# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: LA-2012-0018
Date: 2012-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On March 17, 2012 at approximately 6:30 p.m. I Sr. Agent was contacted by the Iberville Parish Sheriff Department in reference to a boating incident.  The Sheriff's Department advised me that the incident took place just south of Jack Miller's boat landing in Iberville Parish.  Upon arrival to the location of the incident, I, Sr. Agent spoke with operator.  Operator advised me that he was traveling south in Grand River when his vessel hit a big rope floating just under the water causing his vessel to stop suddenly.  The sudden stop caused two of his passengers to come out of the seats onto the front deck of his vessel.  Two people both sustained minor injuries from the sudden stop.   Operator advised us that he did not know where the rope came from, but they had several tug boats tied up in the area where he hit the rope.  I. Sr. Agent asked Operator if he got the names off of any of the tug boats and he stated "no he did not".  I. Sr. Agent asked Operator if his vessel had any damage.  Operator stated "no the boat was fine".  Two people both went to the Baton Rouge General to be checked out .  See attached medical records. 
I, Sr. Agent went to the location of the incident to try to locate the rope and any tug boats in the area, but was unable to locate the rope or any tug boats in the area.


BARDID: LA-2012-0020
Date: 2012-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:08:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: PUMP SLOUGH
NearestCityTown: PEARL RIVER
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On April 1st 2012, at approximately 3:30am, Agents of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Division of Law Enforcement were dispatched to Pump Slough in Pearl River Louisiana regarding a single vessel accident with one (1) moderate head injury reported. Upon their arrival agents learned that vessel number one (1) an 18’ Blue Wave c/c, displaying Louisiana registration LA-2890-FK, occupied by two white males was traveling northbound on Pump Slough when the operator attempted to travel underneath a bridge in high water which resulted in the vessels windshield, console brace, and operators head striking the support beam on the south side of the bridge. 

The vessels operator was transported by EMS to University hospital in New Orleans for moderate head trauma prior to their arrival. The vessel sustained only minor damage and its passenger was not injured in the crash. During the course of the investigation agents found the vessel to be in compliance with all safety requirements (PFD’s, fire extinguishers, etc.) however it was determined the operator did not have the required stern light affixed and operating while underway as required by state law. 

Agents also noticed numerous empty beer cans strewn about the vessels floor and the ice chest beneath the operators seat was full of beer and ice. Alcohol is suspected as being a contributing factor in the accident and after the vessel was removed from the water it was transported to Crawford’s landing for safe keeping while agents went to University hospital in New Orleans to check on the operator’s condition and to obtain blood samples for BAC analysis. The operator was found to be in stable but guarded condition, suffering from moderate head trauma from the crash. Operator was advised of agent’s intent to draw blood and read the notice to withdraw blood for chemical test for intoxication. The aforementioned blood sample was subsequently taken to the Louisiana state police crime lab in Baton Rouge for BAC and drug use analysis.


BARDID: LA-2012-0022
Date: 2012-02-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Bossier City
County: Bossier - 8
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 3 p.m. vessel was returning from a fishing trip on Red River with 2 persons onboard.  As vessel made the turn by a rock revetment, the vessel's stern slid into a large rock.  The impact ejected both the operator and passenger, neither of whom were wearing PFD's. Only the operator was able to swim to safety and was air lifted to LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, LA with serious injuries - lacertions to back of scalp and severe contusions to back and leg.  (He later recovered from his injuries.)  Search and rescue/recovery operations for the passenger commenced, lasting until February 24, 2012, when the body of the deceased passenger was located approximately 100 yards from the accident site.  The official cause of death was drowning.  A blood sample was taken form the operator at the hospital, but produced negative results.  The deceased passenger's toxicology report showed his ethanol level at .027g%.  Alcohol was not a contributing factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0023
Date: 2012-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARATARIA WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
According to the statements taken by Agent, on the morning of April 4th, 2012, at approximately 7-7:20 a.m., Operator departed his home in Lafitte to go to work, using his pirogue to cross the Barataria Waterway to get from his home to his place of work at Nunez Seafood.  At approximately 8:00 a.m., Subject arrived at Nunez Seafood, expecting to see Operator, but he was not there. Subject stated he did not think anything of it due to the inclement weather.  At approximately 10:45 a.m. Subject called Operator' residence to check on him and see if everything was alright and to see where he was, to which wife replied that her husband already left for work this morning around 7.  At that time a 911 call was placed by Subject to Jefferson Parish SO to report a missing person/possible drowing. At approximately 12:30 p.m. Jefferson Parish SO notified the LDWF Region 8 office, where Sgt. responded to the scene.

Operator death was caused by asphyxia due to drowning.


BARDID: LA-2012-0024
Date: 2012-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: False River
NearestCityTown: Jarreau
County: Pointe Coupee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
OPerator1 was leaving dock at Bueche's Bar.  vessel1's bow was pointing toward the seawall when he started to reverse his vessel.  He reversed approximately 30 yards and orientated his vessel approximately 35 to seawall.  Operator1 then accelerated forward with his vessel striking a moored vessel and then the seawall.  Operator1 was not wearing a PFD and is suspected of having been under the influence of alcohol.  Operator1 received serious trauma to his head and upper torso.  Operator1 had loss of consciousness several times and was transported by AirMed to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge for treatment of injuries sustained.  Extensive damage to vessel was caused by impact with seawall.


BARDID: LA-2012-0025
Date: 2012-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand River
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On April 1, 2012 at approximately 11:30 am. Operator was travelling in an eastwardly direction with two passengers onboard.  A personal flotation device was beginning to fly out of the boat and operator attempted to catch it; as Operator reached for the PFD, he lost control of the vessel causing it to make an abrupt turn inevitably causing the three onboard to be thrown out and into the water.  Neither alcohol nor drugs are contributing factors to the accident.  Personal Flotation Devices were present but not used.  Steering for the vessel is a remote wheel located on the center console.  Investigation of the vessel showed excessive play in the guide rod steering linkage.  Motor would turn vessel to the port side by hand with ease and would freely turn starboard with it's own weight.  The incident type after conclusive investigation is "Falls Overboard".  THe boat then became grounded.


BARDID: LA-2012-0026
Date: 2012-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Delcambre Canal
NearestCityTown: Delcambre
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 4-29-12 Agent was notified of a single boat accident in the Delcambre Canal by the Iberia Sheriff's Office.  All three subjects involved were transported to the Iberia Medical Center.  Upon arriving at the hospital Agent interviewed the operator and the two passengers.  Operator stated that he was maneuvering his vessel LA7132FT south down the Delcambre Canal to go fishing.  He noticed that the plug in the stern of the vessel had come out and was filling the rear of the vessel with water.  He then leaned over to fasten the plug and in doing so veered the vessel towards the western bank without noticing.  At this moment someone in the vessel yelled his name and the vessel struck a piling located near the bank head on.  One of the passengers, flew to the front of the vessel along with the operator.  The third passenger was thrown into the water.  Operator noticed that Occupant in the vessel was unconscious for a brief moment.  He then tried to start the vessel and failed to do so because the kill switch lanyard was attached to him still.  He then flagged down a boat passing by and asked them to get the other occupant out of the water.  He managed to get the vessel started, pick up the other occupant and return to the landing.  The three of them then went to the Iberia Medical Center.  The other two passengers that were in the vesesl gave the same account of details that transpired.  
All three subjects claimed to have been wearing PFD's at the time of the accident.  Operator also claims that he had the kill switch lanyard attached to his PFD while operating the vessel.  A blood alcohol test was performed at the hospital on Operator and results are pending.  There was no indication of alcohol or drug use by Operator.  Operator along with the passengers did not possess a boating safety education card required by law to drive a vessel on state waters.  Agent explained to operator that he violated Rule #16-All vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times.  Operator was cited with citation for Reckless Operation of a watercraft and Failing to comply with Boaters Education Requirements.


BARDID: LA-2012-0028
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: FRENCH SETTLEMENT
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1- 2002 Kawasaki, 9.5’, Ultra 250 Personal Watercraft(PWC), registration # KY-0554-BR
Vessel #2- 205 Triton, 22’ Enforcer, registration # LA-1874-PU
Information gathered from witnesses and operators indicates the following events are likely to have occurred:
On May 6th, 2012 at approximately 7:40pm the operator of vessel # 1 was traveling downstream in the Amite River. His estimated speed was reported as being approximately 50-60mph. He was reportedly traveling to the left of center in violation of statute. His course did not alter and he did not slow his vessel as he approached vessel #2. Vessel #2 was headed upstream at an estimated speed of approximately 30mph. As it became apparent that a collision might be imminent the operator of vessel #2 slowed his vessel and turned to starboard. The bow/port portion of vessel #1 struck the port side of vessel #2. As a result of the collision vessel #1 was heavily damaged. The operator was ejected and suffered a broken leg. Vessel #2 suffered minor damage. The operator was not injured in any way. Both operators were wearing appropriate flotation devices at the time of the incident.
After the collision Operator2 turned his vessel around and retrieved Operator1 from the water with help from witness. Operator1 was transported to a local hospital where he received appropriate treatment. At about 10:35pm that evening, a blood sample was collected from Operator1, for subsequent analysis by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. The results of that test indicated that blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.21g%. Operator2 submitted to an examination of his breath via an Intoxilyzer 5000. A Louisiana State Trooper conducted the test. The results of that test indicated that Operator2 BAC was 0.00g%.
Statements were rendered by witnesses and are attached. Photographs were made using a digital camera. Those photos were later transferred, unaltered, to a compact disc, which is forwarded with the original copy of this report. PFD’s were properly used. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this incident. Fire extinguishers were not used.


BARDID: LA-2012-0029
Date: 2012-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARATARIA WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to witnesses on scene, the subject was operating a jet ski, LA-6966-FD, in Barataria Waterway at approximately 5:00 p.m. Operator was initially a passenger on the jet ski, then asked to drive it alone. Witnesses state Operator took off towards the northern part of the waterway, performed a 360 deg turn, and began heading back towards the southern side of the waterway. Witnesses stated Operator was then traveling on plane when he performed a power slide back towards the southern side of the waterway. Witnesses stated Operator was then traveling on plane when he performed a power slide back towards the northern side. Operator's vessel bit hard into the water, and Operator then over corrected, which put him heading back towards the barge on the southern shoreline.  Operator then let off the throttle, and attempted to make a port side turn away from the barge however, the jet ski continued on its path towards the barge and impacted. Witnesses then hurried to the scene, where Operator was found face down in between a tug boat and the jet ski.  The impact gave victim facial lacerations, abrasions to his left shoulder and left knee. He also received left orbital bone fractures and a right temporal bone fracture. Witnesses called 911 immediately at approximately 17:01, where Jefferson Parish SO responded.  Jefferson Parish Dispatch then notified LDWF Dispatch at approximately 17:10, where Sgt. responded. Alcohol was found to be a contributing factor to this accident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0030
Date: 2012-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake ponchartrain
NearestCityTown: bedico
County: Tangipahoa - 53
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was engaged in recreational fishing. He was checking his crab trap pots in Lake Ponchartrain. At this time a crab pot line got tangled in the propeller of the vessel thus causing the motor to lose power. Rough waters were a factor and began coming over the transom causing the vessel to sink.


BARDID: LA-2012-0031
Date: 2012-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: False River
NearestCityTown: Ventress
County: Pointe Coupee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
While attempting to dock personal watercraft on a floating dock the personal watercraft turned on its side and engine killed.  After operator righted vessel he hit the ignition switch and an explosion occurred in the engine compartment and fire ensured burning the PWC to water level.  Operator received minor burns to both inside calves.  PFD was worn and alcohol was not a factor.


BARDID: LA-2012-0032
Date: 2012-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: CROWN POINT
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (54' hatteras) was southbound in the icw after manuevering around a corner to the starboard side the operator of vessel 1 started trying to use his gps/plotter.  While doing this he looked away from his course of travel and collided with a tug boat and barge(vessel 2) which was grounded to the starboard side shore. Vessel 1 struck the side of vessel 2 approximately 15' back from the bow along the starboard gunnel, then glancing off and riding along the steel support line between the barge and the tug until it impacted the barge leaving transfer matter and bending the containment pipe system on the barge deck. Vessel one completely destroyed its own anchor pulpit and sustained a 36' by 10" fracture of the outer hull on its port side approximately 8' from the bow and 20" below the gunwhale. Vessel 1 also sustained a severe fracture in the outer hull structure on the keel approximately 18" above the water line of the vessel. No injuries on either vessel, no fatalities. 

The operator of vessel 1 was issued a citation for reckless operation of a watercraft. During interview the operator of vessel one admitted that his twin engine vessel was only operating on the power of one engine and that it thusly caused him difficulty in steering at low speeds.  This engine condition existed before the incident mentioned above. 


BARDID: LA-2012-0033
Date: 2012-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Shreveport
County: Caddo - 9
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5 May 2012, at approximately 2:15 p.m. the operator was operating his 18'3" Mirage River Racer Tunnel boat powered by a 300 EFI Racing Mercury motor southwest on the Red River approximately 2 miles south of Jimmy Davis Bridge in Shreveport located in Caddo Parish.  According to eye witnesses the boat caught a gust of wind and went airborne and twisted in the air and made contact with the water throwing Operator into the water.  Operator was airlifted to LSU Hospital in Shreveport with neck, back, and shoulder injuries.  He was found to have broke his neck in four places which paralyzed his diaphram, fractured his lower spine, severely damaged his kidneys and bruised his brain.  Operator stated at the hospital he was traveling at 110 MPH at the time of the accident.  He also stated, and eye witnesses confirmed, that Operator was wearing a PFD and his kill switch at the time of the accident. Operator admitted to the wildlife agent Sgt. at the hospital to drinking 1 beer and volunteered a blood sample for analysis at LSP Crime Lab in Baton Rouge.  Subject was released from LSU Hospital on May 10, 2012, and was issued a citation for Reckless Operation for violating Rules of the Road for vessels #16 and a written warning for Operate Unregistered Motorboat.  On June 15, 2012, LDWF Region 1 Office received the results of the blood analysis on Operator taken on the day of the accident at LSU Hospital. The results were no ethyl alcohol detected.


BARDID: LA-2012-0034
Date: 2012-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Catfish Bayou
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberia - 23
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time Operator1 was operating a 2006 Skeeter bass boat occupied by himself and Travis Landry as his passenger.  They were coming out of a dead end canal off of Catfish Bayou.  As they were coming out of a dead end cut they collided with another vessel operated by  Operator2 and his passenger. Operator1 was the give way vessel.  Operator2 was the stand on vessel.  Operator1's vessel collided with Operator2 vessel causing him and his passenger both to be ejected.  Operator2 sustained head and chest injuries from hitting the cab of his vessel from the impact.   V2 occupant sustained injuries to his legs and torso from hitting the cab on the passenger side of the vessel from the impact.  Operator2 vessel had severe  damage to the cab but neither he nor his passenger were ejected.  No alcohol or drugs are believed to be a contributing factor.  Both vessels were equipped with PFD's but neither vessel's occupants were wearing them.  Also both vessels were steering wheel operated.


BARDID: LA-2012-0035
Date: 2012-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: NATALBANY RIVER
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: tangipahoa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator reported hitting a submerged object which caused him to lose control. The boat traveled on to the east bank of the river about 2 miles upstream from the mouth of Ponchatoula creek. The boat was destroyed from the impact with trees. There were no injuries.


BARDID: LA-2012-0036
Date: 2012-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: NATALBANY RIVER
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
owner/operator of vessel LA 5476 FW (PWC) struck a partially submerged log while traveling upstream on step approximately 35mph on Natalbany River at approximately 5:30pm. Operator was ejected from the PWC and sustained minor scratches and bruises.


BARDID: LA-2012-0037
Date: 2012-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:25:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLIND RIVER
NearestCityTown: FRENCH SETTLEMENT
County: Ascension - 3
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The owner of vessel #2 and five witnesses report that the operator of vessel #1 was navigating through the legally posted “NO WAKE” zone at the intersection of Blind River and the Amite River Diversion Canal and accelerated sharply from an idle to planing speed while he was only about half way through the “NO WAKE” zone. Vessel #2 was moored at the dock of a camp located at that intersection in Ascension Parish. The acceleration of vessel #1 created in a large wake that pushed vessel #2 forcibly into the dock where it was moored resulting in a 2’ crack in the hull of vessel #2, at the rub rail, near amid ship. Vessel #1 left the area.

A short while later, Livingston Parish Deputies located vessel #1 and requested that the owner return to the location of the incident. The owner/operator complied. Operator arrived at the location where he was met by LDWF Agents. Operator was advised of his legal rights and asked about the incident. Operator stated that he wished to seek advice from an attorney but then continued, without being prompted, and told deputies that he did not cause a wake or violate the wake zone and that he had three or four other boats traveling adjacent to him as he passed that particular camp. As per instructions from his chain of command, deputy issued Operator a citation for Careless operation of a vessel. PFD’s were not in use.
Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the incident. No injuries or deaths were reported relating to this incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0038
Date: 2012-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Reserve Canal
NearestCityTown: Reserve
County: St. John
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
At 07:44 pm, Sgt was advised of a boating incident on Reserve Canal in St. John Parish.  Sgt. arrived at Reserve Canal boat launch where he was briefed by Sheriff's Deputy Sgt. had the operator in custody.  Sgt. advised the operator of his rights and asked what had happened. According to Operator, at approximately 07:15PM, the subjects were traveling at idle speed while putting out jug lines when the passenger, Passenger, went into convulsions and fell overboard.  Operator attempted to rescue Passenger but advised he was unable to because he was combative and pulling him under water. After several attempts to locate Passenger under the water, Operator found him and was able to pull him on board with the help of another boater.  Passenger was transported from Reserve Canal Boat Launch to River Parishes Hospital where he expired  at 7:48PM.PFD's were on board but not used by the operator or victim.  The kill switch was not used.  There were several empty beer cans in the vessel and a packet of synthetic marijuana which Operator stated was his.  Operator stated he and Passenger had gotten off work at 5:30 PM and drank a few beers before launching the vessel.  He advised he had not used synthetic marijuana in several days.  Operator also stated that Passenger was a" functioning alcoholic".  Operator submitted a blood sample at River Parish Hospital (to be submitted to LSP Crime lab), was cited for illegal possession of a schedule 1 substance, and released.  Agents observed the odor of an alcoholic beverage on Operator's breath and person.  His speech was not slurred and his balance was good.  His vessel and towing vehicle were released, with Operator's permission to Operator's work supervisor.  The medical history of the deceased is not know at this time.


BARDID: LA-2012-0039
Date: 2012-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:35:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: SLIDELL
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On June 5th, at approximately 0335 hour, a 2006 Proline 21’ dual console fiberglass vessel operated along with the three (3) other passengers departed Oak harbor traveling towards the twin spans at mid throttle when the lake began to get rough. The operator spassengerd he pulled back on the throttle and trimmed the bow up to address the waves but it was progressively getting worse so he decided it was too rough to continue and began making a slow turn to port approximately 100 yards west northwest of the old I-10 bridge around coordinates N 30 12.310’/ W 089 48.078’. While making the port turn, the starboard passenger attempted to stand up and upon doing so the vessel took a side sea which caused him to fall overboard. The occupants of the vessel spassengerd after Passenger fell overboard they saw his head two times before it submerged and all attempts to locate and rescue him failed. The aft port passenger spassengerd that just prior to the incident Passenger told him he was going to try and stand up to see if he could “ride the waves”, and after doing so, Passenger who was holding the starboard stern line fell overboard, after which Passenger2 said he went to the starboard gunwale and witnessed Passenger holding the stern line as he was being pulled by the vessel, before it pulled from his hands. Passenger2  immediately yelled to the vessels operator that subject had fallen overboard and Operator stopped the vessel and turned back around in an attempt to rescue Passenger. The female passenger who was sitting amidships on the port side of the vessel concurred with the above depiction of the incident given by both Operator and passenger2. For further see the attached passenger statements. At approximately 1355 hrs, the body of Passenger was recovered by deputies of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s SOD Division near the location where he fell overboard at coordinates N 30 12.379’/W 089 47.998’. The body was remanded to the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s office for autopsy. No charges have been filed against the vessel’s operator and foul play is not suspected in this incident. The vessel was equipped with all required safety equipment/ PFD’s. After a thorough investigation, neither alcohol nor drugs were found to be a contributing factor in this incident. No further information concerning the above incident is to follow at this time.


BARDID: LA-2012-0040
Date: 2012-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:31:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Shreveport
County: Caddo - 9
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 LA 2809 EP was south bound on the Red River approximately 1/2 mile south of the Jimmie Davis Bridge in Caddo Parish. Operator stated he was traveling approximately 3/4 throttle speed when he observed a black pipe approximately 12 inches in diameter in front of his vessel.  Operator collided with the pipe and ramped over the pipe.  Operator's dog, which is approxmiately 55 pounds, was in the vessel and got ejected over the port bow.  Neither Operator nor the dog was injured.  There were one type III and one type IV PFD on board.  Operator did not have on a PFD, but did have on the kill switch.  Vessel #1 sustained damage to the transom in the form of two cracks, the anti-ventilation plate above the lower unit on the starboard was bent, and Operator stated that the outboard, which is a 90 hp Mercury, does not run the same as it did before the collision.


BARDID: LA-2012-0043
Date: 2012-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Bayou Pigeon
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14th at approximately 11:00 a.m , Operator was traveling east in Little Bayou Pigeon when he looked behind him.  When he looked back he ran into a willow tree hanging low across the water.  The impact caused vessel to go to the port bank of Little Bayou Pigeon running aground. Subject sustained arm, head and torso injuries from impacting the hand rail in his vessel and striking the willow tree.


BARDID: LA-2012-0045
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sulphur Mine
NearestCityTown: Cut Off
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On May 28, 2012 LWF Agents were contacted by a Operator of a boating accident that occurred on May 27, 2012.  Operator stated that he just put a newer motor on his 18' vessel, LA9810BS, and went to run it to see how it ran.  He stated that as he entered the Sulphur Mine from Bayou Blue he encountered some well structures on the northern bank of the lake.  He stated that as he traveled between the bank and the structure he struck a submerged object under the water surface. He stated that the struck three separate fixed objects.  Operator stated that  he killed his motor and lifted it out of the water to see if he had any damage. Operator stated that he noticed he had completely broken off the skeg on his lower unit.  Operator also stated that his motor is no longer idling properly. Operator stated that at the time of the accident he was wearing a type III PFD.  Operator also advised he was not drinking alcohol at the time of the accident.  Operator's vessel was equipped with Teleflex steering.


BARDID: LA-2012-0047
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Plain Dealing
County: Caddo - 9
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27, 2012, operator was operating Texas vessel 7030-BM on the Red River in Caddo Parish.  Operator's vessel was a 16 foot aluminum jon boat with a 60 HP Yamaha hand tiller motor.  Operator was traveling north on the river, approaching the Hwy. 2 boat launch, when he hit a sandbar which caused his vessel to come to a sudden stop.  The sudden stop caused Operator's passenger to be thrown out of the vessel onto the sandbar.  Operator was thrown from the stern of the vessel into the front deck of the boat.  Passenger stated he was traveling at approximately 23 mph at the time of the incident.  Passenger was treated at a local hospital for minor scrapes and bruises and released.  Operator was treated at LSU Hospital for a lacerated liver and a punctured kidney.  Operator was released from the hospital after a couple of days, and is expected to make a full recovery.  Alcohol was not suspected in this incident, but a blood sample was taken from Operator and sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis.  The crime lab detected no ethyl alcohol in his blood.  (See LSP Crime Lab report.)  Operator's vessel was equipped with four Type 3 PFD's, but they were not worn at the time of the incident.  Operator was wearing his kill switch at the time of the incident.  There was no damage to Operator's vessel.  The contributing factors in this incident were that Operator was not paying attention to the conditions of the river and was traveling too fast for the given conditinos. Operator also failed to have a proper lookout.


BARDID: LA-2012-0049
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Four Mile Cut
NearestCityTown: Intracostal City
County: Vermillion - 57
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The subject was fishing with two passengers aboard the vessel.  The subject was anchored on both the starboard and port sides of the vessel.  The subject's vessel was facing north on the Four Mile Cut about 2 miles south of the Intracostal Waterway.  The subject's vessel was taking on water over the stern due to rough seas.  The subject's vessel had vents on the stern located on top of the starboard and port sides of the transom.  The starboard side vent's opening was facing towards the rear of the vessel and the vent hose was disconnected inside the back deck's compartment.  The subject pulled up his anchors and powered his vessel heading north.  The subject noticed at this time his vessel was full of water in the stern area.  The subject told his passengers to move towards the bow as he pulled his throttle back to neutral.  The bow dipped and the vessel capsized.  The subject advised that he had approximately 70 hours of total boat experience.  The subject advised that there were three type two PFD's on board his vessel.  The subject said that one of his passengers used one of the PFDs and the other passenger and himself did not use any PFD's.  The vesesel was a 15' fiberglass, Tidecraft, powered by a 90 HP Yamaha with remote steering.  The contributing factors were the operators inattention, force of waves, the operator's inexperience, and improper anchoring.  There was no evidence that suggested that alcohol or drugs were used.

Citation was issued for failure to change ownership of registration (45 days).


BARDID: LA-2012-0050
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Bossier City
County: Bossier - 8
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating LA vessel 3417-FY on the Red River in Bossier Parish.  Operator was traveling south on the river, just south of the Teague Boat Launch. A passenger was sitting on the bow of the vessel, outside the rail, with his feet hanging in the water.  While Operator was not watching, his vessel hit a wave which knocked Passenger into the water.  The vessel then ran over Passenger and the propeller of the motor struck Passenger's left leg causing a severe laceration.  Passenger was taken to LSU Hospital for treatment for his injury.  Passenger was released from the hospital several days later and is expected to make a full recovery.  Operator's vessel was equipped with an adequate number of type 3 PFD's for the number of people on board, but they were not in use at the time of the incident.  Alcohol was not suspected, but a blood sample was taken and sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory.  No ethyl alcohol wa detected.  (See LSP Crime Labaratory Report.)


BARDID: LA-2012-0051
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:18:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermilion Bay
NearestCityTown: New Iberia
County: Iberia - 23
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was heading south toward Marsh Island Refuge when he noticed his motor making noises and shaking a lot on the transom.  He said he pulled back on the throttle to slow down and before he could stop his motor fell off the transom.  That's when he noticed the transom broke apart and his vessel started taking on water.  Operator then called 911 and we were then notified by our dispatcher.  The bilge pump in Operator's vessel was able to keep the vessel floating until I arrived on scene and tow the vessel back to the launch.  There were no signs of any alcohol or drugs in Operator's vessel.  Operator's vessel is a center console 21' Champion Bay Champ.  Operator was also wearing his PFD.  Operator's motor fell off his vessel because the transom broke apart.


BARDID: LA-2012-0052
Date: 2012-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On May 18, 2012, at approximately 6;45pm, LA 8080 FR was pulling a knee board on Lake Darbonne.   Kneeboarder attempted to cross a small wake and nosed the board into the water, throwing her from the board and against the surface of the water.  She complained of neck pain when pulled from water.  She was transported to LSU Shreveport and given an MRI and CT scan, she was held overnight.  On May 19, 2012, the test were read and no injuries were noted other than bruising.  She was released that morning.


BARDID: LA-2012-0053
Date: 2012-01-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya Basin
NearestCityTown: Charenton
County: St Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/20/12 at about 10:30 pm, vessel #2 was south bound in the GA Cut, while vessel #1 was north bound.  subject was sitting on his house boat when he saw that both vessels had their navigaiton lights on.  Operator2 advised that he never saw vessel #1.  Operator1 advised that he saw a spotlight up ahead of him but that he never saw vessel #2 until it was about 20 ft ahead. He turned hard to port in an attempt to avoid the collision.  However, the two vessels collided and vessel #2 travelled over the starboard side of vessel #1 and then hit the west bank of the GA Cut. All four subjects were ejected.  

Subject advised that he saw the red light on vessel #2 head straight to the west bank of the GA Cut.  He responded and assisted in getting all of the subjects out of the water. Operator2, Operator1 and his 13 yr old daughter were all transported to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Lafayette where they were treated for injuries and released the next morning.  LDWF Enf Agents responded and made contact with both operators at the hospital where they obtained the attached statements.  The agents obtained a blood specimen from both operators to determine if alcohol and or drugs were involved, (pending LSP Crime Lab). Both occupants of vessel #1 were wearing their pfd; however Operator1 advised that his pfd wasn't properly buckled and he had to put it back on after the impact.  Operator1 also advised that he was wearing his kill switch lanyard at the time. Neither occupant in vessel #2 was wearing a pfd, nor was Operator2 wearing his kill switch lanyard.  Sgt. inspected vessel #2 on 1/21/12.  However, vessel #1 sank after the impact and has not been recovered.  On March 19, 2012, Sgt. obtained the LSP Crime Lab BAC and Toxicology report on both Operator2 and Operator1.  Both subjects were later charged with violation of LRS 34:851.14, Careless operation of a watercraft. Operator2 was additionally charged with violation of LRS 34:851.24F1 Failure to comply with PFD requirements.  See attached DWF 140 Offense Report regarding those charges.


BARDID: LA-2012-0056
Date: 2012-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAUREPAS
NearestCityTown: CARTHAGE BLUFF
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and surviving passengers report that on May 5th, 2012, they were aboard a 24’ Baja Islander (LA 7885 FK) as they traveled at a heading of approximately 40’, at a reported speed of “about 15-20 miles per hour, generally from Blind River toward the mouth of the Tickfaw River in Lake Maurepas, in Livingston Parish, La.
Operator, 30, identified himself as the operator of the vessel. Collectively the operator and the two surviving passengers report that at approximately 6:00pm the Operator’s brother, jumped purposefully from the stern of the vessel as another passenger, Occupant2 acted as a “lookout”. Operator’s brother surfaced and he and Occupant2 watched as the third passenger, Occupant3 jumped feet first from the stern of the vessel while holding his nose. According to Occupant2 and Operator’s brother, Occupant3 did not resurface. The men searched diligently for Occupant3 but found no sign of him. Waves were choppy with whitecaps being somewhat common. Winds were blowing at approximately 10-15 miles per hour. These conditions made the search more difficult.
Agents arrived on the scene at approximately 6:42pm and were quickly briefed by the men. A U.S. Coast Guard patrol vessel and patrol vessels from other local law enforcement agencies were also on the scene participating in search and rescue efforts.
Sgt. advised Operator of his legal rights as per Miranda and spoke with him about the day’s events. Operator told Sgt. that they had all consumed a “few drinks”. Sgt. and other agents observed that Operator and his passengers were notably upset with the situation but didn’t note that anyone appeared to be obviously intoxicated. Blood samples from Operator and Occupant3 were later collected and subsequently submitted to the LSP crime lab. Results of those tests indicate that Operator’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.0g% at the time of his test. Results indicate that Occupant3’s BAC was 0.15g% at the time of his death.
On May 7th, 2012 at approximately 7:30am a pilot from the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office located Occupant3’s remains in Lake Maurepas. LDWF and LPSO personnel retrieved Occupant3 from the waters at, or very near grid coordinates 30’17.968Nx90’32.458W. Occupant3’s remains were released to the Livingston Parish Coroner.
Appropriate PFD’s were on board but not used. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0057
Date: 2012-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Grosbec
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/22/12 LDWF Enforcement Agents were notified of a boating incident that had occurred in St. Martin parish in Bayou Grosbec at approximately 1:30 A.M. One subject had sustained minor injuries and went to the hospital at approximately 12:00 pm.  Agents learned that subject and operator had been frogging when they hit a submerged log in the bayou.  Upon impact victim advised that he was thrown to the front of the vessel where he struck the bow.  No damaged was seen to the vessel upon inspection.  the use of alcohol was inconclusive because of the time laps that had occurred between the incident and the time it was reported.  operator advised that the kill switch was worn at the time of the incident but the pfds were not.


BARDID: LA-2012-0059
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLIND RIVER
NearestCityTown: HEAD OF ISLAND
County: Ascension - 3
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27th, 2012 at approximately 5:pm, I Sr. Agt. were flagged down by a concerned citizen at Canal Bank Bar and advised a subject was there that had been involved in a boating accident. We made contact with operator whom was lying on his back on the dock. I inquired as to what happened. Operator said, “I was riding my jet-ski on Blind River when I hit a wave wrong, flew off my jet-ski and was knocked out. When I came too, my bike was across the river. I got back on my bike and rode it back to Blind River Bar and informed my friends that I needed to leave”. Operator was then transported by vessel to Canal Bank Bar. Operator stated, that this was the first time he had ridden a bike that fast and that he was wearing his PFD and had his kill lanyard attached. Further investigation from agents concluded that Operator had all required safety equipment aboard Operator’s vessel at the time of this incident. Operator's BAC was .09


BARDID: LA-2012-0060
Date: 2012-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Skeeter
NearestCityTown: Charenton
County: lower St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
On this day, approximately 10 a.m., Operator lost control of his 21 ft. Ranger boat while trying to avoid an oncoming boat. Operator grounded his vessel on the adjacent bank between two cypress trees. Operator and his passenger were not injured.  Operator and Passenger were brought to the Belle River public landing by the two unidentified boaters.  From there, Operator called subject to obtain a secondary boat and then called the tournament director of the Bass Master tournament  to let him know that he was ok.  A backup vessel was brought to Operator and Passenger and he continued fishing in a Bass Master tournament that they were participating in.  The St. Martin Sheriff' Office was contacted by a boater who noticed the vessel grounded, with no occupants around.  St. Martin water patrol was activated and Agent was contacted by Lt. of a possible search and rescue mission at 10:50 a.m.  Approximately 12:30 p.m. Agents were notified that the operator and passenger of the vessel were ok. and were also informed that Operator and passenger were brought in a secondary vessel earlier, so they could continue to fish in their bass tournament.  Agents were also informed by the tournament director that Operator and Passenger would meet them at the Berwick Landing at 2"00 p.m., the weight in time for the tournament.  Agents met with Operator and Passenger at 2 p.m. and obtained statements from both individuals.  Operator told agents that he was traveling down Big Bayou Pigeon and took a narrow cut to the right, which led to the Skeeter Canal.  While doing so, he noticed an oncoming vessel. Operator stated he pulled off of his throttle, putting it in neutral, while trying to avoid the coming boat. Operator told the agents that he could not turn the boat, and hit the bank, between two Cypress trees.  Type II PFDs were worn by the driver and passenger of the boat.  After obtaining statements, agents returned to the Belle River public landing and visited the scene of the incident, where photographs were taken.  The following day, Operator was issued a citation for reckless operation of a watercraft.


BARDID: LA-2012-0061
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caillou Bay
NearestCityTown: Dularge
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Very Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/16/12 at approximately 3:00 p.m.  Agents were advised of a vessel being sunk and capsized on the easter point of Raccoon Pt. Island.  Agents proceeded toward the area halfway there when notified by Deputy of TPSO that he had recovered the 3 subjects and was heading toward Cocodrie.  Due to the extremely bad weather and six foot seas, Agents deemed the area to be unsafe for travel and turned around to meet the deputy and the subjects in Cocodrie.  agents then interviewed the owner/operator, and his 2 passengers.  Operator advised the agents that they had anchored his vessel between the rocks and land of Raccoon Pt.  All 3 subjects exited the vessel and began surf fishing.  After a while, they went back to their vessel , MI1341BH, and noticed that it was filling up with water.  They tried to bail the water out, but were unsuccessful. Operator then pulled up the anchor and tried to move the vessel into the waves, but the vessel filled up with more water and sank to the bottom, where the waves eventually capsized the vessel and pushed it onto the beach.  Agents did not detect any signs nor symptoms of alcohol use from the adults.  Operator's vessel was equipped with type III and type IV PFDs which were worn by all 3 subjects. The vessel was equipped with remote steering.  The cause of the accident was the extreme  weather, winds over 25 mph with very rough waves greater than 6 ft..
 On 6/17/12 Agent was able to reach Raccoon Pt. and photograph the vessel.  The weather wa still bad and the surf still high, therefore, Agent ws unable to get close enough to Operator's vessel to retrieve the serial numbers off of the motor. The vessel is a total loss.


BARDID: LA-2012-0062
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Terrebonne
NearestCityTown: Cocodrie
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/16/12 at approximately 6:53pm, Agents were advised by Lt. of the Terrebonne Parish SO of a boat accident occuring in Bayou Terrebonne.  the accident occurrred around 6:30pm, and involved a vessel, LA1324 FM, hitting a suction dredge pipe connected to a vessel name Sandra Coast Guard documentation number 1225079. Agents were close to the area and arrived at the camp at approximately 7:15 pm. where the operator of vessel LA 1324FM, vessel 1, Operator, was interviewed.  Operator stated that he was exiting a small bayou and turning left into Bayou Terrebonne where it encountered the suction dredge and its pipe blocking over half of the waterway.  Operator stated that he hit the suction dredge ipipe at approximately 30 mph.  Operator then stated that he boarded the dredge vessel, but there was no one on board.  agents then photographed the damage to Operator's motor and interviewed the passengers as well as another witness, who was in a vessel behind Operator at the time of the accident.  Based upon the damage to Operator's motor < cracked motor cover along front, bent and split propeller, and witnesses' statements, it was concluded that Operator's vessel hit the suction dredge pipe at a rate of speed of approximately 30 mph, causing the vessel to ramp up the pipe where the motor then struck the pipe causing the damage to the motor cover and propeller.  Operator's vessel was equipped with 5 type II PFDs and the steering was remote.  Alcohol was not a factor.  Lt of TPSO had proceeded to the scene of the accident.  Agents observed that the dredge pipe had no buoys marking its location, which ran through the center of Bayou Terrebonne, approximately 1/2 inch under the water's surface, making this dredging  area unsafe to motorboat traffic and causing this accident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0063
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Sorrell/Atchafalaya Basi
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/9/12 at approximately 1145 hrs. S. A, and were notified of a boat incident which had occurred in the Atchafalaya Basin, St. Martin Parish.  Upon making contact with St. Mary S/O we were advised that two vessels had collided with one another, but there were no injuries.  Vessel 2 was being towed to Doiron's landing and vessel 1 was overturned still on scene.  While proceeding to the scene I spoke to the operators of the vessels and they advised that they had pulled vessel 1 to the side, not to impede navigation.  Upon my arrival vessel 1 was along the shore secured still overturned.  I noticed damage to the bow area and midways the starboard side near the chine and undercarriage.  Vessel 2 had impacting damage to its port side in line with the passenger console and along the gun whale towards the stern. The motor cowling had also been knocked off, and sank, as well as damage to the upper parts of the motor and broken motor mounts.  

After speaking with the two operators and their passengers it appears as though the two vessels met in a sharp turn and collided. Vessel 1's bow collided with vessel 2's port side at t he passenger console causing vessel ramp and roll over completely striking the cowling of the vessel 2's motor with its starboard chine.   No one was injured in this incident and alcohol and drugs is not a factor.  All subjects involved were wearing PFDs and the operators were wearing their engine cut off switches.  After reviewing the damage of vessel #1 it coincided with the findings of this incident.  The two vessels met in a sharp turn and vessel #2 turned starboard and vessel #1 turned port and was unable to correct itself before colliding with vessel #2's port side.  operator1 was cited for reckless operation and released.


BARDID: LA-2012-0064
Date: 2012-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tide Water Canal
NearestCityTown: Golden Meadow
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was operating his vessel, an aluminum 17 ft Custom Craft in Tide Water Canal.  The vessel was equipped with a 70hp Yamaha outboard steered remotely.  Subject entered a side canal which had a line of pilings extending from the bank towards the center of the canal on both sides of the canal.  The center section of the canal, approximately 70 ft, was left open to allow for small vessel traffic.  Subject claimed to have been travelling towards the pilings and looked down for a moment.  When he looked up he collided with a set of pilings along the starboard side of the canal.  The subject was thrown forward striking the steering console breaking his right hip and leg.   The subject did not indicate whether or not he had on a PFD or ignition safety switch, but neither were found in the vessel when it was inspected by investigators.  The subject was interviewed at the emergency room of Chabert Medical Center in Houma.  Before making contact with the subject, several of the medical staff who were attending the subject  and were the people who contacted LDWL to report the accident, stated that upon beginning their treatment of the subject, noted signs of obvious chemical impairment.  Upon interviewing the subject, he admitted to consuming several beers as well as prescription medication prior to operating his vessel.  The subject submitted  a blood sample to test for intoxication.  Results pending.


BARDID: LA-2012-0065
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:47:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Old River
NearestCityTown: Batchelor
County: Pointe Coupee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date operator was cruising on Old River when his vessel (LA9798ES) came into contact with an underwater object.  Mercury 150 hp pulled through fiberglass and pulled wooden portion of transom off of boat.  Passenger notified Operator that the motor of the vessel had just came off.  Motor stayed connected to vessel until it was towed to the boat launch where Operator was going to trailer it under power.  No drugs or alcohol was involved.  No injuries to driver or passenger.  Propeller appeared to have hit something steel or concrete.  Photos were taken of all damage.  Main contributing factors were a submerged object and transom appeared to have decomposing plywood in it.  Steering was remote hydraulic which was still intact. Passenger was wearing a type III PFD and Operator was wearing a type V Hybrid.


BARDID: LA-2012-0066
Date: 2012-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK BAYOU
NearestCityTown: MAUREPAS
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On June 2, 2012, Operator was operating vessel (LA 3221 FE) in Black Bayou in Livingston Parish at approximately 5:40pm, the vessel reportedly struck a submerged object while at a cruising speed of approximately 20mph. Operator lost control of his vessel and struck several cypress knees and cypress trees where his vessel came to rest. Operator stated that the vessel was taking on water so he proceeded to the nearest landing at Black Lake Boat Club. When agents arrived on the scene no serious injuries were obvious however, three passengers complained of bodily pain. One person complained of side pain. Another complained of pain in her face, and another had a laceration to the right elbow. EMS was summoned and side pain patient was transported by Acadian Ambulance Service to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Gonzales for treatment. patient was treated with an MRI, fresh air and an IV. The other two refused medical attention on scene. Operator showed some signs of impairment and was transported to Springfield Police Dept. where he voluntarily provided a sample into an intoxilyzer 5000 with the results being a .059g%. Property damage to the vessel is estimate to be over $500. PFD’s were on board but were not used.


BARDID: LA-2012-0067
Date: 2012-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermillion River
NearestCityTown: Lafayette
County: Lafayette
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the 24th of June 2012 at approximately 12:00 pm operator was operating a Personal Watercraft (PWC) in the Vermilion River in Lafayette Parish.  Operator had one passenger onboard.  Investigation revealed that the PWC was traveling north in the Vermilion River and approached the bridge at Ambassador Caffery Parkway.  Operator let off of the throttle when he realized that his vessel was traveling too fast to negotiate through the Ambassador Caffery bridge pilings.  When Operator released the throttle, he lost steering of the vessel and collided with a cement bridge piling on the west side of the Vermilion River. The collision caused Operator to be thrown forward into the handlebars before being thrown from the PWC into the water.  Operator sustained bruising to his abdomen from the crash.  The impact caused Occupant to be tossed into Operator before he was also tossed into the water.  Occupant sustained injuries to his abdomen that required medical treatment.  Investigation determined that both passengers on the PWC were wearing personal flotation devices and Operator was wearing the kill switch for the vessel.  Alcohol is not suspected to be involved in the incident.  Off Throttle Steering Loss is believed to be the primary cause of the incident.  Operator Inexperience and Careless Operation were also found to be contributing factors to the collision.  operator had not completed a Boating Safety Education Course.


BARDID: LA-2012-0068
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:19:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAUREPAS
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
According to witnesses on 6/23/2012, Victim’s vessel (LA-6228-FX) was anchored in Lake Maurepas with himself and four other passengers when a passing vessel cut his anchor line. Victim reportedly started his vessel and turned over controls of the vessel to a male passenger. Victim then reportedly jumped into the lake in an attempt to retrieve his lost anchor. 

After a few minutes Victim concluded his search and was approaching the vessel from the stern when the vessels active propeller struck him. As a result he sustained fatal deep tissue and vascular lacerations to both his right and left thighs. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries due to severe blood loss and was pronounced deceased at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Gonzales, La.
Alcohol or drugs are not suspected to be a contributing factor in this incident.
The vessel was found to have all of the necessary required safety equipment including PFD’s on board and all were found to be serviceable.


BARDID: LA-2012-0069
Date: 2012-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Port Of Iberia Commercial Cana
NearestCityTown: New Iberia
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On April 14, 2012 Operator and his son were headed south in LA 7885FX in the Commercial Canal.  Operator was operating the vessel from the port side of the console and Occupant was sitting on the starboard side.  The vessel was a 1999 36' Douglas Marine catamaran hull that was powered by twin 1400 hp Dart engines.  The vessel was a high performance racing type boat.  The subjects left from the Port of Iberia and head out to Vermillion Bay and the ICW.  Two different witnesses advised that they saw vessel pass them in Vermillion Bay at about 11:45 a.m and 12:00 p.m. , see attached.  The witnesses also advised that the vessel headed back towards the Port of Iberia.  This would put the vessel North Bound in the Commercial Canal.  The Port of Iberia Commission has video cameras that scan the waterways.  The video footage captured a large cloud of smoke in the area of the incident.  This footage indicates that the incident happened around 12:15 p.m.  The vessel impacted the west bank of the Commercial Canal at an angle near 75 degrees.  The angle of impact and the direction of the debris field indicate that the vessel was south bound.  

Upon arrival at the scene, LDWF Enf. Sgt. and Sr. Agent found no survivors and the vessel still in flames.  The vessel burned to the waterline and then sank.  On April 15th Leblanc Marine Services of New Iberia recovered the vessel.  LDWF Enf. Sgt took video footage of the recovery of the vessel.  Due to the amount of fire damage much of the physical evidence on the vessel was destroyed.  The hydraulic steering system was burned up to the out-drives.  The only remains of the throttle controls were the actual control levers.  Sgt. obtained photos of the throttle position.  However, the impact may have caused the levers to move.  The vessel was seized and held at LSP Troop I in Lafayette.  According to Iberia Parish Coroner's office, both subjects died on impact due to mult systems trauma.  According to the Coroner's Toxicology report, neither subject was impaired.  Due to the fire, the investigators could not determine if the vessel was equipped with a kill switch lanyard.  Based on the evidence obtained, whatever caused operator to lose control in inconclusive.  However, the vessel should have been operated at a speed that would have allowed operator  to maintain control of the vessel and come to a stop before the collision.


BARDID: LA-2012-0070
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEAR RIVER NAVIGATION CANAL
NearestCityTown: BUSH
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2012, at approximately 12:46pm, Agent received a call from his dispatcher concerning an accident involving a boat pulling a skier on the Pearl River Navigation Canal in Bush, La. Sgt. arrived on the scene first, followed by Senior Agent.
Once on the scene, it was determined that Operator was operating a 15’ flatboat (w/40hp Yamaha remote steering) with two passengers on board. While operating this boat, he was also pulling two juvenile boys on an intertube. The two boys both wearing PFD’s were on dual seat intertube when Operator came to a place on the canal where he made a 180 degree turn. As he did, the momentum of the turn slung the intertube rapidly towards the shore where one person was ejected from the intertube and ended up on the shore of the canal. It was here that he received an obvious injury to his head and it was later determined that he suffered disc damage in his neck. The other boy was uninjured, as he was able to stay on the intertube. Operator told agents that he was at about half throttle at the time of the turn and said that the tube “got outside of the boat”, went towards the bank quickly and threw victim off. They went to where he was thrown off and got him back to the launch, just a short distance away. He was airlifted from the scene to University Hospital in New Orleans for further treatment where he remains as of July 2, 2012.
All people on board the boat were wearing proper PFD’s at the time of the incident. No alcohol or drug use is suspected in this incident.
It is Agent conclusion that due to the narrowness of this canal, combined with a rope length of 57’ to the intertube, the operator should have been aware of the dangers of making a 180 degree turn at the rate of speed he was traveling. Had he been more aware of his surroundings, this skiing mishap could have been avoided. Agent has yet to charge Operator since he is at University Hospital with the victim and his family but charges are pending at this time for Careless Operation of a Watercraft.


BARDID: LA-2012-0071
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:28:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mill Creek Reservioir
NearestCityTown: Saline
County: Bienville - 7
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2012, at approximately 1728; LA 6276 ER was being operated on Mill Creek Reservoir in Bienville Parish.  Mill Creek Reservoir is a 520 acre lake with approximately 150 acres of water- skiable water.  On this day, nine vessels were operating in a water ski capacity.  Witness accounts were that the waves of the lake were approximately 2 feet to 3 feet in height.  LA 6276 ER was pulling a water- skier on an inflatable water ski tube.  LA 6276 ER made a port side turn.  The water- skier was thrown from the tube causing injury to the water- skier.


BARDID: LA-2012-0075
Date: 2012-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: KINCAID LAKE
NearestCityTown: ALEXANDRIA
County: RAPIDES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator left to go fishing on Kincaid Lake, at approximately 1:20 P.M.  Operator told his mother he was going to fish until dark.  When he did not return she contacted the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office.  A search for the missing boater was then conducted and Operator's boat was located.  The boat was found with the bow on the bank, in forward gear and at idle speed.  Operator was not located and was presumed to be over board.  Alcohol and or drugs use at this time are unknown.  The boat was equipped with the proper PFDs.  The boat was equipped with remote steering. 
On March 9th at approximately 1215 P.M., Operator's body was recovered from Kincaid Lake.  Operator was not wearing a PFD upon recovery.  Operator's body was turned over to the Rapides Parish Coroner's office, autopsy and toxicology reports are pending.


BARDID: LA-2012-0076
Date: 2012-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Southwest Pass/Vermilion Bay
NearestCityTown: Cypremort Point
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/15/12 at approximately 8:15 a.m. Operator was traveling South in South West Pass with four passengers.  Operator claims he hit a large wave from a nearby crew boat that caused the port sponson of his 20 foot catamaran to fill with water.  He realized the boat was filling with water so he beached the vessel on Marsh Island.  I, Sgt. arrived at the location of the incident at 10:00 a.m. I picked up Operator and his four passengers and transported them to Quintana Landing.  Operator anchored his vessel and left it on Marsh Island in South West Pass.  On July 24th I inspected the boat on its trailer at Leblanc Marine, the company that recovered the boat.  I could not find any hull damage to the boat.  I did notice the port stern splash well access cover was missing  Operator had stated the boat's port sponson had filled up with water after he hit the crew boat wake.  Both hull drain plugs were still installed and hull of the boat was full of rainwater.  No water was leaking out of the boat.  On July 27th Sgt. and I returned to Leblanc Marine to check the bilge pumps and electrical system on Operator's boat.  We found that the bilge pumps and the electrical system that powered the switchboard that controlled the bilge pumps was not properly connected.  Therefore the bilge pumps did not have electricity at the time of the incident.  There are three major ways that Operator's vessel could quickly take on enough water to make it list to port, and eventually sink.  The first is through the live well raw water inlet, the second is through the hull drain plugs and the third is through stern splash well access covers.  At the time of the incident the hull drain plugs were both installed and the raw water inlet was functioning properly.  The only other possibility would be the stern splash well access covers in the transom of the boat.  Operator claims both access covers were installed at the time of the incident however, subject, who conducted the salvage recovery of the boat could not locate one of the covers.  I attempted to locate the access cover when I photographed the vessel on July 24th but could not.  Operator's own description of how the boat quickly filled with water, only on the port side, strongly indicates that the port stern splash well access cover was missing and allowed the port sponson of the vessel to quickly fill with water.  This, in conjuntion with the bilge pumps being inoperable because of an improperly installed fuse on the bilge pump fuse panel, contributed to the sinking of the boat.


BARDID: LA-2012-0079
Date: 2012-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: COTILE LAKE
NearestCityTown: BOYCE
County: RAPIDES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
operator was fishing on Cotile Lake in a 14' Monark aluminum boat equipped with a 25 Mercury with tiller steering.  He was supposed to have fished until around noon.  When he did not return home, his wife attempted to call his cell phone, but got no answer.  Upon searching for him, his boat was discovered in a cove that he frequently fished.  The boat was up against the bank, with the motor's cowling in the bottom of the boat.  We were notified of the incident at approximately 6:29 P.M.  Upon arrival, we went to the boats location and inspected the boat.  The motor's kill switch was in the off position.  There was a type III and type IV PFD on the floor of the boat.  The floor of the boat contained numerous items of gear, making it difficult to maneuver inside the boat.  The Rapides Parish Sheriff's Department used a dog to search the bank for human scent near the boats location.  There were no obvious signs of damage to the boat and it appeared that operator had fallen overboard and was not wearing a PFD at the time.  There was no evidence observed of any alcoholic beverages in the boat or ice chest.  Divers and a side scan sonar were used but we were unable to locate subject at that time.  At approximately 830 P.M. on 7-11-123, Senior Agent contacted me and advised that body had been recovered and transported by the corner with an autopsy requested.


BARDID: LA-2012-0080
Date: 2012-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:18:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE RIVER
NearestCityTown: ARCHIE
County: CATAHOULA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/11/12, Operator was operating a 2002 17" bayliner pleasure vessel (la-6489-ff) in little river in catahoula parish.  Operator stated he was test driving the vessel because he was thinking of buying it.  Operator stated that he was traveling east of archie landing and getting ready to turn around when the vessel collided with a submerged object thought to be a log. Operator stated that he never saw the object and was not sure of the exact location of where the collision took place.  After the collision, Operator stated that he called 911 which went through to the lasalle parish sheriff's office at approximately 12:18 pm.  I received the call at approximately 12:25 pm and arrived on scene at approximately 12:55 pm.  Operator was wearing a pfd on my arrival and didn't appear injured and also stated that he was not injured. Operator stated that when he struck the object he lost all power and steering.  Operator pointed to the general location of the collision but no logs or submerged objects could be located.  The vessel was safely towed to the archie landing and loaded onto its trailer.  After removing the vessel fromt he water, the outdrive was observed to be hanging only by cables and wiring.  No other damage was observed on the vessel.  Pictures of the damage were taken and Operator stated that the vessel would be stored at his residence


BARDID: LA-2012-0083
Date: 2012-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Des Allemands
NearestCityTown: Des Allemands
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fire/Explosion (Fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was traveling north in Bayou Des Allemands in Lafourche Parish.  He was running on step when his engine started backfiring.  As he came down off of plane smoke was coming from the engine of the vessel, LA1041FY.  By the time the boat was coming to a stop the vessel was on fire.  Operator stated the flames were almost as high as his head so he moved to the front of the vessel away from the flames and began to paddle the boat toward the nearby shoreline.  He exited the boat and moved to shelter on the west shoreline of Bayou des Allemands.  St. Charles parish  Sheriff's Office water patrol was the first on scene.  They picked up Operator, and towed his vessel back to the public boat launch under Hwy 90.  LDWF Agents met with Operator at the launch to interview him and fill out incident reports.  Alcohol was not involved in the accident.  Operator was wearing a type II PFD.   Operator was not wearing the motor kill switch.  Contributing factors to the fire are believed to be possible mechanical issues with the engine resulting in the fire.  there were no injuries in the accident.  The vessel did sustain severe damage from the fire.


BARDID: LA-2012-0084
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Lafourche
NearestCityTown: Larose
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a remote steered 14 ft homemade fiberglass mudboat w/ 13 hp inboard motor, unregistered, was travelling south in Bayou Lafourche.  The motor of the vessel was not running well so the operator was attempting to make adjustmentss to the motor as it was running and in forward gear.  Neither he or his passenger was paying attention to where the vessel was headed at approximately 10-15 mph.  The vessel struck a 35 ft by 120 ft barge that was tied to the eastern bank of Bayou Lafourche.  The vessel took on water and sunk.  The passenger sustained a possible concussion and was treated at Thibodaux General Medical center.  Both occupants were wearing proper PFDs at the time.  Alcohol/Drugs were not a factor.


BARDID: LA-2012-0085
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:43:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAUREPAS
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
owner/operator of vessel La-7071-FB was operating his vessel in Lake Maurepas. Operator is the only known subject in the vessel at the time of operation. Operator was in Lake Maurepas while it was under rough conditions. He was possibly heading from Tickfaw River to Manchac at the time of incident. He fell overboard (unknown reason) and the vessel was found still in gear turning in a clockwise motion. The vessel was a 200 Carolina Skiff with a steering wheel. Alcohol was found on the vessel “worm bucket” from Prop Stop.  Time of incident is between 1700-1743.


BARDID: LA-2012-0086
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sabine River
NearestCityTown: Logansport
County: Desoto - 16
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On June 9, 2012, Victim was operating Texas vessel 9401 JF on the Sabine River in Desoto Parish at approximately 5:00 p.m.  Victim operated the vessel to the public boat launch in Logansport and positioned the vessel with the bow pointing towards the launch.  The bow of the vessel was only a few feet from the concrete launch.  Victim put the boat's throttle in the neutral position, and Operator took control of the vessel.  Victim walked to the bow of the vessel to slide off onto the boat launch to retrieve the truck and trailer.  The three juveniles were sitting in the front of the vessel, so Victim told Operator to swing the boat around so he could exit off the stern of the vessel.  Operator engaged the throttle and turned the boat to the starboard, to position the stern in front of the launch.  As Operator was turning the vessel, Victim jumped off the port stern.  Victim stated that when he jumped off, the water was deeper than he planned and he went under the water.   While under the water Victim knew he was in a bad position and started to swim away.  As Victim was swimming away his left foot struck the propeller.  When Victim surfaced he told Operator to get some help from some people fishing close by, and he was able to swim to the launch.  Victim was transported by ambulance to Willis-Knightwon Pierremont Medical Center in Shreveport for his injuries.  He suffered a deep laceration to the left side of his left ankle.  He also broke his left ankle in two spots.  All four juveniles had on PFDs at this time.  Victim did not have on a PFD.  The kill switch was not used.  Alcohol is not a factor.


BARDID: LA-2012-0087
Date: 2012-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: FRENCH SETTLEMENT
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25th 2012, at approximately 2:15p.m. a 15’ Alumaweld vessel, powered by a 60 horsepower motor, collided with a privately owned dock. Notable damage to the dock and the vessel resulted. All three passengers of the vessel were ejected and/or jumped from the vessel prior to the impact. No injuries resulted from the collision. The vessel sank after the collision.
The owner and operator of the vessel was reportedly traveling upstream in the Amite River about ¾ mile from the La. Hwy 16 bridge when he lost control of his vessel. Prior to the incident girlfriend was riding in the bow of the vessel. Their son, who is nearly three years of age, was reportedly riding in operator’s lap and reportedly interfered with the navigation of the vessel. The kill switch was not used. The juvenile was wearing an appropriate PFD. The adults were not wearing PFD’s. Alcohol is not believed to be involved (zero clues on HGN). All three persons involved in the incident safely swam to shore, were examined by EMS personnel and found not to be in need of any medical attention.


BARDID: LA-2012-0088
Date: 2012-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Shreveport
County: Caddo - 9
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he had filled up with fuel prior to launching at Stone Ramp in Caddo parish.  Drove his boat approximately three - four miles south of Stoner Ramp on Red River and stopped.  Friend with him attempted to set the fuel pressure on the inboard engine while engine was off.  Operator restarted engine.  It backfired, and didn't crank.  They smelled smoke, raised engine cover, smoke and flames erupted catching boat interior on fire.  Operator used his fire extinguisher until it emptied, then jumped into water with companions.  Several persons were operating PWC's in the area, and they were able to spray water on burning boat and put out flames.  Caddo Sheriff's Office was notified and towed the burned boat back to Stoner Ramp.  Operator, friend, and operator's young child were not injured.  All used PFD's.  No alcohol or drugs were observed by anyone.  Possible cause may have been due to equipment failure and/or unqualified maintenance.


BARDID: LA-2012-0089
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: PORT VINCENT
County: ASCENSION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel collision involving a personal watercraft (PWC) and the walkway/dock of a boathouse. Vessel #1, a 10’ PWC, was headed upstream in the Amite River, near Port Vincent, when the recently repaired steering mechanism reportedly failed as Operator was attempting to make a U-turn. The PWC crashed into a suspended walkway adjacent to a boathouse.  Operator suffered notable injuries to his left hand and left leg. Operator’s wife came to the scene and transported him to St. Elizabeth’s hospital in Gonzales, La. where he received treatment for his injuries. 
Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in this incident. 
Operator was wearing an appropriate PFD at the time of the crash.
Notable damage was done to the dock. Photos will accompany the final report.


BARDID: LA-2012-0090
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: TICKFAW RIVER
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was traveling upstream and came in contact with a large wake from a vessel traveling downstream. Operator was ejected from his vessel when he made contact with the large wake. Operator’s passenger, (5 yrs. old) remained in the vessel when it took a hard right turn and collided into trees on the east bank of the Tickfaw River. Operator was picked up by a nearby boater and brought to his vessel to check on passenger. Agents arrived on scene. No one could identify the other vessel causing the wake. passenger was transported to the hospital and later released with no injuries. No alcohol was present.


BARDID: LA-2012-0092
Date: 2012-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Fordoche
NearestCityTown: Butte LaRose
County: St. Landry - 49
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time Operator was operating his vessel South in Bayou Fordoche when he struck a stump.  Operator's vessel then capsized ejecting him and his passenger.  Operator advised that when he resurfaced, he swam to the bank and that he did not see Occupant anywhere.  Operator advised that approximately ten minutes later another vessel pulled up onto the scene of the accident and pulled him from the water.  Operator advised that one of the gentleman in the vessel called 911 to report the accident.  Neither Operator or Occupant were wearing their PFD's at the time of the accident.  Occupant was later located and pronounced deceased by the St. Landry Parish coroner.


BARDID: LA-2012-0093
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermillion River
NearestCityTown: Avery Island
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 7th at about 11:00 am LDWF Sr. Agent was notified of a boating accident in Vermilion Bay.  Agent made contact with the vessel LA5416FT at the Quintana Boat Launch. The driver had taken his vessel out this morning (32' Proline) and experienced total steering loss during the trip.  Operator decided to terminate the trip due to lack of steering and unfavorable weather conditions.  Operator felt that he could manuever the vessel well enough by utilizing the vessels' twin engines thrust for steering.  Upon heading back to port within three to six miles of turning around the vessel took an abrupt turn to the port side and then a very hard turn to the starboard side.  This manuever threw one of the passengers out of the vessel thus fracturing his pelvis.  The driver hit the gunwale and center console resulting in breaking his shoulder along with a few ribs and also puncturing his liver.  The third passenger suffered a fractured hand. The fourth passenger, only sustained a sore back.  The crew shut down the vessel and helped the man overboard back onto the vessel.  A nearby fishing vessel named the Wholesailor heard the crew's mayday call on the VHF and responded.  the Wholesailor drove the Proline back to the Quintana boat landing and called 911.  The crew was then transported to the Iberia Medical Center by Acadian Ambulance where they were treated for their injuires.  There were no signs of alcohol or drug use by the crew nor found on the vessel.  After inspection of the vessel no damage was found on the hull or the motors except for lack of total steering control.


BARDID: LA-2012-0094
Date: 2012-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Henderson Bay
NearestCityTown: Henderson
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 26, 2012 at approximately 10:30 p.m (Operator) left Kerns boat landing in Henderson Bay in St. Martin Parish to go frogging in Louisiana vessel LA 577FV.  At approximately 10:30 p.m. the vessel was headed south at full throttle when Operator looked back at the engine.  At this time Operator lost sight of what was in front of him and the bow of the vessel struck a cypress tree.  The force of the impact ejected everyone but one person.  Everyone stated that no one onboard the vessel was wearing a lifejacket (PFD).  Everyone reboarded the vessel and returned to Kerns boat land.  At this time one person drove three others to the emergency room in Breaux Bridge and Operator and one other loaded the vessel on the boat trailer and left the area.  
On June 27, 2012 I interviewed and received statements from two occupants and Operator.  Myself and Senior Agent returned to the scene of the incident and photographed the area and the vessel.  On June 28, 2012 I interviewed and received statements from two. After reviewing all statements and evidence Operator was charged with violating "Rules of the Road" #16 "All vessels shall be operated at a reasonable speed for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times" and #20 "Operator shall maintain a proper lookout".  RS:34:851.24F (2) fail to have PFD on person under 17 while underway and RS:34:851.5 Reckless Operation of a watercraft.


BARDID: LA-2012-0095
Date: 2012-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: QUARANTINE BAY
NearestCityTown: BURAS
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the night of August 9, 2012 three people were in LA 5097 EH in Quarantine Bay located in Plaquemines Parish.  At 10:00 p.m. while running to fish another rig Operator stated he hit a large unlit wellhead that was in the area.  He then stated the vessel flipped ejecting all three men out of the boat.  The three men then climbed onto the wellhead and waited for help.  Injuries consisted of operator cutting his left knee, and occupant having a large laceration in his head.  Operator refused immediate medical attention according to EMS. occupant was transported to Ochsner Hospital where he was treated.  The vessel is considered a total loss.  Investigating agent went to the well and photographed the vessel which was turned over in the water.  Operator did state however that he wanted to get the boat salvaged so he could see about repairs.

The foreman for the oil field operated by Cox Oil, met us on scene and stated the well was lit, and he was sending divers down to see if the light fell off.  During initial investigation no light was observed on the well.  He also made comments about the group illegally fishing off of a platform above from the accident location, which he stated is a federal offense and the company was probably going to pursue the matter because of problems in the past.
NOTE:Due to outstanding warrants out of Jefferson and Plaquemines parishes both were arrested by PPSP and transported by deputies.

Investigation was halted because of Hurricane Isaac but investigators have been in contact with the safety coordinator. He emailed pictures, which are attached to this report showing the recovery of the light from the water.


BARDID: LA-2012-0096
Date: 2012-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Reserve Canal
NearestCityTown: Reserve
County: St. John
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 28, 2012, Agt. was advised  of a boating incident on Reserve Canal involving one vessel.  Upon arriving at the scene, Sgt. was briefed by St. John Seriff's deputy Lt.. Lt. advised the operator and one female passenger had been transported by EMS and the remaining passenger  was at the scene.  The vessel was traveling north on Reserve Canal approximately 300-400 yards north of Reserve Canal boat launch.  According to operator and both passengers, as they traveled on plane on the left side of the narrow channel something was causing water to spray up at the stern.  When the operator left the operator's position to investigate, the vessel veered to port striking the limbs of trees, ejecting the operator from the vessel.  The vessel then turned hard to starboard coming to rest partially on a mud flat on the right side of the channel.  The operator re-boarded the vessel and all proceeded back to the launch.  The operator and one female passenger of River Ridge were transported by EMS to Oschner Hospital.  Operator was treated for a laceration to his head and small cut on his side.  occupant was treated for an abrasion on her back.  Both were released the same day.  There were no signs of alcohol or drug use by the operator or passengers.  PFD's were on board but not used.  The kill switch was operational but not used.  Sgt. met the victims at the hospital where he took photographs of their injuries.  He observed no signs of alcohol or drug use.  Upon inspection of the vessel, no definitive damage was found.  A small amount of blood transference was observed near the operator's position.


BARDID: LA-2012-0098
Date: 2012-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTHWEST PASS
NearestCityTown: VENICE
County: Plaquemines - 38
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 11, 2012 at approximately 23:30 p.m., Operator was operating his vessel LA 4521 EE down Southwest Pass with four other subjects on board when he struck a wind dam causing the bow of the vessel to get stuck on the dam.  Operator and occupant got minor injuries.  Subjects then tried to reach help using cell phones and a distress devine on the GPS.  At approximately 12:20 a.m. on 08/12/2012 Coast Guard arrived on seen and took the five subjects back in to Cypress Cove Marina.  I Sr. Agent was contacted by the Plaquemines Parish Shriffs Office at approximately 7:30 a.m. on 08/12/2012 and told of the accident, I then responded.
10 year old was wearing a PFD while underway, the other four subjects put them on after the collission with the fixed object.  The vessel had hydraulic steering.  Contributing factors to this incident would be operator inexperience with operating his vessel down Southwest Pass at night. Operator stated he had never been out of Southwest Pass at night. wing dams extending onto pass.


BARDID: LA-2012-0099
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK BAY
NearestCityTown: DELACROIX
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were fishing when they noticed they were taking on water in the vessel.  It was at this time that all three subjects approached the back of vessel causing the vessel to take on more water over the side and then capsizing the vessel completely.  There were no inuries.  PFDs were used. Alcohol was not a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0100
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: SALVADOR WMA/THE NETHERLANDS P
NearestCityTown: DES ALLEMANDS
County: ST CHARLES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The operator and a passenger were on board Vessel 1, which was adrift.  The operator was standing on the front deck and the passenger on the back deck.  The operator noticed severe weather approaching and lightning in the area.  He then told the passenger that they should get out of the area.  Lightning then struck the operator on the top of the head, traveling through his body, and exiting the left thigh.  It then traveled into the trolling motor and through the remaining of the electrical system causing damage to several electrical components on board.  The operator and the passenger were both rendered unconscious.  The passenger of the vessel awoke and then woke the operator.  A nearby boater transported them back to the landing, and an ambulance transported them to the hospital.  The operator sustained burns on various locations on his body.  The passenger, who had a pacemaker, was kept in the hospital for observation.

Alcohol was not involved and PFDs were not used.  There are no pending charges in the incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0101
Date: 2012-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Catfish Lake
NearestCityTown: Golden Meadows
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/19/12, LA Wildlife and Fisheries Agents were contacted by dispatch of a boating accident that had occurred in Catfish Lake.  Agents made contact with Lafourche Parish Sheriff's office who advised that a vessel LA7801BC with five subjects on board sunk in Catfish Lake and that the subjects were being rescued by a nearby boat and  being brought to the Apache Dock in Golden Meadow.  Agents made contact with the operator, who advised that he and four other subjects were returning from bow fishing at approximately 2:15 am.  Operator advised that the bow went under the water causing water to enter the boat and sinking the vessel.  All five subjects stayed with the vessel.  Operator stated that he was able to flag a nearby work boat with his spot light.  Agents asked operator why the vessel sank and he stated that he had too much gear and people in the boat.  The vessel was equipped with the proper PFD's but they were not used.  The vessel was a 16' Cajun Special powered with a go-devil tiller steer motor.  Alcohol was not suspected in the accident.  Agents feel after interviewing the subjects, that the boat was overloaded with too many people along with gear for the size of the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2012-0102
Date: 2012-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Charles Lake
NearestCityTown: Lake Charles
County: Calcasieu - 10
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and Occupant left the I-10 boat launch at approximately 7:30 p.m. to go gar fishing in Lake Charles Lake.  At approximately 10:00 P.M. a thunderstorm with winds in excess of 50 MPH and heavy rain came through the area.  The men were in a 16' ft. Waco semi-vee flat boat powered by a 25 HP Mercury tiller handle motor.  At approximately 4:23 A.M. on July 21, 2012 the vessel was found overturned along the west bank of Lake Charles Lake.  The body of Occupant was found on the west bank of Lake Charles Lake at approximately 4:30 A.M.  The body of Operator was recovered on the west bank of Lake Chalres Lake at approximately  6:30 A.M.  on July 22, 2012.  Occupant was wearing a PFD at the time his body was recovered.  Operator was not wearing a PFD at the time his body was recovered.  Blood alcohol and toxicology results were returned from Operator and Occupant.    Operator report indicated he had a BAC of.070g%.  Occupant report tested positive for Cannabinoids and THC.


BARDID: LA-2012-0103
Date: 2012-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:56:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: RED RIVER
NearestCityTown: ALEXANDRIA
County: RAPIDES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Two people were playing in the boat, which was anchored near the bank in the Red River.  subject stated he and his wife were, "rough housing", near the rear of the boat, when they both fell overboard, next to the motor.  He stated that when he surfaced he didn't see his wife.  He stated he went back down several times, but was unable to locate her.  His brother-in-law called 911 and reported the incident to authorities.  Rapides Parish Sheriff's Department stated they received the call at approximately 5:56 PM.  Senior Agent, and I, Sgt., arrived at the scene at approximately 6:50 PM and made contact with the occupants of the vessel.  The Rapides Parish Sheriff's Department personnel arrived, along with divers.  The body was recovered at approximately 8:08 PM.  The body was transported by the Rapides Parish Coroner's Office.


BARDID: LA-2012-0105
Date: 2012-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMITE RIVER DIVERSION CANAL
NearestCityTown: MAUREPAS
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 29, 2012 at approximately 4:50pm a two (2) vessel collision reportedly occurred when vessel FL-4500-PF was struck from behind by vessel LA-6536-EA. Both were traveling upstream on the Amite River Diversion Canal in Livingston Parish when this incident occurred. No fatalities or injuries were reported. Vessel FL-4500-PF was found to contain all of the required safety equipment and personal flotation devices however none were used in this incident. 
Vessel LA-6536-EA was found to contain all of the required safety equipment and flotation devices with the exception of the required type IV. 
There was no evidence to support that alcohol and drugs contributing factors of this incident.
As a result of subsequent investigation the operator of vessel LA-6536-EA, was issued citations for the following: Fail to comply PFD Requirements (No Type IV), Expired Vessel Registration and Reckless Operation.


BARDID: LA-2012-0106
Date: 2012-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH PASS
NearestCityTown: VENICE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fire/Explosion (Fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On July 27, 2012 at approximately 8:30 p.m. Operator and two other subjects were traveling down South Pass, also being followed by another vessel to assist some friends at the end of South Pass when Operator struck bottom causing his boat to come to a stop.  Operator stated that the console, leaning post, and T-Top broke loose from the vessel, the console coming loose caused a fuel leak.  Operator tried to start his vessel which resulted in a fire by the engine.  Two fire ext. were used but they were not able to put out the fire.  The other vessel that was going with them got them off of the vessel, while the vessel that was going with them got them off of the vessel, while the vessel LA9622ef (Pass A Good Time) continued to burn to the water line and later ended up coming to rest against the bank in canal on the west side of South Pass.  There were no injuries.  Due to past high rivers sand bars formed where they had none in the past, and pass in not properly marked.
I Sr. Agt. did not speak to Operator until 07/28/12 at approximately 12:30 p.m.


BARDID: LA-2012-0107
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:25:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: PASS MANCHAC
NearestCityTown: AKERS
County: TANGIPAHOA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel two was tied up at a dock. Vessel one passed close to vessel two operating in a careless manner producing a large wake that caused vessel two to hit the dock and pilings resulting in damage to vessel two.


BARDID: LA-2012-0108
Date: 2012-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLIND RIVER
NearestCityTown: MAUREPAS
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/5/2012 as the results of investigation it was determined by agents that operator was operating vessel LA-7385-BK on Blind River when he apparently lost control and struck a wooden bulkhead and pier on the nearby shoreline causing catastrophic damage to his vessel to which it subsequently filled with water and sank. Said collision caused moderate damage to the bulkhead and pier. vessel sustained significant damage to both the port and starboard sides. Operator sustained no injuries.
The vessel was found to be equipped with all the necessary/required safety equipment including PFD’s. PFD’s were not used in this incident.
Alcohol use is suspected in this incident.
As the results of investigation Operator was issued citations and booked into Livingston Parish jail for the following violations:
1)-LRS: 34:851.36-Fail to comply w/ boaters education requirements
2)-LRS: 34.51.8-Operate watercraft during suspension
3)-LRS: 14:99 Reckless operation
4)-LRS: 14:98 Operate vessel while intoxicated (4th offense)


BARDID: LA-2012-0109
Date: 2012-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: TOLEDO LAKE
NearestCityTown: NOBLE
County: SABINE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Two men were drifting in a 16' Oauchta fiberglass boat(LA 8767 AT), fishing near Young's Landing on Toedo Lake.  Operator was fishing from the stern of his boat while occupant fished from the front deck.  Operator heard a splash then looked to see what it was, and Occupant was nowhere to be seen.  Occupant’s hat was floating in the water.  Operator recovered it and started scanning for Occupant.  After approximately 10 minutes he went to another boater and asked for help. At approximately 6:45 P.M., Operator's wife called 911 to report that a man fell from  boat and hasn't come back up.  Sabine Parish's deputy and LDWF  arrived at approximately 7:00 P.M.  Operator took agents out to where he thought Occupant fell in.  LDWF Sr. Agent arrived later with one of our vessels to assist with search and recovery operations along with Sabine Parish's Lake Patrol.  While waiting for divers from Natchitoches Parish both vessels and other deputies secured the location and continued the search.  While searching a fishing lure attached to fishing line was found near the entry location.  The divers were deployed at that location and shortly thereafter found the body of Occupant.  Deputy Coroner was on board the vessel that recovered the remains and maintained responsibility for them until transportation arrived to take them to Lake Charles for an autopsy.  Occupant's father arrived on scene shortly after discovery of the remains and was able to positively identify them as his son.  Results of the autopsy are pending and will be attached when available.


BARDID: LA-2012-0110
Date: 2012-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:10:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK LAKE BAYOU
NearestCityTown: MAUREPAS
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
OtherAccidentCause: vessel overpowered
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Reportedly on 8/5/2012, Operator was operating vessel LA-6520-FE with one passenger on board. He was traveling downstream on the Black Lake Bayou at an estimated speed of 25-30mph. As he was maneuvering through a sharp right hand curve in the bayou his vessels stern became unstable and began to fish tail, slide and skip to port. The vessel then suddenly stabilized, leveled off and rapidly shot forward striking a large tree that was in the bayou some distance from the shoreline.
The vessel sustained a substantial amount of heavy structural damage to the bow along with possible internal damage to the engine. Operator sustained several serious injuries including a broken left knee, broken nose, numerous contusions and lacerations as a result of the impact. The passenger aboard the vessel was uninjured.
Alcohol or drug use is not suspected as a factor in this incident. The vessel was found to be equipped with all necessary/required safety equipment, including PFD’s. PFD’s were not used in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0111
Date: 2012-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: TICKFAW RIVER
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Reportedly on 8/5/12, operator of vessel one (1) was maneuvering his yacht into his slip when the operator of vessel two (2) collided with his vessel on the Blood River in Livingston Parish. Operator1 and Operator2 were traveling in opposite directions on the river. After the vessels passed, Operator1 attempted to back his vessel into the boat slip as Operator2 attempted to put his vessel in neutral, leave the wheel and drift, unknowingly leaving his vessel in reverse above idle speed. Operator2’s vessel ultimately collided with Operator1’s vessel after Operator1 was approximately ¼ ways inside the boat slip.
Operator1’s vessel is a 54.8’ fiberglass steered yacht. An Inspection concluded that he had 10X type I PFD’s, 6X type III PFD’s, and 4X type IV PFD’s. His vessel was equipped with the Halon system.
Operator2’s vessel is a 45’ wooden remote steering yacht. An inspection concluded that he had 11X type II PFD’s, 2X type III PFD’s, and 1X type IV PFD’s. His vessel was equipped with the ABC fire extinguisher.
Alcohol and drug use were not detected on the operator of vessel#1 (Operator1). Due to the fact that the operator of vessel #2 (Operator2) left the scene and was unable to be located until 3 days later, alcohol and drug tests could not be conducted.


BARDID: LA-2012-0115
Date: 2012-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAst Cote Blanche Bay
NearestCityTown: Centerville
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: bilge pump
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/31/12, Sgt. was notified by dispatch to contact the St. Mary's water patrol Officer.  Deputy advised that two subjects were fishing near Rabbit Island and their vessel had sunk. Deputy advised that the two subjects were in the water but they were not injured.  S. A. and I then proceeded to the nearest landing in the area to retrieve the subjects.  The subjects advised they were fishing near Rabbit Island  reef when the waters became rough and started to come  over the stern of their vessel.  They advised their bilge pump was out and the vessel sank.  Agents recovered the persons involved floating with life vests approximately a mile from where the vessel went down.  The owner advised that he would try to recover his vessel, but had no insurance.  PFD's were used and alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this incident.  After several weeks I spoke to operator and he said that they had made an attempt to recover his vessel but was unsuccessful.  He advised that when they tried to pick the vessel up it would break apart.


BARDID: LA-2012-0116
Date: 2012-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/03/2012 at approximately 6:50 a.m. in Jefferson Parish, two subjects were on board a vessel, LA 1347 EU, and were traveling South in a pipeline canal and when the vessel entered into Little Lake a short distance the vessels' outboard motor struck an unknown object under the water and broke the motor from the mounting bracket on the transom.  Both occupants were wearing PFD's at the time of the incident and were not injured.  The vessel was a 22' bay boat with hydraulic steering.  The subjects notified the USCG of the incident, who notified LDWF of the location.  The subjects also notified Tow Boat US who went to the location to tow the disabled vessel back to the Joe's Landing Marina.  The outboard motor was recovered the following day.  No alcohol was involved.


BARDID: LA-2012-0117
Date: 2012-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: John K. Kelly-Grand Bayou Res.
NearestCityTown: Coushatta
County: Red River - 41
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
LA-9970-FV is a 14 foot aluminum jon boat powered by a 15 horsepower Nissan tiller steer motor. LA-9970-FV was being operated on John K. Kelly-Grand Bayou Reservoir in Red River Parish at approximately 11:00 p.m. The Reservoir was foggy that night, and the water was calm.  LA-9970-FV contained four (4) persons with only one wearing a PFD.  No navigation lights were present on the vessel, and the only source of light (a spotlight) had been turned to the off position.  LA-9970-FV was at cruising speed leaving a bay near Grand Bayou Resort's camping area when it struck a wooden pylon with a reflective No Wake Zone sign.  A passenger and the operator were ejected from the vessel.  it is believed that the passenger, seated on the middle seating area, struck the bow deck area of the vessel with his face and left leg causing injury and was ejected from the vessel; and another passenger was thrown into the vessel's middle seat causing contact with her left arm.  Both injured persons were medically treated at the emergency room in Christus Schumpert in Coushatta, Louisiana.  LA-9970-FV was damaged on the bow resulting in denting of the aluminum, separation at the welds at the bow deck, and separation of the welds at the bow support structure.


BARDID: LA-2012-0119
Date: 2012-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weeks Bay
NearestCityTown: Lydia
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his son were fishing in Weeks Bay and decided to head back to the landing.  As they were underway the throttle control came apart and they were only able to idle in.  Operator then noticed that his vessel started taking on water from the stern of the vessel.  He was able to idle the vessel to a pipeline platform near the mouth of Bayou Patout and Weeks Bay.  He then tied his vessel to the platform, unloaded a few items his son and himself and that is when his vessel filled with water, sank and overturned.  It is undetermined what the actual cause of the incident was because Operator was unable to recover his vessel and he is unavailable for questioning for the next 3 months.


BARDID: LA-2012-0120
Date: 2012-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BTW CADRO PASS AND DENNIS PASS
NearestCityTown: VENICE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating vessel LA 7500 EW, a 19' Southern Skimmer open fiberglass boat powered by a 115 Yamaha with remote steering.  The vessel struck a submerged object in a pass between Cadro and Dennis Pass near the open gulf.  Operator1 was traveling about 20 mph at 3800 rpm when the vessel struck the submerged object. After impact, Operator1 drove the vessel into the canes nearby. Operator1 was able to contact his son, who was fishing nearby, and was able to get off of his sinking vessel.  Within five minutes, the vessel sank.  The vessel had remote steering and Operator1 was not wearing a PFD. The type of incident was, 1 struck submerged object, 2 sinking. Contributing factors are unknown. It is determined that the incident was caused by vessel sinking after striking an unknown submerged object.


BARDID: LA-2012-0121
Date: 2012-09-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:08:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: Monroe
County: Ouachita - 37
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
The deceased victim was in the act of bass fishing on the afternoon of 09/20/2012, in the Ouachita River, approximately 1/2 mile north of Forsythe Landing.  When he did not return home, a search began and his boat was located at approximately 10:00pm, in the area of Forsythe Boat Dock.  When the boat was located, the key was in the off position, the gear shifter was in neutral and the trolling motor was down, in the use position.  There were several rod and reels on the deck of the boat, one rod in the bottom of the boat with approximately 1/3 of its sticking past over the gunwale, with an artifcal lure attached.  Inside the boat, we located a hat, cell phone, and prescription sun glasses.  There was one small bass in the livewell, which was still alive.  There was no evidence of blood anywhere in the boat.  The boat was located by Ouachita Parish Sheriff's deputies.  A search for subject began and on  the morning of Sunday, 09/23/2012, his body was found floating between the Forsythe Boat Dock and the Louisville Bridge. His body was sent to Little Rock, Arkansas for autopsy.


BARDID: LA-2012-0122
Date: 2012-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Drainage Canal/Cotton Rd
NearestCityTown: Patterson
County: St Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/15/12 Operator was operating his vessel, LA8750 EB in a drainage canal at the end of Cotton Rd. in St. Mary Parish.  The vessel was occupied by operator and two other subjects.  At about 745pm the subjects left the boat landing next to the Cotton Rd. Bridge.  They traveled under the bridge and headed West in the drainage canal to go frog gigging.  At about 11:00 they were headed east and planned to travel past the bridge at the cotton Rd. Launch.  Operator advised that they knew the bridge was ahead of him but he wasn't maintaining a proper lookout. 

He further stated that he advised Occupant1 to pull the drain plug in order to drain the water out of the boat.  Operator was at the helm in front of the vessel while Occupant2 was sitting on an ice chest in the center of the vessel.  Occupant1 was in the rear of the vessel, holding the plug.  Operator was wearing a spotlight on top of his head and continued to look back at Occupant1 so that Occupant1 could see what he was doing.  However, Operator was not watching for the bridge ahead.  The vessel struck the piling supports under the bridge on its port bow.  Upon impact, all three subjects were ejected in the water and the vessel sank.  None of the subjects were wearing a pfd, nor was Operator wearing the kill switch lanyard.  

When Occupant2 surfaced, he used his cell phone as a search light to locate Occupant1 to locate Occupant1 who was unconscious and floating.  Occupant2 and Operator pulled Occupant1 from the water and administered CPR.  They transported Occupant1 to Teche Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead by St.  Mary Coroner's Investigator. At about 12:00 am LDWF Enforcement Agents responded to Teche Regional Hospital and obtained the attached statements from both Operator and. Occupant2.  Sgt. obtained blood and urine from Operator to determine if alcohol and or drugs were involved.  The blood and urine obtained were sent to LSP  Crime Lab or toxicology and blood alcohol testing. According to the LSP Crime Lab test results, Operator's  BAC was .060g%.  His toxicology report indicated that Hydrocodnne, Tramadol, Amphetamine and Dihydrocodeine were all present.  Sgt. obtained a Subpoena Duces Tecum to obtain Operator's hospital records for the night of the incident.  Upon inspection, the agents found that the vessel HIN was removed but the HIN assigned to the registration was LAZ1294B988.  On October 17, 2012 at about 545 pm  Sgt. issued Operator Citation and charged with violation of RS 34:851.4, Careless operation of a watercraft and RS 34:851.33A, Possession of a motorboat with the serial numbers altered.


BARDID: LA-2012-0123
Date: 2012-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Milhomme
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 22, 2012 LDWF Enforcement Agent was advised of a boating incident that had occurred in St. Martin Parish in Bayou Milhomme. Operator was operating a 24 ft. pontoon vessel that had been equipped with a 400 gallon water tank.  This tank was designed to transport black bass which are to be released after being caught during fishing tournaments.  Both Operator and his passenger advised they were idling down the canal when the  bow of the vessel began to dive.  Operator advised that he then shifted engine into reverse when the bow continued to dive then the vessel began to roll and then capsized. Operator was taken to Teche Regional hospital for back pain.  occupant was uninjured.  No PFD's were worn at the time of the incident also no drugs are alcohol were suspected to be contributing factors of this incident


BARDID: LA-2012-0125
Date: 2012-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Crab
NearestCityTown: Napoleonville
County: Assumption
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/25/12, I, Sgt. was dispatched to a boat incident which had occurred in Bayou Crab, Assumption Parish.  Upon my arrival I noticed subject approaching the dock near the boat launch on his personal watercraft (PWC).  I was then informed that Operator was still on scene with her vessel receiving medical treatment.  I then learned that Occupant, 7 yrs of age, was on the vessel with Operator. After speaking to Occupant and her mother, it was learned that Subject, vessel #2, passed Operator, vessel #1, in the canal and when vessel #1 hit vessel #2's wake they lost control and grounded their vessel into the woods, approximately 80 feet.  After leaving the waterway vessel #1 struck several cypress knees and small trees.  It is believed that Operator's facial injuries were caused from a leaning tree in their path of travel.  Operator was then transported by Air Med to a New Orleans hospital where Agents retrieved a voluntary blood sample from Operator, results pending.  Subject was also transported to the Assumption Parish Detention Center where field sobriety was performed, see attached DUI report and he submitted to an alcohol  breath test being .097%.  PFDs and engine cut off switches  were worn in this incident and alcohol is believed to be a factor but Not drugs  Subject was charged with DUI 1st Offense and charges on Operator are pending the results of her blood sample. 

Note: Operator stated to the agents who retrieved her blood sample that she was driving her PWC at the time of the incident, but in her operator's report she states different and says that Occupant was the operator.  Occupant is not of legal age to operate a PWC since she is only 7 yrs. of age.  Also Operator is responsible for the actions in this incident since Occupant is less that 10 yrs. of age.  However, there will be further investigation into whether Operator was operating the vessel or the juvenile, Occupant.


BARDID: LA-2012-0126
Date: 2012-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: Houma
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the date listed above, Vessel 1 (LA8055FX) operated by Operator was traveling west in the Intracoastal with his 2 juvenile sons.  Operator stated he saw a barge and traveled to the south of it.  Operator struck a section of a 500 foot dredge pipe the tug vessel 2 Documentation No. 636305 was towing.  Operator’s oldest son suffered minor injuries to his head was checked by EMS and released on scene.  Agents made contact with the tug operator and he stated they were in the process of turning the 500 foot dredge pipe around when vessel 1 struck the pipe. PFD's were worn by all occupants in Vessel 1.  Steering on vessel 1 was hydraulic.  Alcohol  and drugs were not suspected in the investigation.  Operator stated that he was traveling at approxmately 56 MPH.


BARDID: LA-2012-0128
Date: 2012-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAUREPAS
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was traveling towards Blind River while in Lake Maurepas when her vessel had mechanical failure. Operator was located at the mouth of Blind River without engine power. Operator’s vessel had drifted towards shore. A nearby boater towed Operator’s vessel from the shore out into the lake; however, during the tow, passengers felt a hard jolt. The Operator’s vessel began to take on water and sank. All six passengers aboard Operator’s vessel were rescued and brought to safety. No injuries were reported. No alcohol was involved.


BARDID: LA-2012-0130
Date: 2012-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Canal Waterway
NearestCityTown: Larose
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/22/12, at approximately 1:30pm, a vessel (LA1778EN) was heading east in the Intercoastal Canal Waterway (ICW), when it snagged a piece of rope that was attached to a mooring buoy, belonging to Halliburton. The vessel was traveling at a high rate of speed when it snagged the rope causing the vessel to come to a quick stop, which caused the passenger to fall from his seat onto the deck of the vessel. Victim claimed to have injured his left foot, right hip, right shoulder, chest, neck, and his back.  Victim was later transported to the Lady of the Sea Hospital in Cut Off, where he was treated for bruising.  

Operator was not injured and the vessel sustained no damage. On 11/1/2012 Victim contacted the Region 6 office to report the accident.  On 11/5/12 at 7:00 a.m., Agent received the complaint of the accident and began his investigation. Agent interviewed Victim first and received a voluntary statement, see attached document.  Victim told Agent that they were traveling in the ICW when they hit a rope in the middle of the ICW that was attached to a Halliburton buoy.  Agent then interviewed the operator/owner of the vessel. Agent gave Operator an operator boating incident report to fill out, which he did.  Operator also advised Agent that he was heading east bound in the ICW when he struck a 2' poly pro black and yellow rope in the middle of the ICW, see attached diagram. Operator also drew a gram of the accident showing his vessel in the middle of the ICW and the rope stretched halfway across the ICW, see attached diagram. Operator advised Agent that there was no damage to his vessel from this accident, and that all damage to the lower unit of the motor was old and not a result from this incident.  Operator  purchased the vessel on 8/6/12, and had all proper paperwork filled out, along with a bill of sale, but had not sent it to LDWF within the 45 days required by law.  Operator had also neglected to report the accident within the 48 hours as required by law.  Agent then photographed the vessel LA778EN and observed that the vessel had remote steering that was in good working order. The vessel was equipped with 2 type III PFD that were in good working order, but were not used by either men at time of the accident.  Agent was not able to determine whether or not alcohol and  or drugs were contributing factors due to the fact that the accident occurred 14 days prior to notification.  Agent then went to Halliburton and interviewed two people who showed Agent video of accident which was caught on their security cameras.  Agent observed the vessel passing within feet of the buoy on the side of the ICW, not in the middle of the ICW like both Operator and Victim had described, see attached copy of video.


BARDID: LA-2012-0133
Date: 2012-11-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND LAKE
NearestCityTown: DELACROIX
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was cruising in vessel LA 3118 FJ enroute to go duck hunting across Grand Lake in Plaquemines parish at approximately 6 a.m. The vessel was a 16' flatboat with a 35hp go-devil surface drive tiller operated motor.  Due to the very rough and windy conditions on the open lake, the vessel took a large wave over the side/stern that flooded the vessel in moments.   The subject was able to grab a type IV and type III pfd as he went in the water.  He was not able to properly put on the type III pfd and he held onto the pds as he floated/swam to the shoreline.  He was in the water for about 2 hrs.  At 12:45 p.m. a USCG helicopter spotted the subject standing on the shoreline. A St. Bernard Sheriffs office Marine Division vessel picked up the subject and transported him to Delacroix, LA to seek medical attention.  LDWF spoke with the subject after he had refused medical treatment at the launch in Delacroix  The type of incident was a flooding followed by capsizing of the vessel. Contributing factors include weather and operator inexperience.  Alcohol and drug use are not suspected.


BARDID: LA-2012-0134
Date: 2012-11-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Flag Lake
NearestCityTown: Bossier City
County: Bossier
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fishing out of a 10' Jon boat (LA-4189-EP) on Flag Lake on Barksdale AFB in Bossier Parish.  Operator was reported missing after not returning from a fishing trip.  Operator' vessel was located unoccupied on the lake.  A fishing rod and four prong rake were found on top of a mat of hyacinths a short distance from his vessel.  Operator' deceased body was located submerged in the water approximately 15' from the fishing rod and rake.  Operator was not wearing a PFD (personal flotation device).  The body was then turned over to the Bossier Parish Coroner's Office for autopsy.  The autopsy report revealed that Operator likely experienced an acute, fatal cardiac arrhythmia from which he was unable to recover and subsequently fell into the water.  The toxicology report found no traces of drugs or alcohol.  Operator had one Type 3 PFD in the vessel, but he was not wearing it at the time of the incident.  The vessel was powered by an electric Minn Kota trolling motor that was in the off position when found.  The contributing factor in this incident is the medical condition Operator suffered prior to falling in the water.


BARDID: LA-2012-0135
Date: 2012-11-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:25:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: MUDBOAT DITCH
NearestCityTown: DES ALLEMANDS
County: ST CHARLES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 17ft LDWF Enforcement airboat (LA 2558 PU) operated by Sgt., was in the area inspecting deer hunters who were hunting from permanent stands on the Wildlife Management Area. The operator of Vessel 2, a 15ft fiberglass mudboat (LA 2590 FS), had parked the vessel with the bow along the marsh bank and the stern still in the water of a small pothole in the marsh attached to a ditch. The bow of the vessel was not tied to the bank or anchored down. After Sgt. checked the hunter/operator, who was still in his deer stand, Vessel 1 was positioned next to and parallel with Vessel 2. After pushing the bow away from the bank, Vessel 1 was perpendicular to Vessel 2, which was still in its original position. Vessel 1 slowly increased thrust until reaching the small ditch, and was still perpendicular to Vessel 2.  In order to navigate through the ditch, Vessel 1 increased thrust.  In doing so, the bow of Vessel 2was pushed into the air due to the air thrust of Vessel 1's propeller. This caused the stern of Vessel 2 to submerge below the water line. Vessel 2 subsequently swamped and capsized.
 
There was no alcohol involved in the incident and PFD were worn. There were no injuries.


BARDID: LA-2012-0137
Date: 2012-11-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: Gibson
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/24/12, in the ICW a collision of two vessels occurred. The front starboard side bow of LA1408FB impacted on the portside. Both occupants of LA1408FB were ejected.  subject sustained injuries that required surgery.  Interviewing all operators, alcohol was not a contributing factor.  PFD's were worn by all occupants involved in incident.  The steering in both vessels was remote.  contributing factors to the incident were:
1. Operator2 admission to restricted vision because of the sun.
2. Rules of the road because of operating at an unsafe speed with the condition of restricted vision. 
3. rules of the road because of not coming to a complete stop as the give way vessel.
4. Reckless operation because of the combined above contributing factors lead to an injury of the passenger of LA1408 B.


BARDID: LA-2012-0138
Date: 2012-12-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Placid
NearestCityTown: Chauvin
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/21/12, Operator1, along with his passenger was towing V2 through the Bayou Placid Water control structure.  Operator1 was using approximately 30 to 40 feet of rope to tow V2's vessel, when the strong current pushed V2's vessel into one of the protective pilings.  This caused severe damage to V2's vessel.  As a result of V2's vessel striking the piling, it caused Operator1's vessel to come to a sudden stop and hit the protective  pilings in front of the water control structure. At approximately 6:35 p.m. Agents arrived at the scene and interviewed the three men.  Agents did not detect or observe any signs of alcohol or drug use. Both vessels were equipped with PFD's but were not used.  both vessels were also equipped with remote steering. Agent then gave Operator1 and V2 operator boating incident report forms, and advised them to seek medical attention. All three subjects claimed to have hurt  their backs, but refused medical treatment at the dock, with V2 stating that he was going to drive himself to the hospital.  

On 12/22/12 Agents went to Operator1's residence to retrieve the operator's boating incident report.  Operator1 advised Agents that he did go to the emergency room last night, and that nothing was broken but that he was bruised and sore.  Agents then inspected Operator1's vessel which had no damage, only transfer marks from the piling on two spots on the port side of the vessel.  Agents then went to camp, who is the owner of Vessel LA1342FF, and interviewed him.  Owner2 stated that he did give operator2 permission to take his vessel.  Agent then photographed the damage to Owner2's vessel, which had severe  fiberglass damage to the port bow, along with transfer marks from the piling. Agents then went to Golden Meadows and retrieved the operator's boating incident report from Operator2.  V2 advised agents that he went to the hospital  the night before and that nothing was broken. After interviewing all three men and reading the statements, Agent concluded that this accident could have been avoided by shortening up the tow rope to just a few feet until both vessels had passed through the water control structure and exited the swift current  that it had generated.


BARDID: LA-2012-0139
Date: 2012-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: VENICE JUMP
NearestCityTown: VENICE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/18/12 at approximately 10:00 a.m., Operator1 was operating a 20 foot customcraft (LA 3967 FN) in the Mississippi River near the Venice Jump in Plaquemines Parish. He was towing 2 smaller vessels, a 19 foot flatboat with a Godevil motor (LA5809FN) and a 14 foot flatboat with a Godevil motor. The 14 foot vessel was inside of the 19 foot vessel when it was being towed. While heading to the Jump, a commercial vessel owned and operated by Weeks Marine and named the Bayou Blues passed the vessels being towed on the port side.  According to Operator1 and the other people on his vessel, the vessel Bayou Blues was traveling at a high rate of speed and making a big wake. Operator1 and the 3 other people on his vessel attempted to slow the commercial vessel down but to no avail.  The commercial vessels wake swamped the two vessels being towed and they sank. The vessels sank in an area where they couldn't be recovered.  After the sinking, Operator1 and his passengers reported the incident to the US Coast Guard in Venice. The USCG stopped the Bayou Blues in the Jump later that day and interviewed the captain.  The USCG did not issue citations or find the captain of the Bayou Blues at fault for the incident.  Alcohol and drugs were not a contributing factor in this incident and all the passengers on the vessel doing the towing were using properly sized and adjusted PFD's.


BARDID: LA-2012-0140
Date: 2012-11-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BORGNE
NearestCityTown: CHALMETTE
County: ST BERNARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 8 a.m. three male subjects launch their 17ft proline (LA 4689 BS) from Bait Inc. boat launch.  They went to Lake Borgne which is a 30 minute from the launch to fish. They anchored their vessel in the canal from Lake Borgne to the MRGO which is a very rough canal.  The waves and wind were very high and when the subjects got anchored they took a wave over the stern and the vessel took on a large amount of water.  The subjects saw this and all three men put on their PFD's and before they could bilge the boat out the vessel took on several more waves and they sank.  The subjects stayed with the vessel for approximately five hours until a good samaritan rescued them and brought them to the launch. (I Sgt.) arrived on scene  and spoke with the subjects and started a boat accident investigation and cleared the subjects.  Then agents went to the scene and photographed the vessel which was still anchored out and floating upside down.  There was no alcohol or drug involved.


BARDID: LA-2012-0141
Date: 2012-12-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Company Canal at Intracoastal
NearestCityTown: Bourg
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
While traveling in Company Canal and crossing the Intracoastal  Waterway in Terrebonne Parish, the subjects vessel hit a sand bar in a shallow area close to the bank.  Two of the passengers were thrown into the boat and struck the inside deck in their vessel.  One subject had minor injuries to his neck and right arm.  the second subject had minor injuries to her back. Both subjects were treated at Chabert Medical Center in Terrebonne Parish and released.  All three subjects were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident and the operator was wearing the kill lanyard.  This vessel has a tiller driven motor attached to the transom.  alcohol was not a factor in this incident.  Operator inexperience and traveling too close to the canal bank caused this vessel to become grounded.


BARDID: LA-2012-0142
Date: 2012-12-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEAR RIVER NAVIGATION CANAL
NearestCityTown: PEARL RIVER
County: St. Tammany - 52
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/21/2012 at approximately 5:45pm, a two vessel collision occurred on the Pearl River Navigation Canal near Pearl River La, resulting in the operator and passenger of vessel 2 receiving severe injuries. Vessel 1 was a 2007 14’ Southfork (LA-8431-FP) aluminum flat bottom boat. Vessel 2 was a 2005 14’ Weldbuilt (LA-5172-FL) aluminum flat bottom boat. At the time of the incident there were two persons on board vessel 2.

At the time of the incident, neither vessel had any of the required navigation lights on, or on board their vessel. Alcohol/drug use is not suspected at this time. Operator1 was wearing an adult type III PFD, it is believed that V2occupant was not wearing a PFD and Operator2’s PFD use is unknown.


BARDID: LA-2012-0143
Date: 2012-11-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya River
NearestCityTown: Berwick
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Pm 11/25/12, operator was operating his 17ft. aluminum flat boat, LA5347FS, that was powered by a 40hp hand tiller Mercury motor in the Atchafalaya River.  He was north bound in the river, just South of Fools Point when the motor struck a submerged object  causing the vessel to make an abrupt starboard turn  Operator was ejected into the water.  He advised that he was wearing his PFD and kill switch lanyard and that his vessel quickly sank.  Operator was the only occupant.  He used a floating ice chest to help stay afloat until he was rescued by a passing vessel.  Operator first reported the incident to St. Mary S.O and then  advised LWF Enforcement on Monday, November 26th.  LDWF Enforcement Sgt. made contact with Operator at his office in Amelia.  He advised that his vessel was not recovered and because of the depth of the water, he does think he will be able to find it.


BARDID: LA-2012-0146
Date: 2012-12-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Old River(Atchafalaya Basin)
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/29/12 I , Sgt., was dispatched to a boat incident which had occurred in Old River, St. Martin Parish.  Upon my arrival operator Vessel #2, had been transported to Teche Medical in Morgan City.  The operator of vessel #1 was at the Belle River Public Landing. After speaking with Operator1 and his passenger, it was learned that Operator1 was traveling east favoring his left shore of the canal in a curve when he met with Operator2 who was traveling west favoring his right shore. When Operator2 noticed vessel #1 was traveling in his path he attempted to turn starboard to avoid the collision, but was not successful. Also when Operator1 noticed vessel #2 he pulled back on his throttle and attempted to stop.  Operator1's vessel then struck the port side of Operator2's vessel midways towards the stern. Operator2's vessel then sank and Operator2 was forced into the water.  He was then retrieved by Operator1 and transported back to the Belle River Public Landing.  Operator2 was later released with minor soreness and bruising.  No alcohol or drugs are involved in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2012-0147
Date: 2012-12-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Grosbec
NearestCityTown: Pierre Part
County: Assumption
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On December 9, 2012, LDWF Enforcement agents were advised of a boating incident   that had occurred in Assumption Parish on Bayou Grosbec. Agents were informed that the two passengers had been injured and were being transported to Thibodaux Regional Hospital.   Deputy advised that the operator was possibly intoxicated and was placed under arrest for resisting an officer.  Agents arrived on scene and made contact with  Operator  and detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on Operator's breath as he spoke.  Field sobriety was conducted and Operator was transported to Assumption Parish detention center where he was given an opportunity to submit a breath sample which he refused. He also refused blood and urine testing.  He was booked for DWI 1st offense and Reckless operation.  Agents then spoke with Operator about the incident. he advised that they had just got on step when the vessel took a hard starboard turn he then "throttled down" then impact occurred with the island.  This occurred in a no wake zone.  operator should not have been getting on plane at the time.  He stated to agents that he thought the steering had broke causing the incident.  Agents inspected the steering and found it to be broke however has not been determined if it broke before or after impact .


BARDID: LA-2012-0148
Date: 2012-12-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Chevreuil
NearestCityTown: South Vacherie
County: St. James
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Agent arrived at the Hwy 20 boat launch   approximately 3:05 p.m. the St. James Sheriff along with sheriff's deputies brought body from the accident scene to the dock and placed him in a black body bag.  Agent spoke with friends and relatives of Victim, and stated that subject had a history of heart related issues and took several different kinds of medication.  The agents launched a boat and investigated the accident scene.  Victim's vessel, a 2000, 15ft aluminum Express, LA1470FB,was grounded on the south bank of Bayou Chevreuil,  approximately 1.65 miles west from the Hwy 20 launch. Victim  was found approximately 5 to  feet behind his vessel, face down in the muddy water, with a type III PFD near him. The steering wheel was turned all the way to the starboard side,with the throttle in the forward position.  Victim was a member of the St. James Hunting Club and according to hunting partners was apparently in route to the hunting camp from making a morning deer hut.  Victim was traveling  in his vessel alone and there were no witnesses to the incident. 
Circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation. The boat was transported back to the launch and released to relatives.


BARDID: LA-2012-0150
Date: 2012-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake St. John
NearestCityTown: Ferriday
County: Concordia
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two people were traveling southward in Lake St. John.  operator was the operator and decided that the weather was bad and turned around.  After Operator turned the boat around and started heading back to the landing he stated that the boat started taking on water.  He stated that he started heading toward a pier because of all the water  that was in the boat.  When the boat reached the pier he stated that it capsized.  As it capsized a fish hook got stuck in occupant’s foot.  They were in a 14 foot aluminum  boat with a small motor (unknown horsepower app. 9.9).  Neither subject was wearing a PFD.  After the boat capsized Concordia Parish Sheriff's Office deputies arrived on the scene and got occupant out of the water along with her dog that was in the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2012-1000
Date: 2012-09-11 00:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: Grand Isle
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a 32-year old was missing from a kayaing trip.  The victim launched his kayak from Bridge Side Marina Monday morning and had planned to return later that day.  His truck was still at the marina when the alarm was sounded when the victim didn't show up for work on Tuesday.  The news media reported that the victim had been to Grand Isle to kayak only once before and wasn't that experienced with a kayak.


BARDID: LA-2012-1002
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:38:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Irish Bayou
NearestCityTown: New Orleans
County: Orleans
WaterConditions: calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to a MISLE report, the victim fell overboard while fishing with two other family members near the HWY 11 bridge.  The two family members tried to save him but the victim couldn't swim, and struggled such that they were afraid for their lives.  The victim's body was recovered.


BARDID: LA-2013-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-01-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEAR RIVER
NearestCityTown: BOUGALUSA
County: Washington - 59
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On January 11, 2013 Sgt of Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Division of Law Enforcement was contacted by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, regarding a boat accident on the Pearl River just southeast of the city of Bogalusa, in an are commonly referred to as the “Ox Lot”. Sgt as well as S/A responded to the scene and the following transpired; At approximately 0515 hrs a 13 feet “Bayou Special” flat boat operated by Operator and his passenger were leaving the Ox Lot canal preparing to enter the main river channel of the Pearl River and while transvering high flood waters at a very slow speed the vessel was pushed against some standing trees which resulted in it listing to the port side allowing water to enter the vessel causing it to roll and capsize. 

Both occupants were thrown into the water and neither were wearing a PFD. After being thrown into the water, Occupant was able to throw Operator a PFD from the capsized vessel and once he did so, he was able to dislodge the capsized vessel and as the current took it down river, it passed in close proximity to Operator who grabbed hold of it and drifted away in the swift current. Occupant remained on a log jam until approximately 0915 hrs when a passing boater rescued him. At 1010 hrs Operator was located by LDWF enforcement agents standing on a log drift approximately 1.5 miles south of the initial capsizing. The vessel was never located and presumed sank. Operator and Occupant were both seen by medics of Northshore EMS, however both refused transport and treatment. Neither alcohol nor drugs are considered as contributing factors in the accident and even though PFD’s were accessible, they were not worn in accordance with state law. 

Upon completion of the accident investigation it was learned that the vessel Operator was operating was not equipped with running lights and even though PFD’s were onboard, neither Operator nor Occupant wore one.  Operator was issued citation and cited in accordance with LRS 34:851.24B “No running lights” and LRS 34:851.24 “Failure to comply with PFD requirements for Class A tiller handle outboard”. No further information concerning the aforementioned incident is to follow at this time…


BARDID: LA-2013-0002
Date: 2013-01-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEARL RIVER NAVIGATION CANAL
NearestCityTown: PEARL RIVER
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1, a 12' Alumaweld flatboat (LA3095BS) with one subject on board, was on the west side of the Pearl River Navigation Canal, at rest, but not at anchor when a passing vessel, traveling northbound created a wake and rocked vessel #1. The OPERATOR of vessel #1 who had been engaged in fishing from the middle seat of vessel #1, stood up and moved toward the operators seat as the wake from the passing vessel reached his vessel. Victim then fell toward the stern of vessel #1, striking the outboard motor of vessel #1 (which was locked in the up position) with his head and shoulder, breaking the tilt bracket lock of the outboard, causing a laceration to the top of the subject’s right hand and pain and soreness to his neck area. The registration numbers of the vessel and name of the operator that caused the wake are unknown. inattention is a cause.


BARDID: LA-2013-0007
Date: 2013-01-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway (Port Al
NearestCityTown: Pierre Part
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/30/13 at approximately 2:40 p.m. I, Sgt., was notified of a boating incident which had occurred in the ICW ( Port Allen  Rt.) near the Belle River Public Landing in St. Martin Parish. Upon my arrival I noticed vessel on the west shore of the ICW.  After speaking with his wife, I learned that Operator was attempting to trailer his vessel.  When Operator’s wife did not feel the boat hit the trailer she exited their truck and noticed Operator in the water yelling call 911.  She then noticed Operator go under and never come up again.  The vessel was located across the ICW in forward gear by a first responder. No alcohol or drugs are suspected in this incident.  Also Operator was not wearing his PFD or his engine cut off switch at the time of the incident.  Also there were no PFDs  in his vessel at the time of the incident.  Operator was recovered on 2/21/13 at approximately 2:20 pm. Operator's official cause of death is to be determined pending a coroner report.


BARDID: LA-2013-0009
Date: 2013-02-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cocodrie Bayou
NearestCityTown: Vidalia
County: Concorida
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On February 7, 2013, Operator had been baiting trot lines in Cocodrie Bayou Chute where it dumps into Red River.  He did not return home as usual later that day.  LDWF Agents began a search for him until dark.  The next day February 8th the search resumed. LDWF Agents recovered Operators Body near the landing at approximately 9:45 am.  His body was taken by Youngs Funeral home to Ferriday, LA where Concordia Parish Coroner Daryl Price took a blood sample for toxicology testing.  The blood was taken to Louisiana Crime Lab in Alexandria.  The results showed Operator had a BAC of .08g%.  Coroner stated that the probable cause of death was a massive heart attack.  Coroner also stated that there were no signs of drowning or asphyxiation.


BARDID: LA-2013-0010
Date: 2013-01-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Catahoula Lake
NearestCityTown: Jena
County: Lasalle
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday January 14, 2013 at approximately 7:30am, two people were duck hunting in a pirogue on Catahoula Lake.  While they paddled along the tree line on the edge of the lake, rough water conditions caused a large wave to capsize their pirogue.  They swam to a nearby tree, hanging on to its limbs as they floated in the lake.  At approximately 8:00 am another duck hunter found the hunters and pulled them into his boat.  Good sam used his cell phone to call for help and transported them to an awaiting ambulance on Hwy 28.  operator refused medical assistance but occupant was transported by ambulance and treated at Rapides Medical Center in Alexandria, LA


BARDID: LA-2013-0011
Date: 2013-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: bogue chitto river
NearestCityTown: bush
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
operator was operating vessel, MI-7445-BN in “Old River” off of Bogue Chitto River near Bush, La. The vessel was a 14’ Weldcraft powered by a 25 HP Yamaha hand tiller outboard. Both subjects were ejected from the vessel. Upon interviewing Passenger, he stated that they were in a hurry to bait lines before dark. He said they were traveling pretty fast and hit a submerged object, which caused the tiller to be jerked from Operator’s grip. The vessel then struck a large tree head on, ejecting both occupants. Operator sustained injuries to his lower right leg. Passenger sustained minor injuries to his head and facial area. Operator was transported via Acadian to University Hospital New Orleans. Passenger refused medical treatment. There were no PFD’s present at the scene of the incident, nor were there any in the vessel. The emergency cut-off lanyard was attached to the engine and the end that is to be attached to the operator was clipped to the carry handle on the outboard engine. Alcohol nor drugs are suspected to be a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0014
Date: 2013-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ramah I-10 Canal
NearestCityTown: Grosse Tete
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On March 29, 2013 at approximately 12 noon, operator was operating his vessel LA 5977 FM in the Ramah I-10 work canal when it caught on fire. operator advised me that the outboard motor made a loud noise.  When he looked back the motor was on fire.  operator was able to drive the vessel onto the bank next to the Ramah boat landing.  operator tried to put the fire out with his B-1 fire extinguisher but was unable to.  The vessel burned to the water line.


BARDID: LA-2013-0016
Date: 2013-03-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway/Atchafal
NearestCityTown: Berwick
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
MachineryFailure: Exhaust
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On March 20, 2013, LDWF Enforcement Agent was notified of a boating incident that had occurred on 3/19/13 at approximately 11:30 p.m near Berwick in the Intercoastal Waterway /Atchafalaya Riiver.  The operator advised that he was travelling west headed home to Texas with this vessel he had just purchased.  He advised that he heard the port engine suddenly change.  He saw fire and used an extinguisher, minimizing damage to the vessel. However, in the process he had inhaled smoke from the fire and was taken to Teche Regional Hospial where he was treated and released.  No drugs or alcohol are suspected in this incident.  Operator had just paid marine surveyor to check the vessel before purchasing it.  It is believed to have been a fuel related due to the fact that the smoke was black; had it been an electrical fire the smoke would have been white. Also Operator had the local Fire Marshal to come in to determine the cause but they were not able to do so.  They were however able to locate a hotspot in the aft of the bilge compartment. 
 
After further investigation, it was determined that the exhaust had come loose from the manifold, which caused the hot exhaust to blow directly onto a bundle of wires.  This caused the wiring to catch fire.


BARDID: LA-2013-0018
Date: 2013-04-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Vidalia
County: Concordia
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 4-20-2013 Sr. Agent received a call from dispatch to a possible boating accident that had occurred on 4-19-2013 at the Old River Control Structure.  Sr. Agent was given a phone number to contact the vessel's operator.  Agent then contacted Operator1 and met him at the Old River Control Structure.  Operator1 stated that he and his passenger were maneuvering along the edge of the structure heading from the south end of the structure back to the north end.  While travelling back to the north side of the structure his motor died and the turbulent water currents pushed the vessel against a concrete column and capsized it, ejecting both.  They were not wearing PFD's and had no PFD's in the vessel.  They were able to hold onto a pipe attached to the concrete column until the structure was able to be closed and they were retrieved from the water by nearby boaters.  The strong current tore the vessel into against the wall of the structure. operator was cited for Careless Operation, Fail to comply with PFD Requirements, Fail to comply with PFD requirements class A tiller and Fail to comply with boating education requirements.
Results of the investigation determined that the following factors contributed to the accident:
1. Careless/Reckless Operation 
2. Fault of Equipment
3. Hazardous Waters


BARDID: LA-2013-0019
Date: 2013-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend Resevoir
NearestCityTown: Many
County: Sabine
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 3-24-2013, Toledo Lake was having large waves caused by high winds. Operator was visiting at a camp near San Miguel Bay. His vessel was tied to a boat dock under a boat lift. When he went out to check on his vessel, he saw that it was taking on water. He climbed down into the vessel to recover some items and turn on the bilge pump. While standing in the vessel, waves caused it to overturn, throwing Operator out, pinching his hand between the piling and the gunwale of the vessel as well as hitting his face causing lacerations around his left eye. When he was able to get out of the water, he found that his right hand was severely injured and was transported to Sabine Medical Center (SMC). At SMC, it was determined that his index finger had an open fracture and the middle finger had ligament damage. He was transferred to Lake Charles for surgery that evening due to the severity of the injuries. During the night, the vessel broke loose from the dock and was pushed by the wind closer to the shore line. The owner of the camp recovered the vessel on 3-25-2013 and transported it to Lake Charles where it was taken to a mechanic for an estimate on the damage.  The investigation determined that the following factors contributed to the incident:
1. Weather
2. Force of Wake/wave 
3. Standing/Sitting


BARDID: LA-2013-0020
Date: 2013-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: NEW ORLEANS
County: ORLEANS
WaterConditions: Very Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
After interviewing the operator and passenger, I, Senior Agt., conclude the sequence of events leading up to the boat accident are as follows. 
The vessel, a 14-foot Pearson Rhodes sailboat(LA 8490-BC), was travelling West, under motor power parallel to the lakefront of Lake Pontchartrain in Orleans Parish. At approximately 2030 hrs, as the vessel neared the Point and New Orleans Municipal Marina at West end, the vessel's motor killed. Operator1 set the throttle in neutral in order to re-start the motor. The motor would not re-start. Operator1 and occupant donned Type 1 PFD's before attempting to let out a sail in order to turn the vessel around and steer the vessel away from the seawall. At that time, there was a storm front passing with a strong North wind blowing at approximately 15-25 mph. USCG and good Samaritans assisted in hooking the vessel's winch onto and object of the lakefront; The winch was ripped off the bow. The occupants got in the water in effort to swim ashore. The wind blew the vessel into the concrete seawall. The wave action of approximately 6+foot seas, caused the vessel to repeatedly collide with the concrete wall. The vessel sustained a hole in the fiberglass hull causing the vessel to take on water quickly. The occupants were then assisted out of the water by the USCG and good Samaritans. The vessel sank at that location. St the time of the written report, the vessel remained submerged in the water, floating bow up.


BARDID: LA-2013-0021
Date: 2013-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: NEW ORLEANS
County: ORLEANS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/13/2013 at approximately 7:20 am, two subjects were on board a vessel, LA 3796 GA, on Lake Pontchartrain in Orleans Parish when the vessels motor was caught on a crab trap cork.  The subjects were trying to get the rope out of the motor and dropped the anchor out because of being pushed toward the shoreline, which is rocks, but the waves and wind did not allow the anchor to hold before the vessel rested against the rocks.  The vessel sustained damage to the starboard side and bottom of the hull.  The subjects were able to get the motor started and motor away with no injuries. Both subjects had pfd's.


BARDID: LA-2013-0022
Date: 2013-04-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:24:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKESHORE ESTATES CANAL
NearestCityTown: SLIDELL
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/23/2013 a single vessel incident involving one fatality occurred on the Lakeshore Estates Canal. At approximately 9:03pm, an overdue boater was reported to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office, last seen in the Lakeshore Estates Canal. At approximately 11:00pm deputy’s located vessel 1 (14’ 2009 Alumacraft LA-8533-FW powered by a 5 HP Mercury tiller steer O/B motor) on the west bank of the canal at approximately N30 12.062 W089 45.861, ignition on and motor running, kill switch not used and throttle position forward. On 4/24/2013 at approximately 12:24am, Operator’s body was recovered by deputies from the canal near N30 12.046 W089 45.850 approximately 50 feet from where vessel one was located. It was observed that Operator was not wearing a PFD nor was one located in vessel one or near the scene. Operator was the only P.O.B. Preliminary autopsy results from the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s office cite cause of death to be drowning and that the victim was fully conscious when he entered the water. The autopsy, report along with toxicology results are pending.


BARDID: LA-2013-0023
Date: 2013-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Williams Canal
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 13, 2013 at approximately 2:30pm operator, Operator and passenger were travelling east in the Williams Canal.  As operator  neared a bend in the canal, passenger advised Operator of the hard turn and pylons to go around.  As they approached the pylons, Operator lost control of the vessel and collided into a cypress tree.  Neither of the occupants had been drinking or under the influence of a stupifying substance.  PFD's were in the boat and fitted properly.  The vessel was equipped with remote steering.  Collective and investigative evidence indicates that Operator was driving too fast for the conditions and was unable to maintain control of the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2013-0024
Date: 2013-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LACASSINE POOL - LACASSINE NWR
NearestCityTown: HAYES
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fishing in his vessel when a storm approached.  Subject and his passenger took off, on step, heading to a bridge for cover.  Passenger stated that he heard a loud lightning strike noise, and the motor died.  He looked at the operator, and he was slumped over with his head in the water.  Passenger pulled subject back into vessel, and began CPR.    He called 911, but they could not determine his exact location.  Passenger then started the motor, and drove to the bridge where several other subjects were waiting for the storm to pass.  Passenger yelled for help and one of the subjects got into the vessel with him and assisted with CPR.  They proceeded to launch where Acadian Ambulance was waiting.  Operator was transported to Jennings American Legion Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.  Operator was breathing on his own, but was not conscious.  Operator was transported to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital on 5/11/2013.  Operator suffered burns to his head, chest and thigh.  Operator was pronounced dead at 12:00 P.M. on 5/11/2013.  Cause of death listed as electrocution from lightning strike.  Operator's vessel was a 15' Weldcraft, with a 20 HP Tohatsu tiller handle outboard.  Passenger stated that Operator was wearing his ignition safety switch.  There were two, type III, PFD's onboard, but were not being worn.  Alcohol or drugs were not a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0025
Date: 2013-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya Basin ICW (Port Al
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/2/13 at approximately 1900 hrs I, Sgt. was notified of a boat incident which had occurred in the ICW, St. Martin Parish, in front of Doiron"s Landing. Upon my arrival the operator was sitting in a vessel in shock. At the time Operator advised that he could not remember anything that happened. After speaking to several witnesses they advised that Operator was test running his race boat when a tug boat had passed in the area.  When Operator was passing in front of the landing his vessel hit a wave, jumped up and when it landed on the next wave the vessel became air born and flipped end over end, at which time it ejected Operator from the vessel.  The vessel then landed on the water in an upright position and came to rest. Operator was transported to Teche Regional Hospital by Acadian Ambulance and he was wearing his PFD, kill switch and a helmet at the time of the incident.  No alcohol or drugs are suspected in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0027
Date: 2013-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Jean Lacroix
NearestCityTown: Montegut
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel , (LA2654EY) was traveling south in Bayou Jean Lacroix.  Occupants were cruising at an estimated 22-24 mph in the vessel approximately 90 ft from the bank when the vessel collided with a submerged pipe.  The pipe speared through the hull of the boat bringing it to an immediate stop.  Both occupants were thrown from the vessel.  Occupant struck his head on what was believed to be the trolling motor mount as he was flying from the vessel.   Both occupants swam to the bank and waited for help.  Operator was able to retrieve a dry box from the boat which contained his cellphone and was able to call for help. Both occupants were wearing their PFDs and Operator had the killswitch attached to his person.  The boat, impaled by the pipe began to take on water and partially sunk.  The pipe and current held the vessel upright in position. Occupant was transported to Chabert Medical Center due to head injury sustained while being thrown from the vessel.  He had two lacerations on his head. One of the cuts required 9 staples, and the other required 4 staples to close.  No further injury was detected by doctors. the vessel was recovered by Operator and some of his friends and brought to his residence where he was met by Wildlife and Fisheries agents and boat was inspected. The vessel had a 10"x16" puncture  hole in the floor from the pipe.  Operator estimated the pipe to be approximately 6" in diameter.  The vessel was a 14 ftAlweld flat with a 27hp Kohler Prodrive tiller steer engine.  No alcohol or drugs were involved.  No citations issued.


BARDID: LA-2013-0028
Date: 2013-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lapeyrouse Canal
NearestCityTown: Chauvin
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 15 ft. fiberglass Sabre, LA5232BF, was travelling southbound in Lapeyrouse Canal.  The vessel was on plane and being operated by the owner. As the vessel was in forward gear, Operator began reaching behind the operator's station with his left hand, leaving his right on the steering wheel.  As he reached around to his left rear, he pulled the steering wheel also to the left causing the vessel to veer left.  Te vessel then struck the eastern bank of the canal which had been lined with rocks to prevent erosion.  The vessel road up the rock bank then capsized back into the water ejecting both Operator and his passenger, neither of whom were wearing a PFD at the time.  Operator and occupant were both able to rescue themselves and swam to the bank.  Approximately 10 minute after the collision both were picked up by a passing boater and taken to shore.  Alcohol and drugs are not considered a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0030
Date: 2013-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Pineville
County: Rapides - 40
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3, 2013 at approximately 8:40 pm, Senior Agent received a complaint of a boat accident in Red River.  Upon arrival to Red River, contact was made with the operator and owner of the vessel.  Operator1 informed us that he was working on his boat engine while the boat was underway. He stated that the engine was idling rough, so he was pouring gas into the carburator, at which time the engine surged throwing him against the side of the boat.  He stated that when he got up he realized the boat was heading toward the bridge pilings.  He stated that he could not get to the steering wheel in time, so he decided to jump from the moving vessel to avoid a collision in the boat.  Operator1 was wearing a type III personal floatation device when he jumped out the vessel.  He stated that the boat struck the bridge piling than bounced off and ran up on the bank on the Pineville side.  
   We spoke with a witness who informed us that he was an employee of DOTD and will filling out paperwork for a bridge opening for north bound vessel when he witnessed the accident.  He stated he witnessed the boater traveling up and down the river for approximately ten minutes.  He stated the operator was maneuvering the vessel in circles and S turns, which he said caught his attention.  He also stated the boat was passing close to the bridge pilings during these maneuvers.  He informed us that the boat was traveling from the Alexandria side of the river toward the Pineville side, straight toward the bridge pilings, when he saw the operator jump from the vessel and the boat hit the piling.  He stated that the boat veered after impact toward the bank and came to rest on the bank with motor running wide open.  
  We returned to the river the next morning, along with Sgt. and met with the operator, Operator1.  With Operator1's consent, we towed the boat from the river to the Alexandria landing.  Operator1 assisted in trailering the boat at which time we took custody of the boat for our investigation.  We advised Operator1 that we would meet with him Friday morning at our Region Office.  We stored the boat at our Woodworth facility behind a locked gate. 
    Due to the action of Operator1, primarily leaving the vessel's controls unattended, while the vessel was underway, which resulted in the vessel colliding with the concrete pilings of the bridge.  Operator1 was cited under RS 34:851.5 Reckless Operation of a Watercraft, RS 34:851.20A No Boat Registration Certification in Possession, RS 34:851.20 C Failure to Change Ownership and RS 34:851.20 F Expired Boat Registration Certification.


BARDID: LA-2013-0040
Date: 2013-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: MADISONVILLE
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On, June 17, 2013 I (SR. Agent, LDWF employee) was notified of a boating incident that occurred on the Tchefuncte River at 9am. I responded by land to the town of Madisonville, La. Lakefront. I arrived at 9:30 am, and observed a partially swamped party barge (LA 6634 EZ) located approximately on the extended centerline of the river. The operator, and his only passenger, were on land waiting for salvage operation to begin.
As I was beginning this report a Boat US recovery vessel arrived and eventually brought the incident boat to shore and got it loaded on the trailer. I observed and photographed the damage to the boat. The most serious damage was to the port pontoon. The pontoon was crushed consistent with a force applied to the bottom. The pontoon had crush damage that deformed its shape, which apparently caused the welded on cap at the end of the structure to completely separate from the pontoon. I observed the weld had failed around the entire circumference. This flooded the aft portion of the port pontoon causing the vessel to partly submerge. Other damage was the propeller which was completely destroyed by the operator’s efforts to get the vessel off the ground. 
The mouth of the river is marked with day marks that direct boats exiting the mouth of the river to turn to starboard and follow the lake shore a considerable distance before turning port in a clear channel. Traveling straight out of the river will take a boat into a shallow area with stumps, sandbars and water depths of 1-2 feet. This is where operator attempted to operate his boat.
I photographed the boat, took witness statements from all occupants, informed operator of the legal requirement to make a written report of the incident, gave him a Boat Operators Incident report form, and released him and the boat.


BARDID: LA-2013-0041
Date: 2013-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermillion River
NearestCityTown: Abbeville
County: Vermillion - 57
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
One subject was learning how to wakeboard, while being towed with a line from a vessel in the Vermilion River.  This vessel LA 6740 EF is a 19ft Mastercraft ski boat with remote steering and has an inboard engine.  Victim was wearing a PFD while engaging in this watersport.  While trying to stand-up correctly on the wakeboard, Victim lost control of the wakeboard and fell into the water, then let go the tow line after falling.  After his fall, Victim felt a sharp pain in his left leg and notified the occupants of the tow vessel.  Victim's pain continued and he sought medical attention, and he was brought to the hospital.  Victim suffered a broken femur to his left leg as a result of the incident.  There is no evidence to suggest that Victim's fall was due to actions by the vessel operator.  Alcohol or drugs were not suspected as a cause of this skier mishap incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0042
Date: 2013-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: West Monroe
County: Ouachita
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/18/2013 at approximately 10:30am, I Sr. Agent was off duty and received a phone call from Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office regarding a boat accident on the Ouachita River.  I called 10-8 and notified Lt. of the possible accident location around 2442 Bayou Darbonne Drive West Monroe, LA.  At approximately 10:40am, I arrived at the location, just north of the mouth of Darbonne Bayou on the Ouachita River.  OSPO Deputies were already on the scene and dispatched Med Flight to airlift one victim to LSU-Shreveport Medical Center.   

Operator2, operator and only occupant of Vessel #2, sustained severe head trauma and punctured lungs.  Operator2 was unconscious and not able to give a statement.  Operator1 and wife occupied Vessel #1 and were fishing in the Ronald McDonald Bass Tournament on this day.  Per Operator1’s statement, he was idling out the mouth of Darbonne Bayou into the main river and observed Operator2’s vessel on the west bank of the river which appeared stationary.  He throttled his bass boat up and just as the bow of his vessel broke plane his vessel (LA 1811-FG) made contact with the starboard side of Operator2’s vessel (LA 5173-FV) at the drivers console.    Operator1 was read his Miranda Rights and said he did understand.  Operator1 and his wife were wearing their PFD’s.  His bass boat is equipped with Cable Steering.  Operator2’s Ski boat is equipped with Hydraulic Steering.  I administered the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test of Operator2 and he showed no clues.  He said he consumed no alcoholic beverages on this day.  Also, Operator1 voluntarily agreed to give a breathe sample on the Intoxilyzer which yielded .000g%.  

Witness1 witnessed the crash from his house and said that Operator2 never did see the impacting vessel and was NOT wearing his PFD.  Operator2’s condition is severe and he is currently in the Intensive Care Unit at the time of this report.  Both vessels involved were seized and are being held at the Region 2 Office until further notice.  Upon the arrival at the Office, Operator2’s vessel was inventoried and Senior Agents found a small black leather bag under the passenger console containing suspected Marijuana and a glass pipe.  The suspected Marijuana was seized and will be held at the Northeast Louisiana Criminalistic Lab for testing.  
 the operator of vessel 2 was hit by the hull of vessel 1 as it passed over the top of his vessel.  The operator was not struck by the prop of vessel 1, only his vessel.


BARDID: LA-2013-0044
Date: 2013-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were traveling in the marked channel on Lake Darbonne just above the Hwy 33 bridge when the lower unit struck an underwater object.  Lower unit was broken and subjects had to be towed in to shore.


BARDID: LA-2013-0045
Date: 2013-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU TREPAGNIER
NearestCityTown: NORCO
County: ST CHARLES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of Vessel 1 was traveling on plane with 2 passengers in a narrow bayou when the lower portion of a long tail mud motor struck a submerged object in the water while in a port turn.  At this time, the tiller handle of the motor came free from the operator's hand, which had the engine shut-off lanyard attached.  When the operator attempted to pull his arm away from the motor, the engine shut-off lanyard came off of his wrist.  Due to the flat bottom of the vessel and the loss of control of the motor, which was still running Vessel 1 began sliding to starboard as it moved forward toward the bank.  The starboard side of Vessel 1 struck a tree on the bank of the bayou, causing the operator and one passenger to be ejected over the starboard side.  The passenger struck a tree and sustained severe internal head injury, before rolling into the water.  The other passenger, a juvenile, sustained a small cut to her right index finger and was not ejected from the vessel.  The operator sustained minor abrasions to his right forearm and his right back. The operator retrieved the ejected passenger from the water and performed life saving techniques. The subjects re-entered the vessel and returned to the launch where EMS, Fire, and Police were waiting.  The injured passenger was later transported to the hospital for treatment. The juvenile passenger and the operator did not receive any medical treatment.
 
Alcohol was not believed to be involved. PFDs were not worn the operator or the injured passenger.  The juvenile was wearing a PFD which was not properly sized.  The engine cut-off lanyard was attached, however it became unattached during the incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0046
Date: 2013-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: NATALBANY RIVER
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: Tangipahoa - 53
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Reportedly on June 9, 2013 operator was operating his vessel (TN-1086-EA) in an upstream direction along the Natalbany River at a speed of approximately 10mph pulling a skiing tube with 5-passengers on board the vessel as well as 2-juvenile occupants on the tube. Operator alleges when he went to execute a left turn the vessels’ steering did not respond to manipulation to a left rotation and as a result the vessel impacted a large tree along the shoreline. 
As a result of the crash one of the rear seated passengers was ejected forward just off the portside bow. Also, of the 5 onboard passengers 4 were injured as follows: 1-minor, 2-moderate, 1-major. In addition to the ejection and injuries the vessel sustained heavy structural damage to the portside section of the bow as well as the keel. 
The vessel was found to be equipped with all necessary/required safety equipment, including PFD’s. The juvenile passengers in this incident were wearing properly fitted PFD’s. 
Upon conclusion of this investigation, investigators concluded that there were 2 main factors which led to this incident: The operators distractions aboard the vessel led him to be inattentive of his surrounding terrain and the pending turn. 2) His level of impairment due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages throughout the day prior to the operation of his vessel contributed greatly to cause 1. 
Subsequently Operator was charged and booked into Tangipahoa Parish Jail on the following: 
14:98J- Operate a vessel while intoxicated (1st off.)/child endangerment 
14:99-Reckless operation of a vessel 
14:39.2-Vehicular Negligent injury (2-counts)


BARDID: LA-2013-0047
Date: 2013-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Lake
NearestCityTown: Converse
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
During the interviews, we determined that there was only one PWC involved and the two occupants were ejected from it after nosing into their own wake. The operator, had a laceration to the back of his head, presumably from his passenger striking him with his forehead causing a laceration over his right eye and possible concussions for both. Our interviews with the occupants and other witnesses helped determine that there was no alcoholic beverage consumption or drug use to contribute to the incident. Operator being born after Jan. 1, 1984 is required to have Boating Safety Education completed before operating any vessel over 10 Hp in the state and could not provide any verification of completion of the course. While photographing the PWC, it was discovered that the registration had expired 6-20-2013. After concluding our interviews and collecting the witness statements, we issued Operator a citation for Careless Operation for causing injury to himself and passenger while creating multiple wakes for jumping during the operation of the PWC, a written warning for Failing to comply with Boater's Education Requirements for not having completed the course as required and a verbal warning for the expired registration on the vessel since they were trying it out before purchasing it. Occupant was unable to give a statement while at the hospital due to his injuries. I was able to meet with occupant at his home on 7-11-2013 to get a written statement from him about the incident. He also verified verbally that there was no alcoholic beverage consumption or drug use to contribute to the incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0048
Date: 2013-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choupique Bayou
NearestCityTown: Carlyss
County: Calcasieu - 10
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating LA 5594 FA in Choupique Bayou.  This vessel is a 14'0" aluminum with a tiller handle, 25 HP, outboard.  Operator was heading downstream, just west of the cement bridge at Highway 27.  Witnesses observed Operator idling by the camps.  Witnesses observed Operator take off, come up on step, and traveling at a high rate of speed.  While Operator was traveling at this speed, witnesses observed a crab basket fly up from the bow area of Operator's vessel.  Operator began attempting to grab the basket, while still on step.  Operator lost control of his vessel, and ran into the center piling of the bridge.  The impact threw Operator forward toward the bow of the vessel, knocking him unconscious.  The vessel then began going in circles, with the engine still running.  For this to have occurred, Operator could not have been wearing his ignition safety switch.  The vessel continued to circle.  Operator regained consciousness, and was able to turn off the motor.  Witnesses then assisted Operator to shore and called 911.  Acadian Ambulance transported Operator to St. Patricks Hospital in Lake Charles.  Operator suffered a broken right collarbone, fractured pelvis, and two fractured vertebrae in his lower back.  Witnesses stated that Operator had on a Type III PFD.  There were no other PFD's in the vessel..  There was no evidence of alcohol or drugs within the vessel.  Blood was drawn from Operator to determine if intoxicants were present.  Operator was charged with the following: 
34:851.24 - Fail to comply with tiller outboard engine cutoff and 34:51.4 - Careless Operation.    Citation


BARDID: LA-2013-0049
Date: 2013-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:22:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: COLLISION WITH commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating Vessel 1, a Jet Ski LA 8641 FN, when she collided with a mooring line that was securing tug boats attached to barges to the bank(Vessel 2). Vessels 2 were later identified as owned and operated by Kirby Inland Marine LP based out of Houston, TX. The two tug boats were identified as the Chesleye and John 3:16. 
Witnesses told agents that Operator and Friend were driving their jet skis in the Intracoastal Waterway when Operator attempted to pass the barge on the port side- in between the vessel and the bank-while Friend passed on the starboard side. When Friend realized that Operator did not completely pass the barge and went back to look for her, he discovered her floating in the water. It appeared that while Operator attempted to pass Vessel 2, she struck the rope which was securing Vessel 2 to the bank and was ejected from her Vessel. Friend transported her to the nearest boat launch where he met good sam who assisted in rendering first aid and called 911. Operator suffered massive abdominal trauma and resulting infections. On 08/08/2013 Sr. Agent received the results from LSP Crime Lab indicating Operator was over the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the incident.  Operator's BAC was 0.14%. Agt met with Operator at her residence to inform her of the test results and issued her citations for DWI and Careless Operation.


BARDID: LA-2013-0050
Date: 2013-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saline Bayou
NearestCityTown: Deville
County: Rapides - 40
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2013, Sgt. were informed of a boating accident on Saline Bayou in Rapides Parish that supposedly took place on May 9, 2013.  We were advised the accident involved two vessels. We made contact with both operators, who confirmed they had been in an accident on that date.  They informed us there were no injuries and no one received medical attention.  Operator2 told us he and his daughter were southbound on Saline Bayou when he observed a Triton boat with two occupants turn in front of them.  Operator1 advised he and his son were northbound on the bayou and turned into the curve putting his vessel on Operator2's side of the channel.  Due to the excessive speed and careless operation of Operator1's vessel in a narrow portion of the channel a collision occurred.  Both vessels were equipped with personal floatation devices and all occupants were wearing them at the time of the accident.  Alcohol/drugs were not contributing factors and both vessel operators submitted written voluntary statements.  Both operators failed to report the boat accident within the required five day time period. Operator2 was cited for failure to change ownership of registration, operate unregistered motorboat, and failure to file official boat accident report.  Operator1 was cited for careless operation and failure to file official boat accident report.  Photographs were taken of both vessels and a baseline offset diagram was conducted.


BARDID: LA-2013-0051
Date: 2013-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:51:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: State Canal
NearestCityTown: Melville
County: St Landry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, Operator was operating a fifteen foot vessel that was being powered by a 40 hp Yamaha tiller steer motor.  Operator was travelling south in the State Canal with three passengers, when he approached a bridge on La Hwy 10.  Operator was passing under the bridge when his motor struck an object under the surface of the water, causing the motor to kick up.  Operator did not have the cowling on the motor and when the motor kicked up, he was struck in the arm by the motor.  Operator received a large laceration to the top of his left forearm from the fly wheel of the motor.  Operator was later taken to Our Lady of Lourdes in Lafayette for medical treatment.  PFD's were aboard the vessel but not in use.  Alcohol and Narcotics use is not suspected.


BARDID: LA-2013-0054
Date: 2013-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: iNTRACOASTAL wATERWAY
NearestCityTown: Berwick
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
While tied to a houseboat that was being pushed, operator, noticed that the vessel was taking on water.  subjects entered the vessel that was taking on water started the engine, and began trying to get on step in an attempt to travel closer to the shore.  As the vessel began taking on more water, occupant jumped out of the vessel into the water. Operator remained with the vessel as it sank at which time an individual upon houseboat, entered his vessel and grabbed Occupant placing him back upon the houseboat.  EMS services responded to the landing where houseboat individual had transported Occupant, and Operator into shore.  EMS then transported Occupant to Teche Regional Medical Center where he was later released.  agents conducted SFST's  upon the subject.  St. Mary Sheriff Deputy transported Operator to Berwick Police Department where  Operator was read his rights related to chemical test.  Operator did submit a proper breath sample which shown his B.AC. to 09g%.. Operator was then booked into jail.  Both subjects were wearing PFD's at the time of incident.  Vessel was equipped with hand tiller outboard.     
During investigation agents were unable to determine the reason the vessel began taking on water.  The subjects on board the vessel, and houseboat , state that they just happened to look up and see water in the vessel. Agents believe that the plug may have been removed from the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2013-0055
Date: 2013-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Doctor's Bayou
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
on 6/7/13 approximately 2030 hrs., S.A. were notified of a boat incident which had occurred in St. Mary Parish.  We were advised that one of the subjects had been admitted to Teche Regional Hospital in Morgan City.  After speaking with the operator and one of the passengers, it was learned that earlier in the day around 1600 hrs the subjects were looking for a place to frog when they turned into a canal that was inundated with grass and water hyacinths. The operator continued on plane to cross the hyacinths when the vessel hit a floating barricade.  The barricade punctured the bottom of the vessel and caused it to come to an immediate stop.  This caused passenger to hit the bow area with his head.  passenger suffered lacerations to the head and a minor concussion.  the subjects involved were not wearing PFD's at the time of the incident, but the operator advised he was wearing his engine cut off switch.  No alcohol or drugs appear to be a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0058
Date: 2013-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya Basin Pipeline Can
NearestCityTown: Pierre Part
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/15/13 at 8:30 am, operator and passenger, were fishing crawfish traps in a pipeline canal in the Atchafalaya Basin located in St. Martin parish.  the vessel used is a 2011 19foot Charles Skiff, LA1396FY.  Upon the completion of checking he last crawfish trap, Operator began to accelerate his 35hp Gator-Tail hand tiller operated motor to leave the pipeline canal. Once the vessel was cruising, the vessel struck a large unmarked submerged pipe sitting several inches below the surface of the water.  Upon striking the submerged pipe, the vessel came to an abrupt stop causing the operator and the passenger to be thrown forward into the crawfish grading table mounted in the vessel.  After making contact with the crawfish grading table, the operator fell to the floor of the vessel and the passenger was ejected from the vessel into the water.  Neither Operator nor his passenger was wearing a PFD, however, Operator was wearing the required engine cutoff lanyard.  Neither Operator nor Occupant were able to call for help using their cellular phones because they were both damaged.  The men had to lift the boat off the pipe in order to begin navigating to the boat launch.   Once the men made it to the launch they went to Teche Regional Medical Center located in Morgan City, where they were treated for their injuries.  Operator suffered a fracture to his cheek , several broken teeth, and bruising on his chest. Occupant suffered a laceration to his chin requiring stitches.  Upon investigation, Agents determined neither drugs or alcohol were involved. Operator's vessel suffered several dents on the underside, along with some gouges from going over the bolts on the pipe, a hole where one of the bolts punctured the bottom, and the crawfish grading table was bent and broken from the impact of the men hitting it.  Other equipment damaged included a small generator, a radio, and two blowers.


BARDID: LA-2013-0059
Date: 2013-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:25:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Barge Canal
NearestCityTown: Gibson
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was travelling northeast in the Barge Canal operated by Operator.  The vessel was  apparently travelling at a high rate of speed.  Operator had just rounded a "mild curve" in the canal and then appears to have lost control of the vessel.  The vessel struck the western bank and travelled approximately 50-60 ft along the bank striking several cypress trees and cypress knees. The vessel then impacted with a solid earthen bank causing the vessel to launch then land in a group trees. Operator was ejected from the vessel and was dead at the scene. Operator was wearing a USCG approved PFD as well as the vessel's ignition cut off lanyard.  The vessel  a 2006 20ft. bullet bass boat was equipped with a 300 hp Mercury o/b with a remote steering system.  Neither drugs nor alcohol seems to be a factor n this crash.  ox screen was taken at the Terrebonne Parish Coroner's office and sent for testing.


BARDID: LA-2013-0060
Date: 2013-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: tchefuncte river
NearestCityTown: covington
County: st tammany
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 13, 2013 at approximately 4:00pm. A single vessel skier mishap resulting in one injury occurred in Tchefuncte River. At the time of the incident, the vessel (vessel 1) was owned and operated by the same person.  Subject1 was the only passenger on board and was acting as the observer. Subject2 was being towed behind vessel 1 by a 70’ rope attached to vessel 1 providing 53’ rope, on a Hyperlite Shaun Murray 138, 32’ wakeboard. Subject2, who was wakeboarding for the first time, fractured his right femur while attempting to get up on the wake board. Subject2 was wearing an adult type III PFD during the incident. Alcohol and drug use is not suspected. It was determined that operator did not take the required boating education class and he was cited at the scene.


BARDID: LA-2013-0062
Date: 2013-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:02:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Liner's Ditch
NearestCityTown: Houma
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the vessel was traveling east along Liner's Ditch in a Blazer Bay center console 20' vessel with a 200 HP Yamaha engine, LA6812FZ, at approximately 12:02 AM. The vessel contained two passengers who was seated behind the center console and next to the driver, and another who was seated directly in front of the center console.  Operator had just picked up Occupant1 from a nearby camp and was in the process of coming onto plane to return, through Lake Decade, to a camp at Falgout Marina. While coming onto plane the vessel struck a cypress tree that was located on the right side of the waterway.  Impact was on the starboard  bow of the vessel.  The impact caused the vessel to turn very sharply to port, which ejected both operator and Occupant1.  Operator suffered minor injuries, while, it is believed that Occupant1 came into contact with a fixed object  after his ejection from the vessel and sustained significant head injuries. Occupant1 was retrieved from the water, given CPR. revived and transported to Falgout Marina for AirMed Evac.  Occupant1 is currently at Thibodaux Medical Center in ICU and is considered to be in stable condition.  Occupant2 remained in the vessel with minor injuries and the vessel lcame to rest in the marsh along side the waterway.  It is not believed that drug or alcohol were factors in the accident.  The vessel had remote hydrolic steering. PFDs were on board the vessel but were not actively in use.  Reckless operation, and no proper lookout are considered to be the major factors.


BARDID: LA-2013-0063
Date: 2013-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Little Caillou
NearestCityTown: Chauvin
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, LA3393EZ, a 22' Champion bay boat was leaving the boat launch after being launched by the owner of the vessel.  Vessel 1 was attempting to get on plane when it struck 3 vessels which were docked approximately 25 yards south of the boat launch.  Operator then left the  scene of the accident without attempting to notify the impacted vessels owners.  Witnesses did observe the crash and were able to observe the vessel motor to a nearby fishing camp.  That witness contacted authorities.  LDWF was not notified of the crash until 10:00 AM the following morning so testing for alcohol was unable to be performed.  Vessel 1 was equipped with a hydraulic remote steering system which was inspected and found to be working properly.  The vessel did have USCG approved PFDs on board, but were not worn.


BARDID: LA-2013-0064
Date: 2013-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Boeuf
NearestCityTown: Amelia
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1100 hrs. on 7/5/13 while retrieving an anchor, a passenger fell off the front of vessel while vessel was underway.  Vessel traveled over subject in water. Propeller struck passenger who was in the water.  Injured person was transported to Teche Regional medical Center. The passenger was treated for lacerations caused the propeller, and possible broken ribs.  Due to time elapsed from time of incident until time reported agents were unable to determine if alcohol was a factor. The vessel did possess sufficient PFDs.  the subject who was injured had partially donned a PFD prior to falling overboard. The vessel was equipped with remote steering.


BARDID: LA-2013-0065
Date: 2013-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Bruin
NearestCityTown: St. Joseph
County: Tensas
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 23, 2013 at approximately 4:30pm, Operator was operating Vessel# LA 1450 EY on Lake Bruin in Tensas Parish. At this time, operator was preparing to tow his stepdaughter and another 12 year old girl on an inner tube. When Operator accelerated to full power, the tow rope got caught around his stepdaughter’s right leg. Operator said that he heard Stepdaughter scream, he said that he immediately placed the throttle in the neutral position. Stepdaughter was then transported to the Franklin Parish Medical Center in Winnsboro.
She was treated there for bruising to her right leg. All witnesses said that Stepdaughter and the other girl were wearing PFDs.


BARDID: LA-2013-0066
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf Of Mexico
NearestCityTown: Freshwater City
County: Vermillion - 57
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was at anchor in the Gulf Of Mexico near the mouth of Freshwater Bayou on the west side of the channel.  This vessel had two (2) occupants on board that were engaged in fishing.  Vessel #1 is a 17 ft. Cobia (LA 1122 BG) with remote steering powered by a 85 hp Evinrude.  The wind was strong and the waves were rough.  There were also several large oilfield vessels using the channel that were contributing large waves as well.  This vessel was anchored in a shallow water area.  Operator and passenger continued fishing, well aware, that the seas were rough.    At some point a large wave caused the vessel to heel to the port side and take on water (Flooding).  The keel of the vessel then began to make contact with the Gulf floor near the beach and heeled over again (Grounding).  As a result, water entered the vessel from the gunwale (Flooding).  The operator attempted to move the vessel, but the lower unit of the engine was in the mud.  The operator then cut the anchor and the vessel faced the opposite direction.  The vessel continued to heel to each side, taking on water each time, until the vessel sank (Sinking), resting on the floor of the Gulf Of Mexico.  This occurred in  approximately  three (3)  feet of water.  Subjects were wearing their PFD's when vessel began to take on water.  They abandoned the vessel and went to the shoreline a few feet away. No attempt was made by the operator to recover the vessel, which is now unrecoverable and is a total loss.  No alcohol and/or drugs were determined to be a contributing factor of this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0067
Date: 2013-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: tchefuncte river
NearestCityTown: Madisonville
County: st tammany
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29, 2013 at approx. 3:50 pm, two juvenile female subjects were riding on a tube behind a 23’ fiberglass Hydrasport (LA5234FV), with four persons on board northbound in the Tchefuncte River in the vicinity of the lowbridge canal, when the vessel made a 180 degree turn. Both tube riders leaned to the outside of the turn, causing the tube to flip and both subjects to be thrown off of the tube and into the water. As both subjects were thrown from the tube, one of the subjects riding the tube  hit her face on the back of the other subjects head, causing tuber1 to suffer facial injuries (broken nose) and a concussion. Both subjects were then taken out of the water. The injured subject (tuber1) was then taken to shore and later transported by EMS to the hospital. There was no indication of alcohol use by the operator of the vessel and alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0068
Date: 2013-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: amite river
NearestCityTown: port vincent
County: livingston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2013, at approximately 3:00 p.m., Sergeant was informed of a one vessel boating incident on the Amite River that allegedly occurred on Saturday, June 29, 2013. Sgt. then contacted me, Sergeant, and briefed me on what he had learned. Based on the information he received, on July 2, 2013, we made contact with the alleged operator of the vessel at the time of the incident. After advising Operator of his Miranda Rights (to which he stated he understood and waived), he was questioned about the incident by Sergeant and I. Following in his version of what occurred on the Amite River on that date:

At approximately 5:30 p.m. while traveling upstream in a 14’ Louisiana Traveler bateau with 20 horsepower, tiller steered Evinrude engine, the vessel struck an iron pipe (pilon?) that was approximately 3”-4” underwater where a pipeline owned by Gulf South Pipeline Company (1-800-850-0051) crosses the river. At the time, the vessel was traveling approximately 22 mph, was approximately 30’-40- from the starboard bank, and had two (2) other occupants on board; operator’s sons, aged 10 and 12.
Upon contacting and being lodged onto the pipe, subject was ejected from the vessel. His two sons remained on board, but both received injuries from being thrown around in the vessel (See “Injured page). Other boaters who were in the area came to their aid helping them back to the boat launch where the two boys were then transported to the Lake Urgent Care after hours medical clinic located on Burnside Avenue in Gonzales, La., where they were subsequently treated for their injuries and then released. Operator stated that he was not injured.
Later that day, with the help of others, the vessel was unlodged from the pipe, but immediately sank in the river due to a large hole now in it. Operator went back to the area on a later date, located the submerged vessel and began pulling it back to the launch with another vessel. Sometime during the tow, the engine came off the vessel and was lost forever in the river. Operator said that also during the tow, the tow rope became entangled in the trolling motor of the towing vessel so he cut the rope, causing the damaged vessel to sink again. As of the writing of this report, Operator states that he has been unable to locate the submerged vessel again.


BARDID: LA-2013-0069
Date: 2013-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: Sterlington
County: Morehouse - 34
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/19/2013 Agents were on boating patrol in the Ouachita River.  Agents discovered a boat, LA-7974-FS drifting caught in a tree top, on the Morehouse Parish side of the bank.  Fishing gear along with other personal items was located in the vessel but no operator or occupants were around.  The ignition switch was in the off position.  The trolling motor was in the up position, not in use.  The kill switch lanyard was still attached to the switch with the snap end hooked to a PFD, which was located directly behind the operators’ seat.  Two fishing poles were in the boat along with a small cooler with ice and drinks.  At this point, a search began for the owner/operator.  wife stated he gone fishing for a couple of hours.  Approximately thirty hours after the search began; LDWF Agents recovered the body roughly 100 yards from where the boat was located.  The Morehouse Parish Coroner’s Office retrieved the body of and the cause of his death has been determined to be fresh water drowning by the Coroner.  The conclusions of the investigation are that victim fell out of his vessel while recreational fishing. victim then made an attempt to swim back to his boat that was floating away from him down stream.  victim was unable to reach his boat, resulting in his death by drowning.


BARDID: LA-2013-0070
Date: 2013-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Lafourche
NearestCityTown: Golden Meadow
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/24/13 at 0639Hrs, Agent was notified via radio by LDWF dispatch of a boating accident on Bayou Lafourche in Golden Meadow. Agent contacted Port Fourchon Harbor Police and  they advised Agent that a subject traveling north in Bayou Lafourche had struck a piling owned by Port Fourchon Habor Ploice and was being brought to Lady of the Sea Hospital in Galliano where he was later transported to University Hospital in New Orleans. Agent arrived at the scene of the accident and learned that  operator was operating a tiller steering vessel bearing LA743EM, which had sustained significant damage to the bow starboard and to the point of impact was approximately 300 yards north of the launch site to the east of Bayou Lafourche 25 feet off of the bank.  Bayou Lafourche at that point is approximately 350 feet wide. Upon impact, Operator went airborne impaling the sign that was mounted to the piling and came to rest inside the vessel (feet on front deck torso in the bottom of the vessel.) Harbor Police Officers stated that Operator did not have his PFD on upon their arrival however there was a PFD inside the vessel. Upon investigation a spotlight nor navigation lights were found in or on the vessel.  It is still under investigation  if the subject was under any influences of intoxication at the time of the accident.  Lt. with the University Hospital Police contacted Agent to advise him that there was approximately 3-4 grams of marijuana on Operator’s person. Agent contacted Region 8 Enforcement Agents to make a visit to University Hospital to draw blood from Operator and take custody of the marijuana. The Lafourche Parish Coroner contacted Agent to notify him of Operator's injuries, multiple traumatic head injury and a broken right arm and Operator Jr. was pronounced dead at 1147 hrs on 7/24/13. Contributing factors in this accident are: Violation of Navigation Rules of the Road 16 All Vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under complete control of the operator at all times, excessive speed, and operator inattention. Results of blood tests are pending.


BARDID: LA-2013-0072
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya River
NearestCityTown: Berwick
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th 2013, at approximately 5:18 p.m. LDWF enforcement agents were notified of a boating incident that had supposedly occurred at around 3:45 p.m.  The incident supposedly occurred when the  wave of L/B "Carp" went over the bow of a 19' homemade skiff. This caused the vessel to sink in the river channel . Operator1 advised that the wave  was about 7" high   that  came over his bow.  He also advised  that he was travelling south and the L/B was travelling north. In both agents experience a Jack up barge (L/B) cannot make a wake this large. Agents spoke with the operator and passengers of the jack up barge and obtained statements. They advised that they had just left Martin fuel dock in Berwick and were south bound. They said they were spudding out because they were being put on standby waiting for another job.  They also advised that they were stationary for about an hour and a recreational vessel came by ad advised that they sunk a recreational vessel.  The captain of L/B Carp was very cooperative with agents and got underway to show how fast the vessel travelled and the wake that it caused.  Sgt. videoed this event.  this vessel never caused a wake over 1 foot in height.  Agent was in the wheel house to insure that the vessel was travelling at its maximum potential which was 6 kts with the current and 8 kts against the current.  Agents also went to Berwick traffic and watched video footage of the L/B Carp leaving Berwick travelling to its location south of channel marker 44 on the Atchafalaya River East bank.  Never was the vessel travelling north and agents never saw a 19' skiff anywhere in the footage, however there was a time when the video was zoomed  in on the L/B Carp.  At this time though the vessel was spudding out and was not underway. Operator1 may be filing false statements about the incident. No citations have been issued at this time and this matter is still under investigation. Operator1's vessel was never seen nor recovered.  No drugs or alcohol are suspected.  Operator1's passenger, 15 yr old, advised that he was wearing a life jacket.


BARDID: LA-2013-0073
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:40:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAUREPAS
NearestCityTown: MAUREPAS
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Reportedly on 6/29/13 operator Operator2 (TX2408BL) was towing vessel (LA6357FS) from Lake Maurepas into Blind River. At that time, operator Operator1 (LA6567EB) was traveling in her vessel in the same direction and struck vessel2 on the bow/port side, causing heavy structual damage to vessel2. All passengers (7) in vessel2 were treated for minor cuts and bruises, and refused any further medical attention. During the collision, operator Operator1 lost consciousness upon impact and her husband received injuries to his leg. Both were transported by Acadian Ambulance service to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. Due to suspected injuries, agents requested that the hospital withdraw a blood sample from operator1 person, and results were BAC %  .06. The passengers located in the vessel being towed, received no injuries no did the vessel receive any damage. 
All vessels were found to be equipped with all necessary/ required safety equipment, including PFD’s. PFD’s were used in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0074
Date: 2013-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Shell Pipeline
NearestCityTown: Gibson
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Agents then met with Operator who was identified as the owner and operator of the vessel, LA8472EY. Operator advised agents that at approximately 9:30 PM, he was driving his mud boat at a fast idle in the Shell pipeline with Occupant sitting on the front bow, actively frogging.  Operator stated that he was in shallow water when the vessel struck a submerged object causing him to fall from his seat onto the floor of the vessel, and causing Occupant to be ejected over the bow of the mud boat into the water.  The vessel continued its forward momentum and ran over Occupant, resulting in several lacerations on her leg from the propeller.   victim also suffered a collapsed lung.  Operator quickly retrieved Occupant from the water and transported her to the hospital. Agent then asked operator if he had consumed any alcohol that day.  Operator stated yes earlier in the day.  Agent then conducted S.F.S.Tto see if Operator was impaired. Operator showed no signs of impairment.  Agents asked Operator to submit to a breath test, which he complied.  The intoxilyzer 5000 showed that Operator  had a BAC of .005%.  This result confirmed that alcohol was not a factor in the incident.  Occupant was taken to Oshner's hospital in New Orleans a few hours later.  Operator went with her and did not return to Houma until 8/8/13.  On 8/8/13, at approximately 1:30 PM, Agent met up with Operator and proceeded to the area of the accident.   Operator showed Agent where he thought the accident had occurred.  Agent was not able to locate what the vessel had struck, but did observe numerous pipes in the near area.  Agent photographed the location.  Agent then located Operator' vessel, 17" mud boat, and inspected it for damages.  The vessel had a puncture , bow-starboard side, in the fiberglass along with several deep gouges leading to a second deep spot where the fiberglass was missing but not penetrating through the hull. Agent photographed  the damage to the vessel.  The vessel was equipped with 1 type IIPFD and 1 typeIII PD, but were not used.  The vessel has a tiller type steering which is common on most mud boats.  No Citations were issued.


BARDID: LA-2013-0075
Date: 2013-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: Madisonville
County: st tammany
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel LA 9562 FE was departing the Tchefuncte River westbound, and traveled far to the north (shoreward) of the safe, marked navigational channel. The boat struck a piling located between the lighthouse point and lighted channel beacon. Four of the five occupants of the boat were ejected. One  subject suffered a broken hip. The others did not require medical treatment. The boat made a wide circle to starboard and ran aground to the north of the lighthouse.


BARDID: LA-2013-0076
Date: 2013-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Lake
NearestCityTown: Creston
County: Natchitoches - 35
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26,2013 at approx. 8:00 pm I Sgt. received a phone call from Natchitoches Parish Sheriffs Office of a missing boater. The caller stated that an elderly gentleman was past due from returning from fishing on Black Lake in Natchitoches Parish and a friend had found his boat floating with no one in it. Upon arrival at the Sandy Point boat launch contact was made with Chief Deputy and he stated that the body of operator had been located floating face down a few hundred yards from his vessel. Operator was not wearing a PFD. After boarding vessel and going to the location of the search team, I observed a subject laying on the front deck of Sheriffs Office vessel with several boat motor prop cuts to head, face, and jaw area. The body was transported by search team to the boat launch where he was received by Natchitoches Parish Coroner. I then went to Operators boat a 15ft 1973 VIP stick steer which was tied to a tree near where it was found. All search team members advised me that the boat with contents were left the way it was found. Upon inspection of the vessel no visible damage was located on the hull, mechanical parts or the interior of vessel. The key was in the on position with the throttle completely forward indicating max throttle. The steering handle was pushed slightly forward resulting in the motor being turned approximately a half turn to the port side causing the vessel to turn to the starboard. The operators seat located in the front center of the vessel between the throttle and the steering handle was also turned slightly to the left towards the steering handle. Attached to the backs of both seats were two type III PFD's. It was observed that the gas tank, two ice chest, and fishing tackle were shifted forward only a few inches from the impact of the vessel with Operator. 
   The investigation leads me to believe that for an undetermined reason Operator exited the vessel on the port side near or over the steering handle pushing it forward and causing it to turn to the starboard. The impact with Operator shifted the 6 gallon gas tank that was half full forward enough to pinch the gas line. After impact the vessel continued in a wide circle to the right until all gas was used in gas line and engine. This caused the engine to die and come to rest a few hundred yards from Operator. The Coroners report indicates Operator had no medical issues at the time of incident and no alcohol or drugs were found with toxicology report. While talking with the family of Operator they indicated that he had been to the heart doctor three or four times with chest pains in the last two weeks before incident. He also was a recipient of a heart pacemaker. There were no witnesses to incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0077
Date: 2013-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLATBOAT PASS
NearestCityTown: VENICE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On June 10, 2013, a collision occurred in Flatboat pass between LA948FW, an 8' aluminum work boat and LA 8077 GA, a 24' Skeeter Bay boat.  During the collision, the work boat completely ramped over the bay boat, ultimately causing the death of the operator and the serious bodily injury two people. 

When LDWF investigators contacted the operator of the work vessel, Subject1 professed himself to be the operator at the time of the incident.  Further investigation revealed that Operator2 was in fact the sole operator at the time of the incident.  LDWF subsequently arrested, Subject1, Operator2 and subject2  pertaining to a coverup as to who was operating the work vessel at the time of the incident.  A court ordered drug test performed on 06/19/2013 on Operator2 tested positive for Cocaine and Methamphetamine. 

Both vessels had remote hydraulic steering, no one was wearing a PFD nor used a PFD. Excessive speed, careless operation and violation of Rule 6 of the Navigation Rules contributed to the accident.
 
Results of the reconstruction show that the vessel, The Big Daddy "LA 4948 FW" ramped the Skeeter "LA 8077 GA". Both operators violated USCG Inland Navigation Rule 6 by operating their respective vessels in a narrow bayou "Flatboat Pass" with tall roseau canes on both sides that restricted visibility in a curve. Because operator2 went into a blind turn with limited visibility on plane, her actions directly contributed to the death of one and serious bodily injury to two.


BARDID: LA-2013-0079
Date: 2013-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grand River
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, operator1 struck a submerged object while traveling North in Grand River causing his vessel to turn abruptly to the left striking a parallel vessel (v2).  A passenger in vessel2 was transported to the Baton Rouge General for minor injuries when he fell.  Neither drugs nor alcohol were evident of being contributing factors.  Both vessels were equipped with PFD's and were used properly.


BARDID: LA-2013-0081
Date: 2013-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Alexandria
County: Rapides
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating LA 1765 FR with eight occupants onboard and one subject being pulled by vessel on wake board in Red River south of Alexandria. Subject made gradual right turn struck west bank of river causing damage to vessel's port and starboard side gunwales and lower hull. Steering wheel and steering console also received minor damage. During accident vessel began to take on water. Subject was  able to operate the boat back to their boat house where the boat was then elevated on a lift to stop it from sinking. 

The operator and one passenger were injured during the accident. The injured passenger was transported by private vehicle to St. Francis Cabrini Medical Center to obtain treatment for his injuries to his left arm before agents arrived on scene. operator was still on scene when agents arrived. Agents suspected that Operator was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. Operator requested medical attention for injuries to his chest and rib area. Agents informed him that due to the fact that they suspected that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident, and that the accident resulted in injuries that he was being detained for investigation. He was transported to St. Francis Cabrini Medical Center by Sr. Agent for treatment. While there Sgt. administered a Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test on Operator. Sgt observed six of six clues during the test. Sgt read Operator the Rights Relating to Chemical Testing for Intoxication. Medical staff then took a blood sample from Operator. Sample was sent to crime lab for testing. Operator was released until test results are obtained. Test results were received on 9-25-13. Operator's blood alcohol content was found to be 0.05 g%. Agents did not pursue charges of Boating while Intoxicated. 
   Agents determined that contributing factors to the accident consisted of operator's alcohol use, the fact that the operator did not pay proper attention during operation and that the operator did not keep proper lookout of his surroundings during operation. Operator was charged with violating La. 34:851.5, Reckless Operation of a Watercraft and 34:851.10B Failure to File Official Boating Incident Report with LDWF.


BARDID: LA-2013-0082
Date: 2013-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAFITTE
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The operator left the sea way marina on 08/2/13 in vessel 1 (la-3872-aw) at approximately 1:30 p.m.to go fishing in the "pen"  . The operator entered the pen from the barataria waterway and proceeded approximately east by northeast. The operator observed building storm clouds and wind from the north and decided to head towards bayou dupont . As the subject reduced throttle to neutral to turn(southwest), the operator noticed the wake and/or a large wave wash over the stern and transom of the vessel. Vessel 1 filled with water quickly and became partially submerged in approximately six foot deep water.  The operator was wearing a type ii pfd the operator stayed with vessel 1 as it floated southward until it collided with the rock/concrete shoreline protection barrier that was constructed on the south side of the pen. The operator spent the night in the marsh. He was picked up by 2 ldwf biologists working in the area at approximately 900 a.m. on 08/23/13. The vessel was towed in by the biologists as well. The operator met with the ldwf agents at the launch to complete the operators report. In the opinion of the investigator the primary contributing factor of this incident was operator inexperience. The secondary contributing factor was force of wake/wave.  The tertiary contributing factor was the weather creating choppy waters.  Alcohol does not appear to have been involved in this incident in any way.  The operator was wearing a type ii uscg approved pfd during the incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0083
Date: 2013-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: FONTENOT CANAL NEAR CHACTAS
NearestCityTown: BAYOU GAUCHE
County: ST CHARLES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/19/13 at approximately 8:15 p.m. two vessels were traveling in  Fontenot Canal on Salvador WMA located in St. Charles Parish. Vessel 1 was traveling South into a blind right hand turn. Vessel 2 was traveling North into the turn but was on the left side of the channel, due to allowing a faster boat to pass him on his starboard side moments before.  When both vessels met in the turn, they were in a head on situation. 

Vessel 1 slowed and turned hard to his port, due to being against the right hand  bank, and wanted to avoid a head on collision.  Vessel 2 turned hard to starboard to try and avoid a collision, but at this moment the vessels collided.  Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 under the starboard bow and punctured a hole into the hull.  Both subjects in Vessel 2 were injured. Vessel 1 rendered assistance and the occupants of Vessel 2 were transported to the St. Charles Hospital where they were treated for their injuries . Vessel 1 was a bass boat with remote steering and Vessel 2 was an aluminum mud boat with a remote, stick steering. 
The injuries to the occupants of Vessel 2, driver broken leg, and passenger, left broken ribs and left ruptured ear drum were caused by them being thrown into the port side of the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2013-0084
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: Grand Isle
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday at approximately 10:00 am, Sgt. was contacted by his Lt. in reference to a news release about a boat incident on WWLTVcom. which read as: NEW ORLEANS- the Coast Guard airlifted a person out of a capsized boat Saturday.  It happened about 200 yards offshore of Grand Isle at about 7 p.m.  Saturday.  Officials said the boat was heading to Caminada Pass when a gust of wind caused the boat to capsize.  A  helicopter rescued one person, dropping him  off on the beach, while the remaining three people on the boat reportedly jumped off the pontoon into waist-deep water and waded ashore, according to officials.  The helicopter had a malfunction during the airlift, but were able to manually override the hoist and finish the lift.  There were no reported of  injuries.  Officials said a radio beacon alert helped crews find the boat.  

Sgt. then contacted the operator, Operator1 of Jonesboro LA. , and confirmed that he accident had occurred as reported.  Operator1 advised Sgt. that he would be back on the island on Tuesday, and agreed to meet with Sgt. to complete the accident investigation.  Sgt. then located Operator1's  vessel (LA7610GA), which was upside down in the surf, about 20 yards from the Grand Isle beach.  Sgt. then noted the GPS location as N29 12515 90 01.838, and photographed the vessel, which had both motors attached, but were missing the propellers.  On Tuesday, at approximately 3:00 pm, Sgt. met with Operator1 and interviewed him. 

Operator1 advised Sgt. that he was driving his vessel back to Grand Isle from offshore when he and his 3  passengers got into some bad weather.  Operator1 stated that the wind started blowing at approximately 15-20 mph. Operator1 stated that waves were rough at about 4-5 feet, and that it started raining.  Operator1 advised Sgt. that his 3 passengers had moved to the right side  of the vessel to avoid the rain.  The shift in weight, along with the wind and waves caused the vessel to capsize. Operator1 stated that they had to swim out from under the overturned vessel and climb onto the pontoons, where they drifted for 6 hours until the vessel washed up onto the Grand Isle Beach at approximately 9:00 pm. The vessel was equipped   with 5 type1 PFD's, but were not used because they were in the center console, which was under water.  Operator1 was wearing the kill switch lanyard, and the vessel was equipped with a remote steering.  Sgt. then photographed the vessel, which Operator1 had recovered earlier that day.  The vessel is a total loss, with the top separated from the bottom hull. Only one motor 200hp Honda was  recovered, the other 200hp Honda was stolen during the night.  The center console was gone, along with all the electronics.


BARDID: LA-2013-0085
Date: 2013-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: Bayou Black
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/16/13, at approximately 12:30a.m.  vessel LA879FL (60p Mercury o/b with remote steering) was being operated(kill switch worn).  Operator and 3 occupants(no PFD's worn) travelled north on 70 Mile Canal.   the weather was clear and calm with good visibility (night time).  Upon reaching the intersection of 70 Mile Canal and the ICW Operator came off plane.  Operator then accelerated and made a right-hand turn into the ICW (eastbound).  The vessel planed-out and immediately struck a submerged object.  All four occupants were ejected from the vessel (PFD's not worn). The operator was wearing a kill switch lanyard, so the vessel came to rest nearby.  The four subjects swam to the vessel, re-entered the vessel, and traveled a short distance.  The vessel began to take on water and sank in shallow water.  Operator contacted Terrebonne  Parish Sheriff's Office for help and to report the incident. TPSO water rescue arrived shortly after and transported them to shore.  the vessel was left tiedto a pole in it's final resting location N29 33.363' W090 55.036" (capsized ).  LDWF Agents were advised of the incident on the afternoon of 9/19/13 by the TPSO.  The agents responded and received the above information from Operator at the scene of the incident.  The agents observed large rocks beneath the water surface, and above the water surface.  The agents noted that the rocks extend to the intersection of 70 Mile Canal and the ICW. Nothing marks the submerged rock at the intersection. The agents noted that when the rocks were placed they were visible above the water surface several months ago.  At present, these rocks are now submerged. Vessel LA5879FL was found capsized and tied to a PVC pipe t location N29 33.363" W090 55.036". The agents found two large gouges (approximately 6- IN. in the hull of the vessel supporting the claim that the operator struck a submerged object.  At the time of the investigation these gouges were freshly repaired by rOperator.  Operator repaired these gouges on the water to enable him to float the vessel back to the boat launch.  Additional damage would be cost to repair the submerged engine. Subjects stated that they were not drinking alcoholic beverages at the time of the accident.  Based on the information provided, and being notified several days after the incident, agents are  unable to determine if alcohol was a contributing factor.  LDWF authorizes did not issue any citations in connection with this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0086
Date: 2013-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: NORCO
County: ST CHARLES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was operating his vessel, LA4946EW, with five occupants on board and were traveling towards the Spillway Boat Launch in Lake Pontchartrain St. Charles Parish.  As the operator operated his vessel under the I-10 East Bound elevated span, his vessel struck a submerged object.  No injuries occurred during this incident.  When the operator trailered his vessel at the launch he discovered fiberglass hull damage and propeller damage.  The operator filled out a Boating Incident Report Form and mailed it to LDWF.


BARDID: LA-2013-0087
Date: 2013-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU BARDEAUX
NearestCityTown: WESTWEGO
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator observed a juvenile fall off a tube being pulled by an unrelated vessel. Operator decided to pick the juvenile up in Vessel 1. As Vessel 1 neared the juvenile in the water, the operator killed the motor and began drifting towards the juvenile. The juvenile climbed aboard via a ladder on the starboard transom. Juvenile and adult passenger(Operator's wife) were seated forward of the center console. As the operator restarted the motor, and explosion occurred causing a 20 foot flame to erupt from the bilge access located in the floor at the stern. The operator realized his legs were on fire and jumped into the water, followed by the juvenile who was wearing a Type III PFD. The adult passenger grabbed the Type B1 fire extinguisher and jumped into the water, followed by the juvenile who was wearing a Type III PFD. Operator nor adult passenger had PFD's on at the time of incident; both did don a Type III PD afterwards. The three persons were picked up by the unrelated vessel (family members) initially pulling the tube where they called 9-1-1-. Vessel 1 was equipped with remote steering and a engine kill switch; the kill switch lanyard was not used. The persons did not smell gas fumes prior to incident. The operator claimed to not have had any alcohol prior to incident, nor was there any evidence of alcohol in Vessel 1 during agents initial observation. Operator is prescribed pain relief medication by the Louisiana Pain Specialist as he undergoes treatment for prior back pain/injuries; Operator claims to have taken little to no prescribed pain medication prior to incident Blood sample(Kit#PM00695) was taken from operator at West Jefferson Medical Center for analysis. At the time of the report, results of the blood sample are still pending.
 
The explosion was caused by an electrical spark where fuel vapors ignited as the key was turned to restart the motor.  The source of the leak of fuel vapors iis unknown at this time.


BARDID: LA-2013-0088
Date: 2013-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:55:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: Monroe
County: Ouachita
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 27,2013, at approximately 8:55 a.m., AL 1095 Lk was traveling southbound on the Ouachita River. Operator1 stated he was operating his vessel at full throttle with his motor trimmed all the way up in a curve when his vessel began "chine walking".  Operator1 stated at this time he struck a log and lost control of the vessel causing it to flip where it came to rest upside down. Operator1 was ejected from the vessel wearing no P.F.D, but sustained no injuries.


BARDID: LA-2013-0089
Date: 2013-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Bayou Pigeon
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville - 24
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, operator and passenger were returning to the Bayou Pigeon Public boat launch and struck a submerged object causing passenger to be thrown onto the driver's steering console contributing to a minor abrasion to his right temporal area.  Both subjects were wearing serviceable and proper fitting Personal Flotation Devices and neither of which were impaired by any stupifying substance such as drugs and/or alcohol.  Evidence shows that the contributing factor leading up to the incident was a submerged log exposed to such depth by current low water conditions in the Atchafalaya Basin.  Operator vessel was equipped with remote steering.


BARDID: LA-2013-0091
Date: 2013-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: Monroe
County: Ouachita - 37
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On October 6th, 2013, Lt. received information of a boat collision on the Ouachita River, approximately 1 mile south of the Moon Lake Marina in Ouachita Parish.  At approximately 5:15 p.m., Sgt were dispatched to the Moon Lake boat ramp.  Upon our arrival, OPSO deputies and EMS personnel were already on the scene.  I was advised that there had been a collision between PWC and a bass boat and that all occupants were located at the boat ramp.  Upon advise received from EMT personnel on the scene, the operator of vessel 1 (LA 7483 EF) , was transported to St. Francis Medical Center and his passenger, was sent to Glenwood Medical Center for treatment of possible injuries.  The passenger on vessel 2 (LA 3234 GB), was also injured and received treatment at St. Francis North Medical Center.  Sr. Agent had made contact with the driver of vessel 2, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.  Sr. Agent took operator2 aside and performed Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) on him and determined that operator2 was intoxicated based on his poor performance on the tests administered.  
		   Later that evening, I went to St. Francis Medical Center to interview Operator1.  During this time, I asked him to explain what happened and he stated that he had observed vessel 2 behind him jumping over the wake created by his boat.  He stated that vessel 2 was travelling very fast and passed him on the right side of his boat then suddenly turned around and was headed back directly toward him.  He said that he tried to make a sharp right-hand turn to avoid being hit but vessel 2 struck his boat on the left-hand side.
		   It has also been determine that operato2 violated the following rules of the road for vessels:  Rule 8.  Vessels will not abruptly change course without first determining that it can be safely done without risk of collision with another vessel.  Rule 20.  Operator shall maintain a proper lookout.


BARDID: LA-2013-0092
Date: 2013-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cross Lake
NearestCityTown: Shreveport
County: Caddo
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Three subjects were fishing from their 14' john boat in Cross Lake.  They encountered motor problems and after some time trying to repair it, they began to call for help.  Another boater was launching his pontoon boat at the public boat launch and did hear their call.  He motored to their location near "Bird Island" and began to tow them back to the public launch.  As they were motoring along, Subject stated he could hear a lot of commotion in their boat and then heard cries for help.  Victim had jumped or fallen out of the boat, and another subject on the boat that was being towed was in the water trying to get to Victim.  Subject stated that he was able to get turned around and throw a life jacket to the victim, but could not get to Victim and did see him go under for the last time.  After lengthy interviews, none of the witnesses were able to positively testify as to what happened in the boat prior to Victim going into the water.  All three subjects had been consuming alcohol, and Victim had consumed a significant amount before ever getting into the boat.  According to statements, Victim could not swim very well, and he had prior hip injuries that hindered his ability to stay above the water.  This accident happened while the john boat was being towed by the pontoon boat.  In my opinion, the amount of alcohol that Victim had consumed, the reported hip injury, and the fact that he was not wearing a life jacket, are the contributing factors to his drowning.  The autopsy report, see attached, showed the cause of death as asphyxia secondary to drowning.  It also showed that Victim had a BAC of .229 and that a presence of a metabolite of marijuana was found.


BARDID: LA-2013-0093
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU BONFOUCA
NearestCityTown: SLIDELL
County: ST TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2, LA-4928 GA, was at anchor on the Eastern shoreline of Bayou Bonfouca, near its intersection with Bayou Liberty.  Vessel 2 had two occupants on board, both of which were fishing.  Vessel 1, LA-9599-FL, was Southbound in Bayou Bonfouca with four occupants on board. Vessel 1 navigated a turn in the bayou he grossly crossed to left of center of the channel. This action caused Vessel 1 to strike Vessel 2 on it's port bow.  Vessel 2 then rotated clockwise as Vessel 1 ramped over it.  Both occupants of Vessel 2 were struck by the hull of Vessel 1 before being ejected.  

The occupants of Vessel2 stated to agents during the investigation that they had an illuminated electric lantern, visible from 360 degrees, sitting on top of an ice chest on the deck of the boat at the time of the incident.  The female occupant of Vessel 2 also stated that she was shining a flashlight towards the oncoming vessel before impact. The operator of Vessel 1 state that he saw no lights nor the vessel prior to impact.  All PFD requirements were met with both vessel. Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the incident. The responding Deputy allowed the operator of Vessel 1 to return to his vessel prior to agent's arrival.  The operator of Vessel 1 was observed by Agt. consuming an alcoholic beverage upon his arrival.  HGN and field sobriety tests were conducted on the operator of Vessel 1.  The results showed indicators of intoxication.  Due to the fact that Operator1 was allowed to consume alcohol after the incident and before the agent's arrival, agents were not able to decisively conclude the level of intoxication at the time of the incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0094
Date: 2013-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Chene
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/26/13, S.A. and I, Sgt. was contacted to assist a vessel that had been swamped in the Bayou Chene, St. Mary Parish.  When we arrived on scene Operator2 stated that he was drifting along the shoreline when he noticed a large vessel approaching.  The vessel slowed down but not before creating large wakes traveling towards Operator2.  Operator2 then tried to head to the shoreline where the wakes eventually pushed his vessel aground.  When his vessel was removed from the shoreline the motor started on the second crank.  He advised that he did not lose any items see any damage to his vessel, nor was he hurt, in any way. We then retrieved the info concerning the larger commercial vessel involved.  As we followed Operator2 back to his residence he said he may have a leak his vessel because he was taking on water but he would let us know after he had a chance to inspect it thoroughly.  I spoke back to Operator2 on 8/30/2013 and he advised that he did have a small hole in his vessel,  a broken trim tab on his motor and a piece broken from his lower unit.  He was given the proper paper work to complete and so was Operator1.  Also when I picked up the paper work about a week later from Operator2, he said that he was going to the doctor because he was hurting in his back, hip and legs. Alcohol or drugs are not a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0095
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: NEW ORLEANS
County: ORLEANS
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Two subjects departed for a boat ride/fishing trip from the Bonnabel Public boat launch at approximately 6:45 p.m.on Sunday 10/06/13 in Vessel 1 (LA-0497-SH)(18"-Lamar 1974 model). The operator/owner and the passenger proceeded at idle speed from the launch eastward to the south Shore Harbor despite the extremely rough seas due to the cold front pushing through the area. The operator and passenger arrived to the area just north of the harbor breakwater where they stopped and tied up to a piling. The 2 subjects started working on the bilge pump for approximately 20-30 minutes. At some point during this time the bow line either became untied, was severed, or failed due to the violent wave action.  The two subjects tried to start the motor but it would not start.  They were unable to stop the boat from drifting.  The strong northerly winds pushed the vessel  against the concrete breakwater and battered it repeatedly against the structure causing catastrophic hull failure. Vessel 1 began to take on water and sinking very quickly. The operator was able to climb onto the concrete structure from the vessel before is submerged.  He then fired an emergency flare.  Some people at the marina noticed the flare, went to the area and were able to rescue the passenger utilizing a rope. The passenger was taken to University Hospital in New Orleans where he was treated for minor injuries. The operator and passenger stated that the operator's dog was on the vessel and that they saw it go under water and not resurface.  The contributing factors are operator inattention, operator inexperience, and weather.  It is not believed that alcohol or drugs contributed to this incident directly.


BARDID: LA-2013-0096
Date: 2013-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: THE PEN
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 31, 2013, at approximately 9:50 p.m., operator was the operator of a 17'' south Fork tiller operated flat boat (LA 5999 FM). Operator was operating the vessel with three passengers aboard and was returning to the boat launch when the vessel struck an unlit piling in the pen. At 10:11 p.m., Senior Agent was notified of the accident and responded to the scene. Agent arrived on scene and made contact with Operator at 10;35 p.m. At that time, Operator's three passengers were being transported to the hospital. Agent did not suspect that Operator was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. PFDs were worn and injuries were later determined to all be minor and occured because the subjects were ejected or fell in the boat.


BARDID: LA-2013-0097
Date: 2013-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: TICKFAW RIVER
NearestCityTown: KILLIAN
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
As it was reported on the night of 9/8/13 vessel LA-9941-EB being operated by Operator1 and vessel LA-5967-FC being operated by Operator2 were both traveling upstream in the Tickfaw River simultaneously when Operator2’s vessel struck Operator1 vessel on the starboard side stern. As a result of the collision Operator1 vessel suffered heavy structural damage and Operator2’s vessel suffered moderate damage. In addition to the operators both vessels had multiple occupants on-board and reported only suffering minor injuries that did not require immediate medical attention. Two subjects on V1 received their injuries from falling in vessel #1 due to the impact caused by vessel # 2. 
Both vessels were inspected and found to have all of the required Personal Flotation Devices along with other safety equipment on board and all were used properly.
It was not determined that alcohol was a factor in this incident.
Upon final conclusion based on witness statements as well as physical evidence it was determined that under the prevailing conditions Operator2 operated his vessel at a speed much greater than that which allowed him to maintain a proper lookout and control of his vessel. 
As a result of this incident and its investigative conclusions Operator2 was issued a citation for reckless operation.


BARDID: LA-2013-0098
Date: 2013-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: Bourg
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/12/13, at 0800 hrs the Lafourche Parish water patrol contacted Lt. via cell phone about a boating accident that had occurred in the ICW near Company Canal.  Upon the arrival of the LDWF Agents, the vessels had made it back to shore and the operator of vessel 2 was being evaluated and brought into Terrebonne General Medical Center for lower back pain and high blood pressure. PFDs were on board both vessels but either operators were wearing their PFD at the time of the accident.  It was stated by both subjects that the operator of vessel 2 was running catfish lines near the operator of vessel  1's crab traps.  The operator of vessel 1 assumed that the operator of vessel 2  had ran his crab traps in the past and was proceeding to confront the operator of vessel 2  about it.  The operator of vessel 1 stated that once he approached vessel, his engine killed causing his vessel to strike the port side of vessel 2.  There was minor damage done to both vessels and alcohol/drugs were not a factor. Agents checked the shift linkage of vessel 1 and it seemed to have been shifting fine but was unable to start the engine due to some mechanical issues.  The operator of vessel one was cited for violating RS 34:851.5 Reckless Operation and RS 34:581.8  Operate vessel while driver's license is suspended for DWI. His driver's license was suspended upon conviction for his second DWI on 7/23/07.  Both vessels were equipped with remote steering and the contributing factors are (1) Excessive Speed (2) Rules of the road #16  (all vessels must be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times) and (3) Fault of Machinery; bad fuel, ect


BARDID: LA-2013-0099
Date: 2013-10-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Humble Canal
NearestCityTown: Montegut
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 left the dock before dawn under rainy conditions.  Vessel headed south then turned left into Humble canal.  As the vessel approached a bend in the canal, the vessel continued straight and struck a set of pilings.  The vessel then careened to port and travelled across the bayou and struck the northern bank.  The vessel then travelled approximately 30-35 ft up onto the bank.  The operator and his two passengers were then thrown from the vessel onto the bank.  No major injuries were sustained.  One passenger did sustain a laceration to his forehead and was treated and released at the Terrebonne General Medical Center.  the vessel was equipped with all required safety equipment.  One subject, a juvenile, did have a PFD on at the time.  The other PFDs were stowed. The vessel, LA9844FB, was equipped with a remote steering system and was equipped with an ignition safety system which was not used.  Neither alcohol or drugs are suspected in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0101
Date: 2013-10-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Twelve Mile Bayou
NearestCityTown: Shreveport
County: Caddo
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 2, 2013, at approximately 3:15 p.m., three people were fishing out of a Bobcat pirogue on Twelve Mile Bayou in Caddo Parish. While fishing, at some point, the pirogue became unstable and capsized throwing all three subjects in the water. Two were able to swim to the bank of the bayou. Victim went below the water and never resurfaced. Victim's deceased body was recovered in 12 feet of water near the location of the incident. One subject was transported to LSU Hospital, where he was treated for exhaustion and released. Sgt. got a voluntary statement from him and the other occupant. The Bobcat pirogue was found to be 12 feet 4 inches in length. It was 40 inches wide, had a depth of 10.5 inches, and a safe carrying capacity of 340 pounds according to Bobcat's website. There were no PFD's in the pirogue. Four unopened cans of beer were found in the pirogue. In my opinion the cause of this incident was overloading, improper loading of the pirogue, and not having any PFD's on board.  Victim's autopsy report found that he had a BAC of .052% and a presumptive positive of marijuana.


BARDID: LA-2013-0103
Date: 2013-11-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Mystic Crew
NearestCityTown: Belle River
County: St. Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On November 16th the operator of LA7891FZ was travelling on Bayou Mystic crew returning home from his camp in St. Martin Parish. Operator's vessel then struck an unknown submerged object causing Operator to be ejected from his vessel.  Operator was wearing his kill switch lanyard which caused his vessel's engine to shut off.  He was able to swim back to his vessel and climb back on board. When Operator was ejected he hit his left knee on a sharp corner of the vessel causing a severe laceration which required surgery.  He is still in St. Elizabeth hospital in Gonzales where he is recovering from his surgery.  He was also wearing a type III PFD float coat.  No drugs or alcohol are suspected in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0104
Date: 2013-11-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:35:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Terrebonne
NearestCityTown: Montegut
County: Terrebonne
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 November 9, 2013 LA Dept WLf Agents were on patrol in an area known as Bayou Lache.  Agents were notified by Lt. that a boating incident involving two vessels had occurred in Bayou Terrebonne near a boat launch.  the location of the incident was at N29'27.434' W90'33812'.  Agents proceeded to the location and made contact with the operators involved.  Vessel 1, LA2500FW, is described as an 18ft. Kingfisher powered by a 150HP Yamaha with remote steering. Vessel 2, LA1086GA, is described as a 16 ft. Allweld powered by a 0hp Mercury with remote steering. 

Based on damage to vessels and interviews, vessel 1 was leaving the boat launch at idle. Vessel 1 was approximately in the middle of the bayou heading south at idle speed.  Vessel 2 was traveling north in the middle of the bayou at approximately 20-25mph.  Vessel 2's bow struck the bow of vessel 1 near the boat launch. The collision caused V2 occupant to be ejected out of vessel 2 and landing on the bow of vessel 1.  V2 occupant was transported to Terrebonne General Hospital.  V2 occupant's injury is described as brush burn/bruising to his lower back.  V2 occupant2 was ejected into the water.  V2 occupant2 did not inform agents of any injury.  Operator2's momentum pushed him into the console, which caused the console to detach from the vessel floor and tilted forward.  Operator2 did not inform agents of any injury.  the subjects from both vessels were not wearing PFD's When questioned by Agent, Operator2 advised that he was looking at the boat ramp to see if anyone was launching and when he saw the other boat it was too late.  Operator2 also advised that the pirogues stacked up in the vessel may have been a blind spot.  V1 occupants both advised they were idling from the boat launch and started heading south when the incident occurred.  Operator1 advised he has a replaced hip that was bothering him but did not want medical attention. The contributing factors of the incident would be based on Operator2's operator inattention, no proper lookout, and careless operation.  Be advised the above area is a parish no wake zone.  Alcohol was not a contributing factor.  the type of incident is collision with vessel. Charges were issued for careless operation and fail to comply with no wake zoneto Operator2.


BARDID: LA-2013-0105
Date: 2013-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:32:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Freshwater Bayou
NearestCityTown: Intracoastal City
County: Vermillion - 57
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On October 12, 2013 at approximately 1:32 p.m. it was cloudy with light rain falling with good visibility in Intracoastal City.  Vessels 2 (17 ft Cajun fiberglass with remote steering), 3 (17ft. Tracker aluminum with remote steering), and 4 (17ft. Cajun fiberglass with remote steering) were at anchor in Freshwater Bayou along the west bank where there is a rock revetment.  The occupants in vessels 2,3 and 4 were engaged in recreational fishing.  Vessel number 1 - 137ft. aluminum offshore crew boat) was making way headed north in Freshwater  Bayou at approximately 10 knots, according to the operator.  The operator of vessel 1 was on the bridge at the helm alone.  The radar on vessel 1 was on and operating.  According to witnesses, vessel 1 passed by vessels 2, 3 and 4 without reducing speed.  As vessel 1 passed, its wake caused vessel 2 to become partially grounded on the rock revetment and partially sunk.  The two occupants on vessel 2 were thrown overboard.  The wake from vessel 1 caused vessels 3 and 4 to become grounded on the rock revetment.  The two occupants in vessel 3 and the two occupants in vessel 4 were thrown overboard.  According to the operator of vessel 1, he did not see vessels 2, 3 and 4.  At the time of the incident all occupants on board vessels 2, 3 and 4 were wearing PFD's.  The occupants on board vessel 1 were not wearing PFD's at the time of the incident.  There was no evidence that suggested any of the persons on board any of the vessels were involved impaired.   
Citation was issued to operator1 for Careless Operation.


BARDID: LA-2013-0106
Date: 2013-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Elm Grove
County: Bossier
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On October 26, 2013, I Senior Agent was notified by Wildlife and Fisheries communication of a boat incident on the Red River in Bossier Parish.  They gave me the name and number of the subject involved in the incident.  I then contacted the subject and made arrangements to meet him at his house.  He told me over the phone that no one was injured in the incident.   I met Operator1 at his house at approximately 2:00 p.m. Operator1 stated he was operating his vessel (LA- 9703- FZ) on the Red River around 9:15 a.m.  He stated he was coming out of the Port Lake (an oxbow off the main river) and starting to head south on the river when he struck an object that brought his vessel to an abrupt stop. Operator1 said the abrupt stop caused him to be thrown into the steering console and caused water to splash into the vessel from the stern.  He stated he then saw a dredge pipe floating just below the surface of the water.  Operator1 took a video of the dredge pipe with his phone, and it is included in this report.  The dredge pipe was being operated by Blunt Brothers Construction.  Operator1 was able to idle his vessel back to Red River South Marina and put it back on the trailer.  I then inspected Operator1's vessel and found no visible damage.  I did observe that when the motor was in neutral and you turned the prop it had a rough spot in it, almost to the point of not letting the prop turn freely.  Usually when you turn the prop of a motor that is in neutral the prop will turn freely with no hindrance.  Operator1 has already repaired his vessel at a cost of $2000.  This cost includes repair to the lower unit and steering.  In my opinion, based on Operator1's account and the video he shot the day of the incident, the cause of this incident was the dredge pipe floating just below the surface of the river.  No alcohol or drugs are suspected in this incident.  Operator1 was not wearing a PFD at the time of the incident but had five type 3 PFD's on board and one type 4.


BARDID: LA-2013-0107
Date: 2013-11-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya River
NearestCityTown: Baldwin
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On November 30, 2013 at approximately 4:30 a.m., operator operating vessel LA7382BP with passenger were heading south on the Atchafalaya River on the Attakapas Wildlife Management Area.  As Operator approached their hunting area, he veered to get closer to the bank.  As he slowed his vessel he struck a tree sticking up out of the water.  The impact caused the vessel to take an upward direction, ejecting both occupants out of the vessel into the water.  Operator was wearing a PFD and was able to swim safely to shore.  Operator could not locate Occupant and went to seek help.  Occupant was later located on the shoreline, unconscious.  Occupant was later pronounced deceased by the Iberia Parish Coroner's office.  Investigation revealed Occupant had not been wearing a PFD. Operator provided a blood and urine sample.  Restricted vision due to fog was the primary cause.


BARDID: LA-2013-0110
Date: 2013-11-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:55:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wonder Lake marsh
NearestCityTown: Montegut
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On November 25, 2013 LWF Agents received a call in reference to a boat accident that occurred on 11/24/13.  Agents made contact with operator of the vessel.  Operator stated that he was cutting through the marsh near Wonder Lake when his motor struck a submerged pipe.  He stated that it caused damage to his lower unit.   He stated that he was with 5 other subjects and they were heading to assist another boater.  He stated that the following day four of the passengers were sore from the incident after being thrown when they struck the pipe along with himself.  Operator stated that they were wearing the proper Type III PFD's.  alcohol was not suspected in the accident.  on 10/26/13  Agents went to the area With Operator to take photos of the area.  Operator later that day contacted Agent and advised that he believed he found the pipe he believes he hit.  See attached   photos taken by Operator. On 11/25/13 subject went to ER for back, neck and rib pains.  The vessel is a center console with teleflex steering.


BARDID: LA-2013-0114
Date: 2013-11-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: COX BAY
NearestCityTown: PT A LA HACHE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday November 4, 2013 operator was operating his 19 foot fiberglass Sea hunt(LA 8408 Fri) in the waters of east Plaque mines Parish. At approximately 10:00 a.m.while cruising in Cox Bay, the vessel struck a submerged object in the middle of the bay. There were no passengers and the captain on the vessel when it struck the submerged object. No one on the vessel was injured. All three people on the vessel were wearing the required PFD's when the incident took place. The use of drugs or alcohol were not a factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0115
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-10-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: CYPRESS COVE MARINA
NearestCityTown: MANDEVILLE
County: ST TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On October 18, 2013 at approximately 0700, the sailing vessel Compromise, a 1979, 30' Tiara Model S2 Center Console USCG Documentation#610755, H.I.N. SSU31189M79H (Vessel 1), burned to the waterline and sank.  At the time of the incident, Vessel 1 was made fast to its berth in Cypress Cove Marina of Mandeville with no one on board. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time, however vessel 1 was plugged into shore power at the time of the fire.  The two vessels birthed on either side of Vessel 1 also received damage.


BARDID: LA-2013-0116
Date: 2013-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU GENTILLY
NearestCityTown: DELACROIX ISLAND
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one and Vessel two were navigating towards each other presenting a head on passing situation. Vessel one turned to his port side to go around Vessel two. Vessel two turned to his starboard side to go around Vessel one. These maneuvers positioned both vessels turning in the same direction to avoid the collision. Both vessels collided stern to stern, due to them both turning in the same direction to avoid the collision. Both vessels collided stern to stern, due to them both turning sharply to avoid impact. As a result of the sharp turn and collision, a passenger from vessel two was ejected from the boat into the water. That passenger had a large open wound on his right calf. The injury is suspected to be from a cleat on the gunnel of vessel two lacerating the passenger's calf upon ejection.  The cut is not consistent with propeller lacerations.  No party involved is exactly sure how the passenger from vessel two was injured. PFD's were not worn by anyone. Neither alcohol use nor drug use were suspected from observations made when LDWF agents met with each operator, but due to the intensity of the injury both vessel captains submitted to give a blood sample. The blood samples will be analyzed by LSP Crime lab to determine toxicology.


BARDID: LA-2013-0117
Date: 2013-12-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:08:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLOOD RIVER
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: Livingston - 32
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On December 5, 2013, vessel LA-3138-BW was discovered drifting unoccupied in the Blood River located in Livingston Parish with heavy structural damage to its portside bow and to its starboard side gunwale. The body of the operator  of said vessel was also found drifting in the Blood River deceased approximately 20 yards from the vessel. His cause of death was later determined by the Livingston Parish Coroners Office to be drowning. 
 Based on physical evidence it was determined by investigators that operator in all probability was attempting to transfer his fuel line from one gas tank to another (while his vessel engine was still running) which was located in a covered compartment in the rear of the vessel when he slipped falling back against the vessels throttle causing it to suddenly accelerate thus ejecting him into the water.  Based on physical evidence it was determined by investigators that Victim in all probability was attempting to transfer his fuel line from one gas tank to another (while his vessel engine was still running) which was located in a covered compartment in the rear of the vessel when he slipped falling back against the vessels throttle, OR against the seat which in turn rotated against the throttle re-engaging it into the forward position and suddenly powering up the engine for which he was not prepared. Either incident would have caused the vessel to unexpectantly lurch forward with enough force and speed to cause Victim to be ejected into the water and the vessel would continue on until it impacted the trees on the nearby shoreline.
Additionally, it is believed and evidence supports that Victim was ejected from the vessel prior to its impact with the trees on the shoreline. Based on the damage to the vessel and the damage to the trees on the shoreline, which the vessel impacted with force, if Victim would have remained in the vessel upon impact, he would have sustained much more physical injury about his body.
The vessel was found to be equipped with the proper amount of PFD’s however they were not utilized in this incident. Alcohol use has been determined to not be a factor in the cause of this incident.

 The vessel was found to be equipped with the proper amount of PFD’s however they were not utilized in this incident. Alcohol use has been determined to not be a factor in the cause of this incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0118
Date: 2013-11-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: TEXACO Gas pipeline Canal
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, operator was traveling north through the Texaco pipeline canal.  operator was traveling approximately 50 mph when his vessel struck a submerged log causing his outboard motor to come out of the water, upon the motor kicking up, it locked in the upright position causing him to lose steering. vessel then made a left 90 degree turn going onto the bank of the canal approximately 20 feet.  No drugs or alcohol is believed to be involved.  operator was wearing a coast guard approved PFD and his vessel was equipped with remote steering.


BARDID: LA-2013-0120
Date: 2013-12-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Bayou Pigeon
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, December 21, 2013 at approximately 2:00 p.m. evidence shows that victim fell overboard for unknown reasons and did not resurface (pending autopsy results for possible medical reasons). Victim was not in possession of alcohol nor controlled dangerous substances at the time of the incident. The engine shut-off lanyard was worn and was later recovered with the victim  at approximately 8:50 a.m. on December 22, 2013.  A personal flotation device was not worn but the vessel was adequately equipped with Coast Guard Approved Type III PFDs.  The steering type of the 17' Aluminum Skiff was tiller-handle on a 35 HP Go-Devil surface drive engine.


BARDID: LA-2013-0122
Date: 2013-12-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sulfure Mine
NearestCityTown: Cut Off
County: Lafourche
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/26/13, at approximately 2:00pm, operator and his son were traveling through the Sulfure mine located on the Point-Aux Chene WMA in Lafourche Parish.  vessel ,LA836FB was moving at approximately 20mph when he struck a submerged object.  Operator's vessel sustained severe damage to the motor, skag missing, prop bent, dent in lower unit-gear oil leaking and reverse gear broken, as well as the hull, severe gouge in fiberglass; approximately 7 ft long with fiberglass material missing.  This damage is consistent with damage that might be sustained by hitting a metal pipe.  On 12/30/13, at approximately 4:30pm, Lt. was contacted by Operator about the boat accident.  Lt then contacted Sgt. and advised him of the incident.  Sgt then contacted Operator and set up a meeting for 12/31/13.   On 12/31/31 at approximately 12:00pm, Sgt.  met with Operator and interviewed him.  Operator stated that he and is son were wearing their PFD and that he had his kill switch lanyard attached when  they hit the submerged object.  Operator had brought his vessel so that Sgt could inspect the damage.  Sgt observed that the vessel had a remote steering, then he photographed the damage, listed above.  Sgt then took Operator to the Sulfure  mine.  Operator showed Sgt the location where the accident occurred.  Sgt then photographed the area.  Sgt used his  I-pad to take an aerial photo of the map with the GPS location of the accident.  Operator then advised Sgt that at the time of the accident, two oil field workers came from a nearby facility ad attempted to help. The workers could not get to Operator, and advised him that this was their work site.  Sgt then went to the facility now identified as Baby Oil Inc.  but there was no one present.  Alcohol and drugsare not considered to be factors in this incident.  Sgt then concluded, based on the type of damage to the vessel, that Operator had indeed struck a submerged metal object.


BARDID: LA-2013-0123
Date: 2013-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARATARIA WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
5 occupants (including the operator) departed from seaway marina in lafitte at approximately 1840 hours on 07/13/2013. Approximately 10 minutes into the ride, vessel 1 (la 2534 ae) was heading generally south in the barataria waterway approximately 1 mile from the marina. Vessel 1 approached the intersection of the waterway and old bayou dupont. According to witness statements and operator interview. The male passenger voluntarily jumped from the portside bow of the vessel as the vessel was operating at planning speed. The subject was not wearing a pfd, went under water, and never resurfaced. The operator and passengers immediately returned to the place the subject was last spotted and tried to find him. The subject was not found. At that time one of the passengers called local police. The operator showed no signs of intoxication at first contact with ldwf. Operator admitted that the missing subject had consumed at least 12 beers throughout the course of the day. La 2534 ae was inspected by agents on scene and returned to owners after assessment was performed. The subject was reported to do this often on boats but generally not when going this fast. The subject was reported to have consumed 12 beers in the hours before the boat ride.primary contributing factor of accident classified other, the subject seemed to exhibit risk seeking behavior and performed stunts like this for fun previously.the secondary contributing factor is alcohol use (not by the operator but by the missing subject. The tertiary contributing factor would be riding/sitting in the bow. It should be noted however that if the subject desired to voluntarily jump overboard he could have executed the same jump from any position on the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2013-0124
Date: 2013-12-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya River
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/6/13, I, Sgt. was contacted by Lt. in reference to a boat incident involving a vessel along the Atchafalaya River in St. Mary Parish. I contacted operator and he advised that he had moored his vessel along the shore of the Atchafalaya River in order to hunt.When he returned he discovered his vessel overturned.  He advised me that he contacted the USCG and they advised him that in order to possibly located the vessel that swamped his vessel he needed to file n incident report with LDWF.  I then made contact with operator and issued him the proper paperwork he needed to fill out.  He advised that his vessel was at the shop already being repaired and he did not have any paperwork at the time for his vessel.  The vessel was unoccupied at the time of the incident.  Since it isn't substantiated another vessel caused the capsizing, a second vessel record isn't included.


BARDID: LA-2013-0125
Date: 2013-11-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK LEVEE CANAL
NearestCityTown: POINTE A LA HACHE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 0730 A.M. On November 10, 2013 the above subject was motoring out from Beshcel's marina to go fishing for the day. At this time he was transitioning for a idle to getting on plane when he struck a submerged object believed to be a dredge pipe. Once the subject struck the underwater object he shut his boat down and observed he had damage to his motor carriage. He motored back to the dock and put the boat on the trailer so he could inspect it for further damage. Alcohol or drugs are not believed to be a factor in this incident. The proper PFDs were on this vessel but not worn at the time of the collision and the vessel is outfitted with a tiller arm type of steering. The operator are none of his passenger sustained any type of injuries resulting from this accident .


BARDID: LA-2013-0126
Date: 2013-12-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cypress Pass
NearestCityTown: Patterson
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On December 24, LDWF Enforcement Agent was notified of a boating incident that  had occurred in the Atchafalaya Basin on Cypress Pass in St. Mary Parish.  Agent was advised that one subject was transported to Teche Regional Hospital in Morgan City to be treated for his injuries he sustained during the incident.  Agent arrived there and spoke to the operator.  He advised that they were returning to the launch when he struck an over hanging tree. No drugs or alcohol were suspected in this incident.  The operator was not wearing a PFD but the passenger was.  When Agent inspected the vessel he noticed that the steering was not working properly.  It was very hard to steer and would slip.  Agent asked the operator about this and he advised that it was not that way prior to the incident.


BARDID: LA-2013-0127
Date: 2013-12-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: MANCHAC
County: ST JOHN
WaterConditions: Very Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On December 21,2013 operator and subject went duck hunting on Manchac WMA. the subjects decided to hunt the back side of the prairie by accessing through Lake Pontchartrain. The vessel, (A 1569 FT) 18.6 ft. Gator Trax with a 35 hp Mud Buddy motor, was tied off to the rocks and then anchored from the stern. According to multiple weather resources the winds were projected and did in fact reach 20 mph out of the south west. At approximately 7:30 AM the strong winds produced 4 to 6 foot waves which caused the vessel to take water over the transom and then pushed the boat into the rock jetty.The vessel suffered severe damage on both the port and starboard side leaving gashes and dents throughout the hull. The subjects tried to empty the water but were unable to and then were forced to sleep overnight until another hunter picked them up the next morning and brought them to their vehicle. Subject was able to recover his vessel a few days later and it is now located at his residence. 
The vessel did have PFD's and all acquired safety equipment. The contributing factors to the incident were; operator inexperience, improper anchoring from the stern and weather.


BARDID: LA-2013-0128
Date: 2013-12-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOSPITAL POND/GRAND PASS
NearestCityTown: VENICE
County: PLAQUEMINES
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating his vessel AL3767KR, a 16ft. Go Devil checking his duck lease when he struck a underwater object C metal Pipe which went through the bottom of his vessel causing it to come to a sudden stop throwing Operator and his dog out of the vessel. Operator was able to get back to his vessel get it free from the pipe and get to a near by oil company. Operator sustained minor injuries.  He was wearing a PFD, and the kill switch was used, the vessel had manual steering.  The obstruction was underwater unable to be seen. Type of incident was collision with a fixed object under the surface of the water.  (Underwater obstruction )


BARDID: MA-2010-0001
Date: 2010-03-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hubbard River
NearestCityTown: Granville
WaterConditions: Very Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary info only as of 3/3/2010: Victim was travelling south on the river with two other kayakers.  The subject was wearing a helmet and a type V pfd that was coast guard approved that stated it was a substitute Type III when worn.  Initial reports describe the victim as an expert and well experienced in the operation of a kayak in all conditions.  He voluntarily left the kayak when he encountered a whirlpool.  He was in the water for about 3 minutes when he died.  Water was extremely cold.  Still under investigation at this time.


BARDID: MA-2010-0002
Date: 2010-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Quaboag Pond
NearestCityTown: Brookfield
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was kayaking on the water when he capsized and called for help.  He was wearing a pfd and tried to swim to shore but became fatigued by the frigid water.  A young male who was at home nearby heard the calls, got into his canoe and helped him out of the water.  Brookfield pd officer striped off his clothes and wrapped him in towels provided by residents in the area.  Officer did notice a smell of alcohol from the victim and he advised him he had one beer.  The pd notifed the father about the incident and alcohol and he stated he would address the matter.


BARDID: MA-2010-0003
Date: 2010-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ipswich River
NearestCityTown: No. Reading
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Because of all the recent rain the river had overflowed into the backyard of the victim.  The two cousins decided to "play" in the water and put a canoe in.  They got swept by the current into the river and went downstream.  The canoe struck something in the water and the girls fell out of the canoe.  One girl was able to swim to shore and one contined to go downstream but managed to grab onto a dead tree and hang onto it until rescue workers came.  The river was swollen and debris-filled.    It was determined that the cause of this accident was lack of boating experience/boating education.


BARDID: MA-2010-0004
Date: 2010-03-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:57:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Green River
NearestCityTown: Greenfield
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to prelimnary information (3/30/10) victim had been kayaking with his 16 year old daughter and her friend.  According to his daughter, the father went ahead to check for debris when he came to the fork and his kayak turned over.  She saw her father come up and at the 1st tree that was over hanging the river, he disappeared and never resurfaced.  They looked for 10 minutes and run up the hill for help. A massive search was conducted.  The kayak was located by one of the search team.  Victim was found caught in debris about 70 feet down river from his last known position.  The victim was not wearing a pfd or helmet for the water conditions.  This was a fast moving river, steep terrain and branches hanging out into the water that had trapped debris.  More info with be added as becomes available.


BARDID: MA-2010-0005
Date: 2010-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nantucket Sound
NearestCityTown: Nantucket
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary info indicates that operator's wife and two children were asleep below deck while her husband departed at 9pm to travel from Hyannis to Nantucket (approximately a two hour journey).  At 3:15am the next morning wife awoke from their boat which had run aground.  Her husband was not on the boat.  The husband was not reported missing until 11:54pm that day to the local pd.  The coast guard was not notified until 2:00pm.  At this point a search and rescue mission was conducted but operator was not found as of 4/27/2010.  The DA has decided at this point that there is no evidence of foul play.  There are conflicting reports that the wife gave to different news outlets after her husband went missing as well as the timeline of her reporting her husband missing.  At this time our agency is investigating this accident to determine whether or not it is reportable.  No further info at this time (4/27/10).


BARDID: MA-2010-0006
Date: 2010-03-14 00:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Baker Brook
NearestCityTown: Fitchburg
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
2 men were in a canoe in a flooded shopping plaza parking lot taking pictures when they were swept into the swollen brook.  The canoe swamped.  One made it to shore, the other man was rescued.  They were issued warnings for not wearing pfds's during the mandated period of Sept. 15-May 15.  No further info was able to be obtained.


BARDID: MA-2010-0007
Date: 2010-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Long Point Beach
NearestCityTown: Provincetown
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
OtherAccidentCause: natural phenomena
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Ongoing investigation at this time 5/6/2010.  Two friends were out on a canoe when it tipped over about a quarter mile off the beach.  A person from shore reported seeing the men in trouble and called the police.  An assistant harbormaster and two workers from a nearby boat yard went out to the overturned canoe and pulled the men from the water and brought them to the pier.  Medical technicians attempted to revive deceased at the pier but were unsuccessful.  According to surviving man the canoe was tipped over by a pod of pilot whales.  This has not been confirmed and one of the rescuers reported seeing a pod of dolphins near the over-turned canoe.  Neither deceased or injured were wearing pfd's.


BARDID: MA-2010-0008
Date: 2010-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:33:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Congamond Pond
NearestCityTown: Southwick
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A PWC hit a Cabin Cruiser.  Operator of PWC was following behind another vessel jumping his wake.  Operator of PWC was operating for the first time and underage/inxerpiernced.   Officer determined rules of road violation for Vessel #1, underage operation of PWC/jumping wakes for operator #3 as cause of accident.  PWC sustained damage.  A third vessel #2 avoided the collision but was a witness and owner of the pwc.


BARDID: MA-2010-0009
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:42:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Plymouth Harbor
NearestCityTown: Plymouth
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary info as of 6/11/10 is that 2 friends went out at night on a vessel that was not seaworthy and had prior cracks in the hull.  The vessel started taken on water, swamped and eventually sank.  The vessel sank next to a buoy which the two persons grabbed onto but the deceased lost his grip, floated away and tried to swim to a nearby lighthouse but drowned.  He was holding onto a child's pfd but it was not enough to keep him up.  Will update when more info is available.


BARDID: MA-2010-0010
Date: 2010-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:01:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Whitehall Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Hopkinton
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOADING
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim had been drinking approximately 3-6 beers on beach before deciding to row out onto the lake.  Victim was asked and encouraged to take a pfd with him but did not.  He stated he didn't need it because he was only going out a short distance and he tossed the pfd on the shore.  According to witnesses victim paddled out about a 100 yards and stood up in the canoe to wave.  The canoe tipped and capsized putting the victim in the water.  The victim yelled for help and began to swim to shore for about 20 yards when he was last seen flailing his arms, going under the water, coming back up, going back under the water and finally not returning to the surface.  The dive team found the victim and was performing the recovery.   Preliminary test results were positive for alcohol and a cocaine based substance.  Cause of accident was not wearing a pfd or having one available, consumpution of alcohol and recklessness.


BARDID: MA-2010-0011
Date: 2010-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:17:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimac River
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary info is operator was trying to tie boat to mooring when he fell overboard. Waiting for ME's report as of 6/22/10.  The fall overboard was not witnessed.  Witnesses stated that they heard cries for help and saw a boat floating downstream with nobody aboard.   A man was seen in the water struggling to swim against the outgoing tide.  The witnesses jumped into their vessel to the area where the man was and when they were approximately 30 yards away he went under.  At that point a mooring tender boat arrived to the scene and the person aboard that boat reached into the water, pulled the victim up by his arms onto their boat and started cpr. Investigator determined that there was no indication of foul play or alcohol or drugs and that he operator simply slipped and fell overboard.


BARDID: MA-2010-0012
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:35:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Massapoag
NearestCityTown: Tyngsboro
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
As of 6/22/2010 very little information has been obtained about this accident.  We were notified by CG in Washington via news article in a local paper.  The local pd has not been forthcoming with information and has redacted their report. PD  Report indicates that they received a call that there was a body floating in the water approximately 100' from the dock area and a capsized canoe aproximately 100' feet from the body.  Not wearing a pfd nor one recovered.  The victim's father said that the last time he saw his son was 8:30pm the evening before and that his son liked to Fish on the lake around sunset.  He said it was not unusal for him to be out late fishing.  A witness called the pd regarding the drowning and said she had a strange person in her yard that evening around 12:30am while she was entertaining friends.  Her backyard abuts the lake.  She described the person as acting strange and just not right.  He told her his name, that he was an out of work mechanic and that he had been out fishing and paddling for about five miles.  She said that he was drinking beer.  She told him her guests were leaving so that he had to leave also.  She said that he got back into the canoe and was paddling with a kayak paddle.  When more information becomes available I will update.


BARDID: MA-2010-0013
Date: 2010-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:43:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Long Pond
NearestCityTown: Tyngsboro
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passengers were out boating celebrating the last day of school.  They had been tubing when a couple of passengers decided to go swimming off the vessel.  The vessel was not achored/secured or running.  The victim was not wearing a pfd.  The victim complained before going into the water and shortly thereafter he began having difficulties staying afloat.  Another passenger made an attempt to aid the victim but was quickly overcome by the panicked victim and nearly brought down by him.  This passenger had to let go of him and went back to the vessel.  Victim was recovered by Dive team in approximately 10 feet of water at or about his last sighted location.  CPR etc where administered at scene but he was declared deceased.  As of 6/23 investigation is still ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.


BARDID: MA-2010-0014
Date: 2010-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cape Cod Bay
NearestCityTown: East Dennis
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to operator his gps was not working and he collided with the jetty.  This collision caused property damage and injuries to two passengers.


BARDID: MA-2010-0017
Date: 2010-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nantucket Sound
NearestCityTown: Hyannisport
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating at night, the seas were rough and he turned left into rocks instead of what he thought was the jetty.  He stated he was inexperienced at operating at night.  He caused extensive property damage to his vessel as well as extensive oral/facial damage to his person.  He had recently been given the boat.  Officer determined that cause of accident was failure to maintain proper lookout, excessive speed for conditions of reduced visibility, and operator inexperience in reduced visibility.  He was issued a warning for failure to maintain properlookout.


BARDID: MA-2010-0018
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: George Nichols Dam
NearestCityTown: Westboro
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: overloading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Early reports indicate that victim was canoeing with two friends when their canoe capsized.  Victim disappeared into water.  The other two men were found clinging to a cooler.  According to witnesses the men were not wearing pfd's and did not appear to be able to swim.  Victim was located 3:30pm the following day by dive team.  (as of 7/6/10) According to investigator likely factors of accident, no pfds, subjects could not swim, use of alcohol, improper loading, lack of boating/canoeing skills and language barrier.


BARDID: MA-2010-0019
Date: 2010-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sesuit Harbor
NearestCityTown: Dennis
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
This is 2nd accident for this operator in 4 days.  Inexperienced in this harbor as well as this type of vessel.  Attempting to dock vessel Operator of vessel #1 struck vessel #2 a docked vessel causing property damage.


BARDID: MA-2010-0020
Date: 2010-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:28:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimac River
NearestCityTown: Amesbury
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel #1 struck vessel #2 a docked vessel causing property damage.  Operator of vessel #1 states he accidentally hit the throttle which was in nuetral to reverse and struck vessel #2.  Operator inexperience is cause of this accident.


BARDID: MA-2010-0021
Date: 2010-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Taunton River
NearestCityTown: Somerset
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Initial reports indicate that vessel had been underway for about 5-10 minutes when a passenger stated that she smelled gas and that upon hearing that turned on the vessels blowers.  One they reached the no wake zone area operator pulled the throttle back and the explosion occurred.  Operator stated he had turned the blowers on proir to getting underway and turned them off once underway.  Some passengers stated they saw a flash while others observed flames.  Two passengers sustained serious burn injuries and were admitted to the burn units at the hospital.  The owner had some work done on the vessel shortly before the explosion occured.  Still on-going investigation as of this time 7/8/10.


BARDID: MA-2010-0022
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coast Guard Beach
NearestCityTown: EAstham
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Pre-liminary info as of 7/13/10 is that the deceased stopped by a store to buy bait at 7:30am.  At about 9:30am his center console boat ran aground on the beach.  The engine was running but no one was onboard.  A search and rescue operation was organized and about 2 hours later his body was spotted from the air by the Coast Guard.  A local fire department happened to be training on an inflatable boat at the time the emergency call was made and were able to bring the body to shore.  Bystanders on the scene advised they was heavy fog and surf that morning.  According to a media release by the local police department it is likely the victim died after falling overboard trying to navigate a treacherous inlet.  He did not have much experience in local waters or much familiarity with the inlet.  Will update when further info becomes available.


BARDID: MA-2010-0023
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:14:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Taunton River
NearestCityTown: Taunton
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary information is that Operator/owner/deceased had been going through alot of streeses in his life recently such as work related issues and his daughter had been comitted for drug abuse and according to his wife he liked to drink.  On the day of the accident the deceased went out with a friend for lunch and had a few beers with lunch.  They went out in his boat down the river to the "Tipsy Seagull - an establishment that serves alcohol" and had some more beers.  They were waiting to pick-up the victim's son from a camp that was being held nearby.  After they picked up the son the victim's friend piloted the boat to approximately 1 1/2 -2 miles upriver to the house because he said the victim had too much to drink.   They arrived back at around 8pm and the victim decided to go back out because he had some engine troubles that he wanted to work out.  Victim's friend advised him not to go out but he went anyway.  When asked if he knew how many drinks his friend had he said he did not know but that he left with a small coolor on board with beers in it.  Around 11:00pm a witness saw a small boat collide with an adjacent wall.  A call was placed to 911 and various agencies responded.  The boat with significant damage to its bow washed up ashore without the operator onboard.  When the victim's did not return home the victim's wife sent their son to look for him.  The son took out their other boat and found his father's drifting up the shoreline, with all the damage and emergency responders were arriving to the scene.  The body of the victim was recovered on 8/10/10.  Alcohol will likely be a factor but tox results have not come back as of yet.  Still ongoing investigation pre-liminary report at this time on 9/17/10.


BARDID: MA-2010-0024
Date: 2010-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Graves Light
NearestCityTown: Boston
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Three men decided to go out fishing with a cooler full of beer.  Two of the men were friends and the third man was a friend of the surviving friend's son.  He was asked to operate the boat because he did not drink.  The victim and his friend fished and drank beer for a while with no luck when they hooked a bluefish.  The operator backed down and took water in over the transom.  The boat stalled out and could not be restarted.  At that point the victim panicked and said he was going to swim to the island (approximately 500 yards away). He jumped overboard without a lifejacket.   His friend said he was very athletic and thought he would make it to shore.  The VHF was not working so the friend of the victim called his mother who called the Coast Guard for a vessel in distress.  The two remaining men stayed with the vessel as it was sinking, put their life jackets on and were rescued about 20 minutes later by the Coast Guard.  The Coast Guard began a search for the missing victim.  The operator and the victim's friend were given field sobriety tests and portable breathalyzer tests.  The operator admitted to having 1 beer but passed both tests.  The friend admitted being intoxicated and failed both tests.  As the operator was not under the influence there were no charges in this case.  The victim's body was recovered the next day.   Alcohol and drugs were contributing factors in this case.


BARDID: MA-2010-0025
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:39:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Norwich Lake
NearestCityTown: Huntington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
A father and son were fishing off a 2 person kayak when vessel #1 ran over the kayak causing a death and non-fatal  injury.  The investigators cited negligent operation in this case.  Still awaiting word for the da if there will be charges in this case.  Vessel #1 was towing a waterskiier at the time.  He admitted to having 2 beers while operating.  He claimed he did not see the vessel due to the glare from the sun.  Info as of 9/29/10.  Will update when more info becomes availalbe.


BARDID: MA-2010-0026
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:10:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Race Point
NearestCityTown: Provincetown
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
As of 10/12/10 preliminary information at this time is that three men were on a vessel when the bilge pumps failed and the vessel starting taking on water.  A mayday call was received by the Coast Guard.  Upon arrival from the coast guard the vessel was under with three parties in the water.  Two surviving men were wearing lifejackets and supported the third man who was unconscious and not wearing a lifejacket.   Vessel still has not been recovered.  Update 10/15/10 vessel has been recovered by a lobsterman in the area.


BARDID: MA-2010-0027
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:47:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Thatcher's Island
NearestCityTown: Rockport
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
According to operator and passenger they were underway and heard a loud bang and the boat shook.  Water began coming in very fast and the boat sank.  Operator had problems trying to communicate via cell phone and vhf to contact CG.  He did make contact with a tow company who notified the USCG.  They stayed on the vessel until it totally went under water.   Passenger kept him afloat.  They were in the water for almost 5 hours.  Operator indicated that he felt there may have been engine trouble that led to the sinking.  The MEP investigating officer was contacted by a USCG Marine Casualty Investigator informing him that the SAR operator at the time felt uneasy about certain discrepanices he noticed during the post incident de-briefing.  He felt that this may be a case of insurance fraud.  The MEP investigating officer said that due to the fact that this accident occured past the 3 mile state boundary and that the location of the vessel was unknown and our agency did not possess the equipment to handle such an undertaking it was unlikely that we would be able to make a determination.  The insurance fraud question was deferred to NCIB an agency that oversees insurance fraud.


BARDID: MA-2010-0028
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Buel
NearestCityTown: Monterrey
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A passenger on a moving vessel (speed approximately 15-20 mph) had been drinking and decided to jump off the stern of the vessel.  He was very disoriented when brought onto the vessel. Alcohol was a factor in this accident.  Operator and other passengers were not aware that victim was going to jump off a moving vessel.  No charges were filed.


BARDID: MA-2010-0029
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:55:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Taunton River
NearestCityTown: Somerset
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Owner of vessel #1 reported a hit and run.  Two days later an individual came forward to the Harbormaster that he was responsible for the significant damage to vessel #1 as well as the dock damage (approximately $4,000).  The investigating officer determined that Operator #2 was alone and travelling an unfamiliar section of the river at night and only has use of one eye.  He was charged with leaving the scene of an accident with property damage, negligent operation of a motorboat, fail to report a boat accident/collision and failure to maintain a proper lookout.  S


BARDID: MA-2010-0030
Date: 2010-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Onota Lake
NearestCityTown: Pittsfield
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was being operated by a camp counselor who worked for a summer camp for kids.  He was operating south with seven passengers all seated and was just coming to a plane at 15-20 mph.  He saw vessel #2 approaching from his right at the last second and he turned hard to the left while putting the engine in reverse gear.  The right bow of vessel #1 contacted the left side of vessel #2 forcing vessel #1 into a 190 degree counter-clockwise turn.  Two minor males who were seated in the bow of the vessel were thrown into the water.   Operator #2 took a wide turn to the left and began returning east to the ramp area.  He claimed he never saw or heard the other boat and just felt and heard the collision.  Investigator determined that improper lookout for both vessels and failure to yield (vessel #1) was cause of this accident.  Operator of vessel #1 was issued a citation for the above reasons and vessel #2 was cited for failure to maintain proper lookout and operating an unregistered motorboat and was given a warning for display of number not assigned to motorboat.


BARDID: MA-2010-0031
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:38:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Point allerton
NearestCityTown: Hull
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was anchored and fishing when it was runover by vessel #2 causing two people to be thrown into the water.  Vessel #2 left the scene without stopping.  USCG recovered two people in the water.   Operator stated that he observed the parties that ran him over throwing items overboard into the ocean.  He stated the items included cans of beers.  The USCG recovered a back pack with one can of beer in it among some other items.  A description of the vessel was sent around to the harbormaster and other enforcement agencies in the area.  The local harbormaster contacted a officer to say they had located a vessel matching the description that was moored at a local Yacht Club.  The officer found out who the vessel was registered to and went by the house but no one was home.  They went by the Y.C. and found two male parties at the stern of the vessel.  Upon speaking to them admitted to being in the accident and that minors were in the possession of alcohol.  Operator was not drinking and passed a field sobriety test and breathalyer test.  The three people on board vessel #2 were charged with failure to render assistance, minor in possession of alcohol, leaving scene of accident with property damage, unsafe operation, failure to avoid a collision and speed limit violation.


BARDID: MA-2010-0032
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Congamond Lakes
NearestCityTown: Southwick
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Occupants of Vessel #1 and vessel #2 were friends.  Vessel #1 was stopped in the water when vessel #2 hit vessel #1 from behind riding over the stern.  A passenger stated that both operators were consuming alcohol.  The accident was not reported until approximately 6 hours later because operator #1 was a friend of operator #2 who was drinking shots and did not want to get him into any further trouble than he was in already.  Operator of vessel #1 was cited for failure to notify law enforcement imediately following the collision.  Operator #2 was cited for failure to maintain a lookout while underway.


BARDID: MA-2010-0033
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:12:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Marblehead Coast
NearestCityTown: Marblehead
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #2 under influence of intoxicating liquor and operating too fast near moored sailboat (vessel #1) struck sailboat after misjudging distance.  Caused property damag to both vessels.  Operator of Vessel #2 was charged with Boating with intoxicated, leaving scene of accident and reckless operation.


BARDID: MA-2010-0034
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:13:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: White Island Pond
NearestCityTown: Plymouth
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator struck an exercise swimmer.  Operator of vessel had seen this swimmer on numerous times and that she was always sub surface in the pond.  On this day he did not see her or hear her until after the accident.  All other parties on board stated the same.  Operator stated that restricted vision was cause of accident.  The injured reported that she was wearing a bright yellow bathing cap and was using bright yellow swim paddles.  She also stated that she did not see or hear the vessel until seconds before impact and was not sure if it was the boat or prop that struck her as she tried to shield herself.


BARDID: MA-2010-0036
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:19:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimack River
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 jumped wake of another vessel.  Operator was launched out of boat, no safety kill switch lanyard attached.  Vessel then traveled over half mile for throttle up river with no operator until it struck starboard side of vessel #2 and went up onto the marsh where it flipped over damaging the starboard side.


BARDID: MA-2010-0037
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pocasset River
NearestCityTown: Pocasset
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was tied to mooring and was hit by another vessel.  A note was left on the damaged vessel by the operator of the other vessel with his insurance information.


BARDID: MA-2010-0038
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:03:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Whitehall Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Hopkington
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his son were fishing on a Jon boat when they noticed weather changing and decided to head in towards ramp.  The boat was moving at a slow pace and waves were coming into the boat and filling the stern. (Operator)  father advised his son to put on the only life jacket in the vessel and jump into the water.  The father jumped in but did not have a life jacket for himself.  The boat sank and they began swimming towards an island 50-75 yards away.  Once they reached the island father hailed a boat down while his son was struggling to get on the island.  The victims were assisted onto the vessel and transported back to boat ramp.  Operator cited for not having enough pfd's on board.


BARDID: MA-2010-0039
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:35:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cape Cod Bay
NearestCityTown: Sandwich
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
AccidentEvent3: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
According to a witness from a fishing vessel in the area Operator of vessel #1 was warned to stay away from their larger fishing vessel and appeared to be getting closer by turning sharply right then again to the left.  During these movements the victim was pitched out of the vessel. The operator and 2nd passenger in this vessel rescued the victim but suffered injury in the process.  They brought her back to shore where an off duty paramedic heard her screams.  The victim gave a very different version of events than the operator and passenger of the vessel she was on.  Officer determined that must likely cause of accident was due to the abrupt change of course of the operator.


BARDID: MA-2010-0040
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Plymouth Bay
NearestCityTown: Plymouth
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger offered to follow the owner in a 2nd boat back to mooring.  Operator let go on the steering wheel temporary and struck vessel #2 causing prop damage.  Both operator and passenger were ejected into the water causing operator to recieve injury.  Operator of vessel #2 rescued persons in water.  The vessel was still circling at this point.  The harbormaster was at the scene by this point and successfully tangled a tow line in prop to stop the vessel.


BARDID: MA-2010-0041
Date: 2010-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dorchester Bay
NearestCityTown: Quincy
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was docked when vessel #2 was leaving dock struck port side of vessel #1 causing extensive damage.  Vessel #2 left the accident and was brought back by the MEP.  Operator of vessel #2 was arrested for oui-3rd offense, leaving scene of property damage, negligent operation, and rules of the road violation.


BARDID: MA-2010-0042
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wychmere Harbor
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
USCG Chatham receives call of a Vessel on fire with 11 people of board.  USCG responds and rescues all persons.  Harwich Fire dept responds and determines that fire is too dangerous to put out so the vessel is left to burn.  Passengers evaluated.  Vessel sinks in 22 feet of water with light debris and diesel sheen remaining.  This is all the information available on the MISLE CG report


BARDID: MA-2010-0043
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Westport River
NearestCityTown: Westport
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was giving victim a ride back to dock.  New moon low-tide.  He was going about 3 knots.  Ran aground at edge of secondary channel.  Victim suffered injury.


BARDID: MA-2010-0044
Date: 2010-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Woodshole Channel
NearestCityTown: Woodshole
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
During a busy day in the channel at Woods Hole Channel this vessel was swamped when another vessel passed them at a close range going 17-20 kts.  Water poured in drenching the entire inside cabin.


BARDID: MA-2010-0046
Date: 2010-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Annisquam River
NearestCityTown: Gloucester
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was moored when vessel #2 struck vessel #1 causing property damage.  Conditions of wind, current, tide, low visibility - fog and nighttime operation were causes of this accident.  Operator was cited for negligent operation and fail to report.


BARDID: MA-2010-0047
Date: 2010-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Edgartown Harbor
NearestCityTown: Edgartown
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was a moored vessel.  Vessel #2 was picking up it's mooring after a day of sailing and struck vessel #2 causing property damage.  Operator #2 admitted his crew did not hear the commands he was giving them and gave in a little too fast.


BARDID: MA-2010-0048
Date: 2010-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:41:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Congamond Lakes
NearestCityTown: Southwick
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was being pulled on a tube when it ran into a large wake which projected here into the air causing injury. Operator was issued a warning for operating a vessel recklessly.


BARDID: MA-2010-0051
Date: 2010-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Glen Charlie Pond
NearestCityTown: Wareham
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was pulling her boyfriend on a tube when the tube hit a floating dock.  Tuber had injuries.  There was no spotter on board.  Cause of accident was failure to allow enough room while negotiating a sharp turn while towing tuber.


BARDID: MA-2010-0052
Date: 2010-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Island
NearestCityTown: Winthrop
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was witnessed wake jumping fell off and suffered injury.  Investigator issued him a citation for unsafe operation for wake jumping.


BARDID: MA-2010-0053
Date: 2010-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimac River
NearestCityTown: Newburyport
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was moored and unoccupied when vessel #2 drifted into vessel #2 causing property damage was pushed off and struck another vessel according to a witness who notified vessel #1.


BARDID: MA-2010-0054
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nasketucket Bay
NearestCityTown: Mattapoisett
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was returning home from harbor after attending fireworks and realized they had overshot destination, turned around, ran aground on rocks and 3 passengers fell in vessel causing  injuries.  Vessel was totaled.


BARDID: MA-2010-0055
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:40:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Conneticut River
NearestCityTown: Northampton
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
2 people aboard vessel #1 were at anchor and asleep on boat when they were woken by an unknown vessel causing property damage.  This vessel's engine cut-out and operator kept trying to start the vessel and then took off.  Operator of vessel #1 said that there mast light was on and there was a 1/2 moon shedding alot of light and you could see at least 1/2 mile clearly.  Unknown 2nd vessel and unknown cause of accident.


BARDID: MA-2010-0056
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimack River
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
This was an old vessel without any flotation.  It was swamped by a large wake of another vessel and sank.


BARDID: MA-2010-0058
Date: 2010-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salem Harbor
NearestCityTown: Salem
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
This accident was witnessed by harbormaster.  According to him vessel was docking and a passenger attempting to disembark stepped of the bow, missed the dock and hit his back on the dock.  He had a contusion and difficulty breathing and was taken to the hospital.


BARDID: MA-2010-0059
Date: 2010-10-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:46:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Congamond Lakes North Pond
NearestCityTown: Southwick
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Ownership of canoe was not determined but 2 male parties decided to take a canoe across a pond without wearing life jackets.  Canoe capsized and occupants swam back to shore.  


BARDID: MA-2010-0060
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-10-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Boston Harbor
NearestCityTown: Winthrop
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator had been out fishing and while on the flying bridge smelled smoke.  He went below and smelled smoke.  He noticed the smell getting worse and was dark black in color and smelled like burning plastic.  He got up, grabbed a life jacket and jumped off the vessel.  He was picked up by good samaritans.  He refurbished the vessel himself as he used to be in the marine trades business.  The vessel was a total loss and burned to the waterline.  Exact cause unknown believed to be electrical.


BARDID: MA-2010-0061
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-11-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Boston Harbor
NearestCityTown: Boston
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OVERLOADING
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his brother went out to retrieve each of their 10 lobster traps.  They knew the vhf radio was not working and could not check the weather.  The wave conditions were bad - between 4-6 foot but were able to still haul a number of their traps.  Surviving brother stated that he felt the boat was overloaded with the traps, line, buoys and assorted gear.  Wave conditions got worse and his brother told him to put his life jacket on.  Their was only 1 life jacket available and it was tied to the back of the operator's chair.  Survivor could not get it on but clutched it under his arms.  A 15 ft wave hit the side of the boat causing it to overturn.  The deceased and his brother were thrown toward the rocks.  He saw his brother struggling and heard him yell that he was not going to make it.  Three waves later he observed him floating face down.  Survivor was able to get to shore of an island.  The vessel washed up ashore as well and he was able to gather items to stay warm and prepared to light the 5 gal fuel tank on fire as a signal.  He was recovered early the next morning by a Coast Guard helicopter.  He described his brother as an experienced boat operator but a daredevil.   Cause of accident inattention to weather/sea conditions/overloaded vessel/insufficient/inaccessible life jackets.


BARDID: MA-2010-0062
Date: 2010-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buzzards Bay
NearestCityTown: Marion
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator had just bought this vessel.  He was planning on winterizing it but decided to try it once first.  They were at anchor fishing when large waves came into the boat.  The operator attempted to start the engine but he flooded it.  Attempts to pull the anchor failed as it was stuck to the bottom.  The vessel took on excessive amounts of water and rolled capsizing and sending all persons into the bay.  The vessel had lifejackets in a forward locker but it happenend so quickly they couldn't get the lifejackets in time.  A vessel in the area saw the small boat and were surprised that this type of vessel would be out on a day with the conditions the way they were.  The vessel disappeared and then they saw a man floating by on a cooler and rescued him and the reset of the persons in the water.   Two of the persons were holding onto 1 life jacket. Operator error was determined to be cause of this accident.


BARDID: MA-2010-0064
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-08-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:32:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Connecicut River
NearestCityTown: Northampton
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator struck rock piles while operating started taking on water.  No injuries refused treatment.  According to witness behind Vessel operator appeared to be operating erratically.  Vessel a total loss.  Suspected under the influence but never charged or tested.


BARDID: MA-2010-0065
Date: 2010-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Madaket Harbor
NearestCityTown: Nantucket
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentCause3: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Prior to the accident vessel #2 was seen operating extremely fast with a tube teetered to the front of the vessel (which restricted his vision).  Vessel #2 struck vessel #1.  2 persons were injured on vessel #1.  Damage to vessel #1 indicated that vessel #2 struck the center console with its bow on the port side.  Negligent operation, operator inexperience, speed and restricted vision(tube/sun) were causes of accident.


BARDID: MA-2011-0001
Date: 2011-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Five Mile Pond
NearestCityTown: Springfield
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At this time 5/19/11.  This is an on-going investigation.  According to witnesses the 2 occupants on board launched the canoe.  It was underway for approximately 15 minutes when it capsized.  One occupant swam to shore safely and the other man died while swimming to shore.   Victim was located about 3 hours later by emergency personnel. 2/17 cause of accident operator inexperience, lack of pfd's and safety equipment.  DA determined not enough evidence to warrant criminal charges


BARDID: MA-2011-0002
Date: 2011-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:22:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Namequoit River
NearestCityTown: Orleans
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: Light
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Loading
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to victim's wife victim paddled out on his canoe to put a mooring sticker on his sailboat then paddled over to his motorboat.  That was the last time she saw him.  She was notified by neighbors that they saw the victim swimming back to shore and the canoe floating away.  They saw him begin to struggle in the water and went to help him.  They pulled him onto the beach unconscious and began cpr.  He was not wearing a PFD and only had a seat cushion available.  Wife could not confirm whether victim could swim or not.  Investigator believes most likely scenario is victim entered canoe in order to head back to shore was most likely was standing in the canoe when it tipped and he fell into the water.  Cause of accident not wearing pfd or having one available and operator inattention/improper loading.  Toxicology tests came back with no results.


BARDID: MA-2011-0003
Date: 2011-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:25:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Middle Pond
NearestCityTown: Southwick
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A pontoon boat was underway when a non-swimming passenger jumped overboard from the port side of the vessel without a life jacket.  Three persons entered the water in an attempt to rescue victim when it because apparent that he was having difficulty staying above the surface of the water.  Victim disappeared below the surface and died.  The body was recovered the next day.  It is believed the victim's judgement was impaired by alcohol he consumed that evening.  Operator of vessel was not drinking.


BARDID: MA-2011-0008
Date: 2011-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Matawanakee
NearestCityTown: Littleton
County: Middlesex
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Jetski was attempting to dock when it was struck from behind by a fishing boat. While the jetski operator went to obtain help for his injured passenger, the fishing boat left the scene.  Investigator had alot of trouble contacting both parties.  


BARDID: MA-2011-0009
Date: 2011-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Provincetown Harbor
NearestCityTown: Provincetown
County: Barnstable
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Moored Sailboat Struck by sports fishing boat.  Operator was not paying attention and struck moored vessel.


BARDID: MA-2011-0010
Date: 2011-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Plum Island Sound
NearestCityTown: ipswich
County: Essex
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A thunderstorm passing through produced large waves that capsized a small sailboat. The only occupant swam to shore.


BARDID: MA-2011-0012
Date: 2011-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:07:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ipswich Bay
NearestCityTown: Ipwich
County: essex
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
PWC hit a large wave and the rider went airborne landing on top of the machine suffering injury.  Excessive speed while going over a wake was cause of accident.


BARDID: MA-2011-0013
Date: 2011-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fairhaven Harbor
NearestCityTown: Fairhaven
County: bristol
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Sailboat "Metrio" was attempting to dock when forward and reverse gears were confused by the operator. The operator put the vessel into fowardd position by mistake causing a collision with a vessel tied to a slip.


BARDID: MA-2011-0020
Date: 2011-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Charles River
NearestCityTown: Boston
County: Suffolk
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
While attempting to tie to a lock one boat was forced to evade another boat and subsequently struck another already tied up vessel.


BARDID: MA-2011-0023
Date: 2011-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimac River
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
County: Essex
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
While Boat was Cruising it struck a rock on the Merrimac river no one was injured. However the boat was damaged.  possible low tide case


BARDID: MA-2011-0025
Date: 2011-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:45:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Scituate
County: Plymouth
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A lobster boat struck the rear of a drifting open motorboat, causing damage to the outboard engines.  Operator of vessel #1 felt like the operator of vessel #2 had malicious intent because he did not try to avoid hitting him.


BARDID: MA-2011-0026
Date: 2011-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salem Sound
NearestCityTown: Marble Head
County: Essex
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two sail boats both operating at close haul on separate tacks. (starboard and port) Neither vessel saw the other due to each vessel being behind the blind spot of the jib resulting in a collision.


BARDID: MA-2011-0027
Date: 2011-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:09:00
State: MA
NearestCityTown: Hull
County: Plymouth
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: HULL FAILURE
AccidentCause3: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was travelling at a high rate of speed and there were also ground swells about 3 ft high according to a witness.  Vessel was bouncing around alot and came out of the water 6-8 feet.  Vessel came down onto a swell and split immediately into a v-shape in the middle of the vessel.  2 occupants were thrown into the water and assisted by and put onto other vessels in the area.  One passenger was unconscious and unresponsive was pronounced dead at the hosptial and the other was also  injured.  The investigator determined that cause of accident was many factors.  Unfortunately due to the severity of the break in the vessel - many parts of the motor and vessel were not recovered.  Factors are overall age of vessel and deterioration of internal portions of structure (hull).  Modifying vessel to convert it from inboard engines to outboard.  Increasing outboard hp to 600hp.  Sea state.  Reckless and negligent operation taking into account time of day, number of vessels in area, and restrictions marked by navigational aids.  Alcohol was .08bac.  


BARDID: MA-2011-0028
Date: 2011-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:08:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Marshfield Coastal Waters
NearestCityTown: Marshfield
County: Plymouth
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was enroute to dock vessel.  He and his passengers were drinking.  Steering wheel pulled to left causing the 2 occupants to be thrown overboard.   Vessel was still running and going in circles.  Operator was rescued by a nearby kayaker.  Two weeks later the body of the other occupant was located.  Operator was charged with boating under the influence.  Actual cause of accident was steering because of a loose or missing tiller arm/pivot plate bolt and lock nut.  Sudden loss of steerage and subsequent heeling of the vessel caused it to chine-walk and create a sudden change in direction and velocity ultimately ejecting occupants.  Had the vessel been in better condition and received professional maintenance this incident probably wouldn't have occurred.


BARDID: MA-2011-0034
Date: 2011-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:55:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Onota Lake
NearestCityTown: Pittsfield
County: Berkshire
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two jetskis in travelling in singlefile line. The rear jetski realized the a collision was going to occur so the passenger jumped from the vessel causing injury.  Young age and experience of operators cause of this accident.


BARDID: MA-2011-0036
Date: 2011-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:36:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Plum island sound
NearestCityTown: Ipswich
County: Essex
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
As vessel #2 quickly slowed vessel #1 encountered vessel #2's wake. This caused the operator to fall resulting in vessel #1 colliding into the stern of vessel #2.  Following too close cause of accident.


BARDID: MA-2011-0039
Date: 2011-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:51:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buzzards Bay
NearestCityTown: Bourne
County: Barnstable
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Fatal accident in which the operator of vessel #1 was found hanging off of the side of his sailboat. He was helped to shore by a local vessel, later pronounced dead.


BARDID: MA-2011-0040
Date: 2011-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Quincy Bay
NearestCityTown: Quincy
County: Norfolk
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A collision between to vessels in a narrow channel "underBridge". Boat #1 was struck amidship on the starboard side by vessel #2.  Vessel #2  Vessel #2 left scene without giving vessel #1 any info.  Unknown info on vessel #2 except about 20 feet center console.


BARDID: MA-2011-0041
Date: 2011-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:08:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Provincetown Harbor
NearestCityTown: Provincetown
County: Barnstable
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
while attempting to pick up the mooring under sail power only vessel #1 struck vessel #2 then shortly thereafter struck vessel #3.


BARDID: MA-2011-0046
Date: 2011-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimack River Inlet
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
County: Essex
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
During entry to the Merrimack river a large offshore wave pushed the vessel into a standing wave causing the boat to capsize.


BARDID: MA-2011-0047
Date: 2011-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buzzards Bay
NearestCityTown: Wareham
County: Plymouth
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Persons whom had been previously tubing swam towards the rear of the boat, whilst the person was attempting to enter the boat the vessel was momentarily put into reverse. The Swimmer suffered injury.


BARDID: MA-2011-0048
Date: 2011-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ipswich River
NearestCityTown: Ipswitch
County: Essex
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator 1 had his houseboat in a side tow off his 14' skiff on the port side of the skiff heading outbound from the river on route to the mooring field.  Operator was unable to see what was on the other side of the houseboat and struck a moored vessel with the port side of the houseboat damaging the vessel.  The operator did not notify the owner of the damage.  A witness notified the owner who contacted the local police department.  Operator's vision was obscured/improper lookout/following current during side tow effected control of tow.  Negligent operation/improper lookout.


BARDID: MA-2011-0052
Date: 2011-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wallum Lake
NearestCityTown: Douglas
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to the owner of the PWC that the injured was riding the operator/injured suddenly accelerated and without warning lost control of the PWC and crashed.  He saw him fly through the air and it appeared the PWC had struck him as it rolled across the surface of the water.  The owner and a few other riders found the injured in the water.  A boater passing by took the injured onto his boat and brought him to shore with medical attention.  The operator had been drinking but how much was not known.  PFD was worn and had the safety lanyard attached but the pull-pin kill switch was not on the lanyard or being used.  Alcohol, operator inexperience, wake-jumping and speed all were causes of this accident.


BARDID: MA-2011-0053
Date: 2011-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Beverly/Salem Coast
NearestCityTown: Beverly
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hull Failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator/owner of vessel was headed out for 1st run after winter storage when the vessel starting taking on water quickly and sank.   A witness saw what happened and responded to the scene and assisted operator from the water.  Operator was not injured.  Cause of accident is being investigated by owner's insurance company but it is suspected that the two six inch through hull exhaust fittings were the cause of the vessel taking on water so rapidly.


BARDID: MA-2011-0054
Date: 2011-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chatham Harbor
NearestCityTown: Chatham
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was crusing when a much larger vessel travelling towards them pushing a large wake.  Injured was jolted up and down on the bow seating.  


BARDID: MA-2011-0056
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimack River
NearestCityTown: Newburyport
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator #1 was fueling in the Marina.  While trying to leave the dock he stated that the current and wind pushed him into two vessels docked at the marina.  He caused damage to his vessel as well as vessel #2.  The dock at the marina also sustained minor damage.  Officer determined operator was inexperienced and unprepared for wind and current conditions.


BARDID: MA-2011-0058
Date: 2011-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Richmond Pond
NearestCityTown: Richmond
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Injured had been tubing behind vessel when the line went slack and he jumped off as the vessel causing injury.  The line apparently wrapped around his leg dragging him under.  Operator stopped vessel and retrieved injured from the water.  I witness from shore thought the operator was too close to shore, reversed directions and then he heard yelling.  The investigator suspected that the operator was traveling to close to shore but could not collaborate the witness information from shore with the information received from operator, injured and 3rd person on board.  A citation was given for lack of safety equipment on board.  Insufficient # of PFD's and a warning for a fire extinguisher that was not in serviceable condition.


BARDID: MA-2011-0060
Date: 2011-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:37:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Westport River
NearestCityTown: Westport
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Owners of vessel #1 were on board reading when vessel #2 struck them under full sail while attempting to pick-up their mooring.  Vessel #1 tried to fend off vessel #2 but it struck it a second time.  Caused property damage to vessel #1, no injures.  Operator of vessel #2 claimed current/wind and limited space to move caused accident.


BARDID: MA-2011-0061
Date: 2011-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Scituate Harbor
NearestCityTown: Scituate
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was moored and vessel #2 dropped their anchor in the mooring field which became entangled with his mooring lines and his lobster holding tank significantly reducing the mooring line scope.  Vessel #2 stern collided with vessel #1's stern causing property damage.


BARDID: MA-2011-0062
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Chatham
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that he was operating his vessel through the new cut following the channel made by buoys when a rogue wave 25 to 30 feet tall came out of now where and broke in front of and top of his vessel causing it to capsize.


BARDID: MA-2011-0063
Date: 2011-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:21:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Congamond Lakes, Middle Pond
NearestCityTown: Southwick
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to the local pd that responded the operator/deceased had recently obtained the vessel on ebay and had gone out on the lake with his girlfriend's two young daughters 10 and 13.  There was no safety equipment on board including lifejackets and no one on board was wearing a pfd.  He experienced a problem with the battery but managed to get the vessel underway when he made a sharp turn.  The young girls were sitting on seats that were even with the gunwale but it was not equipped with sufficient rail to prevent a person from falling overboard.  The 10 yr girl fell off the boat into the water.  The operator/deceased went into the water to retrieve the girl.  The girl was saved by a vessel with some men who had been fishing who brought her to shore and performed CPR on her and saved her life.  A passing kayaker jumped aboard to help the 13 yr old sister who as still on board the vessel which was idling and in gear.  The operator/deceased never re-surfaced.  His body was found by divers later in that evening.  The lack of safety equipment and lack of guardrail are significant factors in this case.  The 10 yr old was required by law to be wearing a pfd and there was none on board.


BARDID: MA-2011-0064
Date: 2011-10-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ipswich Bay
NearestCityTown: Ipswich
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of boat was thrown overboard when boat rolled over after being hit by large wave from the side.  Operator was not wearing a pfd at the time.  He attempted to swim back to overturned vessel but was unable to because of strong current.  Victim was wearing neoprene chest waders and a Gortex jacket.  The waders kept him warm and he was able to seal air in the jacket in a manner that provided some floatation.  Operator spent almost 5 hours in 62 degree water.  


BARDID: MA-2011-0065
Date: 2011-10-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Merrimack River
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel took on water and sank due to starboard and port Engine.  Vessel was 90% under water in 10 mins.  Operator used the bow thrusters to nose the bow into the jetty and ordered the 4 teenagers off the boat.  Operator and 1st mate remained on vessel and were picked up by USCG within minutes.  Contact with jetty caused a large gash in the port bow and vessel sank.  No injures.


BARDID: MA-2011-0067
Date: 2011-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:33:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Spinaker Island
NearestCityTown: Hull Harbor
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel #2 had be drinking and struck a moored sailboat.  The crash caused two of the passengers to be thrown into the water.  Both passengers were recovered by Operator.    One woman was pulled into the boat unconscious.  Operator transported victim to the beach.   He submitted to a blood alcohol test at the hospital.  Operator was charged with operation of a vessel under the influence of alcohol causing death.


BARDID: MA-2011-0068
Date: 2011-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hingham Bay
NearestCityTown: Weymouth
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Limited info was given by the local harbormaster in regards to this accident.  A family had just put their boat on a mooring when their 12 yr old daughter started the boat which was running high so her father told her to throttle down.  She reached for the throttle and hit the gear level and the boat lurched forward putting her into the water.  The vessel was circling her at full speed.  She had the engine's kill switch attached to her pfd but it came off at the pfd end.  Her father dove in the water and got to his daughter and pushed her under 3 or 4 times so the prop would not hit her.  Her father was injured  The daughter's bathing suit was pulled off her and her pfd had a cut on the back. 


BARDID: MA-2011-0069
Date: 2011-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:49:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Esses River
NearestCityTown: Essex
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
A passing vessel noticed this vessel submerged in water and notifed the hotel were the vessel was docked.  No one was on board and unknown why it sank but was a total loss.


BARDID: MA-2012-0001
Date: 2012-03-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Buzzards Bay
NearestCityTown: Wareham
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was moving boat to a marina to be loaded on a trailer for transport to Florida for sale.  Navagational electronics had been removed, operator used a paper chart and smartphone gps for navigational aid.  Half way into marina operator saw a buoy marking a role pile to the west.  Chart indicated 9 feet of water-continued on course and hit submerged rock and grounded vessel causing property damage.


BARDID: MA-2012-0002
Date: 2012-04-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:55:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Taunton River
NearestCityTown: Fall River
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator overloaded his small dinghy with several feet of heavy chain while trying to put his mooring ball on its chain.  His dinghy flooded, capsized and he fell out.  He became injured while holding onto syrofoam floats in the water.  No property damage involved.


BARDID: MA-2012-0003
Date: 2012-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nantucket Sound
NearestCityTown: Barnstable
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentEvent1: Carbon Monoxide Exposure
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and 4 friends went out on a fishing trip for squid.  They had anchored the vessel from the bow and had two generators, one on the bow and on by the helm.  These generators were running to power multiple spot lights shining down in the water to attack the squid.  The generator by helm was positioned so that the exhaust pipe was pointing towards the front of the boat.  About 1 or 2 in the morning one of the passengers went into the cuddy cabin on the boat to sleep.  The hatch door was classed while he was sleeping.  About 4 am they returned to the boat launch area to end their trip and trailer the boat.  They men could not wake their friend.  Cause of accident was fumes being allowed to vent directly towards the enclosed cuddy cabin area.


BARDID: MA-2012-0005
Date: 2012-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coles River
NearestCityTown: Swansea
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Sailboat had a 6 hp engine when it was rated to have a 2.5 engine.  The vessel swamped and capsized after taking water over the side while making a turn.  2 occupants clung to the vessel and attempted to move it toward the shore.  The tide was outgoing and they were unable to make progress.  Two people in the area helped the occupants to shore the Fire dept. towed the vessel to shore. Cause of accident was the engine was too big for vessel.


BARDID: MA-2012-0008
Date: 2012-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: No Town Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Leominster
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Owner/deceased had purchased vessel 2 weeks prior.  Owner and 4 friends had a couple of beers at home and decided to go fishing on the reservoir.  They were using a battery operated outboard motor.  Vessel was unregistered, had no lights, no pds's on board and was over capacity.  Motor ran for 40 minutes and the battery died.  They had one oar to paddle with and took turns.  At the time of the capsizing the deceased was paddling and someone else took over because he was becoming tired.  That passenger stepped up to the bow and vessel flipped over sending everybody into the water.  They stayed with the capsized vessel for a while attempting to make it to shore.  They were getting tired and unable to get the vessel to shore decided to swim to shore and go for help. Cause of accident was alcohol and overloading.


BARDID: MA-2012-0010
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hyannis Harbor
NearestCityTown: Hyannis
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator/owner hit a submerged rock and grounded causing property damage.  His explanation for accident was excessive boat traffic.


BARDID: MA-2012-0012
Date: 2012-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:33:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cochituate
NearestCityTown: Natick
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator had been towing a wake boarder who had injured himself while attempting to do a maneuver.  The wake board flipped up and hit the injured.  Operator had alcohol and marijuana on board as well as drug paraphernalia ie bong, rolling papers.  Citations were issued for alcohol possession within a state park and for possession of less than one ounce of marijuana as well as improper amount of pfds's on board.


BARDID: MA-2012-0018
Date: 2012-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Manchester Harbor
NearestCityTown: Manchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel #2 placed vessel in reverse to cease forward motion and then put it in neutral and throttle placed in idle.  Owner went on deck to place mooring lines and fenders.  While on deck he noticed vessel was still making headway.  He was slightly in forward gear.  He tried to reverse but could not avoid colliding with vessel #1 a moored vessel causing property damage.


BARDID: MA-2012-0020
Date: 2012-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:48:00
State: MA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pequot Pond
NearestCityTown: Southampton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and victim had gone fishing overnight with two other acquaintances.  The operator and victim arrived at the State park to flush the engine and vessel off of salt water.  Both men decided to go for a swim to rinse off salt from their skin and clothes.  Operator does not swim well so he decided to put on a pfd to swim.  The victim jumped off the swim platform and did not seem to be any problem or be in distress.  The operator turned around to enter the water and did not see the victim.  He thought perhaps the victim dove under the water to grab his leg as a joke but realized he did not see him anywhere.  Operator entered the water looking for the victim while yelling for help.  Victim was located on 6/17/12 by a dive team.  Investigator noted alcohol beverages in vessel.  Alcohol was found on the vessel and victim tox results came back at .28 BAC and Vitreous humor fluid tested at .37 AC level.  Additionally the victim tested presumptive positive for amphetamine.  Conclusion is that this was a preventable accident had there not been the over consumption of alcoholic beverages.


