuel.  The boat that was damaged was a 45'' Stol Kraft.  The Stol Kraft was docked on the end of a row closest to the break wall of the marina, in slip B24.  Two people were on the Stol Kraft at the time working on the boat.  According to their statements the boat that caused the wake and subsequent damage was a 45''5" Sea Ray with TN number of 3689 CA.  According to statements  by workers, the Sea Ray was in operation, traveling downstream toward the entrance of the marina.  According to their statement the Sea Ray was traveling at roughly 12 knots or 1/4 throttle.  They estimated the Sea Ray to have come with in 25 yards of the break wall.  After the Sea Ray passed slip B24 the Sea Ray changed speed to an idle.  At this time they reported a large wake approached and went over the break wall.  According to their statement it rocked the Stol Kraft in its slip which led to the damage of a rail.  The rail was located toward the bow on the port side.  It was made of a solid piece of stainless steel and was bent.  A contributing factor to this damage could have been the result of the way the boat was secured.  The boat was tied to the slip and the rope was attached to the railing that was bent.  The Sea Ray continued into the marina and stopped for fuel.  This is where information was obtained.  I interviewed Operator1 and his story differs from the other account of what happened.  Operator1 stated that he was much farther out in the channel at the time and did not notice any significant wake leaving his boat.  I asked the passenger on Operator1''s boat and he agreed with his statement.  Though the stories differ, one factor was the same and that is that Operator1''s boat was coming in for gas at the time.  Whether the wake that damaged the boat originated from Operator1''s boat seems to be disputed by witnesses.


BARDID: TN-2013-0039
Date: 2013-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating the rented pontoon boat.  They were headed back towards Tim''s Ford Marina to return the boat by 6pm.  They were near Awalt Bridge, Victim was standing up at the bow inside of the railing and when the boat hit a wake from some jet ski''s nearby Victim fell forward off of the boat.  Victim went under the boat and was struck by the  propeller before Operator could stop the boat.  Victim''s hair and swimsuit were stuck in the prop.  The 3 Male Passengers jumped into the water and had to pull her hair out of the propeller leaving some of her swimsuit in the  propeller.  After getting Victim back into the boat they went back to Tim''s Ford Marina.  When they returned to Tim''s Ford Marina they took Victim to one of their vehicles and Operator turned the keys in and told the Marina workers that there was part of her friends bikini stuck in the propeller and asked if it would cost them any more.  They then left and went to Victim''s residence.  Then they started towards Fayetteville to the Hospital.  They were stopped by a State Trooper and he called an ambulance for Victim.  I was called by Lincoln Medical Center once Victim was admitted.  I then went and interviewed Victim.  Officer and I were able to make contact with Operator and around 23:30 and get statements from them.  Victim was treated and released from the hospital the next day.


BARDID: TN-2013-0040
Date: 2013-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HENDERSONVILLE
County: Sumner
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
This accident happened at roughly 01:00 am on the morning of 06/16/2013.  operator was travelling up stream and was headed to Drakes Creek Marina.  Due to operator inattention, operator veered to the left too far and missed the appropriate turn into Drakes Creek.  The area where the vessel grounded is very shallow, 2-3 feet deep.  Upon grounding, the stern thruster caved in and punched an 8 inch hole in the transom.  This resulted in water entering the hull and submerging both engines.


BARDID: TN-2013-0041
Date: 2013-03-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:28:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PICKWICK LAKE
NearestCityTown: PICKWICK
County: HARDIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/08/2013 at approximately 2000 hours I received a call stating that there was a large boat fire at Pickwick Landing State Park Marina, I contacted Hardin County Central Dispatch and they confirmed that there was a multiple boat fire on E dock of the marina and that fire crews were on scene.  I arrived at approximately 2017 hours and found a large boat(later determined to be the BOB-N-C) aground on the northern bank of the cove. Fire crews were still trying to extinguish the flames on the boat. I went to E dock and found several witnesses that stated at around 1930 hours they were sitting on the back of another vessel when they heard a "pop" and then a splash, they then said they saw flames coming out of the Bob-N-C. Several of the witnesses tried to untie the burning vessel but were unable to fully get it out of the slip. As the Bob-N-C burned in slip E-17, it also burned two pwc''s located in the same slip as well as a carver boat located in slip E-15(Best Polisea) and a pacemaker vessel located in E-19(No reservations). There was also extensive damage to the dock itself, mainly to the roofing material, support beams and the floatation as well as a few storage boxes. The entire dock was also covered in soot. The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time.


BARDID: TN-2013-0043
Date: 2013-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GALLATIN
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday June 16, 2013 subject observed water entering his vessel from the engine compartment (Aft beneath the floor) while in his rented slip at Shady Cove Marina. He began using a pump to remove the water, but at some point that night electricity was lost and water overcame the vessel causing it to sink from the bow. 

subject discovered this the morning of June 17, 2013. Cause of water entering appears to be from a plate bolted to the hull that lost a screw, allowing water to enter.


BARDID: TN-2013-0044
Date: 2013-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: BYRDSTOWN
County: PICKETT
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On June 18, 2013 at or around 16:30 operator was operating a BassTracker bass boat IN8636 AF upstream from Sunset Marina On Dale Holow Lake. There was one person onboard and two on a tube.  According to statements, as Operator was pulling the tube, the wake from a large cruiser caused him to slow the vessel down. When the tube hit the wake, the wake caused it to stop suddenly, throwing both riders from tube. It is most likely that victim’s neck injury was caused by impacting with the water. Both riders were loaded onto vessel and taken to Sunset Marina where it was then decided to call ambulance as victim was complaining of neck pain. She was admitted to Livingston Regional Hospital and released.


BARDID: TN-2013-0045
Date: 2013-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: activity equipment
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
subject was being towed on a wake board by his mothers Marada boat about one mile downstream from the Ragland Bottom Access Area on Center Hill Lake.  His girlfriend was the operator of the vessel.  When she accellerated to bring subject out of the water, a back strap on the binding of the wake board broke causing his foot to slip out of the binding.  As his foot slipped out of the binding a metal clip that had broke hung his left heel and caused a large laceration.  He was transported to Dekalb Community Hospitol by a personal vehicle where he received 27 stitches in the heel of his left foot.


BARDID: TN-2013-0046
Date: 2013-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 13, 2013 the named individuals decided to try to canoe to Gilligans Island.  Operator was paddling the canoe while Subject was riding in an intertube that was being hauled behind the canoe.  They paddled out to the main lake and realized that the waves, current, and wind were too strong for them to make it to the island.  They turned around to paddle back to the boat ramp and Operator got tired of paddling and wanted to switch places with Subject. Subject jumped out of the intertube and swam to the canoe and made it, however Operator jumped out of the canoe with the paddle in hand and was immediately swept away by the waves, current, and wind.  She was not strong enough to swim back to the canoe or the intertube. Subject did not have the paddle to paddle toward Operator and they kept getting farther, and farther away from each other until Subject could no longer see Operator.  Subject called 911 and reported the incident and OEM arrived on scene and picked Subject up.  They went back to where she last saw Operator and found her still treading water.  Operator tread water for approximately 30 minutes and reported that she went under water twice and swallowed alot of water.  Emergency personnel decided to transport her for further evaluations for taking in so much water.  She was evaluated and released from the hospital in under 1 hour with no further injuries. My investigation is complete.


BARDID: TN-2013-0047
Date: 2013-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: Dekalb
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was riding on kneeboard being pulled by V1. Victim attempted a 360 degree turn with kneeboard, his right hand slipped, losing grip and left shoulder was dislocated. Victim stated to officer that this was the third time he had dislocated the same shoulder.


BARDID: TN-2013-0048
Date: 2013-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:01:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 (19 foot tracker boat) was headed west towards boat ramp to drop off a passenger on Percy Priest lake.  At same time V2 ( Honda PWC) was headed east following behind a pontoon boat along with another PWC that they were in the same group with.  Both vessel collided at the narrowest point on the south end of Hole-in-Wall island.  The tracker boat stated she saw the PWC headed towards her but could not avoid collision due to shoreline on the left.  The Honda PWC driver stated he did not see the tracker boat until the last second of the collison and he leaped from the PWC right before impact along with his dog he had riding aboard. (Driver is blind out of his left eye)  Estimated collison speed impact was less than 20 mph. The tracker boat sustained fiberglass damage to its right side near the water line and side chine. The Honda PWC sustained minor damage to its right side rub rail. Estimated cost for both vessels is close to $2300.00 for reportablity and no one was injured.


BARDID: TN-2013-0049
Date: 2013-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 16th, 2013, I was dispatched to a jet ski accident with injuries at Chester Frost State Park. Upon arriving on scene I took statements from the father of the injured subject and one eyewitness. Operator said he was driving the jet ski and his daughter was the passenger. He stated that they were going around 40 miles an hour when they hit a large wake and it ejected them from the pwc. He said that his daughter started to complain of neck pain and was hurt so they called for the ambulance. She was transported to Erlangers T. C Thompson Childrens hospital. There was no damage to the pwc and operator was not injured. She was treated and released. Medical examine determined she had whiplash.


BARDID: TN-2013-0050
Date: 2013-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANDRIDGE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/20/13, Thursday mourning at roughly 0830 hours, Operator, owner of a 1993 Crownline open motorboat, along with his wife, Wife and his father-in-law entered their motorboat moored at their rental summer home and dock near the Muddy Creek area of Douglas Lake. Wife entered the water, wearing a lifejacket to start skiing. Operator was the operator of the motorboat and started towing Wife on 1 ski, away from the dock, out of the cove into the  Muddy Creek area of Douglas Lake. Father in law acted as an observer and the motorboat was also equipped with a rear view mirror. Operator continued to operate the motorboat as they travelled through the Muddy Creek area of Douglas Lake until entering  Dickey Cove, Douglas Lake. As Wife continued to ski at about half way through Dickey Cove, she skied to the left rear side of the motorboat, hitting the motorboat''s wake, causing her to fall and rolled over several times in the water. Operator turned the motorboat around and drove over to pick up, Wife, at which time she complained of neck and upper back pain. At this point Operator entered the water and stayed with Wife as father in law drove the motorboat to the nearest dock and had the owners call 911. Jefferson County Rescue Squad arrived about 30-45 minutes later, Wife was given medical attention and transported by Operator in their motorboat to the Dickey Cove private boat launch. Wife was flown University of Tennessee Medical Helicopter to the UT Trauma Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. Wife was treated and released from UT Trauma Center later that same day with a neck strain.


BARDID: TN-2013-0051
Date: 2013-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: KNOXVILLE
County: KNOX
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 6:45pm on 06/20/2013  I left Turkey Creek and headed upstream on the main channel in my patrol boat.  I noticed a person drifting in the middle of the channel.  There were no boats in the immediate area.  I approached the subject and asked him if he was ok.  He said no.  I asked him what was wrong with him and he replied he did not know.  I asked him how he got in the middle of the lake and he replied he didn''t know.  A jet ski approached my patrol boat from downstream and the occupants said they had found an empty kayak about a half mile downstream.  The subject in the water said he had been in a kayak.  I asked the man in the water what his name was.  He said he wasn''t sure.  I told him to climb the ladder and get into my boat.  He was unable to do so. I pulled him into the boat and sat him down.  I could smell a strong odor of alcohol around him. He repeatedly tried to stand up and remove his pfd.  I repeatedly told him to stay seated and leave his pfd buckled.  I forced him to sit and I buckled his pfd up multiple times.  At some point he remembered his name.  I transported him to the Concord boat ramp.  EMS checked him there.  He refused treatment.  EMS said he may have early stages of hypothermia.  I wrote a citation for public intoxication.  He refused to sign the citation.  I arrested him and he was transported to the Knox County Jail.  The two witnesses on the PWC gave a written statement.  Another vessel towed the kayak to the Concord boat ramp and also gave a written statement.  I released the kayak.

Subject fell out of the kayak due to alcohol use and a wake.


BARDID: TN-2013-0052
Date: 2013-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
subject was skiing while being towed by his nephew.  When victim was getting up on his ski''s his legs separated and his right ski turned in the water.  His right leg twisted and caused his pelvic bone to break on the right side.


BARDID: TN-2013-0053
Date: 2013-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: VONORE
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6-14-2013, Vessel #1 was headed upstream on Tellico Lake in Loudon County.  The operator made a right hand turn and collided with Vessel #2 that was in the process of overtaking him.  The operator of Vessel #2 had reacted making a hard right hand turn but was unable to avoid colliding with the other vessel.  The operator of Vessel #2 was ejected making contact with likely the gunwhale of his vessel and breaking his knee in the process.  Vessel #2 continued on toward the right hand  (ascending) bank with the occupant stopping the vessel before any additional contact was made.  The operator of Vessel #2 was picked up by a following vessel that placed him back in his.  The injured operator of Vessel #1 was placed on another PWC (his brother) and returned to the dock they departed from which was right around the corner.  The brother of the injured operator of Vessel #1 returned to the scene to advise Vessel #2 that they could meet to exchange information at their family''s dock which was right around the corner from the accident.  The operator of Vessel #2 headed passed the dock and never stopped to make contact with the other party.  

Neither party made an attempt to contact emergency services untill later in the evening when the party associated with Vessel #1 was at the UTMCER and became aware that the party from Vessel #2 were also at the same ER.  

I was contacted by Loudon County E-911 approximately 5 hours after the incident, myself and other officers responded to the ER and to the house of Vessel #1.


BARDID: TN-2013-0054
Date: 2013-03-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:39:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little River
NearestCityTown: TOwnsend
County: SEVIER
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On March 13, 2013 National Park Service Rangers were dispatched to boating accident on the Little River along Hwy 73. The investigating officer was of National Park Service, stationed at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Officer reports that the victim was attending a paddling event referred to as Ain''t Louie Fest. At approximately 12:39 on the above date, Victim entered the Little River in the Sinks area to begin paddling a section of rapids. It was reported that his canoe was 90 degrees to the water flow when it hit a rock and overturned. Victim was then trapped in a rapid and was submerged for approximately 30 minutes. He was pulled from the water by other boaters. CPR was administered and later transported to Blount Memorial Hospital by Rural Metro ambulance service. Victim was later pronounced dead at Blount Memorial and the cause of death was determined to be drowning.

Ranger Officer also reports that Victim was an avid paddler with over 50 years of experience. He had paddled the Sinks area of the Little River in the past and had been paddling his current whitewater canoe for 1 to 2 years. He was reported to be extremely healthy.

The information in this Boating Accident Report was obtained from the N.P.S. Investigative Report which is on file at the N.P.S. Office at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.


BARDID: TN-2013-0055
Date: 2013-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANVILLE
County: HOUSTON
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator says he went to fish at the Danville Grain Elevator.  He circled the elevator a couple of times to check the wind and waves and to decide how to best approach the elevator.   He approached from the south with the intent of tying up on the eastern wall.  When he turned to boat perpendicular to the wind, the wind and waves quickly pushed the pontoon boat into the concrete canopy of the elevator.  He says as he struggled to push the pontoon boat off the wall, he cut his hand.  He was able to get the boat turned south and away from the elevator.  He drove the pontoon boat back to Buchanan Resort and then went to Eastwood Clinic in Paris for treatment.  He was diagnosed with a lacerated left hand and sprained left wrist.


BARDID: TN-2013-0056
Date: 2013-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:44:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PICKWICK LAKE
NearestCityTown: PICKWICK
County: HARDIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, July 4th, 2013 at approximately 1746 hours, I was notified of a boat on fire near the 210 mile marker on Pickwick Lake. Myself and WO responded and found a 2006 Malibu wake setter boat completley engulfed in flames.  After all the victims were safely aboard a Hardin Co. fire boat, I interviewed the operator.  Operator stated he started smelling smoke and stopped the vessel and checked the oil and engine compartment. He stated it seemed okay. They then headed back to the boat ramp and the boat started to slow down. He then states smoke started coming out of the right side speaker which is mounted on the engine compartment. The speaker then blew out into the floor. He stopped the boat and lifted the engine compartment and he said it was full of smoke. He then lifted the box where the drive unit is and stated it was on fire. He states that he and another passenger attempted to put it out with a fire extinguisher. The flames forced all occupants out of the vessel and into the water where two good samaritan boats picked them up and we arrived a few minutes later.


BARDID: TN-2013-0057
Date: 2013-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CAMDEN
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
While on boat patrol on 07/05/13 myself and fellow officer noticed smoke coming from the back of Beaver Dam Creek in Camden, TN.  Upon arriving on scene we noticed that a pontoon boat was on fire in a boat dock.  Along with the pontoon were two PWCs that were under the boat dock.  We notified Benton County Dispatch and they sent out Eva Volunteer Fire Department. Property damage only.  Property damagae estimated by the owner was $20,000 in dock, $60,000 in pontoon, and $8,500 in one jetski and other was not damaged much at about $2,000.  After speaking with the owner, he stated they were checking oil in the jet ski and the fire started around the console of the pontoon.  On Monday July 8, 2013 State of TN fire investigator came out and investigated fire.  INvestigator said after his investigation that the fire cause was left undetermined.


BARDID: TN-2013-0058
Date: 2013-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:27:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HERMITAGE
County: Wilson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A runabout on old hickory lake around 14:30 hours on july 8.2013 struck the community boat dock owned by beacon hill village. The boat dock sustained damage to the walkway and metal super structure. The occupants of the boat were both injured when the boat stuck the dock. They were both they were both transported to summit hospital where, operator recieved stitches for a cut to his chin and treatment for a large contusion on the left side of his face. Occupant was evaluated for a blow she took to the left side of her head. Both parties were treated and released . Per policy operator had blood drawn to be tested for possible impairment at the time of the accident.  From interviews with both operator and occupant it appears that they were cursing down stream and operator was taking pictures of the area and his passenger occupant.  They did not see how close they were to the boat dock until just prior to impact. The runabout struck the walkway traveling over the walkway at an angle striking a metal dock pole and exiting out the other side. The runabout traveled on and stuck the dock again snapping another metal dock pole before coming to a stop.


BARDID: TN-2013-0059
Date: 2013-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2013, at approximately 12:14 am, Union County 911 received a call that two vessels had collided between Loyston Point and Waterside Marina. Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officers were dispatched and arrived on scene at 12:32 am.  According to witness statements, the pontoon, listed as vessel 2, and the pontoon, listed as witness vessel were returning from the fireworks show at Sequoia Marina.  Vessel 2 had slowed to exchange passengers that were camping at Loyston Campground. Vessel 1 had been across the lake near Big Ridge State Park, and had decided to return to Loyston Point Boat Ramp to load their vessel and leave. Vessel 1 was traveling towards Loyston Point, and observed a vessel they were going to cross paths with (witness vessel).  Vessel 1turned left to avoid witness vessel and ran into vessel 2 on the left stern of vessel 2.  Upon impact, two passengers on vessel 1 were ejected into the water, and a passenger from vessel 2 was thrown onto the floor of vessel 2. The witness vessel, and passengers from vessel 2, were able to provide assistance and retrieve the vessel 1 occupants from the water. A passenger from vessel 2 was transported to North Knoxville Medical Center with a mild concussion. The cause of the accident and contributing factors are still under investigation.


BARDID: TN-2013-0060
Date: 2013-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMYRNA
County: RUTHERFORD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Two people launched a boat borrowed from their uncle at Mona Boat Ramp off Jefferson Pike at approximately 1000 on Sunday July 14, 2013. the operator of the vessel and was towing subject on an innertube upstream toward the Walter Hill Dam. As the vessel traveled upstream in very shallow water, it struck some rocks causing operator to reduce speed. As operator reduced speed the rope from the innertube got caught in the propeller causing the engine to stall. When the engine completely stalled out, both noticed the boat was taking on water from the stern of the boat near the engine compartment. After calling 911, they put on their PFDs and began trying to paddle the boat to the bank. Upon arriving at the scene I was able to locate the stranded boaters, and throw them a rope to secure them to the bank. The boat was recovered the next day, at which point it was determined the plug was not fully in the boat and there were large scrapes in the fiberglass just below the plug.


BARDID: TN-2013-0061
Date: 2013-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:05:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEROKEE LAKE
NearestCityTown: BEAN STATION
County: GRAINGER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 19, 2013, operator took two of his grandchildren fishing on Cherokee Lake.  After fishing for a couple of hours, Operator noticed his vessel would not come up on plane. Operator checked his fuel level, which was low, and realized the bulb on the fuel line was soft. Operator called his wife and she brought him five gallons of gasoline at approximately  6:00 pm.  Both grandchildren went home with wife, while Operator decided to stay and fish.  After fishing a couple of hours, Operator had problems starting the vessel finding the fuel bulb soft again.  Operator called his wife again, and she brought him ten gallons of gasoline at approximately 8:00 pm.  The vessel started and idled fine after adding the gasoline.  Operator fished until approximately 9:30 pm, then began to make his way back to Evergreen ramp where he had launched the vessel.  On the way to Evergreen, the vessel engine would idle for about ten minutes before Operator would have to stop and pump the fuel line bulb.  Operator continued this process several times.  On one occasion, Operator noticed the odor of burnt wiring.  Operator opened the compartment lid where the batteries are stored.  As Operator raised the lid, he heard a "whooshing" sound and was knocked backwards in the vessel.  When Operator turned around he saw flames coming from the battery compartment. Operator found the fire extiguisher, but the flames had already consumed the back of the vessel.  Operator grabbed a life jacket and departed from his vessel into the water. Operator was not injuried and began to yell for help. Good sam, who was fishing close by, heard Operator yelling for help.  Good sam took Operator back to his vehicle at Evergreen ramp.


BARDID: TN-2013-0062
Date: 2013-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:22:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: JACKSBORO
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements from witnesses and the injured party, the boat was starting to accelerate in an effort to pull the injured party up on one ski.  The injured party''s left foot came out of the ski and went into the water.  His right foot stayed in the ski.  This caused him to "do the splits" and fall.  He heard a "pop" and could  not straighten his right leg.


BARDID: TN-2013-0063
Date: 2013-03-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:23:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCOEE RIVER
NearestCityTown: DUCKTOWN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
operator had trouble navigating Broken Nose rapid. He had to eject from kayak and then He struck a rock which fractured his femur. He was immobilized in a basket and a traction splint was used to relieve some pain. It was a quarter mile carry-out to Rural Metro EMS. They transported to Skyridge and eventually moved to Erlanger for definitive care


BARDID: TN-2013-0071
Date: 2013-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HIXSON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 15, 2013 I was contacted by dispatch regarding a vessel crash with injuries.  I arrived on scene and the victim  had already been transported to Erlanger hospital.  I got statements from the vessel owner and other witnesses in the area.  All witnesses confirmed that Operator was traveling at a high rate of speed and hit a wake. Operator was thrown from the vessel and hit the water.  Operator was wearing a PFD and was pulled to shore.  Operator was treated and released from the hospital.


BARDID: TN-2013-0072
Date: 2013-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HARRISON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On June 22, 2013 I was dispatched to a PWC crash on Wolftever Creek.  I made contact with the operator who stated that she was riding a friends Sea Doo jet ski and was riding it with a friend. she stated that she lost her passenger and was looking back to see where she was when she ran into a dead tree hanging over the bank.  she was not injured during the accident and there was some damage done to the vessel.  The front hood of the vessel was broken and the some other minor damage.  I also spoke to the vessel owner and gave him the report information.

Note:  the vessel was moved prior to my arrival.  The location of the crash is based off of operator’s description of the area.


BARDID: TN-2013-0073
Date: 2013-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: SODDY DAISY
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
RedactedNarrative:
On July 21, 2013 I was dispatched to a vessel that had been struck by lightning.  The operator of the vessel  went into convulsions and may have bit his tongue.  operator was checked by EMS and refused treatment.  The electrical system of the vessel was showing signs of problems and nothing inside the vessel was working.  It is unknown the extent of the damage.


BARDID: TN-2013-0074
Date: 2013-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On or about the above date and time a vessel operated by subject (V1) struck the vessel in the control of subject (V2).  The operator of V1 stated that he was towing an individual on a wakeboard and looking behind him at the person being towed, when he turned around to look ahead of him he was in very close proximity to V2, at which time he pulled the boat into neutral just before the collision.  The operator of V2 stated that he was at anchor when he noticed V1 towing an individual and coming toward him.  He further stated that when he looked at the operator he could see the operator was looking behind him until just before the collision.


BARDID: TN-2013-0075
Date: 2013-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
subject was riding on a tube along with 2 other girls on one of two tubes being towed in the cedar creek area of Norris Lake. The tube flipped over after hitting a wave and catching some wind.  subject hurt her right shoulder/neck area upon hitting the water.  The other 2 girls not hurt.


BARDID: TN-2013-0076
Date: 2013-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON LAKE
NearestCityTown: BRISTOL
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2013 Officer and I were patrolling South Holston Lake around the area of 421 Access Area. Officer and I were dispatched to a boat accident that had been reported  at 2340 hours. Officer and I arrived to the scene of the accident at Cliff Island at around 2352 hours. I observed a white and blue Bayliner vessel floating off the area of Cliff Island. The vessel was occupied 3 times and appeared to have a substantial amount of damage to the bow.   The damaged Bayliner had a Tennessee registration of 4156 DT. There was a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from the Bayliner Vessel.  

Operator appeared to have deep lacerations to his toes and complained of hip pain. Victim2 appeared to have a deep laceration above his left eye. Subject3 said he had a minor bump on the top of his head.  Both Operator and Victim2 stated that Operator was the operator of the damaged vessel.   We transported the occupants to 421 Access Area where Emergency crews were waiting. Operator was transported to Bristol Regional Medical center.  Subject3 was looked at by Emergency personnel and released to his guardian. Victim2 refused treatment.  Officer transported the vessel to the TWRA compound at Bowser Ridge. According to witness statements, the operator of the damaged vessel was Operator. This is an ongoing investigation into multiple facets of this incident.
Based on Occupant statements:
One of the individual''s was operating the bayliner headed toward cliff island, from the area of hwy 421 bridge.       The vessel impacted the north side of cliff island at a significant speed.  The impact caused an extreme amount of fiberglass damage and caused multiple injuries to the occupants.


BARDID: TN-2013-0077
Date: 2013-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOONE LAKE
NearestCityTown: BRISTOL
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 6 2013 I responded to Bristol Regional Hospital in Sullivan County to obtain statements and a blood sample from the operator of a vessel involved in a boat accident on South Holston Lake. During the interview, I was approached by an Emergency Room physician and advised that another boat accident victim had arrived from an accident on Boone Lake. I walked to exam room 9 and interviewed two people. 
      Based on their statements, I determined that Operator was operating a 1995 16'' Hydra-sports boat on the Holston arm of Boone Lake in Sullivan County. They were traveling upstream approximately one half mile above Davis Marina when Operator decided to turn around and head back to their private dock located approximately one half mile downstream of Davis Marina. Operator stated that he was traveling approximately 20 miles per hour when he turned the boat slightly to the right in order to make a wide left turn. During the process, the boat struck a floating dock that had a money bar type metal ladder that extended approximately three and half feet out and was about 3 foot above the water. Operator''s right forearm struck the corner of the ladder which caused severe trauma to his arm. occupant is a Medical Doctor and rendered aid to Operator until they could get back to their dock. She then transported him in a personal vehicle to Bristol Regional Hospital. operator had emergency surgery to repair his injured forearm. He was admitted to the hospital for observation and released on Sunday July 8 2013.
      The vessel sustained minor damage during the accident. The Bimini top was damaged during the collision and there were a series of small gouges in the fiberglass along the starboard gunnel that extended back to a large gouge on the motor cowling. 

*During the investigation, I discovered that Operator had been drinking alcohol. He consented to give a blood sample. Two nurses attempted to get a blood sample, but they were unable to hit a vein due to his dehydration from blood loss.


BARDID: TN-2013-0078
Date: 2013-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GALLATIN
County: SUMNER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 10, 2013, Vessel 1 was towing an inflatable tube with three riders near Bledsoe Creek State Park. At one point the tube hit wake causing the riders to collide. subject's knee hit the head of subject2. 

They went to Sumner Regional Medical center where subject was diagnosed with torn and strained ligaments in his right knee.

The other riders had no injuries.


BARDID: TN-2013-0079
Date: 2013-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PICKWICK LAKE
NearestCityTown: PICKWICK
County: HARDIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30,2013 at approximately 1609 hours, I received a call from Wildlife Officer(WO) stating that Hardin County Central Dispatch had contacted him stating that a 13 year old female operating a pwc had suffered an injury to her face after colliding with an over hanging tree branch. WO stated the victim was at Hardin Medical Center. I arrived at Hardin Medical Center at approximately 1625 hours and found that the victim had left the hospital and was en route by private vehicle to Germantown Methodist Hospital in Shelby county.  I spoke to the owner of the pwc that victim was operating at the time of the incident. He states that victim has a laceration to her chin caused by colliding with a limb on the lake bank. He states that the laceration will require stitches. During a later interview, subject states he was on the rear of his vessel "Moon Pie" and said he saw victim as she turned approximately 50 yards away from the Moon Pie and then she ran directly into the bank and an over hanging branch had struck her in the face. victim states that she didn''t turn quick enough and was looking to press a "stop" button when she hit the limb


BARDID: TN-2013-0080
Date: 2013-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
All parties knew one another and had just recently rented the PWCs for 1 hour from Music city watersports located near Nashville shores water park.  At approximately 4:30pm Vessel 1 was struck on its right by Vessel 2''s bow.  The impacted caused both drivers to fall into the water. Estimated speed of both vessel was 15-20 mph. Vessel 1 driver sustained a broken right leg from the collision and was help to shore by a pontoon boat nearby that heard the impact and assisted in getting him to shore for medical treatment.  He was transported to Vanderbilt medical center by Nashville Fire EMS. Vessel 2''s driver and passenger did not sustain any injuries.  (Both vessels were operating too close to each other and both drivers were inexperienced in operating PWC''s.)


BARDID: TN-2013-0081
Date: 2013-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PARKSVILLE LAKE
NearestCityTown: OCOEE
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/21/2013 I made contact with subject in regards to being involved in an accident that took place on 06/16/2013. Subject informed me that the vessel that he was in (Vessel #1) was towing vessel # 2 to ramp.  As vessel #1 began to slow down, the operator, Operator1 realized vessel #2 was about to impact his vessel.  He then instructed Subject to pull in some of the tow rope so it wouldn''t get caught in the propeller.  Operator1 increased throttle and changed direction avoiding a collision. As a result of an increase in throttle and a change of direction the tow line tightened around Subject''s fingers resulting in amputation of the tips of fingers 3 and 4 on his right hand.

As a result of my investigation I determined that alcohol was not a factor in the accident. There are no charges pending. My investigation is complete.
The Owner/Operator of vessel 2 is unknown


BARDID: TN-2013-0082
Date: 2013-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANDRIDGE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was on plane, when the motor trimmed up on its own.  Operator stopped the boat to see what happened, tried to trim the motor down and it wouldn''t move.  Started idling back toward the ramp when occupant said there was water coming over the back.  The transom went under water and the boat rolled starboard.  The boat capsized and all dumped in the water.  Two lifejackets were on the backs of the seats and a third was under the console.  Neither occupant was able to secure a PFD before going in the water.  
The seating arrangement was as follows: operator was the operator on the starboard side, occupant1 was in the middle, and occupant2 was on the port side.  All three were side by side.
Several hundreds of dollars of fishing equipment and personal items were lost.


BARDID: TN-2013-0083
Date: 2013-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NICKAJACK LAKE
NearestCityTown: GUILD
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 27, 2013 Operator was operating his vessel on Nickajack Lake in Marion County, TN.  He had five passengers aboard.  While on there way back to the loading ramp op stated he was traveling aprox. 30-40 yards off the bank, he had problems with the steering on the boat.  He stated that the boat made a sharp turn toward the the bank, and he couldn''t regain control of the steering, at some point the boat struck the bank.  The boat then climbed the bank and finally came to rest on the rocks out of the water next to highway 156.   daugher was ejected from the boat and recieved injuries to the head and torso.  The other occupants were not injured. Photos and witness statements are attatched to this report.


BARDID: TN-2013-0084
Date: 2013-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CLARKSVILLE
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the vessel was operating the boat when two people were in the water. 
While operator was operating the vessel he ran over both. subject1 received non-lifethreatening injuries to his head and left hand. subject2 received fatal injuries from the propeller to her right leg, waist, stomach, chest, and right arm.


BARDID: TN-2013-0085
Date: 2013-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:47:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARKLEY LAKE
NearestCityTown: DOVER
County: STEWART
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was traveling the river channel North down stream on Barkley Lake. Most likely the vessel struck a submerged object,made an abrupt turn to starboard, rolled to port, and subsequently ejected both occupants and the vessel capsized.


BARDID: TN-2013-0087
Date: 2013-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAKE CITY
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At around 10:45 operator was operating a bass boat with two people on board.  They had left the area around TVA access on Cove Creek and were headed upstream toward Mountain Lake Marina.  operator stated he was letting of the throttle to enter into the marina no wake zone he noticed an object in the water in front of the boat.  He yelled hold on and turned the boat had to the right.  The port side of the boat struck an unsecured dock.  The passengers were thrown down in the boat. subject1 complained of irritated eyes/skin from the fiberglass.  operator idled the boat to the ramp and loaded it on the trailer.  The impact created a large hole in the fiberglass hull of the boat.  It also damaged the rub rail and separated the hull from the deck.


BARDID: TN-2013-0088
Date: 2013-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: HIWASSEE RIVER
NearestCityTown: CLEVELAND
County: BRADLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday July 15th, 2013 BandB Marina was the location of a local fishing tournament. Approximately 10-15 boats were fishing in the tournament. At 6:00 pm the boats blasted off from the Marina, which created congested waters especially for a narrow channel like the Hiwassee River. At approximately 6:30 pm a 20ft bullet bass boat occupied by operator and passenger was approaching the intersection of Price Creek (heading downstream, towards Hwy 58 bridge) when the operator made an attempt to cross a wakeboard-type boat while towing a wakeboarder on the starboard side. The bass boat was traveling in the mid 70''s and once the boat crossed the first set of wake it became airborne and turned slightly to the left, spearing the second wake, causing both the operator and passenger to strike the side of their own boat resulting in their injuries and was then ejected from the boat.


BARDID: TN-2013-0091
Date: 2013-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3, 2013, Operator and fishing partner Occupant met at Operator''s house between 8:30-9:00 pm to go Walleye fishing on Norris Lake. They arrived at their fishing destination, and anchored the boat at approximately 10:00 pm.  The vessel was anchored perpendicular to shore with the stern towards the shore (approximately 25 yards from land). Occupant stated they put lights out in the water and were able to net some shad fairly quickly.  Operator had brought a 12 pack of Natural Light beer and some sandwiches.  Occupant stated they were anchored in 35 feet of water, but decided to move in to 30 feet to fish.  Occupant stated they were drinking beer, eating sandwiches and casting shad back towards the bank past the transom of the vessel.  

Operator fell asleep around 12:30 am.  Occupant asked Operator if he wanted to go home.  Operator stated they would  stay since they were already there. Occupant fell asleep between 1:30-2:00 am.  Operator''s wife stated she had called Operator at 1:20 am and he did not answer.  Operator called her back at 1:21 am.  Operator’s wife stated Operator sounded sluggish on the phone as they talked.  Operator’s wife stated Operator had not taken his night time medications with him. Operator’s wife sent a text to Operator at 4:09 am and asked if he was okay. Operator replied "Y" for yes.  Operator’s wife called Operator at 8:00 am and he did not answer.  Operator’s wife stated she began to call around to try to find Occupant''s number.  Occupant woke up between 8:30-9:00 am and Operator was not in the vessel. Occupant saw a rod in the back of the boat that had the handle broke off at the reel seat.  Occupant yelled for Operator and called TWRA. Occupant reached a recording on the TWRA number and called 911.  Occupant''s wife, called Operator’s wife at 9:31 am and told her Operator was missing.  Operator''s body was recovered by the Union County Rescue Squad on the portside stern of the vessel.  Operator showed no visible signs of trauma.  The zipper on Operator''s shorts was open at the time he was recovered.  Operator’s wife stated Operator had a lengthy medical history, and had recently had problems with his sugar levels bottoming out.  Operator’s wife also stated Operator had prostate problems making it difficult for him to urinate.  The Union County Corner, Dr., was contacted and advised what had been found at the accident scene.  Dr. did not order an autopsy on Operator, since no signs of foul play had been detected during the investigation.


BARDID: TN-2013-0092
Date: 2013-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOUGLAS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DANDRIDGE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
BASED ON WITNESS STATEMENTS AND EVIDENCE GATHERED AT THE ACCIDENT SCENE, THERE IS REASON TO BELIEVE THAT TWO PERSONAL WATERCRAFTS DID COLLIDE ON DOUGLAS LAKE IN THE AREA OF DOUGLAS LAKE MARINA ON 7/20/2013 AT APPROXIMATLEY 1800 HOURS. VESSEL ONE ACCORDING TO WITNESSES WAS PERFORMING SPRAYING MANEUVERS AT VESSEL TWO. THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL TWO STATED THAT HE WAS TEMPORARILY BLINDED BY THE WATER THAT WAS SPRAYED IN HIS EYES AN HE IMPACTED INTO THE SIDE OF VESSEL ONE. Operator1 STATED THAT HE FELL WHILE EXITING THE PERSONAL WATERCRAFT ANd STRUCK HIS HEAD ON THE DOCK. opertaor1 STATED THAT HE NEEDED MEDICAL ATTENTION, SO HE WAS TRANSPORTED TO A LOCAL HOSPITAL FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT. Operator1's INJURIES WERE NOT CAUSED BY THE VESSEL COLLISION, BUT FROM FALLING WHILE EXITING THE PWC ONTO THE DOCK AFTER THE COLLISION HAD OCCURRED.


BARDID: TN-2013-0095
Date: 2013-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: SODDY DAISY
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON THE 20TH DAY OF JULY AT APPROX. 16:40 (MIL) operator2 WAS PULLING HIS VESSEL ALONG SIDE VESSEL1. subject WAS ON VESSEL1 HELPING WITH THE LINES TO TIE THE TWO VESSELS together, subject STATED THAT HE TIED THE BOW LINE FIRST THEN WAS HEADED TO THE STERN OF THE VESSEL TO TIE OFF THE STERN LINE. WHEN subject STARTED DOWN THE STAIRS ON THE STERN OF VESSEL1 HE SLIPPED AND FELL DOWN THE STAIRS LANDING ON HIS ARM. subject WAS TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO ERLANGER HOSPITAL WHERE HE WAS TREATED FOR A BROKEN ARM.


BARDID: TN-2013-0098
Date: 2013-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOUDON
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was headed downstream on the Tennessee River in Loudon, TN at or about the TRM 592 when the vessel was grounded on a rock shoal below the adjacent railroad bridge.  The vessel started taking on water and was unable to get off of the rocks.  One of the drives was pulled from the hull of the boat creating an opening in the hull.  The opening was plugged and the bilge pump was able to remove most of the water from the bilge area of the vessel.  The vessel was secured and then removed by Seatow the following morning.  There were no injuries and all the subjects were safely removed from the vessel.


BARDID: TN-2013-0099
Date: 2013-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HARRISON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On August 9, 2013 I was dispatched to Harrison Bay State Park on a vessel fire.  Upon my arrival I made contact with the operator of the vessel who stated that they were working on the vessel and brought it over from Big Ridge Marina and fueled it up.  When operator attempted to start the vessel an explosion occurred.  One of the occupants on board was on the second deck just above the engine compartment was hit by the flash of fire.  The fire was extinguished quickly and there was very little damage.  victim began to then put water on her body to attempt to cool the burns she sustained.  
     victim was taken to Erlanger Hospital where she was treated and released.  
Note:  It is unclear what exactly caused the fire.


BARDID: TN-2013-0100
Date: 2013-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HIXSON
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 23rd operator took his Friends on his PWC on Chickamauga Lake in Dallas Bay which they accessed from the Chester Frost County Park boat ramp. the three men went Cruising and tubing on the lake at Approximately 5:50pm they decided to show a house which can be seen from the slough going into the Dallas bay area. According to their statements as they were going by the house subject who was riding on the stern of the PWC lost control of the tube he was holding and dropped it into the water, the tube began pulling the rope with it that was still attached to the PWC, as the rope unraveled it wrapped around subject's left foot. When the rope pulled tight it pulled subject off of the PWC which produced a “Rope Burn” laceration to his left ankle. subject was taken back to the dock at Chester Frost Park which is where I came in contact with the group. I called an ambulance for subject to which he refused treatment and transport to and decided to go to the hospital by personal vehicle. After a follow up phone call to subject he stated that the hospital treated him for a laceration and a sprain to his left ankle he was treated and released that same day.


BARDID: TN-2013-0104
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: DAVIDSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday Sept 1, 2013 on J. Percy Priest Lake, South of Hobson Pike bridge, Vessel 1 was traveling south en route to Four Corners Marina in the main channel. Vessel 1 was occupied five times. At this time it was raining and Vessel 1 maintained a speed above planing. 

Vessel 2 was traveling north in the channel and was occupied eight times. Vessel 2 was under power by one engine at a speed estimated at 5 - 10 mph. 

Near the red channel marker Vessel 2 states they saw Vessel 1 approaching head on and turned hard starboard to avoid a collision. Vessel 1 maintained course and speed and struck Vessel 2 at a 45 degree angle on Vessel 2''s port front quarter. The operator and two occupants from Vessel 1 were ejected, one fatally. 

At that time Vessel 2 shut down power and dropped anchor. Ejected injured parties reboarded Vessel 1 and, under their own power, made their way to Four Corners Marina for medical assistance.

No parties on Vessel 2 were injured. 

Vessel 1 received extensive damage to it''s bow and port side. 

Vessel 2 received extensive damage to it''s port side and interior cabin.

Operator had broken ribs and punctured lung.


BARDID: TN-2013-0105
Date: 2013-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:21:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: ANDERSONVILLE
County: ANDERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On or about the above date and time in Anderson County on Norris Lake a 19'' Bayliner (V1) struck a 19'' Norriscraft Bass boat.  V1 was traveling upstream and had just rounded the Pellissippi point at the forks of the clinch and powell rivers when it encountered v2 which was traveling downstream nearing the bend around the point.  Upon impact two of the three occupants of v2 were ejected from the vessel.  All three individuals on board v2 were transported to the ER, with one individual suffering a broken back.  The occupants of v1 were uninjured.  Evidence of alcohol was found on both vessels and blood was drawn from each operator.  Damage assesments as well as BAC testing are incomplete at this time.  No charges have been filed pending completion of the investigation.  Operator2 suffered sprain/strain injuries to knees.


BARDID: TN-2013-0106
Date: 2013-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:41:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEATHAM RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: ASHLAND CITY
County: CHEATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 had just left courtesy dock at RiverBluff Park in Ashland City, TN. At the same time vessel #2 was backing into the water at RiverBluff Park. As vessel #2 cleared its trailer, vessel #1 saw him and tried to turn and get out of the way. As he turned, vessel #1 struck vessel #2 in the rear. No damage was done to vessel #2. Vessel #1 had a dent in the left side.


BARDID: TN-2013-0107
Date: 2013-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 9:15 am operator was driving his wife in their boat on Center Hill Lake.  They were traveling north toward Sligo Marina at approximately 30 MPH.  It was raining and the visibility was poor.  The boat was traveling close to the shoreline, with the visibility poor the operator saw the rocky shoreline too late to avoid a collision.  He turned the boat to try to avoid hitting the rocks.  He was able to avoid a head-on collision, but the stern of the boat struck the ground.  It ruptured the hull of the boat.  The collision did substantial damage to the hull and the boat began to take on water immediately.  Operator was injured when he struck the boat upon impact.


BARDID: TN-2013-0109
Date: 2013-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caney fork river
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The owner stated that his brother and he were fishing on the Caney Fork river. They were dragging two anchors from the stern to slow them down because there was generation flow. The anchors hung and pulled the stern of the boat down causing the boat to be swampped.  The boat sank and the two swam to shore.  Subject came by in a boat and picked them up and took them to Happy Hollow ramp.


BARDID: TN-2013-0110
Date: 2013-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator states that they were idling down the bank after running up the lake and they noticed the boat taking on water. They pulled into a pocket and beached the boat before it completely sank.He said he wasnt sure if he hit something in the water or not. Water was comming in around the transom.It was either caused by hitting something or a rotten transom breaking loose. We called a local boat recovery company and they were comming the next day to recover the boat. We tied the boat to the bank.


BARDID: TN-2013-0111
Date: 2013-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PICKWICK LAKE
NearestCityTown: PICKWICK
County: HARDIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to occupant and operator statements the victim was standing in a 30'' suntracker pontoon while it was coming down to an idle and then to neutral. The victim stumbled when the operator placed the vessel''s engine in neutral and subsequently she fell over board impacting the vessel causing the injury. the victim was transported to Grand Harbor Marina where she met an ambulance who transported her to Magnolia Hospital in Mississippi.


BARDID: TN-2013-0112
Date: 2013-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFOLLETTE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim , 14 yr old  was wake boarding on Norris Lake and fell face first into the water.  She was dazed and suffered a possible concussion.


BARDID: TN-2013-0113
Date: 2013-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:04:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: PICKWICK LAKE
NearestCityTown: COUNCE
County: HARDIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
According to operators and occupant statements, On 8-24-2013 at approximately 1830 hours, operator was operating a 2005 mastercraft x80(MI 9924BP) on Pickwick lake in the area of the mooring cells(RM 209). Operator states that there were 4 adult males riding the tube and they fell off. As he was  making a turn to pick them up, the tube was pulled underwater.  At this time the occupants and those who were riding the tube state they heard a loud snap and saw that  the ski pole had been pulled loose from the transom and the fiberglass was cracked, leaving a hole in the upper hull. After boarding the boat (operator #2) took over control of the boat. He states that they were returning to their lake house when they stopped to assist an overturned pwc. They towed the pwc in by tieing it off to the rear cleats. After towing the pwc to its dock, Operator2 states several of the passengers got off the boat at 265 anchor bay point, (approx.Tennessee River Mile 208.5) and he and 5 other passengers were going to drive the vessel back to Aqua Yacht marina (nearest river mile 448.7 on the Tennessee-Tombigbee waterway) an approximate 9 mile trip. Operator2 states that around RM 211 the vessel''s engine began to go out and he turned it off to check it. Once stopped he said the vessel sank very quickly out from under them near the 211.5 river mile. He states this was about 2000 hours. TWRA was notified by Hardin County Central Dispatch around 2022 hours and arrived on scene around 2040 hours along with Hardin County District 3 firefighters.


BARDID: TN-2013-0114
Date: 2013-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: BUCHANAN
County: STEWART
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both vessels were at the lake together.  The pontoon boat (Vessel 2) was drifting.  The Hydrosport (Vessel 1) was pulling a tube.  As the Hydrosport pulled up to the pontoon boat, the tube''s momentum carried it into the port side of the pontoon boat.   The occupant of the tube then struck the pontoon resulting in an injured right leg.  He was transported to Henry County Medical Center by EMS where he was treated and released for a deep bruise to the right thigh.


BARDID: TN-2013-0115
Date: 2013-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Officer was notified by e-mail  on 9/11/13 regarding a boat accident which occured on Percy Priest lake on 9/08/13.  I phone interviewed driver and owner stated that he was near the northwestern cove near Smith''s Spring boat ramp when he ran his boat aground in shallow water. He stated he had taken his boat in for repairs and that the damage from the accident was well in excess of $2000.00.


BARDID: TN-2013-0116
Date: 2013-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CENTER HILL LAKE
NearestCityTown: SMITHVILLE
County: DEKALB
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday 09/07/2013, Victim along with 5 of his friends were on Victim'' bachelor party on Center Hill Lake. They had rented a pontoon boat from Edgar Evins Marina. Operator had been operating the vessel. At approximatley 14:20 Operator was operating the vessel upstream towards Hurricane Marina where they had planned to eat. Operator brought the vessel to a stop so the occupants could use the restroom in the water. victim jumped off the pontoon boat and into the water. The other occupants on the boat state that Victim resurfaced and was appearing to struggle. Occupants jumped in the water to try and help him but were not able to reach him in time. Victim never resurfaced. Dragging operations began as well as side scan and ROV was used to try and locate the body of Victim. At approximately 13:19 on 09/08/2013 Victim'' body was recovered from approximately 90 feet of water. There were no apparent injuries  to Victim. An autopsy was ordered by the Dekalb County Medical Examiner. The results are pending.


BARDID: TN-2013-0117
Date: 2013-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: mississippi river
NearestCityTown: MEMPHIS
County: SHELBY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two people were fishing a catfish tournament on the Mississippi River and were navigating upstream about an hour before daylight. As operator was negotiating the Cow island bend he exited the main channel to the east and hit a sandbar which was approximatly 1-2 inches below the surface,which made the vessel come to an immediate stop,subsequently throwing occupant forward into the bow area of the vessel sriking several items (rod holder,marine battery,and seat) which caused his injuries.


BARDID: TN-2013-0118
Date: 2013-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: WINCHESTER
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday September 16, 2013 at around 1820 Operator was operating his 19'' Chaparral on Tim''s Ford Lake near Devil''s Step Island headed downstream towards the dam.  As they rounded Point 18 Operator spilled his drink and tried to use a towel to clean it before it got on one of his passengers. Operator wasn''t paying attention and the vessel ran up onto the bank of point 18.  Operator estimated that they were traveling about 25mph at the time.  None of the people on board were injured other than some minor bruises.  The vessel was completely beached on a rock between a small cedar tree and the bank.  The hull of the vessel was cracked on the underside of the vessel in one place and there were also two cracked places near the top of the hull on the starboard side just in front of the windshield. There were also several scratches and scrapes and the anchor light pole was broken and all of the blades on the propeller were damaged.


BARDID: TN-2013-0120
Date: 2013-09-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NICKAJACK LAKE
NearestCityTown: GUILD
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling downstream at approx. 25 mph.   Vessel #2 had just come down off plane and was drifting.  At some point both boat operators saw the each other, operator1 tried to take evasive action and turned left. He hit boat2 and ramped it causing damage to both boats.  It appears the poor visibilty due to heavy rain and fog caused the two boat operators not to see each other till the very last minute.  Photos and operator statements have been attatched.


BARDID: TN-2013-0121
Date: 2013-09-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: J. PERCY PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: NASHVILLE
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/29/13 at approximately 05:30 Metro Nashville Fire received 911 call related to a Marina Fire at Elm Hill Marina.  The fire on "C" Dock damaged 11 boats total, part of the docks board walk entryway, and the docks electrical shore power supply. The two house boats located in Slip#2 (TN1872DZ) and Slip#3 (TN2675BG) completely burnt to the water line and sunk in place. Slip#2 is believed to be the source of the fire. Slip#B (TN6111AK) and Slip#1 (TN2335DV) were both large house boats which were cut lose during the fire and ended up burning to the water line on the shoreline.  The houseboat that resided in Slip#B at the the time of the fire had another vessel, a center console runabout (TN 2831EA), tied to it and was also damage during the fire. Slip#4 (TN 3935EE) and Slip#5 (TN 8578DZ) houseboats were able to be move during the fire but were still damaged. The right sided of the dock contained Slips 13,14, 15, 16, and 17 which sustained less damage than the left side.  Slip#13 and 14 only contained one Seadoo PWC (TN 5080DN). It was set adrift during the fire and sustained bow heat damage. Slip# 15 (TN1897DM) and Slip#16 (TN8754DW) contained two PWC which sustained front bow heat damage. Slip#17 (TN3760AV)was bass boat that had front bow heat damage as well. The starting cause  of the fire is still being investigated.


BARDID: TN-2013-0122
Date: 2013-01-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Conasauga Creek
NearestCityTown: BENTON
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
During the mid afternoon hours of Wednesday, January 16th 2013 Operator and five of his juvenile children were operating a canoe adjacent to the rain-flooded Conasauga Creek.  According to surviving juvenile occupants the canoe got swept into the swift currents of the creek channel.  It became entangled in a downed tree and overturned.  Each of the six passengers were ejected into the water.  Three juvenile occupants were able to hang on to tree branches or make it to shore.  Operator and two juveniles were swept away by the current.  Recovery efforts were in place for several days along Conasauga Creek.  One male juvenile was recovered 1-24-2013 a short distance from the location where the canoe capsized (N35.25678 / W-084.58840).  On 1-29-2013 a female juvenile was recovered from the creek as well (N35.25550 / W-084.587404).  Operator was recovered 1-31-2013 a short distance downstream from the accident location. All bodies were released to the Mennonite Community Leaders for burial.


BARDID: TN-2013-0123
Date: 2013-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIMS FORD LAKE
NearestCityTown: LYNCHBURG
County: MOORE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
The victim was found entangled in the propeller of his boat and under the water by a couple who had just launched their boat at Lost Creek boat ramp. The engine was not running but was in gear. They freed him from the prop by cutting his shirt and pulled his body onto his boat where they administered CPR and called 911. A blue cooler that the victim kept straped on the rear platform of the boat was floating in the lake near by . The strap was still attatched to the boat by one end. ( photo attached ) It appears that the victim slipped and fell overboard into the outdrive at idle speed while trying to move the cooler .


BARDID: TN-2013-0124
Date: 2013-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA RIVER
NearestCityTown: JOHNSON CITY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 17, 2013 I, Officer, was contacted by an Operator in reference to a boating accident that had occurred on September 15th 2013. Operator was interviewed on September 17, 2013 and the damage to the vessel was documented.  The vessel was TN 5269 EC a 17ft 6 inch aluminum hull Lowe jet boat.   The vessel had significant damage to the starboard bow area of the hull.  
Based on Statements:
Operator stated that he was fishing the lower section of the Watauga River on September 15 2013 with another subject.  At approximately 20:30 Operator operated the vessel from Herb Hodge Bridge heading downstream to Devault Bridge Access Area.  Occupant was standing on the starboard side of the center console.  Operator stated that he was traveling approximately 30 mph downstream.  Operator stated that both Occupant were wearing inflatable PFD''s at the time.  Operator stated that his kill switch lanyard was attached at this time.  Operator stated while on plane his vessel struck a submerged object. The impact caused Operator to strike his face on the center console, and then feel back in the vessel.  Occupant fell forward in the vessel.  Operator stated that he lost control of the vessel for approximately one second, before regaining control.  Operator and Occupant then proceeded to head down stream to the devault bridge access area.  After loading the vessel, Operator and Occupant went to Franklin Woods Hospital where they recieved treatment for their injuries.  Operator suffered a laceration to the lower jaw, and significant teeth damage.  Occupant suffered pain in his right hip.  Both individuals were treated and released.

Damage Assesment:
TN 5269 EC
Significant impact on starboard bow area of the hull


BARDID: TN-2013-0125
Date: 2013-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOUISVILLE
County: BLOUNT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The Operator of Vessel 1 stated that at appox. 21:30 he was operating his fathers vessel (TN 9057 DZ) on Ft. Loudoun Lake in Blount County just upstream of Poland Creek when he struck a channel buoy trying to avoid colliding with another vessel (Vessel 2) that was sitting still without navigation lights on.  After Vessel 1 collided with the channel buoy Vessel 2 left the scene without checking on Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 returned to the boat ramp at Poland Creek.


BARDID: TN-2013-0126
Date: 2013-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORRIS LAKE
NearestCityTown: CARYVILLE
County: CAMPBELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 09-27-13 the victim and subject rented a boat at Cove Lake State Park to go fishing  At Approximately 0900 operator was standing in  the back of the boat, lost his balance causing the boat to tip to one side. Both men fell overboard, occuapnt made it back to the boat but operator went under water and didnt resurface.


BARDID: TN-2013-0127
Date: 2013-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: NICKAJACK LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday the 27th day of September operat was heading  north up the TN river on the Nickajack Lake in Chattanooga TN the vessel Operator was operating was a 24'' Lowe Pontoon Boat. Operator stated he was “going to a spot to fish” and was traveling beside the east bank out of the River channel next to the TN River Park when the pontoon on the starboard side of the vessel caught the riprap on the bank and turned the vessel in to the bank. Operator Stated that the Throttle stuck and he could not stop the vessel from running completely out of the water onto the bank. Operator was uninjured and Towboat U.S. was called to come remove the vessel off of the riprap. The Vessel sustained Damage to each Pontoon on the Bow of the vessel.


BARDID: TN-2013-0128
Date: 2013-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: FT. LOUDOUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: ALCOA
County: BLOUNT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 12, 2013 operator was operating personal watercraft TN 1903 CE (Vessel 1) on the Little River in Blount County TN.  At approximately 11:00, operator struck a dock on the starboard side of the vessel causing serious injury to herself and Hollencamp. Both parties were transported to University of Tennessee Medical Center. Investigation revealed substantial damage to above vessel and minor damage to dock. Additionally, the investigation revealed operator had not completed Boating Safety Course as requirred by TCA 69-9-226. Upon completion of the investigation appropriate enforcment action will be taken as directed by the Blount County Distict Attorney General.


BARDID: TN-2013-0129
Date: 2013-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOUDON
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On October 13, 2013 at approximately 16:00 subjects were leaving Tellico Yacht Club after getting fuel. As they approached the main channel with Operator operating the vessel, they were heading away from the marina according to the operator with the motor at approximately 1500 RPM, when Wife walked toward the front of the vessel and fell over board. It was at this time that two others saw Operator jump into the water and attempt to rescue Wife. The Good Sams assisted in pulling Wife up on their pontoon. At this time four others saw Good Sam waving for help. Upon arriving one of the others began adminstering CPR and never stopped until they were back at Tellico Yacht Club. At this time Tellico Village First responders took over CPR.  Wife was succesfully revived by means of CPR and was transported and admitted to Ft. Loudon Medical center.  The above events occurred on Tellico Lake in Loudon County.


BARDID: TN-2013-0130
Date: 2013-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: TELLICO LAKE
NearestCityTown: LENOIR CITY
County: LOUDON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, Sept. 13, 2013 on Tellico Lake in Loudon County, TN subject fell overboard from his sailboat.  A witness placed him near the bow of his vessel while it was still underway.  The witness stated that subject fell off of the port side of the vessel and the vessel continued forward until it grounded on the rip rapped bank near the flood overflow of Tellico Lake.  A little less than two hours later the Loudon County Dive Team recovered the subjects body near the last point that victim was seen before going under.  An autopsy was performed the next morning at UT Medical Center concluding that drowning was the cause of death, awaiting toxicology.


BARDID: TN-2013-0132
Date: 2013-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Campbell Cove Lake
NearestCityTown: DUCKTOWN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On September 28, 2013,(grandfather), (grandson), and (friend) were fishing on Campbell Cove lake in Polk County, TN.  grandson fell inside the vessel, apparently striking his head on the vessel, and went overboard.  operator and friend pulled grandson out of the water back into the boat.  grandson appeared unconcious, unresponsive, and was not breathing, so operator and friend performed chest compressions.  grandson then coughed up water and began breathing.  friend called 911, and by the time he returned to the boat ramp, grandson was concious and alert.  grandson was then transported to Copper Basin Medical center, where he was treated and released to his parents.


BARDID: TN-2013-0133
Date: 2013-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATTS BAR LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROCKWOOD
County: ROANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, October 11, 2013, a vessel was drifting on Watts Bar Lake in the area between Thief Neck Island and Camp Buck Toms boy scout camp, and it is here according to operator that she was starting her vessel to return back to the boat ramp when she noticed that the engine did not sound normal after start up. She commented to her passenger that something seemed strange and then they noticed a cup holder that was located near the engine compartment was glowing, and it is here that they discovered the engine was on fire. The fire extinguisher was used to put the fire out and then operator called 911. This all occured in Roane County on Watts Bar Lake.


BARDID: TN-2013-0134
Date: 2013-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: LIVINGSTON
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday July 15, 2013 a boating accident occured on Dale Hollow Lake. Occupant was an occupant of the boat and the spotter for the tube they were towing.  On the tube were two people.  After doing a series of tight turns to the left while towing the tube Operator spotted another boat passing by and turned her boat to the right to avoid the other vessel.  When doing this the tube she was towing swung in front of her boat and she struck the tube with the two girls on it.  She hit the tube with the starboard bow of her vessel.  Operator did cut the power to her boat right before the impact, but the two girls on the tube were still hit and went under the boat.  Operator stated that the rope for the tube was too long.  The tube was a new one with also a new rope.  The box that the tube came in had a warning to not exceed 65 feet tow rope.  When measured the tow rope that they were using was 75 feet long.  Operator was a very experienced boater with power service training.  The two girls that were hit were both transported to separate hospitals to later be released with only bruising and minor cuts.


BARDID: TN-2013-0135
Date: 2013-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH HOLSTON TAILWATERS
NearestCityTown: BLUFF CITY
County: SULLIVAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 8, 2013 at approximately 1735 hours I, Officer, was contacted by Officer. Officer stated that he had been advised of a possible boating accident on the South Holston Tailwaters near Bluff City. Officer stated that the boat that was involved was a jet boat and that one person had been ejected. I advised dispatch of the traffic and drove to the Bluff City ramp from the area of the Tri Cities Airport in Blountville. I arrived at the Bluff City ramp at approximately 1755 hours. I observed a grey G3 aluminum jet boat with a registration of TN 1089 EE on a trailer just above the ramp. I initially observed damage to the port bow of the hull. I made contact with the operator of the vessel.  Occupant stated he was an occupant and he had minor contusions and lacerations to both front lower legs. Occupant did not seek medical attention. Sergeant arrived at the Bluff City ramp and assisted in the accident investigation by photographing the damage on the vessel. I obtained statements from the witnesses at that time. 

BASED ON WITNESS STATEMENTS:
Operator stated that he and Occupant had been fishing on the South Holston Tailwaters and were returning to the ramp. Operator was navigating through a series of shoals in the river near Island Park when the vessel struck a shallow area of the river. Operator stated he was thrown over the center console and into the river.  Operator stated he gathered his bearings in the water and grabbed onto the side of the vessel, which did not move from where it struck the rocks. Operator stated that two unknown individuals that were fishing had come over to the vessel. The fishermen assisted Operator and Occupant in pushing the vessel off of the rocks. Operator stated that he climbed over the stern into the vessel and sat down while Occupant drove the vessel by the trolling motor. Operator stated they traveled to the ramp and loaded the vessel onto the trailer to wait for TWRA. Occupant stated that he was sitting on the seat in front of the console when the boat struck the shallow area. He stated that he was thrown into the front deck of the vessel but was not ejected.

DAMAGE ASSESSMENT:
The vessel had damage to the hull including holes in the center of the bow and stern. There was dent damage on the port bow hull and throughout the center of the hull. The foot of the Yamaha jet had broken off below the impeller.


BARDID: TN-2013-0136
Date: 2013-10-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: WATAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CARTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 20th 2013 at 10:20 I, Officer, received a call advising of an unoccupied bass boat on Watauga Lake in Carter County. At 11:04, I arrived at Fish Spring Marina.   I spoke with two witnesses and then traveled to the area of the unoccupied vessel.  At Approximately 11:15, I arrived at the vessel.   The vessel was TN 7748 BE a 15''08'''' Javelin bass boat.  The vessel was found on a small island upstream from Fish Springs Marina.  Upon inspection of the Vessel, the hull had significant damage on the port bow area.  The point of impact was located on the downstream point of the island.  Victim''s wife was contacted and she stated Victim had not returned home from fishing.  The Carter County Rescue Squad was then contacted to perform a search for Victim.   Victim was recovered by the Carter County Rescue Squad at 17:12 by the use of an underwater remotely operated vehicle.  Victim''s body was found in close proximity of the accident location.  Victim''s wife was notified of Victim''s death by Captain at the time of recovery. 

Sometime between the evening of 10/19/2013 and the morning of 10/20/2013, victim was operating a 15''8'''' ft Javelin vessel (TN7748 BE) on Watauga Lake in Carter County TN.  Victim was operating downstream from the Butler Bridge Hwy 67 toward Fish Springs Marina. Victim had levels of both drugs and alcohol in his system that would impair his vessel operation. Victim was operating at an undetermined speed, when his vessel impacted a small island located between the Butler Bridge and Fish Springs Marina. .  Victim impacted the point of a small island between fish springs marina and cove ridge marina.  The island is completely submerged at full pool. Full pool is approximately 1958 in elevation.  Watauga Lake was at approximately 1947 elevation on the date of the accident.  The island is not fully submerged at this elevation level.  The speed had to be significant enough to cause the vessel to go through a rolling event caused by the impact.  The impact with the island caused the vessel roll to the starboard side.  During this impact and rolling of the vessel, Victim was ejected into the water.  The vessel came to rest on the downstream side of the small island.  Victim was not wearing a PFD and the ejection resulted in the drowning death of Victim.

Damage Assessment
TN 7748 BE
Impact damage to the port bow portion of the hull
Gel Coat and fiberglass damage from port bow portion of hull extending to the starboard stern portion of the hull
Chip in fiberglass at starboard stern corner
Bent steering wheel


BARDID: TN-2013-0137
Date: 2013-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:17:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHEATHAM RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: ASHLAND CITY
County: DICKSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 11-11-13 at approximately 22:15 hours, I (Wildlife Officer) was contacted  that Cheatham  county had started to look for the overdue fisherman.  At approximately 22:30 the Boat ( 14'' polarcraft Johnboat)  was found in  the mouth of Johnson creek. ( Lat: 36.312321, Long: -87.210403). I proceeded to the boat ramp that is located in that bay.  When I arrived at the location the boat had been taken to the boat ramp in which the boat had been put in at. The Cheatham WO secured the boat in the Army corps (AC) compound and inspected the boat.   At this point the Dickson County Rescue Squad (DCRS) had begun to look in the bay using side scan sonar and had cadaver dogs on site to aid in finding the missing fisherman.  In conjunction with the water search, the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) had a helicopter flying over the area looking for heat signatures using a Forward looking infra-red scope.

On 11-12-13 the search continued starting from the night before. (00:00 hours) The DCRS continued the search with side scan sonar until 0345 hours where the search was halted until 0900 hours that morning.   At  0900 hours the DCRS, AC, TWRA, CCES, and THP continued the search for KDE.  With windy cold temperatures and poor water visibility the search continued with side scan sonar and drags. Areas that presented a possible sonar hit were dragged to insure that that area was being covered.  This continued until 17:00 that afternoon when the search was halted until the next morning.

On 11-13-13 the Searched continued starting at 0900 hours.  TWRA, DCRS, AC, CCES, USCG and others expanded that search area using side scan sonar. TWRA deployed a submersible UAV with HD sonar. The bay that the boat was found in was searched thoroughly.  Searching continued until 1630 hours   
     
On 11-14-13 patrolling of the area produced no definite sonar hits or recovery.    

On 11-15-13 patrolling of the area produced no definite sonar hits or recovery.

On  11-16-13 at approximately  0100 hours the Dickson County Dive and Recovery Team (DCDRT) got a sonar hit that resembled a body in the bay that the boat was recovered in.  The team dragged the area and at approx.  0430 hours pulled up the coat of the victim.  At approx. 0455 hours the victim was snagged with a drag and the DCDRT notified TWRA and I arrived on scene at 0520 hours. I contacted the Dickson County coroner''s office. At 0637 hours I removed a wallet, cell phone and a knife from the victim as evidence and positively identified the body.  At   0848 hours the state coroner''s employees arrived and took custody. A autopsy was requested by TWRA and the autopsy will be on the 11-17-13.  

In addition the victim''s family informed me and other investigating officers that victim had had multiple heart surgeries, the last of which was just a year ago, hypertension, high cholesterol, and was not in the best of health. Also he had gained weight  since his surgeries.


BARDID: TN-2013-0138
Date: 2013-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD HICKORY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CARTHAGE
County: SMITH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Owner/operator states that she was operating vessel on plane headed upstream. Her estimate of speed was 20 to 25 miles per hour. She stated that without warning the vessel struck an unseen object causing her and her passenger,husband, to both be ejected. Both managed to get to some rocks which they clung to for approximatly four to four and one half hours before another boater rescued them.


BARDID: TN-2013-0139
Date: 2013-11-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:58:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENTUCKY LAKE
NearestCityTown: PARIS LANDING
County: STEWART
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator says he was moving cruiser from Mermaid Marina (TN RM 140) to Green Turtle Bay Marina (Cumberland RM 31.5) .  During the voyage, he had trouble keeping the engines running due to water in the fuel.  He intended to moor at Paris Landing State Park for the night and as he approached the Ned R McWherter bridge, he turned to port thinking the Paris Landing Harbor channel was south of the bridge.  He ran aground on the sandbar south of the bridge.  He was able to get back underway with only the port engine and transmission working and took the vessel to the RDB to get safely out of the channel.   He later decided to attempt to make it to Paris Landing Marina.  He was having difficulty keeping the port engine running and drained the fuel filter and took off the back flame arrestor to "prime" the engine and did not attach the arrestor before starting the port engine.  He says the saw a flash in the engine compartment followed by large flames.  He and his passenger abandon the vessel for their safety.  The vessel burned to the waterline.  Operator states he had approximately 100 gallons of gasoline in his tanks.  No obvious oil sheen was visible on the water in the days after the fire and before the salvage.


BARDID: TN-2013-0140
Date: 2013-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: BYRDSTOWN
County: PICKETT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling out of Cope Creek in Keisling Bottoms area when it struck trees that are on a submerged island. Causing damage to windsieilds, nav. lights and fishing seat. Also scratches and some damage to side and rubrail. Electronics on dash may have been damaged.


BARDID: TN-2013-0143
Date: 2013-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHICKAMAUGA LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHATTANOOGA
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
I was notified by TWRA dispatch that there was a potential boating accident on Chicamauga lake outside of Lakeshore Marina. I arrived on scene at 18:30 hrs. and observed a 27'' Ultra Shadow submerged approximately 3/4 with the bow above water and the stern submerged in water. Upon further investigation operator struck a floating object in the water where afterwards the vessel filled with water and became submerged. operator's vessel was towed back to Lakeshore Marina by Tow Boat U.S. where it was loaded. Also, the vessel listed in this report has not been registered. After numerous attempts to retreive the registration information. Myself, and other individuals with various agencies were not able to. Therefore no Registration Number will be submitted with this report.My investigation is complete.


BARDID: TN-2013-0144
Date: 2013-10-07 00:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: DALE HOLLOW LAKE
NearestCityTown: CELINA
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/07/2013 at approx. 1400 hours, I was contacted by. Officer1 stated that Officer2 had contacted him earlier and that Officer2 stated that he had been contacted by the Pickett Co. Sheriffs Dept. Officer2 advised Officer1 that on 10/04/2013 Victim had gone to Dale Hollow Lake,Sunset Marina.On Saturday 10/05/2013, Victim was seen at Sunset Marina and spoke with a daughter, but as of 10/07/2013 had not shown up for work,had not been in contact with anyone and his vessels were not at Sunset Marina in the slips.Officer1 then stated that he had found a Carver cruiser and a smaller boat tied to it in shallow water, on the Willow Grove side of Clark Island on Dale Hollow Lake; And , that approximately 100 yards from those vessels a body was floating in shallower water. Officer1 remained in the area. Officer2 arrived at the same location at approximately 1515 hours, Both he and Officer1 secured, documented the location of the body and vessels(also photo documented items on board and vessel settings).  At approximately 1545 hours myself, Officer3 and the Clay County Coroner, arrived on scene.  While Officer2 continued to investigate vessels and settings, myself,the Coroner and Officers retrieved the body  and took it to the shoreline where the  Coroner took more photos documenting the position of the body that had been afloat. 

Officer1 and myself rolled the body over to see if an identification was possible. Coroner listed the body as a John Doe and asked for our help in placing in a black bag. Due to the position of the arms (in a position similar to that of a touchdown motion in football) we had to bring the arms down and across the chest and tie at the wrists. John Doe was then placed in the black body bag, and transported by Officer3 and Coroner Hall , in a boat to Holly Creek Marina, and then transferred to Clay County EMS. John Doe was next transferred to Nashville to the State Medical Examiners(ME) office. During the transport of John Doe, Officer2, and myself searched the scene for evidence and observed that the large vessel (#1) had a rope tied to it and appearred to have been towing a smaller vessel (#2). The rope also appearred to be twisted arround the prop of vessel #1,  the ignition key was turned on,the batteries were dead. On the back cowling of the smaller vessel (#2),a small lantern lay on its side. On Dec.16,2013.,I received an autopsy report from the office of the State Medical Examiners office (State #13-14-0005;Case # MEC13-2058). the cause of death was determined to be due to Drowning there was no indication ,or evidence, of foul play. Results also indicated possible toxic levels of Sertraline in his system. Even after investigation, there remains only possible theories as to how victim ended up in the water. 
 Even after investigation, there remains only possible theories as to how victim ended up in the water. Sgt had no way of determining what happened as there were no witness'.  He does feel like he was working on (untangling the rope in the prop of vessel 1 while in vessel 2 and fell overboard


BARDID: TN-2013-5000
Date: 2013-04-22 00:00:00
State: TN
NameOfBodyOfWater: private pond
NearestCityTown: Jackson
County: Madison
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
News media report indicates that a victim fell overboard from a boat.  His deceased body was recovered later.  The cause is unknown.


BARDID: TX-2010-0001
Date: 2010-01-01 00:00:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1333 Lavaca River
NearestCityTown: Vanderbilt
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause3: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
RO's gathered facts indicate victim's trauma to the skull in the boat's collision either killed victim on impact or knocked him unconscious to drown after being thrown in the water.  victim's boat was found around midnight impaled on a partially sunken debris that is resting on the bottom of the Lavaca River.
Due to a low tide, after investigation by TPWD officers, it was determined that victim had struck the partially submerged debris and was ejected. A search of the area the next morning by Game Wardens and local sheriff's deputies discovered the body.  victim had a severe laceration to his skull.
Cause of death will be pending an autopsy.
Report filed by Captain Game Warden.


BARDID: TX-2010-0002
Date: 2010-01-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:02:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0061 Belton Lake
NearestCityTown: Temple
County: Temple
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, January 22 2010, Bell County dispatched a vessel/occupant in distress at Leona Park on Lake Belton.  Dispatch advised that a boat was taking on water and that one individual was in the water.  Dispatch also advised that the individual was indeed in a personal flotation device.  Game Wardens put a vessel in the water and retreived victim, and took him to a waiting EMS vehicle.  victim was transported to a local hospital and treated fro hypothermia.  The vessel was recovered.  The vessel started taking on water as the boat was unloading from the trailer.  Due to high winds and big waves the stern of the vessel was taking on too much water to recover.
Report filed by Game Warden .


BARDID: TX-2010-0003
Date: 2010-02-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:10:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0566 Lake Palestine
NearestCityTown: Bullard
County: Smith
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Accident description from BAR submitted by Game Warden:

2 witnesses heard someone screaming for help. They then lowered boat in water to look for the individual and found the victim face down in water. Smith County Sheriffs Department and ETMC Medics were on scene. On call JP was called out to pronounce the victim and requested and autopsy before rendering cause of death. The boat has not been recovered as of this date. 

Extremely few items were found floating on the surface of the lake.  None were PFD's and victim was not wearing PFD when found, floating face down.


BARDID: TX-2010-0004
Date: 2010-02-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:58:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0792 Old Winters
NearestCityTown: Winters
County: Runnels
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOADING
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
operator was tending to his troltlines and when he attempted to pull into the boat a 50-60 pound catfish, the weight of the fish caused the boat to take on water and then capsized.  operator climbed on top of his boat and waited in frigid waters until he could be rescued.  Game Warden retreived operator from his vessel and transported him to a waiting ambulance, where he was transported to a local hospital and treated for hypothermia.
Report filed by Game Warden.


BARDID: TX-2010-0005
Date: 2010-01-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0433 Fork
NearestCityTown: Yantis
County: Wood
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sudden Medical Condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was fishing when he apparantly fell out of his boat. Victim was seen prior to falling from vessel by a witness who said victim seem to be fishing and having no problems. Witness stated that he went to his trailer and returned about 7-10 minutes later and noticed victim's boat floating across lake with no one in the vessel. Witness got a boat and some friends to go find victim. Victim was found floating face up (with PFD on and secure) in the water.Victim was taken to shore and later pronounced deceased by local J.P. Victim's body was sent to Dallas M.E. for autopsy.

Final cause of death pending autopsy results.


BARDID: TX-2010-0006
Date: 2010-03-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1522 San Bernard River
NearestCityTown: Brazoria
County: Brazoria
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On the 13th of March operator was operating on the San Bernard River at cruising speed when he grounding his vessel on a submerged gravel bar causing damage to the hull of the vessel.  No injuries were reported.
Report completed by operator.


BARDID: TX-2010-0007
Date: 2010-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 2180 Galveston Bay
NearestCityTown: Galveston
County: Galveston 084
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the 11 of April 2010, operator was Operating a custom vessel owned by Texas A&M University at cruising speed in Galveston Bay.  Passenger was decending the ladder on the vessels flybridge to the main deck when she missed the last step and landed sideways on her right foot breaking the bone and pulling some tendons.
Investigator Completed Report.


BARDID: TX-2010-0008
Date: 2010-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0566 Palestine
NearestCityTown: Coffee City
County: Smith
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the 4th of April, operator was operating his vessel on lake Palestine, cruising toward the Hwy 155 bridge when a large wave entered the rear of the vessel causing it to capsize and the two occupants to fall overboard.
Operater Completed Report.


BARDID: TX-2010-0009
Date: 2010-02-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0143 Canyon Lake
NearestCityTown: Startzville
County: Comal
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: SUDDEN MEDICAL CONDITION
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On the 13th day of February 2010, operator was operating his 21' Majek on Canyon Lake when under unknown circumstances he fell out of the vessel into 50 degree water.  It was determined that at the time of him falling overboard he did have a detectable amount of alcohol in his system. operator did have a heart condition that is believed to have also been a factor in his accident.  vessel was recovered on the shore line of Tom Creek Cove the same day as the accident.  body was recovered 15 days after his disappereance.
Investigator TPWD Completed Report.


BARDID: TX-2010-0011
Date: 2010-03-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 8230 Lower Laguna Madre
NearestCityTown: South Padre Island
County: Cameron
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
On the 28th day of March, operator was operating a rented PWC while his friends were operating a second rented PWC in the same area. operator1 collided with the second PWC at a high rate of speed causing severe injuries to both.  operator1 was arrested for boating while intoxicated and submitted to the taking of a breath sample which gave a reading of 0.189. 
Investigator TPWD completed report.


BARDID: TX-2010-0012
Date: 2010-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 6260 Nueces Bay
NearestCityTown: Corpus Christi
County: Nueces
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentCause3: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
On the 10th day of April operator was operating his vessel with 3 other occupants on Nueces Bay. operator  stuck ground with his motor stalling it out.  operator threw out an anchor and he and his other occupants put on lifejackets as they waited for subject to come pick them up. as subject approached, operators vessel took on water and capsized.  operator was unable to locate one occupant (mentally handicapped).  The U.S. Coast Gaurd rescue swimmers located occupant underneath the capsized vessel unresponsive.
Investigator TPWD Completed the Report.


BARDID: TX-2010-0013
Date: 2010-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: TX
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0451 Lake Livingston
NearestCityTown: Trinity
County: Trinity
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the 12th of March, operator was fishing out of his boat on Lake Livingston when his propeller was entangled by a trotline rope and stalled out.  operator was attempting to free the entangled line when his vessel began to take on water due to the weather conditions and strong current.  operator vessel capsized resulting in him entering the water.  operator was wearing a Type III PFD but it was the wrong size and allowed for his head to go under water resulting in his drowning.
Investigator with TPWD Completed the Report.


