# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: AL-2013-0038
Date: 2013-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityTown: Fairhope
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Overloading
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling in Mobile Bay near Fly Creek.  Vessel had two persons on board and was towing three persons on a tube.  The operator was under the age of fourteen and had no experience operating a vessel.  As the vessel was making a circle, the operator was unable to control the throttle.  The operator lost control of the vessel and drove over the top of the persons on the tube.  The lower unit (propeller) grabbed one of the tube riders and tangled in his shorts. He became trapped in the propeller and his shorts acted like a tourniquet.  Family members were called to assist and were able to cut the victim out of the propeller.  He was transported to Thomas Hospital in Fairhope and treated for non-life threatening injuries. 
Vessel overloaded based on capacity plate for vessel based
on number of people in boat plus tube contributing to instability of the vessel


BARDID: AL-2013-0039
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityTown: Arley
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24, 2013,  Residents On Smith Lake in the Brushey Creek area saw smoke and flames coming from a boat dock. They called 911. Winston County dispatched the Arley Fire Department. The homeowners were not there. The boat house, a Seedoo, and a Malibu Wake boat burnt in the fire. The wake boat sank in 73 feet of water. Monday August the 5th divers retrieved the boat off the bottom of Smith Lake. 
 There were no injuries and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. The insurance company's and the State Fire Marshall are investigating the cause of the fire. .





Officer states insurance company has never made final determination
on cause of fire. State Fire Marshall did not investigate the incident.


BARDID: AL-2013-0040
Date: 2013-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityTown: Dadeville
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
THE OPERATOR OF THE VESSEL SAID THAT HE WAS LOOKING AT A HOUSE ON THE SHORE AND LET OFF THE THROTTLE. HE WAS TRYING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN AND REALIZED THAT WITHOUT THROTTLE HE COULD NOT TURN. HE THEN ACCELERATED BUT WAS UNABLE TO TURN BEFORE STRIKING A BOAT AND DOCK THAT WAS IN FRONT OF HIM CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE BOAT THAT WAS AT THE DOCK, HIS PWC, AND MINOR COSMETIC DAMGE TO THE DOCK.  operator HAD BEEN DRINKING PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT BUT WAS ABLE TO PASS FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS.  operator STATED TO THE CARETAKER OF THE PROPERTY THAT HE WOULD PAY FOR ALL DAMAGES.


BARDID: AL-2013-0041
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perdido Pass
NearestCityTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Base on witness statements and evidence at the scene the following occured on the above date and time. A single personal watercraft was traveling west bound in the Gulf of Mexico. As they turned north to enter Perdido Pass, the pwc struck the submerged wall located on the east side of the pass. Both occupants were thrown from the pwc. ocucpant assisted operator to the shore where she was transported for chest pains. She was treated and released later that night.


BARDID: AL-2013-0042
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityTown: Nanafalia
County: Marengo
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The tug boat Tenn-Tom was traveling north bound up the Tombigbee River. At mile marker 158.5 operator2 encounterd a fishing boat operated by operator1. As the Tenn-Tom proceeded north passing operator1 his boat was swamped and then sunk. The Tenn-Tom then launched thier skiff and assisted operator1 in retrieving his gear and took them back to Tuscahoma Landing where his truck was parked.


BARDID: AL-2013-0043
Date: 2013-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel # 1 was traveling northbound in Big Kowaliga Creek. Vessel #2 was traveling westbound in Big Kowaliga Creek going towards Parker Creek. Vessel #1 failed to maintain a proper lookout and failed to yield to vessel #2 which was on the starboard side of vessel #1. The driver of vessel #1 stated that he did not see vessel #2, until it was too late and attempted to swerve and avoid vessel #2. That's when Operator1 struck Vessel #2 on the port side.   Operator2 stated that he had just left his house and traveled a few hundred yards into the lake when he noticed vessel #1. Operator2 said that vessel #1 was coming straight towards him and he immediately stopped his boat and attempted to get the drivers attention to avoid an accident. Both vessels left the scene prior to my arrival. I was notified about the accident by Sgt.. Myself and Lt. were able to locate both vessels a short time later.


BARDID: AL-2013-0044
Date: 2013-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityTown: Jasper
County: Walker
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
According to the evidence gathered and witness statements, vessel #1 was traveling south in Duncan Creek where said vessel ran aground onto a shallow point.  Subject did not report the accident until 9 a.m. the next day.


BARDID: AL-2013-0045
Date: 2013-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou St John
NearestCityTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements and evidence at the scene the following occurred on the above date and time. While operating rental personal water craft in Bayou St John operator1 made a hard turn to the left and was struck by operator2. operator1 jumped from the pwc before the contact and was not injured both vessel received damage. No injuries were reported at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2013-0046
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityTown: Lincoln
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Driver stated that he was heading toward their campsite and he let out of the gas and couldn't steer the PWC.  He stated that he couldn't see the victim on the other side of the big blue float that he was heading toward and he accidentally ran the victim over striking her in the head.  Victim never loss consciousness and never went completely under water before she was grabbed by the operator and other people that was around her.  Victim was transported to St. Vincent's hospital by Lincoln EMS.


BARDID: AL-2013-0047
Date: 2013-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clear Creek
NearestCityTown: Alpine
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Driver stated that he was in Clear Creek past Camp Cosby and was traveling back towards the Camp and he heard a thump at the back of his vessel.  After the thump he stated that water started coming in the back of his vessel over his transom.  He stated that he continued driving so he could keep the water out as much as he could.  He called one of his friends to come assist him and before he could get to them the engine shutoff cause it was too far in the water and the boat eventually capsized.  Estimates on vessel damage was provided by the owner.  Subject stated that he has insurance thru State Farm in Birmingham.


BARDID: AL-2013-0048
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee / Harris Lake
NearestCityTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: animal behavior
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated she was traveling back from getting gas from the Marina. The storm came up and got worse and the thunder scared the dog, the leash got caught around the steering wheel causing the boat to turn toward shore. The boat ran up on the shore at the campground.  There were no injuries, the boat was an aluminum hull deck boat, the hull was caved in about three feet of the keel, a tear on the port side near the transom aprx. 2 inches wide and two feet long, along with damage to the transom.
GPS Dec. Degrees N33.36275 / W085.50634


BARDID: AL-2013-0049
Date: 2013-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityTown: Houston
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call from Winston County dispatch on a hit and run accident on Smith Lake in Yellow Creek. I responded to the scene around 2:00 PM August the 18 th. Witnesses were in the house and heard a crash at there boat dock. They ran down,where they saw a Red Mastercraft Wake Boat. The boat sat there for a few seconds and then left the scene. They immediately noticed the damage on there Nitro bass boat. 
 I patrolled the direction they last saw the boat, and found the boat in question. The witnesses identified that boat as the boat they saw at the time of the accident. I did see and photographed visible damage that is conclusive with the damage on the Bass Boat. 
After receiving witness statements and investigating this accident, I have gotten 3 warrants for the subject Who is believed to be the operator of the Mastercraft wake boat that ran over the Nitro bass boat on August 17, 2013 around 11:30 PM. 

Officer stated Vessel #1 was tied to a dock at owner home;
Vessel #2 was traveling westbound from a party en route to Yellow Creek – when Vessel
#2 struck Vessel #1.   -


BARDID: AL-2013-0050
Date: 2013-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:15:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Warrior River
County: Greene
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 6:15 AM on the morning of 09/13/2013, the listed vessel, (AL6693KF) 2000 Bumble Bee Bass Boat (Red / Black in Color) was traveling South on the Black Warrior River at a high rate of speed, when the operator lost control of the vessel. The accident caused all four of the individuals to be ejected from the vessel and into the water. All three passengers surfaced and were able to climb back into the listed vessel. The operator did not resurface and was not seen again by the passengers. One passenger contacted Greene Co. E-911 at 6:24 AM. Emergency personnel and local volunteers arrived on the scene and began a search of the area. Besides the local volunteers, on scene was the DPS Aviation Unit (helicopter), Alabama Game and Fish, Greene Co. Sheriffs Office, Hale Co. Sheriff's Office, Tuscaloosa City Fire and Rescue Dive Team, Tuscaloosa Sheriff's Office Dive Team, Moundville PD Officers and Emergency Medical Staff. 
The investigation revealed that at some point during the accident the bow of the vessel did strike the West Bank (Greene Co.) of the Black Warrior River. It appears that control was lost over the vessel first and then the vessel struck the bank, which ejected the occupants and left the boat drifting 10 to 15 feet from the bank (Point of Contact). A slight indentation and a small amount of debris was found at the point of contact. The Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Dive Team arrived at approximately 10:50 AM, and after about a 30 minute search, Operator's body was located about 20 feet from the accident scene, at a depth of about 23 feet.  Operator's body was placed in a body bag, by the dive team and transported to the Lock 8 Boat Launch, where the Greene Co. Coroner,  was waiting. The Coroner was advised that an autopsy was being requested by the Alabama Marine Police. Operator's body was turned over to the coroner. It should be noted that the Marine Police Officer assigned to the investigation is MPO and that he was assisted by MPO, who assisted with interviews and statements at the DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, where two occupants were transported by ambulance. Victim2 sustained cuts to his right foot and assorted bruises and scrapes and Victim1 sustained a broken rib and assorted bruises and scrapes. Victim3 who did not go to the hospital sustained minor scrapes and bruises. Victim3 remained at the accident scene and assisted with the investigation. A number of facts should be noted 1) according to statements, Operator, Victim2 and  Victim3 had been drinking prior to the accident. Victim1 had not. 2) Minor and anticipated discrepancies were noted in the three statements 3) Three are all students of the University of Alabama and are non-residents. Victim1 (Florida), Victim2 (Colorado) and Victim3 (Maryland). 4) Operator's parents were notified by Hale County. Sheriff's Deputies of Operator's accident, drowning and recovery.  body was turned over to the Greene County Coroner and he was advised that the Alabama Marine Police would like to request an autopsy. An autopsy was performed by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Montgomery. The autopsy report has not been completed as of the date of this report being filed. As soon as the autopsy report is completed, a follow up report will be filed.


BARDID: AL-2013-0051
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:37:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityTown: Demopolis
County: Marengo
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Dam/lock
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/01/13 at approximately 7:50 PM, the reporting officer, Marine Police Officer, was notified of a boat accident by the Marengo Co. Communications Center (E-911). Dispatchers advised that a boat had gone over the Demopolis Dam and that the boat was stuck on the rock shelf on the West side of the Dam. It should be noted that the Demopolis Dam is an overflow type dam and that it does not have a gate system. Officer responded to the Lower Pool boat launch, where he was met by representatives of the Demopolis Fire Department, Demopolis Police Department, Department of Conservation, WFF-LE, US Coast Guard and US CORP of Engineers and Emergency Medical Services. Officer was advised that the operator of the boat was still in the boat and that he was talking to first responders on his cell phone. The Operator advised that his ribs hurt, but that he was OK. Officer noted that attempts to reach the boat operator were up to that point, unsuccessful. Operator's boat was sitting flat, right side up, in about a foot of water, but that the area the boat was sitting in was surrounded by numerous streams of rapidly moving water, which was about three feet deep. Officers were eventually able to reach Operator and assist him in walking out to first responders. Operator was transported to the Bryan Whitfield Hospital where he was treated and then transported to DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa. 
Operator was treated for multiple broken ribs, held for observation and then released. During the interview with Operator, he stated that he was on Lake Demopolis, above the Demopolis Dam, when his boat stalled. Operator stated that by the time he restarted his boat, it was too late and that he went over the dam. The witnesses stated that they were fishing below the dam when they saw Operator's boat come over the dam and land on the rock shelf, at which point they called for help. As of this date, Operator's boat is still sitting in the same location where it landed. It should be noted that officers were unable to denote any identifiers that indicated that Operator was above the legal limit for alcohol.  Operator did state that he had consumed a "couple" of beers earlier. Several hours had passed between the time of the accident and when officers were able to make contact and observe Operator. Officer met with the Marengo Co. District Attorney, Assistant DA and DA's Investigator ref. the possibility of pursuing charges. Their recommendation, based on the lack of indicators at the time of the accident and based on the lack of a conclusive blood / breath test, was not to pursue charges. The District Attorney did not believe that the blood testing done by the hospital was conclusive enough for prosecution. An inspection of Operator's boat did not reveal any alcohol, full or empty containers.


BARDID: AL-2013-0052
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityTown: Eclectic
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements given by Operator and witnesses, Operator was operating V1 idling away from a dock at The Ridge Marina when an explosion occurred in the engine compartment.  Operator had stopped at the marina to purchase some screws for a flag mounted on the front of the boat.  He stated that he was away from the boat just long enough to go inside and purchase the screws.  He returned to the boat, mounted the screws to the flagpole, then started the boat and began idling away from the dock.  After several seconds, long enough to clear the dock and begin maneuvering away from the marina, there was an explosion in the engine compartment.  The explosion blew the hatch covering the engine open; also fire came under the back seat and surrounded Operator.  He jumped into the water to extinguish the fire on his body and clothing, and then swam back to the pier.  Once ashore he was assisted by marina personnel and bystanders until EMS arrived.  He was transported by ambulance to Russell Medical Center then airlifted to the UAB Burn Center.

Operator stated that he had some problems back in April related to the fuel system of the boat.  He had replaced the fuel tank with an 18 gal. plastic tank while a permanent replacement tank was being built.


BARDID: AL-2013-0053
Date: 2013-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Mitchell
NearestCityTown: Rockford
County: Coosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator of the vessel, he entered the slough. He traveled to the back and turned around. As he was exiting the slough he accelerated rapidly and struck a pontoon boat and boat house.


BARDID: AL-2013-0054
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BCDA (Bear Creek Devlopment Au
NearestCityTown: Bear Creek
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was headed North and coming out of a sharp 90 degree curve when he saw Vessel 2 headed South on a collision course with him. Vessel 1 turned to the right to avoid the collision and Vessel 2 turned left and impacted the port side in the center of Vessel 1 near where the passenger was sitting. The impact caused Vessel 1 to narrowly miss another vessel. The operator of Vessel 2 stated he had a tournament to fish and left when the operator of Vessel 1 advised him that he had called 911.


BARDID: AL-2013-0055
Date: 2013-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:03:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intercoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Base on evidence at the scene the following events took place on the above date. While at dock and not occupied the Bathroom vent switch was left on causing the fan to short out melting wire and the housing of the vent fan. All damage was contained to the vent housing, wire and vent cover. Smoke damage was minimal. No injuries were reported at time of accident.


BARDID: AL-2013-0056
Date: 2013-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityTown: McIntosh
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
EquipmentFailure: Other
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Boat #1 was heading North on the Tombigbee River about 5 miles north of McIntosh. When coming into a curve he saw boat #2 coming South. When #2 came around the curve he had to keep a extended distance away from the bank due to a sand bar. #1 assumed he was going to hit him so he come port to dodge him. When #2 saw #1 come his way he slowed down and turned starboard. When the boats collided the people were ejected out of #1. #1 was wearing his kill switch and PFD's but the line on the kill switch broke so the boat ran onto the bank. #2 picked the people of #1 up and took them to McIntosh landing where they met by McIntosh PD and EMT. The occupants of #1 were then transported to the hospital.  The victims became injured when they were ejected.


BARDID: AL-2013-0057
Date: 2013-09-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling west on the left hand side of Elkahatchee Creek. Vessel 2 was traveling east on the right hand side. Both vessels met as they were rounding a curve and Vessel 1 turned left toward the bank in an attempt to avoid a head on collision. Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 on its port side causing major damage to Vessel 2. Vessel 1 had significant damage to its hull. The operators of both vessels declined any medical treatment at the time of the report.


BARDID: AL-2013-0058
Date: 2013-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tensaw River
NearestCityTown: Bay Minette
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 26, 2013 around 5pm, I received a call from Baldwin 911 center of a boating accident in Mifflin Lake, just north of the power lines. I had 911 dispatch the local VFD Stations 7400 and 7800 that have boats to assist me. Officer, with State Lands, was close to the area and came to assist. All assisting units arrived at Cliffs Landing; I launched my boat and had a paramedic and Officer ride with me. As we arrived on scene the vessels bow was dug up into the east bank of the lake. the passenger appeared to be OK. the operator, was complaining of pain in several locations (back; left arm; chest). A “C” collar was placed on Operator’s neck and a SAMS splint on his left arm. Sta.74 boat arrived on scene within a few minutes with a EMT. Operator was packaged, placed on a back board, transferred to Station 74s’ boat, and transported to Cliffs Landing. Life flight was landing as we were arriving. Operator was loaded into the Helicopter and flown to USA Medical. 
Occupant had no apparent injuries, just wet. Occupant told me that they had just left one tree top (crappie fishing) and was moving north up the river. He said they were going about 45 when the boat turned hard right and ejected him. Occupant said as he was swimming to the boat he could hear Operator moaning and praying. Occupant climbed into the boat with Operator and called 911.
North Baldwin SAR retrieved the boat from the scene so Occupant and I could notify wife of operator. There was no apparent damage to the vessel hull, prop, or lower unit. The vessel was turned over at the Arian T. Martin at Cliffs landing.


BARDID: AL-2013-0059
Date: 2013-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to passenger, the operator was operating a PWC for the first time. She was inexperienced at operating vessels. She had just driven under and through the bridge at Warrenton on Hwy 69 and was attempting to go back through. They were unaware of the idle speed only zone under bridges. She was traveling at approximately 20-25 mph. She was unable to navigate through the openings under the bridge and was heading toward a cement bridge support. She was unable to steer the PWC around the support and hit it. The PWC was a rental from Wood Watersport, LLC.  Operator became injured when she hit the bridge after being ejected.


BARDID: AL-2013-0060
Date: 2013-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:28:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River/Dannelly Reservo
NearestCityTown: Camden
County: Wilcox
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements given by the boat operator and other witnesses, Operator was operating V1 on the Alabama River with his grandson, Grandson, on board as passenger.  Operator launched V1 at Roland Cooper State Park on the morning of November 11, 2013 and headed upriver to fish an area known as the “log jam”.  After approximately thirty minutes they began to travel back downriver at planing speed.  Operator stated that he looked over at his grandson as they were going back downriver.  He looked back up just as V1 struck the riverbank.  Upon impact, Operator was thrown from the operator’s seat and landed in the floor of the boat.  He stated that he was unconscious for an undetermined amount of time.  When he regained consciousness, he saw the Grandson was injured and was unconscious.  He got the boat started and headed back toward Roland Cooper State Park.  
At the entrance to the park, Operator subjects who assisted Operator in getting back to the State Park boat ramp.  Subject also called 911 and notified emergency responders of the accident.  State Trooper arrived along with EMS.  The passenger was transported to Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery via helicopter.  He passed away.  The operator was transported to Druid City Hospital in Tuscaloosa via helicopter.


BARDID: AL-2013-0061
Date: 2013-11-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On Nov. 25, 2013 a missing person report was filed with Marshall County SO.  Operator was reported to have been drinking alcohol on the night of Nov. 15 2013 and had stated that he was going to drive his 25' house boat to Short Creek to anchor out for the night.  I located the victim's boat about a mile up stream from Guntersville Dam on Nov. 26, 2013 with no occupants on board. I observed a broken antenna mount and what appeared to be scuffs from the sole of a shoe on the starboard side of the boat.  
body has not been recovered and the search and investigation is still ongoing.
It is assumed the victim fell overboard due to alcohol use and position on the boat (on the gunwale).


BARDID: AL-2013-0062
Date: 2013-11-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityTown: Equality
County: Coosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/28/2013, the victim left his parents' cabin on Lake Martin at approx. 0500hrs to go duck hunting. Victim drove to the boat ramp on Coosa County Rd 92 on the Oakachoy Creek portion of the lake. He then launched his 13ft Colman Canoe and paddled into a slough that was closest to the boat ramp. Around 0559hrs, Victim sent his father a text message saying he had shot a duck. Shortly after the text message Victim’s father lost contact with his son. I was notified about the missing juvenile by Officer around 1140hrs. I then called the Coosa County Sheriffs Office and was given further information about the situation and its location. I arrived on the scene at approx. 1250hrs and met with Victim’s father, who was in a kayak looking for his son. I had Victim’s father get into my boat and tell me all the information about his son. He then showed me the slough where he found his son's decoy ducks in the water. Just across from the decoys on the shore were Victim's decoy bag, shotgun shells and his type 3 life jacket. I then took Victim’s father to the boat ramp and began my search of the immediate area. 

At approximately 3:00 p.m. Capt. arrived to assist with the search. Other agencies that assisted were the Coosa County Sheriffs Office, Alabama State Troopers Aerial Unit & Highway Patrol, Tallapoosa County Rescue Squad and the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Law Enforcement Division. The search lasted until approx. 2100hrs when it was called off due to the deteriorating search conditions. The search resumed at 0630hrs on 11/29/2013 by Capt. and I arrived a short time later. At approx. 1120hrs, Capt. and I located on sonar what looked like a canoe in about 13ft of water. Divers then went down and recovered the canoe which belonged to Victim. Shortly after that at approx 1158 hrs, volunteers with the Tallapoosa County Rescue Squad were dragging in the intimidate area of the canoe and recovered Victim's shotgun from the lake bottom. The shotgun was a Benelli 12ga Super Black Eagle. The shotgun breach was locked to the rear an there were no shells inside the gun. 

Capt. and I continued the search in the area of where the canoe and shotgun were located. We got a couple of sonar hits on what appeared to be a body and marked the spots with floating markers. Divers went down a second time and at approx. 1432 hrs Victim's body was located and recovered. When Victim's body was placed in the rescue boat, I took several photographs. Victim's clothing at time of recovery consisted of only one boot on his left leg, pair of socks, three pairs of pants plus underwear, a tee-shirt, Drake base layer long sleeve fleece shirt and a Drake camouflage parka jacket. Victim had both layers of the parka on at the time of recovery. He also had on his person a  Gerber pocket knife, Costa sunglasses, two duck calls with mini flashlight and whistle on a braided lanyard, car keys and a wristwatch. 

It appeared that after Victim went into the water he kicked off one boot, unbuttoned his pants and attempted to take off his jacket to reduce weight.  Only one sleeve of the jacket was still attached to Victim's left arm and appeared to be caught on his wristwatch. Upon inspection of the 1988 Coleman plastic 13ft canoe, hull # CP226562F888. There were no fractures or holes in the hull, all bracing was intact and there was no hull flotation. Several pictures were taken of the canoe as well. The divers stated that the canoe was upside down on the lake bottom when it was recovered. Based on statements from Victim’s father, the scene and facts gathered, it is believed that Victim drowned after the canoe capsized and sank. The added weight of his multiple layers of clothing, the frigid water and no life jacket were major factors in his drowning.


BARDID: AL-2013-0063
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River/Dannelly Reservo
NearestCityTown: Selma
County: Dallas
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 29, 2013, at approximately 5:30pm, Operator hit an unknown object just beneath the surface of the water located on the Alabama River(Lake Dannelly) near Selma.  Operator was accompanied by two occupants.  Operator was traveling upriver towards the Selma City Marina in a 2009 Ranger Bass Boat 250hp when he hit an unknown object at an unknown speed.  The force of the collision dislodged the outboard from the transom and was flipped inside of the vessel before the prop blade hit Victim.  All of the occupants were knocked unconscious but were not thrown out of the vessel.  The prop blade cut Victim on his left hand and left leg severely.  Once the occupants regained consciousness 911 was contacted.  State Fire Marshall was the first on the scene and transported Victim to the Selma City Marina where he was air lifted to Baptist Medical Center South(Montgomery, AL) for emergency surgery.  The other occupants were later transported to the Selma City Marina where medics evaluated their well being.  The motor was not recovered from the water and the boat was turned over to the insurance company.


BARDID: AR-2010-0001
Date: 2010-01-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU METO
NearestCityTown: WABBASEKA
County: ARKANSAS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: UNFORESEEN WATER HAZARD
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck a submerged log causing the outboard motor to come up and come completely off of the transom.  The 25hp motor struck the operator in the rear left side of his head causing a laceration.  The prop then struck the passenger, which was sitting on the left side of the operator, in the left arm.  The prop cut through the passenger's jacket but did not make contact with the skin.  V1 sustained damage to the transom.  The operator was taken to Stuttgart Hospital via private vehicle where he received 12 stitches for his injury.


BARDID: AR-2010-0002
Date: 2010-01-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DES ARC
NearestCityTown: DES ARC
County: PRAIRIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 01-29-10 at approx. 1400 this officer received the call of a boating accident on Lake Des Arc.  Upon arrival there was nobody at the scene.  An officer with the Des Arc police department got the individual's information that were invovled in the accident.  One individual (victim) had been transported by ambulance to the hospital.  Contact was made with hospital staff and they advised the victim was going to be admitted due to hypothermia.  On 01-30-10 I spoke with the victim and passenger 2 about the accident.  They both stated they were leaving the boat ramp to go hunting and all of a sudden a strong gust of wind picked up and they hit a wave causing them to take on water over the bow.  As water was coming in over the bow, they all went to the back of the boat to try and keep the boat from sinking.  

Passenger 2 stated they decided to jump out and swim for the bank when they were standing in water that was in the boat, at that point the boat overturned.  All individuals made it to the bank.  The victim was then transported to the hospital because of signs of hypothermia.


BARDID: AR-2010-0003
Date: 2010-01-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: MADDOX BAY RUN OUT
NearestCityTown: ST. CHARLES
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
On 01/16/10 at 7:00am, received a call about a boat accident on Maddox Bay Run-Out involving 8 duck hunters and that 2 of them became trapped inside the vessel when it sank.  Several officers responded to the scene.  All survivors were interviewed and the operator was given a BAC test.

After interviews were conducted it was determined that as they left the boat ramp at St. Charles V1 immediately had steering problems.  The operator worked on the steering cable for a short time and then advised that he had the problem fixed.  They continued to travel up the run-out for a short time when the occupants began noticing water accumulating in the bottom of V1.  As the water was being noticed, the operator began throttling down.  As V1 slowed water began entering at a high rate from the port side of the stern.  Operator advised everyone to grab a life jacket and exit the boat.  The survivors made their way to brush and hung on screaming for help.  Several boats nearby came to assist and took the survivors to a floating blind.  

On 01/17/10 several wildlife officers and law enforcement personnel from other agencies met to lift and recover V1.  V1 was taken to AGFC's Andrew Hulsey Fish Hatchery so that a reconstruction investigation could be conducted.  During the investigation it was determined that V1 is 17ft in length and has a 73 inch beam width.  The cab was not an original piece of equipment on V1 and it did not contain any internal flotation.  We obtained a brochure on Monark boats that were produced in 1970 and none meet the exact specifications of V1.  The closest are as follows:  Monark Commercial Fishing Boats Model 1652 -  which is 16ft and has a 73 inch beam rated for a 35hp motor and 6 passengers with a total weight capacity of 1,465lbs, Model 1852 -  which is 18ft and has a 73 inch beam rated for a 45hp motor and 7 passengers with a total weight capacity of 1,645lbs, and the Monark Belle (cab boat) which is 18ft with a 76 inch beam rated for a 50hp motor and 6 passengers with a total weight capacity of 1,445lbs.  V1 was occupied by 8 passengers and powered by an Evinrude 115hp E-Tech motor.  The weight of the passengers was approximately 1,660 pounds (weights taken from DLs) and the weight of the motor was 375lbs for a total of 2,035lbs.  This weight does not include the occupant's gear (guns, waders, blind bags, ammunition, decoys) or the dog due to most of it being lost during the accident or returned to the owners prior to being weighed.  We used certified scales and filled 5 gallon buckets and other containers with bricks to simulate the weights of the occupants onboard.  The weights were placed according to each occupant's seating position with 935lbs on the port side, 650lbs on the starboard side and 75lbs on the bow.  V1 was then put into the water and measurements were taken of the port side freeboard at the stern, which was 3 1/2 inches.

Therefore it was determined that V1 was grossly overloaded in both occupant weight and person capacity.  Thus making it extremely dangerous for any weight shift changes while under power or when powering down.  It was also noted V1 had no damage to the bottom of the hull which would have allowed water to enter through the hull.  During the reconstruction V1 was in the water for approximately an hour, at which time no water was observed coming into the boat.

USCG is investigating and charges are pending at this time.


BARDID: AR-2010-0006
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:35:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLUE MT. LAKE
NearestCityTown: HAVANNA
County: YELL
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling east towards Waveland Park when it lost power.  After losing power the wind started blowing V1 towards the south bank.  Due to high winds and large waves, V1 started taking on water and as it was filling with water the operator was able to paddle to the south bank and tie the bow off to a tree.  After several minutes, V1 became totally submerged.  All occupants were able to escape unharmed.


BARDID: AR-2010-0007
Date: 2010-03-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: BATESVILLE
County: INDEPENDENCE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west on the White River approx. 5 miles west (upriver) of the Hwy 167 bridge at Batesville.  Operator advised he was traveling approx. 70mph when his power trim became stuck and started to raise his motor causing the bow of V1 to come out of the water; flipping V1 over and ejecting him.  He also advised he had been having problems with his power trim operating incorrectly.


BARDID: AR-2010-0009
Date: 2010-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: ROYAL
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Occupants were paddling away from the Vista returning to the island where they were camped when strong winds and high waves turned V1 perpendicular to the wind then caused it to capsize.  Both subjects attempted to flip V1 but it was completely swamped.  Both subjects the decided to swim to the shore where they originally departed.  subject then noticed the victim was struggling to keep his head above water.  subject swam to the victim, removed his own jeans and made a makeshift PFD.  The makeshift PFD soon failed and subject attempted to hang onto the victim and swim to shore but was unable to do so.  subject then swam to shore and climbed to the Vista where he made contact with an unknown subject who called 911.

Victim's body was recovered on 03/29/10 at approx. 15:00.


BARDID: AR-2010-0010
Date: 2010-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER (OZARK POOL)
NearestCityTown: OZARK
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment Failure
EquipmentFailure: other
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised he was fishing in the small cove, running the trolling motor when he looked down and V1 had water in the floor.  He attempted to bilge the excess water but the bilge couldn't keep up with the water coming on board.  He attempted to start V1 and take off, but due to the amount of water was unable, thus V1 sank.

Operator advised he operated V1 for the past 3 days without any problems.  He thought there was an issue with either the bilge pump or the live well pumps.

On 04-13-10 the Johnson County Dive Team was contracted to recover V1.  Once recovered all water was drained, wiring was checked even though it was covered in silt from being in the water for 10 days.  The plug was inserted and V1 was put back in the water; no water was observed coming onboard.


BARDID: AR-2010-0011
Date: 2010-03-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAR CREEK LAKE
NearestCityTown: MARIANNA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Survivors stated that all three men were fishing in a 12' flatbottom boat when victim stood up in the boat trying to start the motor.  While trying to start the motor, water started coming in V1 causing it to overturn.  Two occupants were able to get to the shore but the operator/victim was not.  Victim was located about an hour and a half later, still holding onto his tackle box.

Occupants weight as noted on DLs: Victim 190lbs, occupant 2 190lbs, occupant 3 185lbs (565lbs total).  Also onboard was an ice chest with ice, food, drinks, 2 bags of minnows, tackle box, 3 PFDs, 2 paddles, 3 fishing poles and a 9.9 outboard motor with gas tank; therefore it is believed the cause of the accident was due to overloading.


BARDID: AR-2010-0013
Date: 2010-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: HENDERSON
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: GROUNDING
AccidentEvent3: FLOODING/SWAMPING
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling north at approx. 25mph, using his GPS to navigate.  V1 struck a tree causing it to go left and run aground on some large boulders knocking a hole in the bottom of V1.  The lower unit was also damaged.  The prop was broken and the output shaft was bent.  Operator was able to change the prop and make it back to shore.

Now the rest of the story,  once back at shore he loaded V1 onto his trailer and the operator admitted (upon questioning) that he panicked about damaging V1 so he set it on fire and tried to burn it.  The case was turned over to the Sheriff's Dept. for possible insurance fraud charges, since the operator had already contacted his insurance and received a claim number prior to law enforcement arrival.


BARDID: AR-2010-0014
Date: 2010-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 Operator stated he had been jumping wakes in the lake at which time V2 jumped a wake and his vessel was struck on the port side by V1.  V2 Operator stated he was ejected from his vessel.  V1 Operator left the scene shortly after impact.  V2 Operator made contact with V1 Operator via cellphone at which time V1 Operator stated he was at home and was not returning.  

On 05/19/2010 Officer made contact with the Operator of V1 and obtained a statement.  V1 Operator advised he was jumping a wake behind a moving boat and when he landed, the other vessel (V2) collided at an angle. 

Both operators were cited for various violations.


BARDID: AR-2010-0015
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAUMELLE
NearestCityTown: LITTLE ROCK
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised he was south bound from Big Island going to Jolly Rogers Marina when 2 large waves hit the port side of V1 and he turned into the wind.  As he did another large wave hit the front of V1 and it immediately was swamped with water and sank.  Operator advised they were in the water for over an hour and a half before being rescued.  No injuries were reported and V1 has not been located.


BARDID: AR-2010-0016
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOB KIDD LAKE
NearestCityTown: PRAIRIE GROVE
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fishing and had taken V1 to the far west side of the lake.  At some point he attempted to start the 10hp Seahorse outboard motor and with the first pull of the starting rope he heard a large pop and then the outboard began to burn.  Operator stated he had a 5gal. gas can next to the outboard and he attempted to move the can to prevent it from catching fire, but it burst into flames.  Operator then jumped overboard and swam to the bank and walked back to the boat launch.  V1's fire was extinquished by Central EMS and towed back to the ramp.  Operator was examined by EMS personnel and had first and second degree burns on his toes on his right foot but refused treatment.

V1 was completely burned and there was a large hole in the starboard side as a result of the 12-volt battery.


BARDID: AR-2010-0017
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: VIN PRAIRE CREEK OFF ARK RIVER
NearestCityTown: MULBERRY
County: CRAWFORD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: UNFORESEEN WATER HAZARD
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was making a wide turn to the right going around a channel marker when he hit a submerged object.  Upon inspection he found the submerged object was a wall of concrete about 2 feet under the water's surface.  He had gotten too close to the channel marker and hit the base of concrete around it.  Damage was contained to the lower unit area.  The skagg was knocked off and prop shaft bent.


BARDID: AR-2010-0018
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: SUGARLOAF
County: VAN BUREN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unsecured cargo
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was seated in the left rear of V1.  A large ski tube, which was not secured, was laying on the back of the boat behind the victim.  There were high winds and large wakes on the lake during the time of this accident.  Operator was getting up to cruising speed when the ski tube blew out of V1.  The ski rope wrapped around the victim's legs and neck, jerking him out of V1.  V1's prop cut the rope in two (which probably saved the victim's life).  Victim was wearing a PFD.  He was transported to the emergency room where he was treated for severe rope burns on his neck and legs.


BARDID: AR-2010-0019
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: CURRENT RIVER
NearestCityTown: RENYO
County: RANDOLPH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he had recently purchased V1 and was in the process of working on the motor.  He put it into the water to see if it would run.  He stated after he started it, he motored away from the bank and heard a "loud pop" from the engine compartment and saw smoke then fire.


BARDID: AR-2010-0020
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE RED RIVER
NearestCityTown: PANGBURN
County: WHITE
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: UNKNOWN
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were going upstream in strong current.  They had been experiencing motor trouble and as they were motoring up, the motor quit just above some strong rapids which caused V1 to be carried back down river.  V1 struck a low hanging tree and overturned.  Both subjects were thrown into the river.  Operator was able to hold onto a submerged tree and the victim was recovered about 3 hours later.


BARDID: AR-2010-0022
Date: 2010-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: STORY
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were manuvering around the dock at North Shores Resort when the wind and wake caught V1 causing it to drift toward V2.  Operator of V1 panicked and was unable to make the proper evasive manuver to avoid a collision.


BARDID: AR-2010-0023
Date: 2010-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:29:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORRELL
NearestCityTown: BENTON
County: SALINE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: GROUNDING
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/22/10 at 2209hrs V1 was being operated at a moderate rate of speed.  The bow was up which obstructed the operator's view.  The operator was attempting to level V1 off by adjusting the trim.  Operator stated he had just purchased V1 earlier in the day and was operating it for the first time.  V2 was at idle speed.  V1 operator noticed or was made aware by his passengers of V2.  V1 turned the wheel hard to the right in an attempt to avoid collision, causing the port side hull of V1 to strike the starboard side railing of V2 near the driver's seat.  Damage was indicitive of such on both vessels.

After striking V2, the bow of V1 ran into the bank and V1 came to an abrupt stop.  V1 operator's head struck the windshield in front of him and was knocked unconscious.  Occupants from both vessels claim to have had navigational lights on at the time of the accident, however the bow light from V1 was not located (possibly detached due to impact with the bank).  Occupants of V1 failed to produce proof of insurance and the operator later stated he did not have insurance on V1.  Operator admitted consuming alcohol prior to operating V1 and consented to a blood test while at the hospital.  

Operator of V1 was charged with BUI, Negligent Operation and issued a warning for no proof of insurance.


BARDID: AR-2010-0024
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Owner of V1 was out on his boat with 2 friends.  After boating for a while, the owner went in and the operator (listed in this report) and occupant continued to boat and stay on the water.  Operator stated after being anchored for a while he started the engine and it began to cut out and then water began pouring in from the stern.  The bilge pump could not keep up and at this point they donned PFD's and swam to the nearest residence on the lake shore.  V1 sank and overturned with only the bottom of the bow sticking up out of the water.

After V1 was recovered, it was determined the drive shaft between the inboard and outboard drive had failed and damaged the rubber boot which allowed water to flood V1.


BARDID: AR-2010-0025
Date: 2010-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHOCTAW
County: VAN BUREN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he shoved V1 from the ramp and got seated to start it.  The motor of V1 was an electric start motor.  Operator stated he turned the key and the motor went crazy in reverse ejecting him.  He was struck by the prop twice and his wife (passenger) was also ejected and struck by the prop.  A witness rushed to the scene just as V1 got hung up on the ramp.  He pulled the kill switch, thus stopping the motor.  He then pulled the victims from the water and began 1st aid until medical personnel arrived.  Operator was air-vacced to UAMS in Little Rock and his wife was taken to a local hospital in Clinton.

Upon investigation of V1, this investigator started the motor at the scene and was unable to get the motor to start in gear.  I also tried to start the motor in gear at the owner's propery and the motor failed to start at any time in gear.  It is my opinion the motor started at a high rate of speed and somehow the motor was put into reverse ejecting the victims from V1.

V1 had no HIN or legal registration numbers.  V1 was a test boat and had never been issued a HIN.  

Citations were issued to the owner for failure to register and display numbers and a warning was issued to the operator for failure to use the kill switch lanyard.


BARDID: AR-2010-0026
Date: 2010-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:37:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: NORTH LITTLE ROCK
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/04/10 subject called the NLR Police Dept. to report her husband and son missing.  NLRPD report states on 06/03/10 subject had talked to her son (victim 2) by cell phone at 15:37 and her son stated that her husband and he were going kayaking.  She stated she became worried when they didn't return home and they wouldn't answer their cell phones.

On 06/04/10 at approx. 08:30 a NLR Parks employee found a yellow Coleman inflatable kayak pulled up on shore at the Burns Park boat ramp.  Inside the kayak was a prescription pair of glasses, a black t-shirt, a PFD and an air pump.  The employee took the kayak to the NLR Parks and Recreation shop for storage.

On 06/04/10 at 10:23 subject stated to NLRPD she had located her husband's vehicle parked by the Arkansas River in Burns Park.  NLRFD, PCSO, LRFD and AGFC officers responded to the scene to search for the missing kayakers.

Two paddles were found on the South shore of the Arkansas River near Burns Park.  Another inflatable kayak was located downstream on the south bank near the Dillard's Corporation.  There was a red T-shirt located in this kayak.

LRPD reported he spoke to a another subject which stated to him on 06/03/10 that he had been riding a PWC in the area when it malfunctioned just before dark. He stayed with the PWC and another subject attempted to swim to the bank on the NLR side when he came upon an inflatable kayak, boarded it and used it to get to the Burns Park boat ramp.  He stated he pulled it up on the bank.

A jogger stated to NLRPD that she had seen the 2 victims in their kayaks before dark near Camel Island on 06/03/10.

On 06/04/10 at approx. 17:30 the body of victim 2 was located by PCSO approximately 360 yards south of Camel Island next to the NLR shore.  While retrieving his body, other rescue units located the body of victim 1 near the shore of Camel Island in shallow water.

Both bodies were turned over to the PC County Coroner's office.  An autopsy was completed on 06/10/10 and it was determined that both subjects had drowned and the manner of death was accidental.  NOte: State recorded case as one accident invovling two boats.  It is unknown if one kayak caused the other to become involved in the accident.


BARDID: AR-2010-0027
Date: 2010-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated that he and V2 were riding and going toward Lacy's Marina and the next thing he remembered was being on board a boat.  Operator of V2 stated they were headed toward the marina and that V1 was in front of V2 when V1 suddenly turned sharply to the right and was headed straight toward him.  Operator of V2 stated he did not have time to get out of the way and struck V1.


BARDID: AR-2010-0028
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was testing the vessel to see if he had fixed a fuel leak at the carburetor.  He noticed fire at his feet, shut the motor off and jumped into the lake and was picked up by another vessel, who called 911.  Gamaliel FD reponded with a fire boat and extinquished the fire.  V1 was taken to Talburt's landing and put on a trailer by the operator.  V1 was a total loss, burning to the water line.


BARDID: AR-2010-0030
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was towing a skier in the area of Little Goat Island on the Devils Fork tributary of Greers Ferry Lake.  When the skier fell, V1 turned hard to the left and hit a large wave.  The wave came over the bow causing it to take on water, ultimately capsizing V1.  V1 was recovered the following day by Birdsong Towing.


BARDID: AR-2010-0031
Date: 2010-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: COTTER
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects in V1 were drift fishing and not paying attention, they drifted into a dock causing V1 to sink.  All 3 occupants made it to shore.  No injuries but the motor was missing from V1 when it was recovered.


BARDID: AR-2010-0032
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: LAKEVIEW
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
OtherAccidentEvent: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The 3 occupants were fishing in Cane Island slough when heavy fog set in, reducing visibility to less than 100'.  As they were floating down the river, the bow of V1 hit a low hanging limb which turned V1 sideways until the stern of V1 hit.  At that time V1 capsized and sank.  No injuries and the vessel has yet to be recovered.


BARDID: AR-2010-0033
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GREESON
NearestCityTown: MURFREESBORO
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of Wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was towing 4 occupants on a "Big Mable" tube.  Operator stated he was running about 17 - 19 mph and was turning V1 to pull the riders across a set of waves.  When the tube hit the waves, victim1 was thrown into the air.  When he came down he hit his head on victim 2's head.  Victim 1 was transported by ambulance to the hospital where he was diagnosed with a broken/dislocated jaw.


BARDID: AR-2010-0034
Date: 2010-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT. PINE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was towing victim on a wake board.  Victim fell and the wake board made contact with the left side of her head.  EMS was called and she was transported to the ER.  She sustained a laceration to the left side of her head.


BARDID: AR-2010-0035
Date: 2010-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU DEVIEW
NearestCityTown: BRINKLEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Received a call from the Sheriff's Department of a possible boating accident at the Bank of Brinkley access to the Cache River Refuge on Bayou Deview.  Upon arrival, deputies advised they had located the victim in the water about 6 feet from V1.  The victim's truck was running and was backed into the water as if he was in the process of loading or unloading V1.  V1 was on the opposite side of the bayou, approx. 60 - 70 feet away and the victim was floating face down beside V1 between V1 and the location of the truck.  The only part of the victim on the surface of the water was the top of his head.  We are not sure if he was in the boat and fell out or if he forgot to disconnect the rear tie downs from the trailer and was doing so and stepped off the steep drop-off behind the trailer.  There is little to no current in this section of the bayou.

After further investigation, victim had left his house around 15:00 to go fishing.  His vehicle was discovered around 20:15 by three teenagers .  They reported the accident and were gone before I arrived.  The county coroner determined the cause of death as drowning.


BARDID: AR-2010-0036
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: LAKEVIEW
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both subjects stated they were fishing in the Noel Creek area on Bull Shoals Lake when victim 2 had to use the restroom.  As they traveled back to Deer Run Resort they hit a 5" willow tree with the bow of V1 on the starboard side.  Victim 2 was thrown into the railing on the bow and broke her cheek bone and received a black eye.  Victim 1 received minor bumps and bruises on his body.  Victim 2 was transported to the hospital by POV.


BARDID: AR-2010-0038
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE RED RIVER
NearestCityTown: PANGBURN
County: WHITE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: MACHINERY FAILURE
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were going downstream on the Little Red River in very strong current.  The motor quit just above some strong rapids in the river which caused V1 to be carried downstream and it struck a low hanging tree and capsized.  All subjects were ejected from V1, 3 of them managed to hang onto the tree and the 4th (victim) was washed downstream with V1.  All subjects were rescued and victim was transported by ambulance to the hospital with complaints of leg pain (possibly broken).  Estimated damage was due to the outboard motor being submerged and one storage unit lid being lost.


BARDID: AR-2010-0039
Date: 2010-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: MONTE NE
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were traveling southeast out of Monte Ne Cove when V1 passed V2 on the right.  V2 turned right then realized he was headed toward the port side of V1 and attempted to correct by turning left.  V1 attempted to avoid the collision by turning right.  The starboard bow of V2 struck V1 on the port side just forward of the passenger seat above the water line creating a hole in the fiberglass hull.  The rotation and momentum caused V2 to rotate up sideways on V1 causing abrasions and black transfer marks on the port side of V1.  The port side rub rail on V1 was also detached and lifted upwards.  The momentum of V1 turning hard right caused the starboard stern of V2 to strike the port side stern of V1 creating a hole below the waterline on V1.  The second impact caused the operator of V2 to be ejected into the water.  V1 began to take on water and was taken to a nearby dock and put on a lift.


BARDID: AR-2010-0040
Date: 2010-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger were traveling east toward Starkey Marina.  Operator stated they were slowly turning to the right and leaning into the turn when they hit a large wave and were thrown from V1.  Operator stated he was going about 40mph.  When both riders were thrown, the passenger's head skipped along the water and she blacked out.  When she regained consciousness she stated her arms and legs were numb and her head was hurting very badly.  She was transported to the hospital and it was determined she had a concussion and severly strained neck muscles.


BARDID: AR-2010-0041
Date: 2010-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: BUCKVILLE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised they were traveling east on Lake Ouachita near point 28.  They entered a shallow water area when V1 grounded causing the victim to be thrown forward, striking his head on the windshield.  Victim was interviewed and stated they were cruising and he noticed a bouy and he thought it might be indicating shallow water.  He stood up and V1 grounded.  Damage to V1 included - prop, drive shaft, and to the fiberglass hull just above the prop.


BARDID: AR-2010-0042
Date: 2010-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: ARKADELPHIA
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Statements from victim, operator and occupant all stated that victim was riding on a tube and fell off, landing in the water on the back side of her head.  They stated after victim struck the water she was unresponsive and when she "came to" she was unable to feel or move her legs.  She was transported by EMS to the hospital and treated for back and neck pain.


BARDID: AR-2010-0043
Date: 2010-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:35:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to both operators, the accident occurred while they were trying to splash each other.  Both vessels were headed toward each other, the operators intended to turn at the last second, but neither did resulting in a collision.  V1 made contact with V2 on the port side above the rub rail causing V1 to go on top of V2.  As V1 traveled on top of V2, the jet nozzle of V1 struck the victim in the left leg resulting in multiple injuries.  The impact of V1's jet nozzle was with such force that it broke the nozzle completely off, disabling the steering.

Summary of Damages: V1 - abrasions and scratches to the port side below the rub rail and major damage to the steering nozzle.  V2 - abrasions and fiberglass damage to port side above the rub rail.


BARDID: AR-2010-0044
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: HENDERSON
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was trying out his vessel for the first time this year when he noticed smoke coming out of the engine compartment.  He called 911 and the fire department was able to respond quickly and extinquish the fire.  Apparently the impeller failed thus overheating the engine, in turn frying the wiring in the engine compartment.  No injuries.


BARDID: AR-2010-0045
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: FAIRFIELD BAY
County: VAN BUREN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator stated he was sitting in the rear of V1.  V2 was pulling a skier.  V1 Operator said he and his passengers noticed V2 approaching their location and they started yelling and waving their arms to try and get the attention of V2.  The skier fell and V2 operator turned sharply to the left to retrieve the skier.  The right side of V2 struck the left front end of V1.

Statements by all occupants of V1 stated they were all thrown to the floor.  V2 Operator stated he was watching the skier and not what was in front of him.  V2 sustained a hole in the right side.

* This accident went unreported.  Officer was first notified on 07/20/10 and it has taken several weeks to track everyone down.


BARDID: AR-2010-0047
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator was traveling toward Eden Isle Marina when he noticed a vessel headed toward him.  V2 Operator was headed toward the Dam following another unidentified vessel and stated he saw V1 at the last minute and struck the bow and starboard side of V1 with his starboard side near the center of V2.


BARDID: AR-2010-0049
Date: 2010-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: ROYAL
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: EQUIPMENT FAILURE
EquipmentFailure: Seat Broke Loose
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating V1 (stick steer) from the front seat.  V1 was equipped with a safety lanyard but it was not in use.  They had just departed the bank and were heading north.  Another vessel was approaching the Marina and creating a wake as it passed.  Passenger saw the wake and tried to tell the operator to slow down.  Operator turned to his left to ask the passenger what he said, at that point the operator pulled the steering stick back (unintentionally) and the boat turned to the left.  While being forced to the right, operator believes he may have bumped the throttle downward, causing V1 to increase speed.  Operator attempted to hold onto the seat he was sitting in which caused the fiberglass floor to rip from around the seat.  Operator was then thrown into the water head first, landing just off the starboard side.  V1's stern came around and the operator was struck by the propeller.  He then surfaced and swam about 10ft to the passenger who had also been ejected.  Passenger was holding onto a PFD and both were able to hold on until help arrived.  

V1 continued to circle for approx. 15 to 30 minutes until it ran out of fuel.  It was towed to shore by a marina employee.


BARDID: AR-2010-0050
Date: 2010-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate Onboard Navigation Lights
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V2 had launched his vessel at the Narrows boat ramp and motored out away from the ramp while his partner was parking the truck.  While sitting still he did not have any lights turned on.  Operator of V1 was traveling north under the Narrows bridge when he decided to turn and go back to another fishing spot; when he completed his turn, and was heading back south he saw V2 in the water with no lights on.  He turned sharply to his starboard trying to avoid V2, but didn't.  V1 struck V2 on the starboard side just in front of the operator's windshield with the bow of V1.


BARDID: AR-2010-0051
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:02:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: NEW BLAINE
County: LOGAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: UNKNOWN
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Owner stated he had done some mechanical work on the boat days prior to the accident.  He stated he used V1 two days prior and it ran fine.  He said when he launched V1, he turned to leave the dock and heard a loud explosion and felt his leg burning and turned to see a big fire and the cover to the motor fly several feet into the air.  He reported his exhaust gauge showed that he exhaust was working.  He attempted to extinguish the fire but was not successful and jumped into the water.

After a few minutes V1 was fully engulfed and flipped over, it was totaled. Investigator inspected the vessel once it was recovered to make sure all parts were marine grade or to locate any cracked hoses, etc. but extent of damage was too severe and parts were missing/unrecovered so he couldn't make an absolute determination of the failure.;


BARDID: AR-2010-0052
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: HENDERSON
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: HULL FAILURE
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival at the accident scene, yellow and white seats were floating in the water along with other debris.  Two subjects in V1 stated they were traveling around 45-50mph and the vessel just started coming apart and they were ejected.  One of the subjects on board stated he was asleep and didn't know what happened.  Witnesses not in the vessel stated the subjects were traveling at a high rate of speed and lost control of the vessel, flipping over twice.  Upon investigation several places on the lower port side of V1 appeared to have been re-worked and may have compromised the structure of the vessel.  The throttle controls were pulled back in a position that did not indicate full speed; however the controls may have been knocked back due to parts of the vessel hitting them or moving them back.  One subject (victim) was taken to the hospital for a possible neck injury, but was released that evening.


BARDID: AR-2010-0053
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:10:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival I observed a V1 sitting on the roadway leading into the campground.  The operator stated he didn't see the levee, it was too dark.  I asked how fast he was traveling to end up on the roadway and he advised he was going about 20mph.  V1 traveled 30 yards up a rip rap bank and landed in the roadway.  There was major damage to the hull and lower unit - totalling the vessel.  Operator failed field sobriety tests and he refused to "blow" at the Sheriff's Office. 

V1 had just been purchased by the operator on the 4th of July and they had not gotten it registered in their name yet.


BARDID: AR-2010-0054
Date: 2010-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:41:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling down the lake with V2 a short distance behind.  V1 made a sharp turn to the left and V2 was too close and struck V1 in the center, hitting the operator and ejecting both operators of the vessels.


BARDID: AR-2010-0055
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were tied together and were leaving the Peter Creek area headed toward the old Hwy 25 boat launch.  Operator of V3 was coming out of the Peter Creek area and stated she did not see the two vessels and ran up on the back and starboard side of the vessels and left the scene.  She stated she was scared and crying and one of her passengers drove V3 away from the scene.  When V3 struck V1 it knocked the operator out of the driver's seat and down into the floor; it also knocked other passengers into the floor and the top of V1 came down on them as well.


BARDID: AR-2010-0056
Date: 2010-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger/injured had just departed from the courtesy dock at Henderson South Marina when the operator increased the throttle on V1 and the passenger was inadvertently thrown off the back of the vessel.  Passenger landed in a feet forward position which allowed water to hit her in the anal/rectal area causing severe lacerations due to the force of the water.


BARDID: AR-2010-0057
Date: 2010-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:22:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIVATE POND
NearestCityTown: MENA
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements, victim and his granddaughter (juvenile occupant) went fishing on one of his private ponds on his property.  Sometime later the occupant reported to subject that the victim had fallen into the pond and not returned.


BARDID: AR-2010-0058
Date: 2010-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:43:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: DIAMOND CITY
County: BOONE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/19/10 a subject called 911 and advised that a sailboat (V1) had capsized on the other side of the lake and she could hear screaming.  Operator and occupants of V1 had launched at approximately 19:15.  V1 did not have a weighted keel or rudder underneath it.  According to witness statements they had only been on the water for approximately 20 minutes when a strong wind came from the South and capsized V1.  Weather conditions at the time of the accident reported that the wind was blowing out of the south at 10mph with gusts up to 16mph.  

Operator made it back to V1 and tried to upright it.  He stated he turned V1 over 5 times but it kept rolling back over.  He eventually made it to a small cove and was able to get the motor started and took it back to the dock of departure.  An observer from another dock had gone and picked the female occupants off the bank.  The operator stated he had motioned for subject2 to help get the other occupants while he was trying to get V1 upright and the motor started.

During this time, the other passengers were treading water trying to keep the victim above the water.  Both passengers said they were in the water 8 - 10 minutes and that the victim kept trying to pull them under while they kept him afloat.  Both passengers finally had to let go of the victim and swim to shore to save themselves.  

The victim's body was recovered on 08/21/10 approximately 300 feet from the shore line in 76 feet of water.


BARDID: AR-2010-0059
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:26:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: OZARK
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: SINKING
AccidentEvent3: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was anchored below the Ozark lock and dam and was going to change his position.  V1 was anchored from the bow and stern.  He first pulled the bow anchor and then began pulling the stern anchor.  At that point water started coming over the stern of V1 and within seconds V1 was submerged.  Operator managed to grab a life jacket and ice chest and made it to the rock jetty below the lock wall where he was rescued and brought back to the boat ramp.

V1 is still submerged and location is unknown at this point.  The flow on the river at the time of the accident was 19,000 cfs.


BARDID: AR-2010-0060
Date: 2010-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: NEW BLAINE
County: LOGAN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both vessels were cutting across the bay. V1 passed V2 and turned around, headed back toward V2.  V2 operator put his throttle in neutral and started yelling at the operator of V1.  V1 operator was turned around talking to the passengers on her vessel according to V2's passenger 2 statement.  Operator of V2 placed his vessel in reverse in an effort to avoid the collision but was unable to back very far due to the passengers on the tube he was pulling.  He was in reverse at the time of the impact.  V1 struck the starboard side of V2.

V2 was pulling passengers 3,4 and 5 on the tube.


BARDID: AR-2010-0063
Date: 2010-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: BULL SHOALS
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
All subjects involved stated that 2 of the PWC's were cruising side by side (75' apart) and the third PWC was infront of and to their port side.  Operator of V1 stated his intentions were to pull along side the other two PWC's and ride three abreast but he said as he was making the turn to the port side his hand slipped off the handle bars and disengaged the kill switch; causing V1 to continue straight.  Operator of V2 stated he had been looking at the third vessel and when he looked in front of him, V1 was in his path and it was too late to turn.  V2 struck V1 in the bow/starboard side area and then became airborn.  After re-boarding V2, operator approached V1 and loaded the operator onto V2 and took him to the Bull Shoals boat dock, where EMS was called.

PWC 3 wasn't located and we do not have information concerning it.


BARDID: AR-2010-0064
Date: 2010-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:28:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: CURRENT RIVER
NearestCityTown: REYNO
County: RANDOLPH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: UNFORESEEN WATER HAZARD
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator (victim) and passenger were fishing on the Current River on 09/28/10.  They had motored up river and at approx. 2:25 they were motoring back down when they struck a submerged log.  Operator was ejected and V1 began circling out of control and struck the operator.  The passenger was finally able to make his way to the back of V1 and gain control.  By this time V1 had run into some floating logs and it took the passenger a few minutes to get free.  Once free, the passenger proceeded to go to the operator who had been treading water.  As he approached he noticed the operator had severe trauma to his facial area.  The operator started to go under and the passenger grabbed him by the back of his shirt and pulled him to the side of V1.  Operator put his right arm over the side of V1 and then went limp.  Passenger was unable to pull him into V1; he called 911 at 2:28 and held onto him until help arrived.  First responders pulled the boat across to a sand bar and when EMS arrived they confirmed the operator was deceased.


BARDID: AR-2010-0065
Date: 2010-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD MISSISSIPPI RIVER
NearestCityTown: LAKE VILLAGE
County: CHICOT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The incident began on 09/23/10 at approx. 10:30pm when the victim motored north from the Woodstock Landing to jug fish on the Old Mississippi River.  The next morning 09/24/10 at approx. 04:30am he was not back from fishing and his camping party began a search for the victim and found his capsized boat south of Ashbrook Landing.  This discovery led to an intense search and recovery effort which included the use of a cadaver dog.  On 09/25/10 at approx. 2:30pm the victim's body was recovered less than 100 yards from the overturned boat.

Upon inspection of V1 no visible damage was found.  The 25hp Yamaha motor was in forward gear with the tillar handle at idle speed, the cut-off switch was also attached to the motor.

USCG requested clarification on the cause of the accident.  The State responded, "Not a clue, no witnesses, no damage, nothing. Obviously he somehow fell out of the boat, whether he struck something, tripped in the boat, reached to grab something in the water and fell overboard, etc. we'll never know."


BARDID: AR-2010-0066
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:18:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was traveling west on Lake Norfork in the Mallard Point area toward point 7.  Operator of V2 was traveling east.  V1 operator saw V2 approaching and was close to the bank, so he steered left and V2 steered right.  

V2 operator stated he observed V1 coming down the lake and steered right so V1 could pass on his port side.  Both continued to go back and forth until they collided.


BARDID: AR-2010-0067
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: SCRANTON
County: LOGAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Restricted Vision
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Commercial Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Upon notification it was reported that EMS was transporting the injured operator to the Johnson County Hospital, so I responded there first.  At the hospital the passenger advised he and the operator were fishing a bass tournament out of Dardanelle State Park and were going up river.  The fog was so thick they were just using a GPS unit and following a track they had laid the day before.  He advised they were in the channel when they struck a barge.  He advised the operator was ejected and struck the side of the barge, then landed in the river.  He also advised they were just going fast enough to keep their vessel on plane. 

I then contacted the tug "Concordia" and they advised they were stationary waiting for the fog to lift and never knew V1 had struck them until they heard yelling.  V2's captain advised they had tied V1 to the side of the tug and had pumps in it to keep it from filling with water and sinking.  Upon arrival on scene, the bow of the barge was pushed up against the south bank just east of Cane Creek with the tug off the bank in the channel maintaining their position.  The tug was pushing 12 barges, 3 wide and 4 long, with the tug centered at the rear.  The total length was 918ft with a width of 105ft.  V2's captain advised at the time of the accident, his stern was further out in the channel than it was when I arrived.  The captain said it was about 100ft from the bank but the bow was in the same location, the barge was not anchored but was maintaining its position.

The point of impact was approximately 150ft from the stern of the tug on the port side.  This was about 42 feet from the rear of the barge located just off the bow on the port side of the tug.  The starboard side of the bow on V1 struck the side of the barge, this crushed the bow causing separation of the hull.  The bass boat then deflected toward the port side causing a secondary impact on the starboard stern crushing the corner of the vessel and breaking the motor mounts causing the motor to rest on the starboard side of the stern.  V1's operator was ejected out of the starboard side of the vessel impacting the barge.  

When I asked V2's captain why he was stopped he advised it was not safe to continue even with the radar and sonar because he could not see the bow of his barge in the thick fog.  When I asked V1's operator why he continued underway in the fog, he advised it wasn't foggy at Dardanelle when they left and when they entered the fog he was afraid to stop because of the other boats coming behind them.  He was afraid he would be run over.  V1's operator stated he noticed the barge about 50ft out before he struck it.  V1's operator was negligent continuing on and at the same speed under existing conditions.


BARDID: AR-2010-0068
Date: 2010-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE ENTERPRISE
NearestCityTown: WILMOT
County: ASHLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/29/10 statement was taken from subject:  He and operator/victim had been putting a depth finder on V1.  Around 1400hrs Subject launched victim at the Hwy 165 boat ramp on Lake Enterprise and returned to victim's camp to wait on his arrival.  Around 1415hrs Subject became worried and went looking for victim with a party barge.  Subject found V1 heavily damaged at the bow but was unable to locate victim and returned to camp.  At approximately 1445hrs subject2 was motoring his vessel on Lake Enterprise when he came across the victim's body floating in the water.  He secured the body to a tree at 1453hrs and contacted 911.

Upon my arrival on scene, the victim had already been removed by the coroner.  The coroner was contacted and blood samples were requested for BAC testing.  The samples have been sent to the Crime Lab, results are expected in 4 to 6 weeks.  Also during examination water was found in the victim's lungs indicating he died as a result of drowning.

Inspection of V1 revealed the key was in the "on" position with the throttle 2/3rds of the way engaged.  The kill switch was found attached and laying beside the driver's seat giving the appearance that it had not been worn.  The motor was turned toward the starboard side.  V1 sustained heavy damage along the bow indicating a heavy impact with a fixed object.  A cypress tree was located east of the vessel with a large gash in the center of the tree mirroring the bow of V1.  The drivers console was damaged indicating the operator was ejected over the steering wheel.  Scuff marks and a damaged fish finder were also found on the console.  Victim was not wearing a life jacket.  A search of V1 revealed 3 PFDs.

USCG addition: USCG asked the State if a cause was assigned.  The State replied, "No witnesses, so we don't know what caused the collision. Medical examiner didn't find anything to indicate a medical condition cause. On the 2/3rds throttle, that was our assumption - that it indicated the speed he was traveling - again no witnesses and rescuers/retrievers did not touch or move anything in the boat, just towed it in."


BARDID: AR-2010-0069
Date: 2010-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:25:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: BUCKVILLE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was leaving a stationary position heading in a Southwest direction when it was struck on the port side at the passenger seat by the bow of V2 which was traveling in a North east direction.  V2 was coming to a stop when the bow made contact with V1.


BARDID: AR-2010-0070
Date: 2010-12-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIVATE POND
NearestCityTown: EL DORADO
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper Loading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were fishing on a private pond off Mt. Holly road near El Dorado.  Operator was operating V1 by paddle in the front of the boat.  He advised that the victim was adjusting his position in the boat and got off balance.  Victim then fell into the water.  When he did, this caused V1 to capsize.  Operator was able to make it to the bank where he called out to the victim but got no response.  He then went to a nearby house and told them to call 911.


BARDID: AR-2010-0071
Date: 2010-12-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GILLHAM LAKE
NearestCityTown: GILLHAM
County: HOWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was traveling north in the middle of the boat channel in the upper end of the lake.  He was going approx. 20mph when the lower unit struck an unseen object.  The tiller handle jerked out of his hand and the boat began turning clockwise ejecting him and his brother (passenger/victim) out the port side.  V1 struck the victim and his shirt was entangled in the prop which caused the motor to stall out.  Operator was able to get back into V1 and paddle it to shore where he was able to free the victim.

Passenger/victim stated as they were motoring, he heard a boom.  The next thing he knew he was in the water coming up to surface.  When he surfaced, he saw the boat motor coming toward him so he dove under water but the motor struck him in the back and his shirt entangled with the prop.  

Lake pool elevation at the time was 499.38 or 2.62 feet below normal.  Operator was not wearing the cutoff safety lanyard and there was only 1 PFD in the boat.


BARDID: AR-2011-0001
Date: 2011-01-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GARFIELD
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was on V1 in the Lost Bridge area.  While attempting to put fuel into the motor's gas tank; he spilled a 5 gallon container of fuel in the cabin area.  He then attempted to start the motor, which sparked and caused an explosion.  Operator jumped into the water and was recovered by family members.  He was transported to the hospital by EMS.  The fire was suppressed by Nebco Fire Dept. but not before V1 burned to the waterline and partially sank into the lake at the shoreline.


BARDID: AR-2011-0004
Date: 2011-03-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: COAL PILE
NearestCityTown: DUMAS
County: DESHA
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was headed south on Coal Pile at an idle when he hit a stump.  The stump went through the bottom of V1 in the middle near the seat causing V1 to take on water.  Another boat passing by was able to off-load the occupants and took them to the bank.  When the investigator arrived on scene, V1 was almost completely submerged; the only thing keeping it from sinking was the stump it was on.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: AR-2011-0006
Date: 2011-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:48:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated he was traveling west on Lake Hamilton just off Lookout Point when a tackle box flew out of his boat and he attempted to grab it.  In the process, V1 struck a boat dock becoming airborne and landing on 2 docked party barges (V2 & V3).  Operator stated he was unaware he struck two vessels and left the scene.


BARDID: AR-2011-0007
Date: 2011-03-19 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: MULBERRY
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 3-22-11 this officer was notified by the Franklin County Sheriff's Office of two fishermen that had not returned from a weekend fishing trip.  I was advised their truck and boat trailer was located at White Oak Park on White Oak Creek, a tributary to the Arkansas River in the Ozark Pool.  A search for the bodies and vessel was conducted by responding agencies.  The body of V1's occupant was discovered on the south side of an island just north of the river channel adjacent to Citadel Bluff Park (GPS - N 35 28 16.9 W 93 56 24.1).  The search continued during daylight hours when the conditions were not too bad on the river with no success until the following Sunday morning (3-27-11).  During our search that morning, approximately 1 hour after a barge went by the operator's body was located in the water (GPS - N 35 28 08.0 W 93 59 05.4).  The Arkansas Game and Fish Dive Team located V1 with their sonar and were able to recover the vessel without incident (GPS - n 35 27 55.3 W 93 59 29.6).

V1 was a 20ft fiberglass hull with a 25hp tiller handle motor.  The bow light is permanently mounted to the bow but the stern light was inserted, there was also a spotlight mounted to the bow and all light controls were in the "on" position; the spot light was blackened where it had blown when it was submerged.  The spot light was also facing straight up, I believe due to the force of the water.  There was no flotation in the vessel and some of the supports had been removed.  The motor was in forward gear and the throttle was at 100%.  Victim 1 (operator) had a cell phone in his vehicle last used on Saturday 3-19-11 at 05:11PM  for 7 minutes.  The person called was interviewed and he advised that he had planned on meeting Op/Victim 1 to go fishing, but they never met and The person called never heard from him again.  The person called went to Op/Victim 1's residence on Sunday 3-20-11 and tried to call him without success.  The person called also advised it was not uncommon for Op/Victim 1 to be out on the river after dark.  This officer believes Op/Victim1 was traveling east, downstream, when water came over V1's bow swamping it Saturday evening after dark.  Op/Victim 1 never let off the throttle thrusting V1 downward until submerged.  The front seat Occupant/Victim 2 was washed from V1 and was unable to swim; Op/Victim 1 was submerged with V1.  V1 never turned over and was retrieved on the bottom of the river upright with the lower unit imbedded in the sand on the floor of the river.  The contents of the vessel were still inside, including a fishing pole, a shad throw net, a large rock, a trolling motor in a homemade forward compartment, loose sinkers and a tackle box just to name a few items that would have been washed out if V1 would have turned over at any time.  Two life jackets were found floating on the north bank in the area of the recovered vessel.  There was no bilge pump and the kill switch lanyard was still hanging from the motor.  

This accident was not reported to us until Tuesday (3-22-11) due to the fact the reporting parties stated it was not uncommon for these subjects to spend all weekend fishing.  Therefore, we cannot know for certain the time the accident occurred (but evidence does point to the fact it occurred after dark).

V1 was designed for trout waters and was not adequate for the Arkansas River.  The river flow was at 24,800 CFS on Saturday night (3-19-11).


BARDID: AR-2011-0009
Date: 2011-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: CROSSETT
County: ASHLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to load V1 onto a trailer when he inadvertently missed his trailer ramps.  Operator proceeded to turn around and maneuver at a better angle for loading.  He stated he placed the motor in reverse and gave it some throttle.  The prop combined with his wake and caused the stern of V1 to take on water and capsize.  Operator was ejected and received a hit on the head from V1 causing him to be forced underwater.  Operator stated he came up and immediately swam for the bank; his wife was nearby and called 911 for medical assistance.  Investigation revealed the kill switch was not being worn at the time and the shifter was found engaged in the reverse position.


BARDID: AR-2011-0010
Date: 2011-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE OAK CREEK
NearestCityTown: MULBERRY
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 4-7-11 this officer was advised of a boat (V1) reported to be floating without any occupants at White Oak Creek.  Once I arrived on scene, V1 could be seen on the east bank on a bluff line on the opposite side of an island from the boat ramp.  The entire White Oak Creek area is a shallow area which is a tributary to the Arkansas River.  When I approached V1, I could see the trolling motor was down and the front pedestal seat was in place.  Just to the south of V1 I could see the tip of a fishing pole sticking up out of the water.  When I approached the fishing pole, I could see the back of the victim just under the water.  The water was shallow (about 2 to 2.5 feet deep).  I brought his body into the boat; the victim's sunglasses were still on his face and there were no obvious abrasions on his head or hands and the shore line is rocky.  

The trolling motor was set on position 4 and his aerators were on after checking I found a few crappies in his live well.  There was no damage on his trolling motor and nothing out of place or suspicious in V1.  The victim's body was taken by the Franklin County Coroner and it will be taken to the State Medical Examiner to determine cause of death.  A BAC was also requested as required.  Inventory of V1 revealed a .410 bolt action shotgun in a rod box and a bottle of Vodka found under the driver's seat.

The Arkansas River flow was less than 300 CFS most of the day so there was no water affected back in White Oak Creek.

ME Report Pending.


BARDID: AR-2011-0012
Date: 2011-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OVERLOADING
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approx. 03:00 hours, the three teenage boys (occupants) were walking along the banks of Beaver Lake and found a 2-man Kayak (V1) tied up to the bank.  They decided to take V1 for a ride in the cove.  They made it about 15 feet from the bank and capsized.  Two of the boys made it back to the bank and could hear the victim calling for help.  Occupant 1 returned to the water to help his friend, but the victim could not be found.  The Benton County Dive Team was called to the scene an the body was recovered at 10:06 hours on 03/31/11.  

Upon interviewing the occupants, there was a very strong odor of intoxicants coming from them; however they denied any drinking.  Toxicology results from the victim revealed a .112 alcohol level. 

We were unable to locate the owner of V1 - no one claimed ownership in the area.


BARDID: AR-2011-0015
Date: 2011-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: LITTLE ROCK
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Passenger 2 called 911 and advised she was fishing with 2 friends below the I-430 bridge and that the operator had fallen overboard and not resurfaced.  V1 and occupants were located on a sand bar and were taken back to the boat ramp and occupants were checked out by EMS.  Statements were taken from both.  They both stated at approximately 18:00 they launched and went west (upstream) in Maumelle Creek.  At some point they motored east (downstream) into the Arkansas River and pulled into the South bank just above the Murray Dam approximately 200 yards above the Murray Lock wall.  Around 21:00 passenger 1 was near the bow of V1, passenger 2 was in the port passenger seat attempting to get a line untangled and operator/victim was sitting in the rear pedestal seat fishing.  They said they heard a splash on the starboard side and looked up and noticed operator/victim had fallen out of his seat into the water.  They suspected he had fallen asleep.  They advised that operator/victim had an orange PFD around his neck but it was not strapped around his waist.  They advised when he went into the water, the PFD came off and was floating in the water next to him.  Passenger 1 repeatedly threw a rope in the direction of operator/victim and yelled for him to grab the rope and/or PFD.  They advised he came up 3 times gasping for air then never resurfaced.

Both occupants were administered a breath test and they each blew a .00.  From 5/7 to 5/11 searches for the victim were conducted and his body was located on 5/11 exactly were the witnesses had stated he fell in.  

At the time of this report, no autopsy results were available.


BARDID: AR-2011-0016
Date: 2011-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: CADDO RIVER
NearestCityTown: GLENWOOD
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
The Acorn Science Club rented canoes and put in for a day float at the narrows bridge south of Caddo Gap and floated down river to the DeArien property where they encountered a fork in the river.  At this fork, slow water went right and fast flowing water went left and all canoes went left and in the left fork was a tree pile and the canoes started to impact this debris pile and get hung up.  As V1 approached the tree, a kayak got hung up in the tree and V1 impacted the kayak and pushed it onto the tree (no damage).  The victim who was in the front of V1 tried to push off the tree with her paddle and V1 filled with water and capsized.  Victim went under water and got hung up on a root ball and was under water for an undetermined period of time.  It took several rescuers to extract her from the tree and when she was brought to the surface, she was not breathing.  She was taken to shore and CPR was initiated.  Victim began breathing on her own and was transported by ambulance to Glenwood where an Air Life Helicopter was waiting and took her to Childrens Hospital.


BARDID: AR-2011-0017
Date: 2011-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V2 was proceeding west on Lake Hamilton.  He saw V1 approaching off his starboard side.  Operator of V1 was proceeding south on Lake Hamilton.  She stated that when she saw V2, she was too close to avoid a collision so she and her passenger jumped off V1 before impact.  V1 was unmanned when it impacted V2 just below the helm stat ion.


BARDID: AR-2011-0018
Date: 2011-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: MULBERRY RIVER
NearestCityTown: CASS
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was floating on the Mulberry River with a group of people in an open-top kayak.  Victim became separated from the group for a brief period.  The group pulled up on the bank near Redding Camp Grounds.  Witnesses stated the victim had his PFD on before they got separated.  While waiting for him to catch up, the group saw the vicitm overturn and heard him yelling for help.  A witness headed to his location and according to his statement, the victim was holding onto his paddle, trying to keep his head above the water.  When he reached the victim, the victim let go of the paddle and went under water.  The witness tried diving into the water where the victim was last seen but could not locate him.  The rest of the group was able to recover the kayak and the victim's PFD down stream.  

Victim was recovered by the Arkansas Game and Fish Dive Team at a depth of about 9ft on 05/08/11 at 19:15 hours.

The group stated the victim had been drinking alcohol all day and could have been intoxicated at the time of the accident.  A blood sample was taken from the body once recovered and sent to the State Crime Lab.  To date, results are still pending.


BARDID: AR-2011-0019
Date: 2011-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. FRANCIS RIVER
NearestCityTown: HOLCOMB, MISSOURI
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated they had launched V1 at about 05:30 off the levee due to high water conditions.  They were going to do some fishing and camping.  They had not been in the water but about 10 minutes when water started coming over the front of V1 and it quickly capsized.  Operator and passenger 3 were wearing PFD's and were able to make it to the bank.  Passenger 2 and the victim remained with V1 and continued to float down river.  Passenger 2 stated the victim said he was going to try and get V1 to the bank and for her to hold on.  At one point Passenger 2 lost her grip on V1 due to the current pulling her away, but she was able to make it to the west bank.  She stated she didn't know how much further her husband (victim) was able to float downstream with V1.  

V1 was located the following day approximately 15 miles down river.  Upon inspection a small hole was detected in the floor of V1 toward the bow.  Operator stated that a screw driver had been punched through the bottom of V1 to drain water out; he said he had forgotten about the hole being there until they got it in the water and Passenger 2 said something about it.

Victim's body was recovered on 06/01/2011 about 12 miles down river from the accident site.  It is this officer's opinion the primary cause of the accident was due to overloading the vessel, coupled with the hazardous water conditions and failure to wear PFDs.


BARDID: AR-2011-0021
Date: 2011-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GREESON
NearestCityTown: KIRBY
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 and passenger were traveling west out of Bear Creek towards Kirby Landing and according to witnesses they were traveling between 40 and 50mph.  V1 hit a "roller" wave that caused V1 to become airborne and go about 5 feet into the air.  Both the operator and passenger became separated from V1 while in the air.  The passenger hit the water feet first on his right side and skipped across the water.  The operator hit the water butt first in a seated position and when she hit, she stopped immediately.  Witnesses went to their aid.  The operator was complaining that she thought she broke her back and was panicked.  The passenger had the wind knocked out of him and was also in pain.  

Both were transported to St. Joe's ER in Hot Springs.  Both were found to have fractured pelvises.  Operator also sustained both inside and outside vaginal tears.


BARDID: AR-2011-0022
Date: 2011-05-27 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BARNETT
NearestCityTown: BEEBE
County: WHITE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/28/11 this officer received information from the White Co. Sheriff's Office about a possible boating accident.  Upon arrival at the scene a deputy informed us that both victims had borrowed V1 from V1's owner on Friday 5/27/11 at about 7:30pm to go put out some trot lines and yo-yo's.  They were supposed to return around midnight but never did.  Victim 2's father advised he noticed they hadn't returned from their fishing trip the next morning and he headed to the lake to look for them.  He said when he arrived, he had some fishermen take him out in their boat to look for his son and that he found V1 northeast of Reeds Access around the bend in the lake and it was turned over on a stump.  

He searched the entire lake for the victims but never found them.  We then launched our patrol boat and when we found V1 it was turned upright and was floating down the lake on the opposite side from where the father originally located it and turned it over.  V1 was full of water but no contents.  We towed V1 back to the landing where the owner identified it as the boat they borrowed.  I then asked the owner what they used to power V1 with and he advised paddles.  We launched a search to try and find the victims.  Upon searching we found a wooden box with yo-yo's inside, two black shoes, a can of Off and a pack of stink bait floating at the edge of the bank on the west side from where V1 was found.  Directly across from these items on the east side we located a white Styrofoam cooler.  Later that evening we found a white Puma shoe on the east side of the bank about 75 yards north from where V1 was found.  We also found a bucket with a rain jacket inside floating next to the bank where it appeared that someone had gotten out of a boat and consumed 5 beers and left the bottles lying on the bank.  Later it was discovered that the 5 beer bottles were the same kind missing from the victim's vehicle.  All items found were identified by the families of the victims as theirs. 

*When the White Co. deputy assisted the family with unlocking the victim's truck, he found a case of beer with around 13 beer missing from the box. 

The search continued with dive teams, sonar equipment, cadaver dogs, drag hooks and multiple agencies for the next 13 days.  On 06/09/11 at 7:00am the body of victim 2 was located floating next to the bank about 100 yards from where V1 was found; later that same evening at 6:54pm the body of victim 1 was located floating in the middle of the lake approx. 100 yards from where V1 was found.  Both bodies were sent to the Crime Lab for an autopsy and toxicology test.  Cause of death for both victims is listed as drowning but the toxicology is still pending on both at the time of this report.

At this point there has not been any witnesses located and it is impossible to really know what happened or to determine seat position they were in at the time of the accident.  We also don't know what time it occurred because there was no witnesses, the best we can say is that it happened between 7:30pm on 5/27/11 and 7:00am on 5/28/11.


BARDID: AR-2011-0023
Date: 2011-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:17:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated they were traveling upstream when he noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment and then the back end of V1 caught on fire.  He was unable to extinguish the fire with 2 fire extinquishers.  Another vessel arrived and they were able to get everyone off V1 safely and transport them to the bank.  Lake Hamliton Fire Dept. was dispatched to put out the fire.


BARDID: AR-2011-0024
Date: 2011-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling east in the Rambo area of Beaver Lake with two other vessels with V1 being in the back of "the pack".  The pack of 3 crossed the wake of a larger vessel which produced a large wake.  The first two vessels recognized the wake and slowed their speed to cross the wake.  V1 did not see the wake in time to slow and hit the wake causing the passengers riding in the bow to be "tossed" up in the air.  Victims 1 and 2 landed wrong causing back pain, victim 1 refused transport but victim 2 was transported by EMS to Mercy Hospital for treatment.


BARDID: AR-2011-0025
Date: 2011-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:59:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was jumping waves on V1 when he lost control and was ejected.  Operator then stated V1 landed on his left leg causing the injury.


BARDID: AR-2011-0026
Date: 2011-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:57:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
I was notified of a 2 vessel accident in the area of Stokes Creek on Lake Hamilton; dispatch advised both operators were out of the water and located at 200 Edgewater Circle.  When I arrived on scene, operator of V2 was unconscious and being attended to by EMS.  Operator of V1 stated he had no injuries.  V2 had damage to the port side and the steering control system was disabled.  V1 had damage to the starboard side and bow.  V1 operator stated he was following V2 jumping the wake of the craft.  He stated he was following too closely when V2 turned sharply left.  V1 tried  to avoid the collision by turning hard to the starboard but was unable to and collided with V2.  V1 passed completely over V2 ejecting both operators.  V2 operator was transported to St. Joe ER where she later died from her injuries.


BARDID: AR-2011-0027
Date: 2011-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GREESON
NearestCityTown: MURFRESBORO
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was participating in an unsanctioned "jet boat race" on Lake Greeson.  He was running a solo pass trying to tune V1.  Another vessel came into the "course" from the east and turned across the course in front of the operator of V1.  This made a large roller wave.  According to the operator he saw the waves and tried to slow down but estimated he was going about 70 to 80 mph when he hit the wave.  According to witnesses V1 was lofted into the air then came back down bow first into the water.  V1 broke apart around the operator.  According to a friend of the operator, he took the operator by POV to the hospital where he received stitches for a busted lip and he had bruised legs.


BARDID: AR-2011-0028
Date: 2011-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:18:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated he had V1 worked on at Futrel Marina and had just left the marina with his vessel.  A short time later, during the same day while crossing the main channel he noticed a large amount of smoke coming from the engine compartment.  Operator then stated he shut down the engine and raised the engine compartment and noticed flames.  The fire was extinguished by closing the engine compartment.  Operator was able to get V1 to the Island Marina without further problems.  No injuries or explosions occurred during the event.


BARDID: AR-2011-0029
Date: 2011-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GREESON
NearestCityTown: DAISY
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was pulling a tube behind Jones Park on Lake Greeson.  While making a right turn, the occupants on the tube were ejected.  Upon impact, victim 1 sustained a broken right arm and victim 2 received a bloody nose.  The victims were loaded onto V1 and an ambulance was called.  Once V1 arrived at Self Creek Marina, victim 1 was transported by ambulance to St. Joe ER and victim 2 did not require medical attention.


BARDID: AR-2011-0030
Date: 2011-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GARFIELD
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
While operating V1, operator observed white smoke coming from under the engine cover, he open the cover and observed flames coming from the engine.  Operator used 2 fire extinguishers to put out the fire.  Operator then observed water in the engine compartment and called 911.  Crews responded and towed V1 to Lost Bridge South Park where he lauched from.  No damage was visible on the exterior of V1, the only visible damage (where the fire originated) was to wiring in the engine compartment.


BARDID: AR-2011-0031
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was pulling victim and her daughter on a tube between Deer and Bear Islands on Beaver Lake.  While making a turn, victim was thrown from the tube.  Victim held onto the handle while being thrown off causing her shoulder to become dislocated.


BARDID: AR-2011-0033
Date: 2011-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: BULL SHOALS
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was attempting to get into a tube that was floating near the stern of V1.  She slipped on the rear deck of V1 and broke her right ankle.


BARDID: AR-2011-0034
Date: 2011-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT IDA
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pulling the victim on a wake board in the Tompkins Bend Recreation Area.  The victim fell and broke his upper right femur.  He was picked up and transported to the boat ramp where  he was stabilized and transported by EMS to St. Joe ER in Hot Springs.


BARDID: AR-2011-0035
Date: 2011-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: COTTER
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger were fishing in the White River when the pull cord broke and they couldn't get the motor started.  At the time there were 7 generators flowing on the river.  V1 made contact with a private dock across from the Cotter Trout dock ejecting both occupants.  The passenger was able to make it to the shore and the operator was rescued by an AGFC employee.  V1 was not recovered at the time.   


* Since receiving this report, V1 has been recovered and was a total loss.


BARDID: AR-2011-0036
Date: 2011-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT. IDA
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were attempting to exit Wake Board Cove when V2 collided with V1.  Damage to V1 was to the starboard side toward the stern and damage to V2 was located on the bow area.  Operator of V1 stated Wake Board Cove had heavy boat traffic and was congested so they were attempting to leave the area.  Operator of V2 stated he was attempting to avoid another vessel when the collision occurred.


BARDID: AR-2011-0037
Date: 2011-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT IDA
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operators of V1 and V2 returned the rented PWCs at Dream Chaser Boat Rental with V1 damaged.  Both operators left the area after returning the vessels.  Upon investigation of the collision, V2 collided with V1 almost head on in the bow port side going airborn to the starboard toward the stern damaging the bow compartment area of V1.

*Both operators were from Russia and couldn't speak English.  Obtaining information was extremely difficult once they were tracked down.


BARDID: AR-2011-0038
Date: 2011-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: OPTIMUS
County: STONE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
River level was high.  Operator of V1 maneuvered near the shoreline to observe a river otter.  A low hanging branch struck the back of the operator's seat.  Victim stuck her legs out to push off a log and the victim's leg were pinned between the boat and log.  Victim was taken to Mt. View hospital by personal vehicle.  X-rays indicated no broken bones.  Victim was sunburned and extremely intoxicated.


BARDID: AR-2011-0039
Date: 2011-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: CRYSTAL SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was approaching an island north of Point 9 on Lake Ouachita when the lower unit struck a sunken island disabling the vessel.


BARDID: AR-2011-0041
Date: 2011-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN PINE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: NAVIGATION RULES VIOLATION
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west, on plane when the operator stated he was going to let one of the 14 year old occupants operate the vessel.  The operator did not power down to allow for the driver exchange, when he released the steering wheel the vessel cut sharply to the right causing the victim to be ejected.  The victim was then struck by the propeller causing injuries to her left arm.  Victim was loaded into V1 and taken to shore where she was then transported by EMS to St. Joe's ER in Hot Springs. 

*Park Rangers gathered information from the occupants and contacted us (AGFC) to conduct the investigation.  While interviewing the operator, approximately 2 hours after the accident, I could smell the odor of intoxicants about his person.  The operator advised he had consumed some alcohol throughout the day, but the Park Rangers advised the operator did not appear to be impaired when they arrived with the victim.


BARDID: AR-2011-0042
Date: 2011-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: HENDERSON
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 were riding north bound out of a cove close to Big E Bluffs on Norfork.  V1 turned right and V2 came from behind/beside them and hit them on the starboard side and impacted the victim's right leg breaking her femur.  V2 operator stated he was going at least 30mph.


BARDID: AR-2011-0043
Date: 2011-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: STRONG
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: GROUNDING
RedactedNarrative:
V1 traveling downstream on Ouachita River, struck a tree and then ran aground on the Union County side.  Damage to bow: port side from bow to 29", cracks at 40", 50" and 68".  Starboard side from bow to 11".  Scraping of hull from 49" to 115" and damage to lower unit and trim.


BARDID: AR-2011-0044
Date: 2011-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEQUEEN LAKE
NearestCityTown: DEQUEEN
County: SEVIER
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to load V1 onto the trailer during a straight line wind storm.  Operator stated she attempted to load V1 three times and on the third approach the right pontoon hit a metal runner puncturing the pontoon.  The operator backed off and noticed the pontoon was taking on water.  The motor died and V1 began drifting west away from the boat ramp.  V1 stayed in an upright position for approximately 100 yards before capsizing on its starboard side.  No injuries occurred but V1 was a total loss.


BARDID: AR-2011-0045
Date: 2011-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:32:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: HORSESHOE LAKE
NearestCityTown: HORSESHOE
County: CRITTENDEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
V1 had lost power and was being towed in by a second unknown vessel acting as a Good Samaritan.  After being towed into the dock, the operator of V1 placed his right hand between the bow and a piling of the pier.  Operator/victim had his right index finger pinched off from the pressure.  The towing vessel left the area after towing V1 in not knowing that an injury had occurred.


BARDID: AR-2011-0046
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GREESON
NearestCityTown: DAISY
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was anchored off Point 3 on Lake Greeson.  V2 approached V1 from the south, attempted a right turn with no propulsion and finally gave V2 throttle abruptly and struck V1.  V1 received a large crack in the hull on the starboard side in the rear half of the vessel above the water line.


BARDID: AR-2011-0047
Date: 2011-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: BIGELOW
County: PERRY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent3: FLOODING/SWAMPING
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/23/11 at approx. 09:35am we were notified about an overturned boat in the Arkansas River just below Bigelow Park.  Upon arrival V1 was capsized on the west side of the Arkansas River below a jetty.  The owner was contacted and stated that her boat was tied up at a friend's house above Palarm Creek Landing and that someone must have stolen it or borrowed it without permission.  V1 was located several miles upstream from Palarm Creek Landing.  Officers recovered V1 and towed it to the closest boat ramp.  This officer then contacted the owner again in person and she then stated that her husband had wrecked V1 the night before and was at home in bed asleep.  I drove to the residence and interviewed the operator.  After he was given his Miranda rights he stated:  at approx. 7:00pm his wife, another occupant and himself launched V1 at Palarm Creek and drove a short distance upstream to a friend's house.  Several people boarded the friend's party barge and both boats went upstream to a sand bar where they played horseshoes and rode on the river for several hours.  Sometime around 1:00am everyone got on the party barge and went back downstream to the friend's house.  He boarded V1 by himself and drove it upstream.  He stated he had the navigational lights on and had a spot light onboard but was not using it.  He then stated somewhere below Bigelow Park he struck a red buoy on the starboard side of V1 towards the bow.  He then stopped to check for damage and decided to turn around and see what he hit.  When he turned around, and got under power he stated he then hit a jetty and started taking on water.  He then called his friend for help.  They tried to tow V1 but it continued sinking so he retrieved his personal belongings and abandoned V1.  They returned to the friend's house where he slept for the rest of the night.  He stated he didn’t know you were supposed to contact any law enforcement agency when you had a boating accident.  

V1's damage is consistent with the operator's statement.

**Officers suspect alcohol was involved since the failure to report but have no evidence and cannot prove.


BARDID: AR-2011-0048
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:57:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: LITTLE ROCK
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Upon notification and arrival at the scene, we were informed that both occupants had already been taken by ambulance to UAMS for treatment.  A witness that was interviewed stated he did not actually see the accident but he heard it.  He said he and his partner were fishing about 300 yards from the accident; he heard the boat approaching and then a loud crash and then silence.  Shortly thereafter heard a female screaming for help.  The witness motored over to the area and found a female sitting in the water holding onto a male subject that was hurt and unconscious.  The witness called 911 and awaited first responders. 

Evidence was collected and photos taken.  We then went to UAMS to make contact with the victims.  The passenger stated she and the operator had been on the sand bar for a while.  She stated that both she and the operator had been drinking and she had had about 4 beers but was unsure of how much the operator had to drink.  She then stated they decided to go for a ride and look at the lights on the Big Dam Bridge.  As they were approaching the dam she realized he was entering the hydro-electric side of the dam and then he made a sharp left turn to try and get back into the main channel.  V1 then struck the jetty separating the hydro side from the main channel.  V1 hit on the operator's side first then flipped over as it crossed the jetty.  V1 ended up upside down.  Passenger stated she was sitting in the front of the boat on an ice chest and was ejected as V1 flipped.  She said she landed several yards from V1 in the main part of the river.  When she surfaced she swam back to V1 and found the operator stuck under the boat and unconscious.  She then went under V1 and pulled him out.  She said the operator was unresponsive and bleeding from his head.  At this time the witness arrived and called 911.  

Once the operator was out of X-ray, we interviewed him.  He stated he was driving V1 and realized he was going into the hydro-electric plant and made a hard left turn, hit the jetty and could not remember anything after that.  When asked how much he had been drinking, he stated "about 4 beers".


BARDID: AR-2011-0050
Date: 2011-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V2 stated he was attempting to dock in the slip when the wind pushed V2 into V1 causing V2's starboard side to strike the outboard motor of V1.  V2's slip is to the left of V1.  It appears V2 operator drove past his slip, backed up and in doing so misjudged the distance between the 2 vessels.


BARDID: AR-2011-0052
Date: 2011-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:19:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling southbound across from Devils Fork Park when the operator and passenger noticed the port side engine stalled out.  Operator stopped and raised up the rear hatch and noticed the port side engine was totally engulfed in flames.  Operator stated fire extinguishers were on board both in the engine compartment and behind the driver's seat, but the flames were so hot and he was worried about the fule tank exploding that he and his passenger grabbed their life jackets and exited V1.  A passerby rendered assistance.  By the time the fire department arrived, V1 was totally engulfed.  After the fire was extinguished, V1 was towed to Devils Fork Park boat ramp and loaded onto a wrecker and taken to Hart of the Lake boat center.

Operator stated he has had problems in the past with the hydraulic hatch arm in the engine compartment.  He stated on several occasions the hatch arm vibrated against the oil filter puncturing it and causing oil to leak out onto the engine.  He also stated he bought the boat used and the twin 497 cubic inch engines were not factory engines.  He advised that the engine were slightly bigger than the original engines installed at the factory.


BARDID: AR-2011-0053
Date: 2011-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 occupied by 6 passengers was pulling a tube with occupants 8 & 9 on the tube; traveling west at approx. 40mph.  V1 entered a shallow water area (sunken island) causing grounding at prop and underside rear hull of V1.  V1 stopped abruptly causing passenger 1 and passenger/victim 2 to be ejected into the water.  Occupant/victim 8 injured his right foot (unknown direct cause).  911 was called and passersby stopped to give aid.


BARDID: AR-2011-0054
Date: 2011-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT. IDA
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Received notification of a boat fire close to the V-dock area at Mt. Harbor.  Upon arrival, V1 was tied up against the north side bank with fire boats still around it - fire had been extinguished.  Operator stated he just took the boat out for the first time since having some maintenance done on the hydraulics and batter compartment area.  When leaving the area to test V1, he drove to Ft. Smith cove and then came back to Mt. Harbor.  After slowing down and entering the V-dock area, he heard a pop and then saw smoke coming from the battery compartment area.  Operator shut down V1 and he and the passenger put on life jackets and jumped into the water.  They were rescued by Joplin FD.

Upon investigation, it appeared the fire was contained in the battery compartment area.  The fiberglass on the starboard stern had some cosmetic damage.  It was discovered that the batteries were just put in (new) and it was apparent one of them exploded causing the fire.


BARDID: AR-2011-0055
Date: 2011-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:37:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pulling a tube in the Ventris area of Beaver Lake.  While tubing the occupant fell off and the operator stopped the V1 to allow the occupant to maneuver back on the tube.  At that time the victim was sitting across from the operator, he stood up while V1 was stopped and dove/jumped from V1 into the water.  Victim did not resurface and after several minutes the occupants of V1 called 911.  

Witness statements all say the victim did not stike his head or struggle in the water, he simply dove in and never resurfaced.  They said the vicitm had been drinking earlier that day and was acting intoxicated and refused to eat, but they didn't believe he was really intoxicated and they thought he was just pretending to be drunk.

Victim was recovered by AGFC Dive Team 3 days later on 07/19/11.  There were no obvious signs of trauma to his body.  Toxicology results are still pending at this time.


BARDID: AR-2011-0056
Date: 2011-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: SALINE RIVER
NearestCityTown: CROSSETT
County: ASHLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/27/11 a call came into the Ashley Co. Sheriff's Dept. stating a vehicle was backed up to the water's edge at the AGFC boat ramp at Stillion.  The keys were in the ignition and turned off.  The boat trailer was connected to the vehicle but was submerged under water and the trailer was empty.  V1 was floating upright lodged in the trees approx. 50 yards west of the boat ramp.  V1's gear shift was in reverse and the ignition key turned on.  The motor cowling was lying upside down on the back of V1.  The motor was not running.  Victim's body was located about an hour later 25 yards west of the boat ramp, about 25 yards from the bank in approx. 15 to 20 feet of water.


BARDID: AR-2011-0057
Date: 2011-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: BULL SHOALS
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: IGNITION OF SPILLED FUEL OR VAPOR
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: SINKING
RedactedNarrative:
All involved stated they had just left the Buck Creek Marina after having refueled with 19 gallons of gas.  They stated they were at the no wake buoys when V1's motor died.  Operator stated he attempted to start the motor several times and that the engine would crank but not start.  He stated he tried to start it one more time and it just blew up.  Upon interviewing he did state that after refueling he did not run the ventilation fan.  He then said after V1 blew up, all onboard jumped into the water and a near by boat picked them up.  The two victims were transported by EMS to the hospital for 2nd and 3rd degree burns on their arms and legs.  The operator stated V1 burned for about 15 minutes before it drifted behind a point.  A local fisherman stayed close to V1 until it sank and then he got a GPS coordinate.


BARDID: AR-2011-0058
Date: 2011-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: SPRINGDALE
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Collision w tow of other vsl
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was towing victim on a tube going approx. 25mph.  V2 approached at an angle from the starboard rear going approx. 35mph +.  When they were within approx. 10ft. of each other, V1 turned hard left to avoid a collision and V2 turned hard right and stalled.  As a result of V1 turning left, the tube veered right and collided with V2.  Victim was injured when the tube she was riding impacted V2.


BARDID: AR-2011-0061
Date: 2011-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:42:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator had stopped V1 to let everyone swim and cool off when a storm came up with very high winds causing V1 to almost capsize.  The winds caused V1 to move away from the swimmers and they were unable to get back on board.  A person on a PWC came by after the storm and picked up one of the occupants and took him back to V1 where he was able to move V1 and retrieve the rest of the occupants.  Occupant (7)/ victim inhaled a large amount of water and became unresponsive.  She was transported by EMS with shallow breathing.  Winds caused damage to the canopy on V1.


BARDID: AR-2011-0062
Date: 2011-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIVATE SHALE PIT
NearestCityTown: CABOT
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sudden Medical Condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger/victim were fishing from V1.  At approx. 8:30pm they started to troll back to the boat ramp and operator stated he saw the victim drop his head like he had passed out.  Operator said he had just started to ask victim if he was alright when he slumped over and fell out of V1 on the port side.  The water in this pit is very clear and operator stated that as V1 went by the victim, he noticed he was floating just under the water with his back up and never attempted to swim and never appeared to be conscious.  Operator immediately jumped into the water and grabbed the victim before he could sink.  He stated he had left the trolling motor on and had to swim to V1 and was having trouble hanging onto the victim's body because of his physical size.  When he was able to reach V1, he was unable to lift the victim into V1 so he tied his body to V1 and used the trolling motor to return to the boat ramp.  Operator stated it took almost an hour to troll back to the ramp.  Once at the ramp, he called 911 for an ambulance.  Medical personnel attempted to revive the victim without success.  

Upon interview the operator stated he had witnessed the victim pass out several times in the past but wasn't aware of any medical problems or any medication he may have been on.  The victim's mother also confirmed that the victim had been passing out a lot the past few weeks.  

I delayed entering this report due to the fact we were waiting for the ME's report because all indications pointed to a medical condition.  The autopsy report still is not available, our Crime Lab can take as long as 6 months to finalize and release reports.  However, a request was sent to the ME asking simply for cause of death and he reported his determination to be drowing as the cause of death.  *We won't know if victim was on any drugs or medication until the autopsy report is released.


BARDID: AR-2011-0063
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:40:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival at the accident scene, I noted open containers of alcohol in V1 along with a red ice chest with beer in it.  The victim was also located inside V1 laying on the floor face up.  The victim was pronouced dead at the scene by the Garland County Coroner.  The victim had obvious signs of trauma to his upper right thigh conducive with a propeller strike.  Witnesses/occupants on V1 stated they were in the middle of the channel between the Hwy 270 river bridge and Blakely Dam when the incident occurred.  The victim was seated in the front of V1 and attempted to get up; he fell backwards off the bow of V1 and the operator was unable to put the engine in neutral in time.  The victim traveled between the port and center pontoon of V1, coming into contact with the lower unit.  The victim's right leg came in contact with the gear case and prop causing two large lacerations.  The occupants stated they could hear the victim screaming and attempted to throw him a PFD.  Two of the occupants jumped in the water and retrieved the victim.  Once the victim was onboard, they attempted to administer CPR until they arrived at Marine Land Marina.  The operator had a strong odor of intoxicants, slurred speech and bloodshot eyes.  He consented to a blood test and results are still pending.


BARDID: AR-2011-0065
Date: 2011-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: ROYAL
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Complainant/V1 owner advised on Saturday August 27, 2011 he checked V1 that was docked a Crystal Springs Marina in slot #29 and at this time there was no damage.  V1 owner returned on September 2, 2011 and found there was damage to his motor and the port side stern of V1.  The damage consisted of scratches and gouges to the top of the motor cover and a large hole in the fiberglass.  There was no evidence left at the scene that would point to a suspect boat.  

The exact time and date of the accident is unknown.


BARDID: AR-2011-0066
Date: 2011-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:47:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger of V1 were traveling north up Coose Hollow when they came upon several large waves.  As they approached the waves, the operator let go of the throttle causing a loss of steering.  V1 then turned slightly and struck a wave causing the operator to be ejected over the steering column, striking the bow of V1.  Passenger was ejected to the left side of V1.


BARDID: AR-2011-0068
Date: 2011-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BIG BAYOU METO
NearestCityTown: GILLETT
County: ARKANSAS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: OVERLOADING
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/27/11 at approx. 12:13pm we received a 911 call in reference to a possible drowing near the flood gates on Big Bayou Meto.  Upon officer arrival a witness stated he was fishing upstream from the flood gates when he observed the victim pass by going towards the flood gates at approx. 11:30am.  Witness stated the victim slowed down as he passed and then continued on towards the flood gate at a high rate of speed.  A short time later the witness decided to go back to the boat ramp and as he was approaching the flood gates he observed V1 floating empty next to the west bank approximately 250 yards upstream from the flood gates.  After a quick search the witness located the victim's hat floating in the bayou approx. 100 yards downstream from V1.  Upon my arrival at the scene, V1 was inspected and found the kill switch was missing, the motor was in forward gear and the throttle was turned wide open (tillar handle).  V1's contents were in disarray and up against the right side of V1.  A camo PFD was laying in the floor next to the operator's seat.  

Officers began dragging the area where the victim's hat was located and at 4:35pm the victim was recovered.  The kill switch lanyard was still attached to the left leg of the victim.  

No damage to V1 and it was also noted that the capacity plate had been removed.


BARDID: AR-2011-0069
Date: 2011-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:16:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: DARDANELLE
County: YELL
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival on the south side of Lake Dardanelle, other officers already had the four occupants on the bank (no injuries).  V1 was beside the bank and tied off, but submerged under water.  Operator stated they had launched from the Delaware State Park ramp and headed across the lake.  At one point they decided it was too rough and started to turn around to head back to the ramp.  Upon doing so, waves were coming in V1 from all sides and the bilge pump couldn't keep up.  V1 began to submerge and the motor shut down.  Operator stated they were about 50 yards from the bank, so he got a rope and started pulling V1 as they swam toward the bank.  All occupants were wearing PFD's.


BARDID: AR-2011-0071
Date: 2011-09-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised he and his wife were launching V1 at Heber Marina.  The wife was backing V1 into the water (still on trailer) with their truck; and being unfamiliar with the truck she backed down the ramp faster than she meant to.  Operator stated he did not realize V1 was already unhooked from the trailer when his wife backed in and V1 came off the trailer into the water and began getting away from him.  Operator swam after V1 and was able to reach it; just as he did another vessel came by pulling a tube causing huge wakes that swamped V1 and capsized it.  As it capsized the operator was trapped underneath for a brief period but managed to free himself and swim back to shore.  V1 was retrieved and loaded back onto trailer and taken back to operator/owner's residence.


BARDID: AR-2011-0073
Date: 2011-11-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: FELSENTHAL NWR
NearestCityTown: FELSENTHAL
County: ASHLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause3: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Fixed Object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: FLOODING/SWAMPING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was entering the back water of Felsenthal NWR from the Ouachita River through Ebbey Cut going duck hunting.  Hunters are not allowed to enter the cut out of the river until 04:00am.  Operator of V1 along with several other vessels took off at the same time as they exited the cut into the flooded timber.  Operator moved to avoid a vessel; when he did another vessel pulled beside him.  This caused Operator of V1 to be unable to avoid a cyprus tree because of the wake of the second vessel.  V1 struck the cyprus tree causing the operator and passenger 1 to be ejected.  V1 then sank.  Other hunters stopped and provided assistance, they were able to retrieve V1, bilge the water out and tow it back to the ramp.


BARDID: AR-2012-0002
Date: 2012-01-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE JAKE NOLAN AGFC
NearestCityTown: GREENWOOD
County: SEBASTIAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was underway at mid-speed when it struck a submerged stump; resulting in an approx. 9" diameter hole being punched into the bottom of the hull near the center of V1.  V1 partially submerged and was stuck on the stump; it was recovered/removed from the lake 2 days later.


BARDID: AR-2012-0003
Date: 2012-02-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:35:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: NORFORK
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was under power heading up river when it struck V2 which was not under power and was in a down river drift.  V1 struck V2 from the rear striking the motor first and then hitting the operator chair and operator.  V1 continued over V2 and struck the passenger.  Both occupants of V2 were ejected.  Occupants of V1 grabbed the victims as they were floating down river and manuevered V1 over to the bank.  V2 Passenger was able to climb out of the river on his own; but V2 operator/victim was injured too severely.  911 was called and EMS personnel were able to place  the victim on a backboard and get him out to an awaiting helicopter that transported him to St. Johns Mercy in Springfield, MO.  Operator of V1 stated just prior to the accident he was watching traffic on the right side of the river and just didn't see V2.  V1 Passengers were sitting on the front deck with their backs turned upriver into the wind and also did not see V2 prior to the collision.


BARDID: AR-2012-0004
Date: 2012-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CHICOT
NearestCityTown: LAKE VILLAGE
County: CHICOT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was in the middle of the lake fishing.  V2 approached V1 from the west striking V1 in the port side bow.  V1 had a light in the center of the boat in an elevated position.  V2 had no lights on at the time of impact.  V1 drove back to the boat ramp where they notified AGFC of the accident.  V2 returned to the vessel owner's house.


BARDID: AR-2012-0005
Date: 2012-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CHICOT
NearestCityTown: LAKE VILLAGE
County: CHICOT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated they were yo-yo fishing and as they motored north toward the boat ramp, he collided with a tree in the water.  The impact ejected passenger/victim #4 into the water.  Passenger/victim #2 struck the center console of the boat.  After the collision, the operator was unable to start the motor so he used a spotlight for a distress signal and a subject came to their aid and towed V1 back to the ramp.  V1 received damage to the bow and the impact caused the battery to flip over and lose connections.  EMS transported the two victims to the local hospital.


BARDID: AR-2012-0006
Date: 2012-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANGHOFER
NearestCityTown: PINE BLUFF
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V1's occupants were fishing in a bass tournament.  While traveling at 3/4 throttle going straight on Lake Langhofer, V1 suddenly steered to the right throwing the operator to the left, ejecting both him and the passenger out of V1 (operator knocked passenger out).  V1 began traveling in circles and the outboard's propeller struck the passenger.  Another fisherman saw V1 circling and assisted the victims.  

Jefferson County Reserve retrieved V1 and drove it to the dock with no operating issues. Upon inspection of V1, the steering cables/linkage were all intact and operational; therefore it is believed they may have struck an unforeseen under water obstruction.  The kill-switch lanyard was in the bottom of the boat and the operator advised he did not have it attached to his person.


BARDID: AR-2012-0007
Date: 2012-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MILLWOOD
NearestCityTown: MINERAL SPRINGS
County: HOWARD
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that while operating V1 on the Little Gas Line Trail on Lake Millwood, a wave picked V1 up and slammed it onto a submerged stump.  They were unable to free V1 from the stump; so the occupants were taken back to shore until a recovery crew could be contacted to retrieve the vessel.  V1 was finally recovered on March 25th; revealing damage on the hull near the stern.


BARDID: AR-2012-0008
Date: 2012-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:38:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: CADDO RIVER
NearestCityTown: GLENWOOD
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator/victim and her husband were kayaking on the Caddo River in Montgomery Co.  While trying to navigate a set of rapids approximately 7 miles north of Glenwood, V1 capsized.  Operator/victim was removed from the water by her husband and others on the river.  She complained of neck pain and was having difficulty breathing and was air-lifted to St. Joe ER in Hot Springs where she was treated and released.


BARDID: AR-2012-0010
Date: 2012-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:56:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GLAZE CREEK
NearestCityTown: BALD KNOB
County: WHITE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Occupants and V1 were traveling south (downstream) on Glaze Creek. Operator stated there were 2 trees that had fallen down blocking part of the creek channel, the first one on the left side and the second was on the right side with about 20 yards in between them.  Operator stated when he went around the first tree, victim 2 fell over on him and pinned the throttle down and sent them into the trees where they struck small trees along the bank.  Operator stated he was going too fast even before victim 2 fell on him and that V1 wasn't turning very good.  Operator stated when they finally stopped, they were in the trees and victim 1 was hanging off the front of V1 with his head in the water and he was lying on his back; victim 2 was lying on top of some brush in the water on the port side with his head in the water and his back facing up.  Operator then got both victims back into V1 and performed CPR on both of them, got them breathing and called 911.  

Operator refused treated but was transported to the hospital by a deputy and voluntarily submitted to a blood/toxicology test.  The local hospital transfered victim 2 to UAMS Trauma center in Little Rock due to his condition.  On April 28, the Pulaski County Deputy Coroner advised us that victim 2 had passed away at 08:45am that morning.  An autopsy has been requested.

On 04-21-12 the Operator was given Miranda and interviewed.  He advised that they all had smoked marijuana about an hour before the accident and that victim 2 was the one who brought it and "rolled" it.  He also advised he had consumed 4 beers prior to the accident and that he also takes some prescription medication.  On 04-23-12 victim 1 was interviewed.  He stated he was kneeling down on the front deck looking toward the back of V1 and they had just gotten on plane and were leveled out; he then heard someone yell "Brush" and that was the last thing he remembered before waking up in the hospital.  He also stated he did not smoke marijuana with them while they were on the water, but that he and the operator had smoked some that morning around 08:00am.  He said he personally handed the operator 2 beers from the cooler and that he saw the operator get one of victim 2's mixed drinks from him; he said the cooler was close to the operator so it is possible he could have gotten more beer out of it without victim 1 knowing it.

Upon inspection of V1 it had a large hole ripped out of the port side of the bow and the trolling motor that was mounted on the bow was ripped off and missing.  V1's steering wheel was also broken off and missing.


BARDID: AR-2012-0012
Date: 2012-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: CROWN LAKE
NearestCityTown: HORSESHOE BEND
County: IZARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Occupants attempted to "sail" across a section of Crown Lake in V1 which they had modified by sawing away part of the interior and adding a make shift mast and sail system.  Approx. 3/4 of the way across the cove, wind caught the sail system and caused the vessel to capsize.  Victim tried to swim out to grab one of the paddles but had trouble and swam back to the now sunken V1.  The passenger then swam out to get the paddles and when he turned around, the victim was gone.  Victim's body was recovered on 04/16/12 at approx. 07:30.


BARDID: AR-2012-0013
Date: 2012-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GARFIELD
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator he was traveling on Beaver Lake to Lost Bridge Marina from Rocky Branch Marina at approx. 06:30am.  The weather conditions were heavy fog with light to no wind.  The operator thought he was east of the Dam Site Island when he struck a small island to the west of Dam Site Island.  In a statement from the owner of C&J Sports (towed V1), V1 was beached approx. 30 feet up on shore and was stopped by some trees.  V1 was towed back into the water and then driven back to the Dam Site Lake Park where it was loaded onto it's trailer.  Upon inspection V1 sustained damage to the keel and rib lines from the bow to stern on the port side and to the port side approx. 1/4 way up the gunwall near the stern. The outdrive also sustained damage along with one of the motor mounts on the inboard motor.


BARDID: AR-2012-0015
Date: 2012-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: RUSSELLVILLE
County: POPE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was fishing on the north side of the railroad bridge, when he began traveling north to return to the Dwight Mission boat ramp.  V2 was traveling east returning to the Ouita boat ramp, he had just crossed under the railroad bridge and exited out of the no wake zone area.  Both vessels were on plane when they collided.  V2 struck V1 on the port side and was lifted out of the water crossing over V1 and landed on the starboard side near the stern in the water.  Both vessels were still functional and were driven to the nearest boat ramp.


BARDID: AR-2012-0016
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
At approx. 1500hrs I was notified of a boat fire at the 7 South Bridge.  Upon arrival V1 was fully engulfed in flames.  All passengers had safely relocated to another vessel.  Operator stated he was driving V1 at idle or slow speed and noticed the throttle/motor was not functioning correctly and at about the same time he noticed a burning smell.  He lifted the engine compartment and saw flames.  At that point he evacuated the passengers off V1 and called 911.

V1 completely burned down to the water line.


BARDID: AR-2012-0017
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:16:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: ARKADELPHIA
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V2 began pulling four passengers on 2 tubes in a northeasterly direction.  Immediately upon bringing his vessel on plane, passenger/victim who was riding on one of the tubes fell into the water.  Operator of V1 was stopped roughly 100 feet behind V2 and upon seeing V2 leave, he took off to begin following them as the "pick-up vessel"; while attempting to get on plane he did not see the victim fall off the tube, thus striking her in the water.

Neither operator realized what had happened until they heard yelling/screaming from people aboard a nearby partybarge that witnessed the accident.  Both V1 and V2 immediately stopped and began rendering aid to the victim unsuccessfully.

Both operators were taken to have blood drawn for testing.  The samples were taken to the Arkansas State Crime Lab. Results from the toxicology tests are still pending; therefore the investigation is still open.

07-02-12 Toxicology results from the Crime Lab received.  Operator 1 had a BAC of .03 and Operator 2 had a BAC of .02; both under the legal limit.


BARDID: AR-2012-0018
Date: 2012-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANGHOFER (AR RIVER)
NearestCityTown: PINE BLUFF
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V2 stated he was traveling south on the lake pulling his grandchildren (the 2 victims) on a tube.  He looked west and noticed V1 traveling toward them.  He assumed the other operator was going to turn and go around them, but he didn't and collided with the tube striking both victims.  Operator of V1 stopped and helped assist with the victims.

Operator of V1 stated he had pulled away from the shore traveling northeast in the same area as V2 was operating.  V1 Operator said he looked back to tell his two kids to sit down at which time he thought he had hit a hard wave, but soon realized it was the tube being pulled by V2.

Both operators' blood was drawn and sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for testing.  Results still pending.

08/14/12 received results from Crime Lab.  Operator of V1 tested positive for Cannabinoids and Operator of V2 had Ethanol (BAC) of 0.15%.  

Charges being filed by Prosecuting Attorney: Operator V1 - Battery 3rd Degree (2 counts) and Negligent Operation.  Operator V2 - BUI


BARDID: AR-2012-0019
Date: 2012-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were returning to Cove Creek area from Goat Island.  V1 was in the lead and V2 followed.  Operator of V1 stated he lost sight of V2 and made a hard right turn and continued through to make a U-turn, when he saw V2 coming up on his port side when his turn was about 3/4 complete.  He continued with the turn hard to the right when the vessels collided.  Operator of V2 stated he was following V1 when he saw him start turning to the right, he thought V1 was going to circle around him.  Then he saw V1 turn in front of him (in his path) and V2 tried to turn to the left and was unable to avoid the collision.  The starboard side of V2 struck the port stern corner of V1.


BARDID: AR-2012-0020
Date: 2012-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:38:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: SALESVILLE
County: FULTON
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated he was attempting to start the motor when it backfired through the carburetor and a fire started.


BARDID: AR-2012-0021
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: SALESVILLE
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated they had just filled up with fuel at the marina and were leaving the dock.  They idled to the no wake buoys and when she tried to accelerate, V1 would not get on plane.  Operator turned around to go back to the marina and the engine compartment exploded.  All occupants abandoned ship.


BARDID: AR-2012-0022
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:42:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was traveling west bound on Lake Norfork.  He stated he was watching the tree line and did not see the long point that ran out into the lake and ran aground causing damage to hull and lower unit.


BARDID: AR-2012-0023
Date: 2012-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: HARTMAN
County: JOHNSON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
EquipmentFailure: Fire Extinguisher
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated his motor had become hard to start since 08:00am that morning.  He stated they fished all day and around 02:00pm he tried starting the motor to head back to the ramp when the motor exploded, causing the cowling to explode off the motor and the motor catching fire.  He attempted to put the fire out with his extinguisher but it was unserviceable, so once he got close to shoreline some fishermen on the bank brought a 5-gallon bucket over to aid in putting the fire out.

Operator stated he had recently had some work done on the motor and a new fuel pump replaced a few months ago.


BARDID: AR-2012-0024
Date: 2012-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUGARLOAF LAKE
NearestCityTown: HACKETT
County: SEBASTIAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to witnesses, the following is the sequence of events:

A neighbor noticed the victim "bobbing" up and down in the water after he fell out of V1.  She told the victim's girlfriend to call 911.  At the same time, the victim's mother was entering the water to try and help the victim back towards the direction of V1 (they were approximately 150 feet from the shore).  The victim was noted as being a strong swimmer.  As his mother got close he was trying to swim away from her with a paddle in his hand.  She was able to reach and grab V1 and tried to put it between her and the victim asking him to grab hold of V1.  The victim continued to "bob" up and down in the water.  The victim's mother stated she remembers him gasping for air before going under.  She yelled to other family members to help her find him but by this point it was dark.  She swam back to shore with V1.

AGFC Dive Team was notified and responded the following morning.  Victim's body was recovered at 11:55am on 06/06/12.  The body has been sent to the Crime Lab for an autopsy and toxicology screens.  Results are pending; therefore there has been no determination or verification of the cause of the accident (alcohol/drugs are highly suspected).

09/17/12 - Autopsy and Toxicology results confirm Drowning as cause of death, BAC of .24 and positive results for Benzodiazepines and Cannabinoids.


BARDID: AR-2012-0025
Date: 2012-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: BUCKVILLE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was following V2.  Both vessels were heading north.  V2 slowed it's travel but V1 failed to do so.  This caused the bow of V1 to collide with the stern and victim of V2.


BARDID: AR-2012-0027
Date: 2012-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with Fixed Object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was attempting to dock the vessel when a combination of wind and faulty throttle caused V1 to strike V2 (docked); then after striking V2, Operator of V1 attempted to dock in a different spot and again the throttle stuck causing V1 to strike the dock sending a piece of decking into the upper hull of V3 (also docked).


BARDID: AR-2012-0028
Date: 2012-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:48:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was floating just up from the swim beach at Prairie Creek while the operator wiped water from her eyes when V2 struck V1 in the starboard bow area causing all occupants of both vessels to be ejected.


BARDID: AR-2012-0029
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:40:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to return to the Monte Ne area when he got turned around.  He was traveling north at Goat Island.  He stated when he observed he was too close to the shore, he attempted to cut the power and trim the motor; but he had too much speed.  V1 struck the south side of Goat Island and ran aground.


BARDID: AR-2012-0030
Date: 2012-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:13:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to return to Heritage Bay, when he got turned around and ran V1 aground just north of Goat Island on a sliver of land that becomes exposed during low water.  The subjects became injured when they fell upon impact.


BARDID: AR-2012-0031
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:36:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was traveling towards Rocky Branch campground when he turned to go through the cut between Goat Island and the mainland.  Upon approaching the cut, V1 struck a rock and V1 was launched out of the water ejecting all occupants.  V1 came to rest approximately 30 feet from the rock it struck.


BARDID: AR-2012-0032
Date: 2012-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: LOWELL
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was stationary fishing along a bluff line when he noticed 2 ski boats operating side by side at a high rate of speed approaching his location.  He advised the 2 boats passed within 50 feet of his boat and another 3rd ski boat followed the first two and also traveled past him.  As the vessels passed, their wakes swamped V1.  Operator advised the waves came over the right rear of V1, he tried to move toward the bow to balance the weight but his efforts were futile.  He grabbed a PFD as V1 sank to the bottom of the lake.  A passerby saw the operator and got him to safety.

*The other vessels were never found.


BARDID: AR-2012-0034
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was turning right trying to spray V2 and V2 was turning left also trying to spray V1 when they collided.  Damage to both vessels indicates that V2 went over the top of V1 and was traveling faster than V1 at the time of impact.  Initially, both operators and the passenger all denied being involved in an accident.  However, when faced with the evidence they changed their stories.

Citations were issued to both operators for Failure to report an accident and Reckless operation.  They were also issued warnings for Boater Education requirements.  The passenger was cited for Interferring with an Officer.


BARDID: AR-2012-0035
Date: 2012-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was traveling north when he saw V1 (a pontoon boat) that looked like the boat he was with; as V2 operator approached the vessel, he realized it was not his friend's boat.  V2 operator stated this was the first time he had ever been on a PWC and as he pulled up to the front of V1, he let off the throttle and was unable to steer to avoid colliding with the front of V1.  Operator of V2 stated the occupants of V1 helped him get V2 out from under the V1 and he sustained a cut on his right fore finger.


BARDID: AR-2012-0036
Date: 2012-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated they were traveling northwest toward the Narrows area of Greers Ferry when he attempted to slow V1.  Operator stated V1 "stopped suddenly" causing the victim to be ejected over the bow railing of V1.  Victim disappeared under V1 and was located in the motor area.  Victim's PFD was tangled in the prop; the operator and and occupant were able to free the victim.  Once freed, it was noticed that the victim had sustained a severe laceration to her left forearm.

Victim was transported by EMS to Baptist Health Center where surgery to repair her arm was performed.


BARDID: AR-2012-0037
Date: 2012-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OVERCUP
NearestCityTown: MORRILTON
County: CONWAY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated they were traveling east when they struck a submerged stump and V1 came to a stop on top of the stump.  The motor was still running and V1 began going in circles.  They tried to motor off the stump and even tried to rock the boat off the stump.  He noticed a large amount of water coming into the bottom of V1, so he turned the bilge pump on but it could not keep up with the amount of water coming in.  All occupants put on life jackets and swam to the nearest bank (approx. 200 ft away).  Once on shore they walked to a nearby residence and got a ride back to the boat ramp where their vehicle was located.


BARDID: AR-2012-0038
Date: 2012-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: CROSSETT
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was cruising downstream turning starboard into a right hand curve of the channel.  V2 was cruising upstream turning portside into a left hand curve of the channel.  Both vessels were in a head on situation in a sharp curve.  V1 turned starboard to avoid the collision while V2 turned to port, thus resulting in the collision.  The collision occurred near the Union Co. shore of the channel.  The bow of V2 collided with the portside bow of V1 creating tearing breaks and deep gouges in V1.  V2 rotated on impact causing the starboard stern to rise and collide again with the port stern of V1.  After the collision V1 traveled a short distance to the Union Co. shoreline with the bow first stopping at GPS Coordinate N 33 11 22.1 W 092 10 26.2.   

V1 Operator was unconscious with injury; V1 Passenger 2 was alert with possible injury; V1 Passenger 3 was unresponsive; V1 Passenger 4 was unconscious with injury and V1 Passenger 5 was alert with injury.  None of V1 occupants were ejected. 

V2 rotated 180 degrees during the collision and traveled downstream to GPS Coordinate N33 11 22.0 W 092 10 23.3 on the Union Co. shoreline before stopping.  V2 Operator was not injured and V2 Passenger 2 had a possible injury.  Again, none of the occupants were ejected. 

Autopsy on the victim and all Toxicology test requests were sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab.  Due to the backlog of cases at the Crime Lab it could take several months to get the results and therefore determine cause and close the investigation. 

Autopsy received 07/25/12; still waiting on Toxicology screens from operators.
 
01/12/13 - all Toxicology screens received.  Criminal charges have been filed but no court date set as of today.  Regardless, I am submitting this report for review as the deadline is this week.  The facts to be known are included in this report.


BARDID: AR-2012-0039
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was attempting to get up on a wake board while being towed by V1.  Almost immediately after take-off, the victim went down into the water.  When V1 circled around to get vicitim, victim was screaming that her leg was broken.  She was loaded into V1 and transported to an awaiting ambulance at Dam Site Marina where she was then transported to Heber Springs Medical Center for treatment of a broken leg.


BARDID: AR-2012-0040
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:49:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of Spilled Fuel or Vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was fueling V1 at Iron Mt. Marina.  Once fueling was complete, he could not get V1 to start.  He thought the engine was flooded so he waited several minutes and attempted to start V1 again.  He stated V1 would not start, so he removed the seat off V1 to gain access to the engine compartment.  Once the enging compartment was exposed, he attempted to start V1 again which resulted in an explosion (flash fire).


BARDID: AR-2012-0042
Date: 2012-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:17:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLUE MT. LAKE
NearestCityTown: BLUE MOUNTAIN
County: YELL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was going straight along the island in Blue Mountain Lake when V1 struck a submerged object.  Upon hitting the object, the transom broke loose from V1 and the engine turned upside down but remained attached to the hull.  V1 sank almost immediately.  All occupants used PFD's to swim to shore.


BARDID: AR-2012-0043
Date: 2012-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: HENDERSON
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/24/12 around 11:00am this officer was notified about this accident. Operator stated he was looking for a friend in another vessel and couldn't find them so he started back towards the Norfork Marina and saw a pontoon boat with it's lights on and he thought he was by the island on the left hand side of it, so he went further left and ended up hitting the island.  V1 traveled approximately 4ft up onto dry land.  The pontoon boat came and picked up the operator of V1 and took him to his dock.


BARDID: AR-2012-0044
Date: 2012-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:58:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Witnesses/occupants on V1 all stated V1 was anchored.  They began to get ready to leave the area and the victim was attempting to retrieve the swim ladder from the stern of V1 when he fell and became entangled in the ladder.  His left leg went through a ladder rung as he was falling and broke at the knee.


BARDID: AR-2012-0045
Date: 2012-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: poor maintenance
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, V1 was at anchor while they swam.  When they returned to V1 and attempted to start the motor, it would not start and sounded as if it was "under water".  When he lifted the engine hatch, to inspect the motors it in fact was submerged in water.  The operator began to bail water out of the boat with a bucket and turned on the bilge pump.  He was able to remove a majority of the water and get one engine to start.  He drove V1 to Rocky Branch Marina.  He was met by the Corps of Engineers Rangers who were able to tow him to the boat ramp.  Once V1 was loaded onto the trailer and out of the water, it was determined that the seals around the lower units were dry rotted and cracked which allowed water to enter the boat.


BARDID: AR-2012-0046
Date: 2012-05-26 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: ROYAL
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
This investigation is incomplete due to the fact the operator/renter of V1 failed to report the accident and is refusing to return phone calls from either the boat livery or this officer.  The operator/renter is from another state which further complicates trying to locate him. It is unknown what time the accident/damage occurred.  Upon inspection V1 sustained severe damage to one of the outdrives rendering it unusable.


BARDID: AR-2012-0047
Date: 2012-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: CLARENDON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival at the location of the accident, we observed the bow of what appeared to be a white and red ski-type boat floating just above the water line.  The boat was tied to a log pile on the west side of the river to keep it from fully sinking.  It was also noticed that several pieces of V1's interior was hung in another log pile about 100 yards away.  During the interview with the operator, he stated he was traveling south on the river and as he passed the area in which the new bridge is being constructed he hit something submerged in the water.  He stated he tried to continue south but had a bad vibration coming from the lower unit.  He then stopped in the middle of the river and that is when he noticed V1 was filling with water.  Another vessel passing by provided assistance and pullled V1 to the bank before it sank.

When V1 was recovered the next day, upon inspection a hole was detected on the bottom starboard side of the stern.


BARDID: AR-2012-0049
Date: 2012-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading into a boat dock when he struck his step brother (victim) who was sitting on the dock in the lower right leg just below the knee cap causing a compound fracture.  

This accident was not immediately reported.  Once we found out, we attempted to interview the Operator and victim. Operator advised he did not know where the accident occurred, just that it was in a cove at a boat dock.  He also advised he did not know who owned V1; just that it was a friend of a friends and that somebody told him he could ride V1, but he didn't know who (their name).  A passing boat carried the victim to Starky's Marina where EMT personnel transported him to Rogers Hospital.  No one at the Marina knew the name of the man in the boat that transported the victim.  EMT personnel and hospital staff refused to give any information concerning the accident (HIPPA). At the time of our interview, the victim was enroute to Oklahoma and the boy's mother advised there would be no more questioning.  However, the operator was cited for Inattentive operation and No Boating Education certificate.


BARDID: AR-2012-0050
Date: 2012-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements of all involved, V1 was headed towards Prairie Creek Marina with passengers 2 and 3 taking pictures with their phone.  Operator stated he leaned over to help take the pictures which caused him to pull the steering wheel to the right.  This action caused V1 to hit a bluff wall just east of the Coose Hollow area.  Subjects became injured upon impact with teh boat.


* BAC RESULTS PENDING - CRIME LAB ANALYSIS


BARDID: AR-2012-0052
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and occupants got into V1 while it was moored in front of their cabin.  Operator stated he turned the blowers on for approx. 5 minutes and when he started the motor, the cover of the motor blew off.  Everyone jumped out and swam for shore.  V1 burned until a Nabholtz Fire Boat arrived and put fire out.  V1 was a total loss.  The owner of V1 had just had $14,000 worth of work done to the boat.

Due to extent of damage and loss (sunk) of some items, investigator was unable to determine exact cause of the explosion and fire; but it is suspected possible bare spark plug wires or faulty distributor cap contributed to spark.  Other than operator, there are no other witnesses that can confirm he in fact turned on the blowers as stated.


BARDID: AR-2012-0053
Date: 2012-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to cross the wake of another vessel when V1's bow went under a wave causing V1 to take on water and sink.  All occupants retrieved life jackets, swam away from V1 and were picked up by a passing boat and taken to land.

V1 completely sank and will not be retrieved (in 60ft + water), so most vessel information unavailable.  Language barrier hindered investigation as far as obtaining information.


BARDID: AR-2012-0055
Date: 2012-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:18:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Both operators traveled to the Hogscald area from the Garfield area to find party cove.  They stopped near an old boat ramp to visit with some people.  As they took off again, V1 was in front of V2.  V1 stopped for reasons unknown; as he stopped V2's bow was high as he was attempting to get on plane.  V2 Operator then noticed V1 stopped just as he broke over on plane.  V2 was traveling at full speed when it struck V1.  V2 traveled from the starboard side to the port side causing multiple injuries to V1's operator and ejecting him into the water.  Operator of V2 jumped off and swam to the victim who was floating face down in the water.  He grabbed him and swam him to shore, where 911 was called by subjects on the shore.

10/05/12 - Autopsy and all Toxicology results received from the Crime Lab.  Autopsy confirmed death as accidental due to blunt force trauma and drowning.  ME noted injuries sustained would have been rapidly fatal in and of themselves; however since victim was probably still alive when he entered the water, drowning was stylized into the cause of death.

Toxicology results for deceased victim came back negative for alcohol and/or drugs.

Toxicology results for Operator of V2 also came back negative for alcohol and/or drugs.

Grossly Negligent Operation charges being filed again operator of V2.


BARDID: AR-2012-0056
Date: 2012-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were cruising down the lake with V2 behind V1.  Operator of V1 made a turn to the left and V2 struck them; ejecting all occupants off of both vessels. V2 traveled over the top of V1 tearing off the hood compartment and breaking the handle bars.


BARDID: AR-2012-0058
Date: 2012-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:44:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pulling the victim and 2 other passengers on a tube.  One of the passengers and the victim both fell off the tube.  The victim injured her lower back and was transported by Air-Evac to St. Bernard's Hospital in Jonesboro.


BARDID: AR-2012-0061
Date: 2012-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Upon returning V1 to the rental company, the outdrive on the motor struck an underwater obstruction which separated the gears on the portside lower unit.  No one was injured and V1 was able to be operated back to the marina with the other engine.


BARDID: AR-2012-0063
Date: 2012-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:38:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GARFIELD
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator was traveling northwest toward the end of Indian Creek Hollow when he veered off to the right heading toward the shore.  As V1 neared the shore, it struck a stump on the starboard stern causing V1 to veer hard right.  The action caused the operator to be ejected.  As he was ejected he struck the port mirror with his head causing a deep laceration and then he tumbled onto the shoreline striking his head again causing another laceration and multiple scratches and bruises to his body.  V1 also struck the shore at this time.  Another vessel witnessed the accident and came to the operator's aid.  He was taken to Indian Creek landing where EMS was waiting.


BARDID: AR-2012-0064
Date: 2012-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:55:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: SALESVILLE
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west toward Quarry launch ramp.  V2 was traveling south toward Quarry Marina.  Operator and passenger of V1 stated neither one saw any boat lights.  Just before impact the passenger saw a boat (V2) and yelled "watch out" but V1 struck V2 on the starboard side with V1 coming to rest on top of V2.  Operator of V2 was transported back to the bank by another vessel with a State Trooper on board.  The Trooper gave the operator of V2 a PBT on scene and he blew a .127.  V2 operator was taken to the hospital by ambulance for his injuries.  Once at the hospital, he refused to submit to a BAC test and was charged with Refusal and Operating w/o Navigation Lights.


BARDID: AR-2012-0065
Date: 2012-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approx. 03:00 operator failed to see Island 1B on Norfork and grounded V1.  V1 was northbound when it impacted the island; V1 traveled 47.25 ft and then turned and went 26.5 ft before finally coming to rest on the island heading east/northeast.  Operator stated he knew there was an island in the area but it was very dark that night and he failed to see it.  He advised V1 was on plane at the time of the impact and was traveling approx. 40mph.  V1's occupants spent the night on the vessel until they flagged down a fisherman at approx. 08:00 that morning.  Occupant had suffered an injury when he fell onboard the vessel.

Operator failed to notify us of the accident.


BARDID: AR-2012-0067
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator admitted to being intoxicated and not paying attention.  He was heading southbound on Norfork when he turned too quick towards Cranfield Boat Dock and ran aground on a long point.  V1 damage was to the prop and stern.  occupant became injured when he hit the boat upon impact.


BARDID: AR-2012-0068
Date: 2012-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling northwest around point 28 at approximately 65 mph.  According to both the operator and passenger V1 hit some large waves causing them to suddenly turn left and eject them both out of V1.  One occupant broke an arm upon impact with water.


BARDID: AR-2012-0069
Date: 2012-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:46:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK RIVER
NearestCityTown: CORNING
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects had been checking their limb lines from the night before.  They continued up river to look for other spots to fish.  They came to a bend in the river and while navigating it, they struck a submerged tree limb.  The limb hit the port side bow and came up through the hull striking the passenger/victim ejecting him out of V1.  The victim swam to the east side of the river and got out on the bank.  The operator maneuvered V1 to the west bank and asked the victim if he was ok.  At this time the victim looked down at his abdomen and could see his intestines protruding out; he became very pale and weak.  The operator called 911.  The victim was med-flighted to Memphis and underwent emergency surgery (a portion of his small intestine had to be removed).  

Upon interviews, the doctors advised it was the tree limb that cut the victim and not the prop.  It is believed the operator's vision may have been obstructed by the passenger/victim in the front seat of V1.


BARDID: AR-2012-0070
Date: 2012-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: SPRINGDALE
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 9-4-12 at approx. 1:22pm, passenger called 911 to report her brother-in-law (victim) was missing in the water and gave their location.  She advised they had unloaded V1 at Bo's Landing boat ramp and traveled approx. 1 mile past the 412 bridge where they stopped and everyone got in the water to swim.  Other passenger/witnesses on V1 stated the victim complained of leg cramps once everyone was in the water.  Passenger advised he stayed with the victim until the cramping stopped.  He then advised that V1 had drifted away and once the victim stated he would be okay, he swam to retrieve V1.  Passenger was picked up by a passing boat and transported to V1.  Passenger then drove V1 back to where everyone was swimming and at that time he and the other passengers/witnesses/swimmers were unable to find the victim and that's when the 911 call was made.

Responding Emergency personnel established a perimeter in the location and the WCSO Dive Team was called.  The Dive team located the victim's body in approx. 16 feet of water.  The body was sent to the Crime Lab for an autopsy.  No visible injuries were located on the body and cause of death was listed as drowning.  Upon inspection of V1 there was no evidence of alcohol on the vessel and no reason to believe alcohol was involved.


BARDID: AR-2012-0071
Date: 2012-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8, 2012, operator was operating a PWC rented from Dreamchaser Rentals.  Operator had lost a passenger and was making a right maneuver when she got thrown from the vessel.  While interviewing her, she was not sure if she hit the handle bars or an underwater obstruction.  She explained that she felt a sharp pain and was unable to climb back on the PWC.  The previous passenger then swam over to her and the PWC and got both of them back on the vessel and drove to Brady Mountain Marina where EMS arrived and transported her to St. Joesph Emergency Room.


BARDID: AR-2012-0072
Date: 2012-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:59:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: FROST POINT
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
All adults interviewed advised they left the Persimmon Point Resort Dock around midnight with 3 or 4 adults onboard.  They advised they were just cruising along when all of a sudden V1 hit something and came to a stop.  At daylight they called the owner of Persimmon Point Resort and described their location (no one knew where they were).  The owner came by boat and picked up the stranded boaters and returned them to the resort's dock.  He then notified the owner of V1 and informed him where his boat was (V1 was taken without the owner's permission). The owner and other marina personnel were able to dislodge V1 from the submerged point.  V1's prop, lower unit and underside of the hull sustained moderate to heavy damage.  V1 was towed to the public boat ramp and loaded onto it's trailer.

V1's owner notified the Marion County Sheriff's Office to file a theft report.  This officer along with a deputy from the Sheriff's Office interviewed all parties involved that could be located and determined that none of the "stories" they were telling were true or adding up.  No one claimed responsibility for operating V1.  Upon advice from the local Prosecuting Attorney, all 3 adults were to be arrested and charged.   The other two had already left the resort and it was determined that the female gave a false name (her real name was eventually discovered) and the other male has never been located again.

We are unable to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role and the true operator still has not been identified; One person has been charged with Theft of Property and Criminal Mischief.  However, other charges are still pending.


BARDID: AR-2012-0073
Date: 2012-08-22 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Owner of V1 was contacted by the Damsite Marina manager, informing him his vessel (V1) that was docked at the marina had been hit by another vessel.  The manager told V1's owner that a witness reported a black and white 4 Winns boat struck V1.  However, the witness could not get a registration number.  Dock employees searched all the slips at the marina to possibly locate the suspect vessel without success.

It is unknown the exact time the accident occurred as the witnesses were not found until later on in the investigation; they just knew it happened sometime "during the day".


BARDID: AR-2012-0074
Date: 2012-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was turning left out of the boat stall and pushed the throttle all the way forward and couldn't manuever away from V2.  V1 struck the propeller and stern of V2 with the bow; V2 was elevated on a boat lift in a stall.


BARDID: AR-2012-0075
Date: 2012-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: RUSSELLVILLE
County: POPE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was pulling passenger 3 on a tube and maneuvered right.  While steering V1 to the right, the steering wheel broke and came off the steering column.  V1 then cut hard to the right, ejecting passenger 2/victim into the water on the port side.  Victim was struck by V1's motor (skeg and prop) resulting in wounds to both legs.  Victim was recovered and taken to Illinois Bayou boat ramp where EMS was waiting.


BARDID: AR-2012-0077
Date: 2012-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GARFIELD
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator stated he was traveling towards Lost Bridge Marina at a slow rate of speed when he observed V2 making circles in the water off his port side.  V2 then shot across V1's bow toward the starboard side and started making circles in the water again.  According to V1 Operator, after V2 made several circles it shot in front of V1 again and at this time the two vessels collided.

According to V2 Operator he was making circles when he observed V1 traveling towards him.  He stopped making circles and started going straight when V1 struck him.

Both operators stated they were going at low speed.

Damage to V1 was mainly rub marks from the bumper stip of V2 and minor scratches to the gel coat from the impact; all damage was confined to the starboard side of the vessel.

Damage to V2 was to the port side and at an angle running from the rear forward (not at a 90 degree).


BARDID: AR-2012-0078
Date: 2012-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: NORTH LITTLE ROCK
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading north on the Arkansas River, returning to the Terry Dam from fishing.  It was dark and V1 had it's navigational lights on.  V1 struck a rock jetty on the east side of the Arkansas River.  Upon impact the passenger/vicitm was ejected into the rock jetty and then into the river on the north side of the jetty.  Operator was ejected forward, hitting his knees on the console; knocking the whole console out of the floor.  After hitting the jetty, V1 turned to the left causing extensive damage to the starboard side from the stern to the bow and also severely damaging the lower unit and prop.  The operator got the victim out of the water.

At approx. 9pm a resident on the west side of the river called 911 after hearing the occupants of V1 calling for help.  Once rescued, the passenger/victim was transported by EMS to Baptist Hospital.  The operator refused treatment.

At the time of the accident, no additional spot light was being used.  The operator was given a PBT test at the scene and blew a .000.


BARDID: AR-2012-0080
Date: 2012-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: REDFIELD
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed south down the Arkansas River toward the boat ramp at Tar Camp when it collided and ran over a green channel marker buoy.  There were 3 passengers seated in the bow of V1.  According to the operator, the middle passenger restricted his vision and he did not see the buoy.  The bow and stern were damaged.  A hole was knocked in the lower unit of the motor.

Fearing V1 would sink, the operator instructed the children to jump out and swim to shore; which they all did safely.  V1 would only move in reverse, so the operator and passenger 2 drove V1 to the boat ramp in reverse.

The insurance company totaled V1 at $2,200.


BARDID: AR-2012-0081
Date: 2012-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator stated he was traveling east going to Eden Isle to dock his vessel when V2 came out of Cove Creek traveling north and was headed toward the starboard side of V1. V2 then turned and struck the starboard stern of V1 and glanced off. V2 Operator stated that he and his passengers were night fishing in Cove Creek and around midnight they headed back to Shilo Marina.  He also stated he could see the lights at the marina and some lights on boats out in the water but did not see V1 until V2 passenger 3 told him; at which time he turned hard left and struck the rear of V1 with the starboard rear of his vessel.  V2 Operator stated he did not see any lights on V1.  All occupants of V1 stated the lights were working and on.
 
*Tardiness of report is due to Operator of V1 being evasive and refusing to meet or return the reporting officer's calls.  Charges filed against this operator for failure to cooperate with an investigation/failure to provide requested information/obstructing an investigation.


BARDID: AR-2012-0082
Date: 2012-10-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:42:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GILLHAM LAKE
NearestCityTown: GILLHAM
County: HOWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was stationary with both occupants fishing. They noticed V1 taking on water, so the operator attempted to make it back to the Big Coon Creek boat ramp; but they soon realized they were not going to make it so they headed for the closest island. They caught the attention of two other fishermen who were nearby who came to their aid. They were able to retrieve their belongings and put them in the good Samaritans boat. The occupants of V1 also got into the other party's boat and were taken to the boat ramp. 

After V1 was later recovered from the lake, upon inspection it was determined that a seal around the aerator was decayed which created a hole that allowed the entry of water into V1.


BARDID: AR-2012-0083
Date: 2012-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was crossing the channel heading towards Van Hollow through some light lake mist when it struck V2 in the port side stern area as V2 was traveling in the channel toward the Rambo area.  The collision caused all subjects to be ejected.  They were all wearing PFDs at the time of the collision.


BARDID: AR-2012-0084
Date: 2012-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:16:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE COLUMBIA
NearestCityTown: MAGNOLIA
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
According to the surviving passenger, he and the operator/victim had launched from South Shore Landing earlier that day to go fishing.  The passenger advised he thought his friend (the victim) operated V1 too fast and it scared him as they headed straight to the closed area of the lake where the water intake structure is located inside a restricted zone of water that is marked by buoys.  He stated he asked the operator to slow down but he refused to comply.  He said they fished inside the closed area about 10 minutes and when the operator cranked up the motor to leave, he decided to put on his PFD and he asked the operator to wear his also.  The operator refused and began to motor away heading east.  Passenger then advised V1 was going very fast and then for an unknown reason turned hard to the south then immediately turned hard back to the north and at that point V1 took on water and sank.  The passenger floated because of his PFD and he instructed the operator to calm down because he panicked.  He said he got him to calm down for a little while and was able to assist him in floating; while trying to swim to shore.  He said all at once the operator just started to sink down and he couldn't keep him afloat or save him.  He continued to swim toward the closest bank and once he reached the shore he took off his PFD to mark the spot where he came out; then proceeded to walk through the woods to the nearest residence and call for help.  
 
Searchers worked until 21:30 that night trying to locate V1 and the victim without success; the efforts had to be called off due to foggy weather conditions.  We began the search again the following morning at 09:30 using sonar equipment. Late that afternoon both the victim and V1 were located.  
 
The Coroner drew blood from the victim which has been sent to the AR Crime Lab and we are still waiting on the results.  Once V1 was raised, this investigator observed the motor was in gear and the throttle was in the wide open position.


BARDID: AR-2012-0086
Date: 2012-12-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: FELSENTHAL NWR
NearestCityTown: FELSENTHAL
County: ASHLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was traveling on Felsenthal NWR attempting to reach an area to duck hunt.  He had exited the Ouachita River through Heebie Cut and was attempting to enter Red Eye Slough when he was passed by V2.  V2's wake forced V1 into a group of stumps.  The stumps caused a large hole to be punctured into the side of V1.  This hole caused V1 to fill with water; however the operator was able to keep V1 afloat enough that it was not totally submerged.  The only damage to the motor was to the tilt and trim hydraulic cylinder.  V1 was towed in by 2 other boats that stopped to render aid.  V2 was unable to be located due to V1 occupant's lack of description of the other vessel.  They did however believe V2 had a Yamaha 70 hp motor on it.


BARDID: AR-2013-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-02-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU METO
NearestCityTown: FIVE FORKS
County: ARKANSAS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading south (toward Longpond access ramp) along the flooded ditch staying close to the tree line (right side) coming up to a 90 degree right turn following another boat.  V2 was heading east (away from Longpond access ramp) along the flooded ditch staying close to the levee (right side) coming up to a 90 degree left turn.  V1 steered left to avoid a collision with a boat that negotiated the turn but was traveling next to the levee putting V2 next to the tree line. V1 negotiated the turn on the inside next to the tree line.  V1 and V2 collided at the apex of the turn next to the tree line.
 
When V1 and V2 collided, V2 came out of the water and travelled in the air from the starboard bow of V1 to center stern.  V1 operator was seated at the starboard side stern.  During the collision V1 operator lunged to the left and down into V1's floor and storage box.  V1 operator was pinned between V2 and the storage box causing injuries to V1 operator. 
 
V1 was totalled; sustaining damage to the front right side bow and engine hood.
V2 received damage to the front bow and propeller.


BARDID: AR-2013-0003
Date: 2013-03-25 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: PEEL
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
It is believed that the missing person/operator went fishing on March 25th sometime in the afternoon.  It is also believed that at some point he fell out of V1 and was not able to re-board.   

This officer was contacted at 1:45am on March 26th by dispatch advising of a missing fisherman near point 19 on Bull Shoals Lake. The dispatcher advised Missouri Water Patrol was also responding.  After launching my patrol boat and driving to the area in question, I met a Missouri Water Patrol unit and they advised they found the missing boat (V1) but no one was on board. We began a search with spotlights and also conducted "hailing" searches by calling out the missing man's name.  Both searches were unsuccessful.  The missing man's father was then contacted and notified of the situation as V1 was towed to a nearby resort dock.  The father advised this had happened before a few years ago; where his son went fishing and fell overboard.  He said his son was "fairly" large and had trouble getting back into the boat but that he was close enough to the bank to swim to safety.  He said the experience scared his son and he began wearing his life jacket whenever he was in a boat, but apparently he had gotten out of the practice recently.   

Due to the extreme cold, I returned to my vehicle to warm up and wait for assistance to arrive from the Marion County SO.  At daylight we returned to the area and began searching again.  We were able to find a paddle and a pair of boots across the cove from where we found V1.  The missing man's father believed both the paddle and boots belonged to his son. I did a hasty searches of area cabins and the point of land near where we found the boots with no success.  Several search teams were called in to conduct further ground searches over the entire area that day but didn't locate anything.  Over the next few days Arkansas Game and Fish Dive Team conducted searches with sonar equipment and also did not locate anything.  We are continuing to conduct searches of the area periodically. 

This is a preliminary report and will be updated when any new evidence or body is recovered.
 
UPDATE 04/30/13: A fisherman discovered the victim's body on 04/28/13 at approx. 11:00am.  Body was recovered and taken to Burn's Funeral Home at the request of the Coroner.  
 
GPS Coordinates:
 
Boat - 36' 28' 58.60  92 42' 49.04
Boots - 36' 28' 58.20  92' 43' 02.13
Body - 36' 28' 49.211  92' 42' 34.79


BARDID: AR-2013-0004
Date: 2013-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT. IDA
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
V1 operator stated he started the starboard engine while it was docked at Duncan Dock II slip #8, throttling it with the gear disengaged.  The RPMs stayed high when he put the throttle back in neutral.  The operator advised the ignition was turned off as he moved toward the engine compartment.  When he accessed the engine compartment, he noticed the starboard motor was still running with a high RPM and at that time he noticed V1 began moving forward.  As V1 moved forward the vessel's port stern struck V2 at the midsection of the starboard pontoon causing a scuff, scratch and small dent.  The operator attempted to get back to the steering column and throttle controls as V1 continued on and struck the Paradise Dock between slip#22 and 23 (walkway) on the south side causing damage to the outside railing and walkway.  V1 then traveled over the walkway colliding with V3 causing damage to the port stern on the gunwale.


BARDID: AR-2013-0005
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: ARKADELPHIA
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling northeast on Lake DeGray near the Spillway boat ramp.  According to the operator, the "hot foot" pedal on V1 malfunctioned causing the vessel to accelerate at a high rate of speed.  The operator was unable to control V1 which resulted in V1 running aground striking several trees and overturning.  The operator jumped from V1 prior to it running aground and did not receive any injuries. p


BARDID: AR-2013-0006
Date: 2013-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER OLD LOCK 8
NearestCityTown: CALION
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/13/13 at approx. 10:10am this officer was notified of a possible fatality boating accident.  Through dispatch I was able to contact the operator and he advised they were approx. 1 mile down in the Old Lock 8 river channel on the Calion side.  The operator advised at this time they had struck a tree and the motor had hit his friend (victim) in the head and he thought he was dead.  We were able to get a boat launched at the nearest ramp and arrived on the accident scene at 11:14; where we found the operator standing on the west bank with V1 pulled up to the bank.  As we approached I could see the victim lodged between the consoles of V1 with his head down toward the operator seat.  The paramedic/deputy coroner checked the victim and advised he was deceased.  The operator was checked by EMT and taken back to the Calion Landing by another Wildlife Officer and subsequently transported to the hospital to be further examined and have blood drawn for BAC testing as required. 

Upon investigation it is determined that the operator and victim were traveling northeast up stream when V1 struck a submerged tree (approx. 60ft long) with the motor and then traveled down the tree approx. 12 to 15 feet.  In observing the damage to the tree, the motor struck a fork in the tree that sheared the motor from the jack plate of V1, throwing it up and onto the rear deck of V1 at the back of the seats.  The motor came to rest just at the back of the operator and passenger seats resting in a horizontal position.  The power pack was behind the operator and the propeller was just over the passenger seat.  As it came to rest, it is apparent the propeller struck the passenger in the top of the head, right side of his face and right shoulder causing slashing propeller wounds and massive head trauma. 

Blood evidence has been collected from both the operator and victim and has been submitted to the State Crime Lab.
 
08/19/13 Received Toxicology screens from Crime Lab - no alcohol or drugs found in either the operator or victim.


BARDID: AR-2013-0007
Date: 2013-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: CLARKSVILLE
County: JOHNSON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: UNSEEN WATER HAZARD
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he met another vessel in the creek and moved over to pass, once they cleared each other he began to accelerate and the prop hit a submerged object.  He then noticed a shaking in the motor and when he loaded V1 on the trailer, both the prop and the shaft were bent.  No other damage was recorded to V1.


BARDID: AR-2013-0008
Date: 2013-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: CAMDEN
County: OUACHITA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival at the scene and interview with V1 operator, he stated he had been fishing on the Ouachita River and was headed back to the landing when he was flagged down by 2 male subjects.  They informed him their motor had quit (V2) and they needed a tow back to the landing. V1 operator agreed to tow them back and the owner of V2 got into V1 and held onto a rope that was tied to V2 and the other male (V2 passenger/victim) remained in V2 while it was being towed.  V1 Operator stated he heard his passenger yell at the V2 occupant to "Sit Down!; and then he was told to "Stop the boat" (V1).  He stopped V1, turned around and got within approximately 10 feet of the victim. V1 operator got up went to the bow of V1 to get a PFD to throw to the victim, but by the time he got the PFD the victim was gone. They sat in V1 for approximately 30 min. watching to see if the victim was going to resurface.  V1 operator said he finally decided to go call for help; so they continued to tow V2 back to the landing and called 911.   

Upon interviewing V2's owner he stated he and the victim had been fishing and at one point their motor quit.  They were able to flag down V1 and get him to tow them back.  During the process, his passenger (V2 victim) got up and started walking to the front of V2; V2's owner yelled at him to sit down but the victim lost his balance and fell overboard.  He stated as they turned around to get him, the victim was struggling in the water.  When they got close, he went down.   

There were no indications any of the people involved had been drinking but as a requirement V1 operator's blood was drawn and taken to the Health Dept. for testing.  The victim was recovered that same day and taken to the Crime Lab for an autopsy. 

All results still pending as of 06/05/13. 
  
BAC results received 06/14/13.  Operator had a BAC of 0.00


BARDID: AR-2013-0009
Date: 2013-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BUFFALO RIVER
NearestCityTown: OZARK CAMPGROUND AREA
County: NEWTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
National Park Service Rangers responded to the call but failed to notify us of the accident; therefore all information in this report was gathered by NPS LE Specialist. 

According to the witness, she and the victim were kayaking upriver from Ozark Campground when they approached a large tree extending across the entire channel.  There were 2 "V's" or channels going to the tree and through the rapids. The "V"on the left side enters the rapids at an angle which would push a kayaker into the tree base. The "V" on the right side extends under the tree into branches touching the water (visually not an option for most boaters).  She stated the victim was "sucked into the tree", capsized and didn't "pop-out" of her kayak.  She reached the victim and tried to get her out but couldn't, so she attempted to hold the victim's head up and out of the water and noticed the victim's lens was knocked out of her glasses. Witness believes the victim hit her head because her PFD was not inflated.  After approx. 10 min. she noticed the victim was still unresponsive and foam was coming out of her mouth.  She managed to get V1 over close to the shore, but still couldn't get the victim out.  She knew other kayakers would be coming down soon so she waited for them to arrive to help.  After about 20 min. four people floated down and the witness flagged them down, 2 of them were able to remove the victim out of V1 and the other 2 went for help.  The victim didn't have a pulse, her lips were purple and her eyes were open and glazed.  Rangers responded to help and the coroner was called.
 
When asked about the victim's health the witness stated she had high blood pressure and had had hip surgery (a hip fusion).  She had to assist the victim in and out of her kayak but otherwise she was fine. She had special shoes to compensate for one of her legs being shorter and witnesses stated V1 was heavily and improperly loaded to compensate for the victim's hip to allow her to "ride" straight.


BARDID: AR-2013-0010
Date: 2013-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: CALION
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 operator was driving south on the Ouachita River near Calion when she noticed an unidentified vessel approaching from behind and gave way because she was slowing to stop at the time.  She did not see V2 in front on her port side when she gave way to the other vessel.  Even though she was slowing, the waves from the unidentified vessel caused V1 to strike V2 pinching V1 operator's leg in between.  She was taken to the hospital by POV and it was determined her leg was not broken, just badly bruised.


BARDID: AR-2013-0011
Date: 2013-05-08 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: CONWAY
County: FAULKNER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/08/13, this officer was dispatched to the boat ramp at Cadron Settlement Park in reference to a missing fisherman.  I was advised the victim had gone fishing on 05/07/13 and had not returned home.  The victim's wife stated that he usually comes home around midnight when he's fishing.  The victim's vehicle and boat trailer were still parked at the ramp.  The victim's wife stated she pinged the victim's cell phone at approx. 9pm on 05/07/13 and it showed his cell phone at a liquor store.  A search on the river located V1 at the Toad Suck Lock and Dam.  V1 was towed back to the boat ramp for inspection.  Inspection revealed that the tiller handle on the outboard motor was broken off and the throttle was all the way in the forward position (full throttle).  V1 had scratches on the bottom side but it is unknown if they were caused in the accident. V1 had approx. 4 inches of water in it and live fish on a stringer in the boat.  There were fishing rods/reels, fishing gear, a yellow life jacket, a .22 cal. Davis Industry handgun and a purple cooler containing a cell phone and the victim's wallet.   The victim's body was finally located on 05/12/13 at approx. 2pm approx. 865 yards above the Toad Suck Lock and Dam.   

We are still waiting for the autopsy and toxicology report as of 06/18/13. 

Exact time of the accident is unknown.
 
09/25/13 UPDATE: RECEIVED TOXICOLOGY REPORT TODAY.  LAB RESULTS SHOW 0.04% ETHANOL (POSSIBLY DUE TO DECOMPOSITION) BUT WAS POSITIVE FOR AMPHETAMINES (2.9% METHAMPHETAMINE).


BARDID: AR-2013-0014
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GREERS FERRY
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator was attempting to cross the Narrow's area heading west.  He throttled V1 causing the bow to raise; V1 was approached by an unknown vessel within 20 to 30 feet of the stern.  The unknown vessel caused a large wake to overtake the stern causing V1 to submerge.  V1's operator tied V1 to a tree close by.  
 
The only witness (who is related to the operator) stated the unknown vessel was approximately 20 feet long, colored orange with black stripes.  Suspect vessel was never located and no other witnesses can confirm or deny.  AR indicates that they doubt the operator's statement that there was another vessel, no witnesses and no other vessel even close to that description was ever located.


BARDID: AR-2013-0015
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: POOR MAINTENANCE
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator parked/beached V1 on the bank by his campsite at Robinson Point overnight.  Early the next morning he was going to troll V1 around the point to the point ramp to load it on the trailer.  After a short distance he noticed he was taking on water; after approx. 200 yards V1 started to sink.  The operator jumped into the water and swam to the bank which was about 30 yards away and V1 sank.


BARDID: AR-2013-0016
Date: 2013-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: BATESVILLE
County: INDEPENDENCE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim (skier) was skiing behind V1 going upriver in front of a popular sand bar, locally referred to as Budwieser Beach. The sand bar had several boats parked on it with the bow of the boats pulled up on the beach.  V2 was stationary pointed upriver located directly behind and in a perpendicular relationship to the boats parked on the sand bar.  V1 was traveling approx. 30mph when the victim swung out to his right and let go of the ski rope; he then struck the port side of V2 midway between the bow and stern.  V2's occupant was  standing up in the stern of V2 gathering fishing tackle.  The only injury and/or damage was to the victim (skier); he broke several ribs, collapsed a lung and had internal bleeding.


BARDID: AR-2013-0017
Date: 2013-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:55:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GREESON
NearestCityTown: KIRBY
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: UNSEEN WATER HAZARD
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was tubing on lake Greeson with his family.  Operator was pulling 2 tubes; victim was on 1 tube and 2 other occupants were on the other tube.  They were in the area between Kirby Landing and Bear Creek.  Operator estimated they were going 18 to 20 mph when he began turning to the left; the tubes were "sling-shot" across and outside V1's wake.  The observer on V1 noticed the victim lying face down in the water and not moving.  She called for one of the other tube's occupants to "go get him"; which he did and turned the victim upright.  Victim was knocked unconscious and bleeding severely from his face.  They called 911 and headed to Kirby Landing where they met the ambulance.  
 
Upon interview of the victim at the hospital; he was still groggy from the pain medicine but he stated just as he exited the wake something black hit him in the face and knocked him out of the tube and that was the last thing he remembered.
 
Due to heavy rains recently over the last several days, there was a lot of debris in the lake and this is likely what hit the victim.


BARDID: AR-2013-0019
Date: 2013-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: JESSIEVILLE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed toward the marina in a narrow chute jumping the wake of a boat that was in front of him.  V2 was following V1 headed in the same direction (towards the marina).  V1 then made a hard turn and came towards V2; V2's operator had slowed down and come off plane.  When V2's operator saw V1 coming toward him, he attempted to get back on plane and avoid the collision.  V1 struck V2 on the starboard side and went under the vessel causing damage to both vessels.


BARDID: AR-2013-0020
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: PEEL
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was returning from fishing, they were motoring toward Coon Creek Resort's dock.  V2 was  sitting stationary somewhere around 300 feet north of Coon Creek Resort's dock getting ready to begin fishing. Operator of V1 stated they were going around 20 mph when they struck V2.  Both occupants in V1 stated they didn't see any lights on V2.  Operator of V2 stated he heard a boat coming but didn't think much about it and returned to fishing when they were struck towards the starboard side middle of his boat, throwing passenger/victim of V2 towards the bow and knocking him unconscious.  V1 came to rest on top of V2.  Both V1 occupants helped V2 occupants into their boat, as they were doing so V2 rolled over and sank.  They docked at the resort and V2 operator took the victim by POV to the Hospital. 

On June 20, AGFC Dive Team located V2 with sonar and retrieved the vessel in approx. 70 feet of water.  The stern light mount was broken but was still attached by the wires.  The stern light was mounted on the port side of the stern and was rather short (18" tall). The bow light was mounted on the bow solid.  The navigation light switch was located behind the bow light and when V2 was raised the switch was found in the "off" position.  When divers located V2 there was no battery and they could not locate a battery on a perimeter search prior to raising V2.  The wires where the battery would be attached were straight with the insulation stripped back about 1 to 1 1/2 inches. 

V1 operator BAC was .000 
V2 operator BAC was .032 


All of V2's lights have been sent to the Crime Lab to see if they can determine if they were on at the time of the accident.   

Report won't be finalized until we receive the results, which could take several weeks or even months. 

UPDATE: 01-06-14 - AS OF THIS DATE, THE CRIME LAB RESULTS ON THE LIGHTS WERE INCONCLUSIVE.  IT IS OUR BELIEF, EVEN GIVEN THE INCONCLUSIVE RESULTS; THAT V2'S NAVIGATION LIGHTS (OR LACK THEREOF) WERE IN FACT STILL A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN THIS ACCIDENT. OTHER EVIDENCE SHOWS THAT MORE LIKELY THAN NOT THE LIGHTS WERE NOT ON AT THE TIME OF THE COLLISION AND QUITE POSSIBLY NEVER COULD BE ON DUE TO THE LACK OF BATTERY AND THE FACT THE WIRES WERE ALL INTACT AND NO EVIDENCE OF STRIPPING WAS EVIDENT.
 
REPORT CLOSED 01-06-14.


BARDID: AR-2013-0022
Date: 2013-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 AND VESSEL #2 WERE TRAVELING WEST ALONG SIDE EACH OTHER.  VESSEL #1 MADE A RIGHT HAND TURN (NORTH), WHICH BROUGHT IT INTO THE PATH OF VESSEL #2.  VESSEL #1 THEN ATTEMPTED AN IMMEDIATE LEFT HAND TURN (WEST) IN AN ATTEMPT TO AVOID A COLLISION WITH VESSEL #2.  VESSEL #1 WAS STRUCK BY VESSEL #2.  VESSEL #1 SUSTAINED DAMAGE TO THE LOWER HULL, NEAR THE REAR OF THE VESSEL.  VESSEL #2 SUSTAINED DAMAGE TO BOW.


BARDID: AR-2013-0023
Date: 2013-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:09:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: MT. IDA
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was being pulled on a tube by V1. At some point he fell off the tube and when the operator/V1 turned around to pick him up; it was noticed the victim was unresponsive in the water. V1 occupants jumped in the water to assist him and immediately noticed a small amount of blood coming out of the victim's mouth.  His speech was also incoherent.  Due to victim's size, they couldn't get him back on board V1 until officers arrived to assist.  He was taken to the shore to awaiting medical personnel.  
 
It was learned that the victim had a previous head injury to the front left side of his head above his eye.  Operator also stated he had suffered seizures in the past.  Victim was transported to St. Joe's.


BARDID: AR-2013-0024
Date: 2013-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements from the rental facility: V1 operator rented the vessel and returned later that day but neglected to inform the owner that V1 had been damaged.  Owner did not immediately notice the damage until after the operator left the facility.  Four days later this officer was contacted and made aware of the situation and subsequently contacted the operator by phone requesting information concerning the accident.  The operator stated he "hit" something while operating V1 but did not elaborate on what he hit.  This officer requested a written statement along with any and all passenger information from the operator.  As of 06-23-13 the operator has failed to provide anything and several attempts to contact have been unsuccessful; therefore little to no information/facts are truly known regarding this incident.


BARDID: AR-2013-0025
Date: 2013-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: RED RIVER
NearestCityTown: GARLAND CITY
County: MILLER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
ON 06-07-13, AT ABOUT 1330 HOURS I WAS CONTACTED BY MILLER COUNTY  IN REFERENCE TO A BOATING ACCIDENT INVOLVING THREE OCCUPANTS AND A DOG.  INFORMATION RELAYED WAS THAT THE ACCIDENT INVOLVED 1 VESSEL WITH 3 OCCUPANTS.  V1 HAD CAPSIZED IN THE STRONG CURRENT, THROWING ALL OCCUPANTS INTO THE WATER. OCCUPANT 3 (SURVIVOR) WAS WEARING A PFD AND WAS PICKED UP BY A PASSING FISHERMAN AND TAKEN TO THE GARLAND CITY BOAT RAMP AND FROM THERE TO WADLEY HOSPITAL FOR OBSERVATION. 
THE ASSISTING FISHERMAN HAD PLACED A FLOATING CHEST ON THE BANK TO MARK THE SPOT OF THE ACCIDENT.
 
UPON ARRIVAL MULTIPLE OFFICERS SEARCHED  THE AREA (BANKS AND WATER) FOR SURVIVORS UNTIL EVENING WHEN THE SEARCH WAS POSTPONED AT DARK DUE TO SAFETY. THE NEXT DAY SEARCH EFFORTS RESUMED AND CONTINUED FOR THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS.  ON 06-13-13 PASSENGER 2/RECOVERED VICTIM  FLOATED AND WAS LOCATED APPROX. 20 MILES DOWNSTREAM FROM THE ACCIDENT SITE.
 
ACCORDING TO THE SURVIVOR, THEY WERE DRIFTING DOWN THE RIVER DRAGGING AN ANCHOR FROM THE BOW AND THE STERN OF V1 TO SLOW THEM DOWN WHILE THEY FISHED.  SHE WAS SEATED IN THE MIDDLE OF V1 WITH A PUPPY.  SHE STATED THE ANCHOR AT THE STERN HUNG ON SOMETHING AND CAUSED V1 TO TURN; THE OPERATOR ATTEMPTED TO PULL THE ANCHOR UP WHILE INSTRUCTING THE OTHERS TO GO TO THE FRONT OF V1.  V1 SHIFTED WITH THE CURRENT, TOOK ON WATER AND FLIPPED EJECTING ALL 3 OCCUPANTS.  SURVIVOR STATED SHE WAS THE ONLY ONE WEARING A PFD.  SHE SAID THE OPERATOR WENT STRAIGHT UNDER AND NEVER RESURFACED AND PASSENGER 2/RECOVERED VICTIM HELD ONTO HER PFD FOR A FEW SECONDS WHILE HE STRUGGLED.  HE INFORMED THE SURVIVOR HE WASN'T GOING TO MAKE IT AND LET GO OF THE PFD AND WENT UNDER.  THE CURRENT TOOK THE SURVIVOR TO THE EAST SIDE OF THE RIVER WHERE SHE HELD ONTO A ROCK UNTIL SHE WAS LOCATED BY THE PASSING FISHERMAN.
 
SEARCH EFFORTS CONTINUE ON A LIMITED BASIS, WE ARE SIMPLY WAITING FOR THE BODY TO FLOAT; HOWEVER WITH THE HEAVY SAND FLOWS THE BODY MAY NEVER BE RECOVERED.


BARDID: AR-2013-0026
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:47:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 06-13-13 a friend of V1's owner took the battery out of V1 to buy a new one due to having to jump start the battery the last time V1 was used.  On 06-14-13 he replaced the battery with a new one he purchased at Wal-Mart.  The friend stated he did not try to start the boat because he was late for work, so he left.  At 1:47pm dispatch received a phone call from a concerned citizen reporting a boat fire in a slip.  The fire was extinguished by the Eureka Springs FD and the NEBCO fire boat; they removed V1 from the slip and towed it to the bank and secured it.
 
It is unknown what started the fire, but improper installation of the battery is suspected.  V1 burned to the waterline and sank.


BARDID: AR-2013-0027
Date: 2013-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: COVE CREEK
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival at the scene, V1 operator identified the approximate location of the incident.  Statements indicate that victim 1 was swimming a short distance from V1 when his sister (victim 2) jumped into the water.  She initially was going to just slide off V1 and hang onto the boat; but one of the occupants told her to "jump" into the water.  Due to high winds, V1 began to drift away from the victims.  Victim 2 began to struggle and panic.  V1 occupants attempted to throw a PFD to victim 2; however the winds caught the PFD and blew it away. Victim 1 noticed victim 2 struggling and he swam to assist her; shortly after they both went under.  
 
Victim 1 was the only occupant of V1 who knew how to operate he vessel in a safe manner; even though it was rented to the listed operator of V1. 
 
Search efforts by multiple departments ensued, utilizing sonar and divers.  On 07-01-13 the Missouri Highway Patrol Sonar Team arrived to assist and at approx. 9pm they located 2 images believed to be the victims.  The AGFC dive team dove and recovered both victims located approx. 15 feet apart.


BARDID: AR-2013-0028
Date: 2013-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:02:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements taken, V1 was sitting still in Hot Springs Creek near Bayshore Cove facing north with its navigational lights on.  V2 was underway with its navigational lights on traveling north east.  V2 operator stated he did not see V1 until it was too late to avoid a collision.  V2 struck V1 on the port side bow and continued on and over V1 causing extensive damage to both sides of V1's bow.  All occupants of V1 were able to either dive into the floor of V1 or were already seated in the rear of the vessel at the time of impact except the victim who was sitting in the bow on the port side. 

The navigational lights from V1 were collected as evidence and sent to the AR State Crime Lab for analysis to determine whether or not they were actually on.  Crime Lab processing is backlogged at this time and results are not expected for at least 6 to 8 weeks possibly longer; therefore the case will remain open until we can determine if lighting may have been a cause/factor in this accident.
 
UPDATE: 01-06-14 - RESULTS STILL PENDING AT THE CRIME LAB.  FOR USCG STATISTICAL PURPOSES, THIS REPORT WILL BE CLOSED AND SUBMITTED FOR APPROVAL.


BARDID: AR-2013-0029
Date: 2013-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:21:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
According to multiple statements, V1 had been experiencing mechanical issues while pulling two occupants on a tube.  The operator stated there was a loose wire on the battery terminal and once he tightened it he started V1 and let the motor idle for a few minutes.  While looking back at the kids on the tube, he put V1 in forward gear and accelerated.  Almost immediately he felt a jolt and then heard the kids scream.  He turned V1 around and found the victim in the water surrounded by blood.  A witness nearby on a PWC dove off the PWC, swam to the victim and held her above water until V1 circled back around.  Occupants were able to pull the victim into V1 and apply makeshift tourniquets to the wounds.  The immediately called 911 and headed for the closest landing (Cherokee Park). 

The operator stated he was unaware that the victim had left the vessel and the other occupants when interviewed confirmed that the victim had entered the water at the front of the pontoon without letting anyone know. 

Blood drawn from operator and sent to the AR Crime Lab for Toxicology screening.  However, alcohol is not suspected at this time to be a factor in the accident.
 
UPDATE: 10/17/13 - TOXICOLOGY REPORT RECEIVED FROM THE CRIME LAB - NO TRACE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS IN OPERATOR.


BARDID: AR-2013-0030
Date: 2013-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: ROYAL
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was experiencing mechanical problems related to the throttle cable.  While the owner of V1 was attempting to fix the problem, reached from his boat to V1 and started it. When V1 started the throttle was still stuck in the open position causing it to leave his possession and enter the No Wake Zone at Brady Mountain Resort where it continued south until it struck V2 on the port side.  V2 was docked in a slip and unoccupied at the time.


BARDID: AR-2013-0031
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival at the scene, V1 was on the Fisherman's Wharf boat ramp resting on the bottom. All occupants were on shore. Statements taken advised they were proceeding east under the large Hwy 7 south bridge at idle speed when a large unidentified boat approached going west "at high rate of speed" and the wave from this vessel came over the bow of V1 causing it to take on water and begin to sink. V1 operator was able to maneuver closer to shore and pulled V1 up on the ramp while swimming. Since they cannot confirm a second vessel's wake as acause, a second vessel isn't included in this report.


BARDID: AR-2013-0032
Date: 2013-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: HEBER SPRINGS
County: CLEBURNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wave/wake
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating V1 near old Hwy 25 park when she noticed a plastic bag floating in the water.  She stopped, turned V1 off and proceeded to pick the bag up from the water; during the process a wave hit her on the opposite side and flipped V1 over causing her leg to impact V1 in such a way that it fractured her leg just below the knee cap and right above her ankle.  She was transported by her husband to the hospital where she had underwent surgery and had 4 plates and 8 screws put into her leg.


BARDID: AR-2013-0033
Date: 2013-07-02 00:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
REPORT CONTAINS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION ONLY.  ADDITIONAL WARRANTS HAVE BEEN ISSUED FOR THE OPERATORS INVOLVED; THEY HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO BE LOCATED AT THIS TIME TO OBTAIN ANY INFORMATION ON WHAT OCCURRED.  THEY GAVE THE RENTAL FACILITY FALSE ADDRESSES AND A BAD CREDIT CARD. 

OWNER OF VESSELS (RENTAL FACILITY) FAILED TO REPORT ACCIDENT UNTIL THE FOLLOWING DAY. 

THIS REPORT WILL REMAIN OPEN (PAST THE 30 DAYS) UNTIL WE CAN APPREHEND THE SUBJECTS.
 
UPDATE: 01-06-14 - SUBJECTS STILL AT-LARGE.  FOR USCG STATISTICAL PURPOSES, THIS REPORT WILL BE LISTED AS CLOSED.  It is assumed the two vessels crashed.


BARDID: AR-2013-0034
Date: 2013-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: CALION
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was following V1 down the Ouachita River in route to the Old river bed near Thatcher Lock and Dam to go fishing. V1 slowed and V2 attempted to avoid V1 on the port side but struck V1 at the stern causing a large hole. The hole was above the waterline so V1 didn't take on any water immediately. V2 sustained damage to the starboard side stern below the waterline. V2 operator was able to maneuver his vessel close to the river's edge and tie it to the bank.  A wrecker service was able to retrieve the vessel.


BARDID: AR-2013-0035
Date: 2013-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: DELAWARE
County: YELL
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator stated he was underway when he lost all power, including the bilge.  He called the operator of V2 to come tow him in.  While being towed a storm began and the waves on the lake grew to 2 to 3 foot.  V1 began to get swamped, he stated they couldn't bail water out fast enough so they exited the vessel and got on board V2.  Right as they arrived at the shore, V1 capsized and partially sank.  The Logan Co. Dive team was able to recover V1 the following day.


BARDID: AR-2013-0036
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MILLWOOD
NearestCityTown: MINERAL SPRINGS
County: HOWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fishing operating the trolling motor when V1 hit a stump that had re bar driven in it.  The stump rocked V1 and the occupants noticed they began taking on water.  The travelled approximately 1/2 mile before V1 capsized and sank.


BARDID: AR-2013-0037
Date: 2013-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: OUACHITA RIVER
NearestCityTown: HUTTIG
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling northwest on Dollar Slough when the front port bow collided with and underwater obstruction (cypress stump) which was marked with a metal rod and aluminum can.  Upon impact both operator and passenger were ejected.  Passenger stated she was wearing a PFD and the operator was not; that he was swimming behind her and suddenly felt no movement and noticed the operator was gone.  Operator did not have the kill switch attached and V1 continued forward until it got hung in a tree and a witness was able to stop the engine.  He retrieved the passenger from the water and left his cousin in the area looking for any sign of the operator. 

The operator's body was recovered shortly by the Union Co. Sheriff's office and AGFC approximately 8 to 10 feet north of the underwater obstruction.  A blood sample was taken from the body and been submitted to the AR Dept. of Health for testing. Results pending at this time.
 
08/19/13 - Toxicology results received from the Health Dept. - no alcohol or drugs present in the operator/victim.


BARDID: AR-2013-0038
Date: 2013-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORFORK RIVER
NearestCityTown: NORFORK
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stated they were going up river and ran out of gas.  As they were floating down river past Norfork River Resort they hit a tree on the starboard side that caused damage to the fiberglass and tipped V1 ejecting the occupants into the river.


BARDID: AR-2013-0039
Date: 2013-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREERS FERRY LAKE
NearestCityTown: CHOCTAW
County: VAN BUREN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator reported he was riding V1, traveling up the South Fork of the Little Red when he "hit a line" that had been stretched across the body of water striking his face and throat areas.  He advised there was another boat in the area but it left after he struck the line and he couldn't provide a description of the vessel.  After he was struck, he traveled back to the Choctaw Marina and contacted the Sheriff's Dept.  He advised  the line was no longer stretched across the water but was now down in the water. 
 
Both AGFC officers were off at the time of the occurrence but the following day they went to the suspect area and were not able to locate anything.  No witnesses could verify the operator's story and at this point the operator became very uncooperative. The "witness" boat was never located and officers cannot fully determine or confirm what actually happened.


BARDID: AR-2013-0040
Date: 2013-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was traveling down the lake and decided to make a phone call; he got his phone out of his pocket and took both hands off the steering wheel to open the phone.  He stated V1 made a hard turn to the right and he was ejected, striking the railing.  V1 circled him several times almost running over him but he got away and attempted to swim to shore.  He was located floating face down by another vessel.  They pulled him on board and began CPR and he started breathing on his own.  He was transported to the hospital.


BARDID: AR-2013-0041
Date: 2013-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: BATESVILLE
County: INDEPENDENCE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to (passenger/operator) statements V1 was traveling east down river running next to the south bank when they "got a little too close" to the bank and the front starboard side struck the bank.  When V1 struck the bank the operator was ejected and the passenger was thrown into the bow area.  Operator sustained broken and bruised ribs.  This was the first time for the operator to operate this type of boat.


BARDID: AR-2013-0042
Date: 2013-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DARDANELLE
NearestCityTown: RUSSELLVILLE
County: POPE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: UNSEEN WATER HAZARD
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, he was traveling SE headed toward Lake Dardanelle State Park for the High School World Fishing Tournament Final weigh-in.  He stated they were going approximately 60mph across the lake when his motor lost power and V1 spun out of control, turned up on it's side taking in water and then came to rest in an upright position.  The operator was ejected from V1 but was recovered without any injuries.  When he got back into V1 he inspected it and noticed the lower unit was missing.  Another fisherman towed them to the State Park ramp.
 
Operator stated he did not seeing anything in is path or remember hitting anything and thought the motor just fell off as a result of mechanical failure.  However, upon investigation we traveled the same path of V1 and noticed several logs ranging in length and diameter bobbing up and down in the lake.  These logs were only visible for short periods of time when they would hit the bottom of the lake and float back up and resurface.  We pulled several of the logs up to see if we could find any prop marks or impact area but were unable to identify any.  It is our determination V1 struck one of these logs or another underwater obstruction causing the lower unit to be ripped off.


BARDID: AR-2013-0043
Date: 2013-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GATEWAY
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arriving on the scene, a friend of the operator/victim stated the operator left Indian Creek park around 11:00pm leaving him at the boat ramp.  Prior to this they had been fishing on the lake.  The friend decided to sleep in the operator's vehicle when after about an hour he said the operator did not return.  At 0300 Benton County received a call from the operator stating he was in a boat accident somewhere on the lake and his friend was missing.  The operator stated to Benton County he woke up near the swim beach and didn't know where his passenger/friend was and he had to use his trolling motor to get back to the ramp.  
 
V1 sustained major damage to the bow, the driver's windshield and there was blood on the inside of V1.  However, there wasn't any blood on the windshield or driver's console but the blood was on the floor and seats to the rear and a bloody shirt and paper towels were left out in plain view.  No alcohol was located in V1 and the friend said they had not been drinking.  Shortly thereafter a woman came over and advised she knew the operator and stated he came over to her campsite and asked her to keep a cooler he was carrying for him.  She took the cooler and placed it in the trunk of her vehicle.  She opened her trunk and allowed me to look in the cooler; I observed a fifth of vodka with very little alcohol left in the bottle.  The operator had attempted to clean up the blood in V1 and conceal the cooler.  
 
According to the GPS on V1 we located a dock where damage had occurred and concluded this was where the accident took place.  V1 struck the dock hard enough to break several 2 x 4 board and bend the met dock frame and shift the dock several feet.  The dock was approximately 1/4 mile from the Indian creek boat dock.  
 
Upon interview, the operator did not remember what happened.  
 
CHARGES ARE PENDING: per prosecutor due to a subpoena being issued for medical records for possible intoxication.


BARDID: AR-2013-0044
Date: 2013-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:40:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: NORTH SHORES/BUCKVILLE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Owner (Rental Facility) stated that the operator had called that morning and stated V1 was disabled. Operator advised them he had been backing up and believed he hit something; rendering V1 inoperable. Operator also stated V1 was leaking oil after the collision. Upon examination much of the cavitation plate had broken off, the prop received damage, the steering linkage was compromised and the inner workings of the lower unit were also compromised and would not turn the prop. 

Even though asked (via phone) to remain on scene until this officer could arrive; he departed and returned home to TX. Attempts to contact have so far been unsuccessful.


BARDID: AR-2013-0046
Date: 2013-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: JESSIEVILLE
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was leaving the no wake zone buoys at the entrance to Northshore marina on an easterly heading attempting to get on plane.  Operator stated V1 was heavy in the water due a possible leak with a large amount of water in the bilge and was attempting to pump it out while underway.  He was looking to the rear at the outlet watching the water pumping out of the bilge but V1 was not on plane.  V1 traveled approximately 100 yards from the no wake buoys striking a point of land and traveled up onto the bank into a rocky area covered with brush.  V1 came to rest on land damaging the keel and underside of the bow and pushed the engine upward into a full tilt position.  Upon inspection the throttle position was at half and the key was in the off position.  The injured parties were transported by POV to St. Joe's  with minor injuries.


BARDID: AR-2013-0047
Date: 2013-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
According to witness accounts, V1 was returning to shore at approximately 15 -20mph, at about 200 yards from shore V1 came in contact with a large wave from an unidentified boat and the operator reduced power.  The victim was sitting on her knees on the front right seat and was ejected over the front of V1.  V1 then ran over her, striking her with the hull and prop.  Victim was retrieved from the water and taken to the shore where 1st aid was rendered.  
 
Operator was given a PBT when he was observed slurring his speech, having bloodshot eyes and the odor of intoxicants about his person.  The test registered a result well over the legal limit of intoxication. The operator was taken to Mercy hospital from a blood test to be administered but he refused and was then transported to GCSO detention center.  Once there he changed his mind and submitted to a BAC test, in which he registered a .081. He was charged with BUI and Negligent Operation.


BARDID: AR-2013-0048
Date: 2013-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BULL SHOALS LAKE
NearestCityTown: OZARK ISLAND
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 began pulling a 4 person tube with the victim and 2 other passengers in what was described as a zig zag pattern. During one of the turns to the right all 3 riders fell off the tube. V1 then continued to circle and struck the victim in the head and left arm with the prop. The operator stated that "the steering wheel 'jerked violently' to the right causing V1 to turn very sharp". The other two riders were not injured. They saw the victim floating face down in the water and they rolled him over and could see a large cut in the top of the victim's head. The operator and passenger 3 loaded the victim into V1 and began CPR. Once at Bull Shoals Lake boat dock, victim was taken to an ambulance where he was pronounced dead. 

Over the next several weeks an investigation was conducted on V1's steering which included taking V1 to 2 different marine mechanics for inspection and conducting tests on the water by operating V1 at different speeds and different trim settings trying to replicate the statement given by the operator. After these tests and inspections no defects in V1's steering have been found.


BARDID: AR-2013-0050
Date: 2013-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: CRYSTAL SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west entering the Crystal Springs Chute when according to the operator he struck a submerged object which threw him to the floor and caused him to lose contact with the steering wheel.  V1 took a right hand turn and impacted the north bank of the chute.  V1 sustained a large amount of damage to the bottom of the hull, rudder and prop after impacting a large rock formation on the bank.


BARDID: AR-2013-0051
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:25:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DEGRAY
NearestCityTown: CADDO VALLEY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was closely following V1 when V1 slowed.  V1 was struck in the stern by V2. V2 traveled over the starboard side of V1 striking both occupants.  Both vessels were being illegally operated by underage participants without boating education.


BARDID: AR-2013-0052
Date: 2013-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:55:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: GARFIELD
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V1 operator was attempting to maneuver into a boat slip; his wife and the victim were behind V1 in the water.  They had been trying to dislodge an anchor from the bottom of the lake. Once they completed the task, the operator miscalculated the angle when trying to dock V1 so he put V1 in reverse and struck the victim.  The victim was not wearing a life jacket at the time and went under but was able to resurface screaming for help.  Her left leg was severed below the knee, her right leg sustained severe muscle damage and damage to the fibula, the ulna of her right arm was damaged and she had a laceration on the right arm from her elbow to her palm.


BARDID: AR-2013-0053
Date: 2013-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREEN LAKE
NearestCityTown: HOLLY GROVE
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Operator stated he had purchased V1 earlier that day and they wanted to take it out.  After they launched, they headed south toward the end of the lake and once there turned around and headed back north.  He said V1 was on plane and suddenly they struck something that brought them to a stop.  This threw everything in V1 forward including the victim who was ejected over the bow of V1.  He stated he felt V1 run over the victim and when he saw him floating face down in the water he jumped in to help.  When he jumped in, he forgot to take the motor out of gear and V1 began circling them.  Luckily it was moving slowly and the operator was able to drag the victim over to V1; the victim was able to grab and hold onto V1.  At this time he swam to the rear of V1 and used his feet to turn the motor and steer V1 toward the bank where he was able to call 911 for help.
 
During the interview, when asked the operator admitted to not wearing the kill switch.  Also, as we were standing on the shore, I noticed another vessel operating on the lake and as it passed it struck a submerged object and came to a stop.  After a few minutes the vessel traveled on. V1 operator stated that was the same spot where their incident occurred.
 
Upon inspection of V1, the interior was in disarray, the kill switch lanyard was disconnected from the kill switch and the end that connects to the operator was wired to the ignition key for the motor.  The prop had two blades that were bent back almost to the hub.


BARDID: AR-2013-0055
Date: 2013-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:22:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: ROGERS
County: BENTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pulling both victims on a tube when they fell off.  Upon being ejected from the tube, victim 1 struck his sister (victim 2) in the head with his mouth.  Victim 1 received a laceration to his lip and several teeth were loosened; Victim 2 received a laceration to her head.


BARDID: AR-2013-0056
Date: 2013-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arriving on scene, V1 was in a boat dock off Kent Hamilton Drive and EMT's were attempting to free the victim's lower left foot/leg from the propeller and lower unit of V1.  USCG also responded to the call and they had a prop socket wrench and were able to remove the prop and free the victim's leg.  Injury occurred as the victim was approaching the rear of V1 after tubing and contacted the propeller which pulled his leg into the engine shaft trapping the leg.
 
Both the operator and victim deny that V1 was running at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AR-2013-0057
Date: 2013-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:22:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: ARKANSAS RIVER
NearestCityTown: NORTH LITTLE ROCK
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling down river when the operator stood up to reach for a fishing pole; letting go of the steering wheel.  V1 made an immediate hard right turn ejecting both the operator and passenger/victim out of the vessel.  The operator did not have the kill switch attached.  The operator stated V1 began circling him, so he attempted to swim downstream to a red channel marker but instead finally made it to the south bank of the Arkansas River.  Operator also stated he last observed the passenger/victim swimming on his back towards the north bank.   

V1 was located down river from the incident with the motor still running and throttle level in the full forward position.   

Operator has been charged with: Grossly Negligent Operation, Lanyard Cut-off Switch requirements, Boating Education Requirements, Failure to Register Boat within 30 days. 

The passenger/victim was located the following day (09/04/13) downstream. 

Blood was taken from the operator and submitted for testing and we are also waiting on the autopsy report from the Crime Lab.
 
UPDATE: 1/06/14 - BAC TEST CAME BACK NEGATIVE WITH A 0.00 FOR THE OPERATOR.  THE AUTOPSY REPORT IS STILL PENDING AT THE CRIME LAB.  WE ARE CONFIDENT THE AUTOPSY WILL SHOW DROWNING AS THE CAUSE OF DEATH, NO SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY IS SUSPECTED.  DUE TO USCG STATISTICAL REPORTING DEADLINES, THIS CASE WILL BE MARKED AS CLOSED AND SUBMITTED.


BARDID: AR-2013-0059
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:28:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: EUREKA SPRINGS
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and passenger both stated they were leaving Hog Scald and the sun was in their eyes and they could not see the shoreline.  V1 struck the shore, ejecting both occupants.  The passenger was ejected onto the rocks of the shore and the operator was ejected into the water and V1 began circling him.  Witnesses came to their aid and were able to shut down V1.
 
Damage to V1: a gash in the hull near the waterline on the port side which extended approximately 2 1/2 to  3 feet long.  The port side also sustained multiple dents in it.  The outboard motor was nearly broken off V1 and no damage was noted on the starboard side.


BARDID: AR-2013-0060
Date: 2013-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: NORFORK
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was traveling south into Sally Hand Cove heading toward V2.  V1 operator stated the steering went out and he tried to turn to avoid a collision but could not.  V2 operator confirmed that V1 was coming straight toward him; and V2 attempted to turn hard to the right to avoid the collision.  Due to V1 operator inexperience, off throttle steering is believed to be the factor as there was no mechanical issues found with V1's steering.


BARDID: AR-2013-0061
Date: 2013-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORFORK
NearestCityTown: NORFORK
County: BAXTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug use
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, they were heading toward the Big E Bluffs when the passenger (victim) stated she was hot and jumped overboard.  Operator further stated he stopped and put V1 in reverse; when he saw she was panicking he jumped in the water to help her.  He stated he grabbed her hand, she turned loose and he never saw her again.  He advised that the victim had consumed 3 beers and taken some Zanex earlier in the day.  The victim was located in about 25 feet of water at 12:05am the next morning (09/01/13).  Her body was sent to the Crime Lab for testing and an autopsy.  Operator submitted to a blood draw that was also submitted to the Crime Lab for testing. 

Results pending: Crime Lab is currently running about 4 to 5 months behind.
 
UPDATE 01-13-14: CRIME LAB RESULTS RECEIVED.  CAUSE OF DEATH WAS DROWNING.  VICTIM WAS POSITIVE FOR BENZODIAZEPINES AND ETHANOL (.06) - THUS THE PRIMARY CAUSE FOR HER ACTIONS THAT RESULTED IN DEATH.  OPERATOR ALSO TESTED POSITIVE FOR BENZODIAZEPINES.


BARDID: AR-2013-0063
Date: 2013-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAMILTON
NearestCityTown: HOT SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Rented V1 struck a boat dock at 117 Lookout Point condominium complex while trying to dock.  V1 struck the dock hard enough to break boards on the dock and damaged the pilings going into the lake bed.  Manager of POA will be unable to get an exact cost of damage to the dock until the lake is drawn down in November.  V1 sustained heavy damage to the bow and starboard side.  Operator of V1 fled the scene and was not located until he ran aground in another part of the lake and damaged the prop of V1 and could not move.  V1 had to be towed back to the rental facility and the rental facility contacted the Garland County Sheriff's Office.
  
A non-marine patrol unit was dispatched and investigated as a property damage incident only and failed to notify the marine patrol unit; therefore it was several weeks before this error was caught and finally turned over to an appropriate investigator and worked as a boating accident.  Due to the delay/error no charges were able to be filed on the operator.


BARDID: AR-2013-0064
Date: 2013-09-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHAMPAGNOLLE CREEK
NearestCityTown: HAMPTON
County: CALHOUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, the victim was fishing with a fly rod and reel and had gotten her hook hung in a tree limb hanging above their heads. He stated the victim stood up in V1 to free the hook from the tree.  As she turned around to sit back down she lost her balance causing her to fall out of V1 backwards.  Operator stated she was flailing in the water.  He also stated he could not swim so he tried to reach out to her with his fishing rod and told her to grab on.  She didn't and went under water three times before disappearing into the dark water of the creek.  He immediately called 911 and remained stationary until law enforcement reached him. 
 
It is noted that both the operator and victim had been drinking that day.  According to the operator the victim had consumed four or five 24 ounce cans of Natural Light beer.
 
A blood sample was taken from the operator and sent to the Dept. of Health for testing.  After the victim was recovered, her body was sent to the Crime Lab for autopsy and toxicology screens.  
 
CRIME LAB REPORT RECEIVED TODAY - CONFIRMED DEATH AS DROWNING AND TOXICOLOGY REVEALED 0.07 ETHANOL IN BLOOD, 0.105 IN VITREOUS HUMOR.;


BARDID: AR-2013-0065
Date: 2013-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
State: AR
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OUACHITA
NearestCityTown: CRYSTAL SPRINGS
County: GARLAND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
While traveling south from hotel island, operator of V1 grounded the vessel on a small island.  Operator was unfamiliar with the lake and could not see due to the pitch black night condition.


BARDID: AT_MA-2010-0005
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2010-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:22:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Cape Cod
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The Coast Guard received a report of a a person who became injured after falling on a boat.  No further details.


BARDID: AT_USCG-2010-0005
Date: 2010-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:12:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Ponce Inlet
WaterConditions: choppy
Wind: light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
SECJAX rcvd a report of a 25ft C/C white taking on water with 2POB (01 adult and 01 child) 22MILES east of ponce inlet. Lauched STA ponce eta 20mins.  Sta Ponce arrived o/s recovered 02 POB w/no injuries and returned both POB back at stations. Tow Boat U.S. to conduct Salvage Operations.


BARDID: AT-2011-0001
Date: 2011-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:57:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Delaware Bay
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: TUESDAY
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: entangled in activity equ
RedactedNarrative:
Subject received a severe cut to the arm while trying to handle a fishing line that had a shark on it.  


BARDID: AT-2011-0002
Date: 2011-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:18:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: moderate
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: THURSDAY
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was reported overdue.  When found, the vessel was partially submerged with debris.  A life raft with survivor had been deployed. The operator said that the vessel had electrical issues and the bilge couldn't keep us.  Assuming at least $2k in damag


BARDID: AT-2011-0003
Date: 2011-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:44:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: TUESDAY
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Three occuipants were out fishing in the Atlantic.  When they stopped, water entered the boat from the stern and the bilge could not keep up. The vessel is presumed a total loss as it sank in 80-100 ft of water.


BARDID: AT-2011-0004
Date: 2011-01-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: light
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: THURSDAY
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Three subjects were reported overdue from fishing in the Atlantic.  The Coast Guard conducted extensive searches and did not find any evidence of the vessel or occupants.  The operator's truck and trailer were found unattended and efforts to reach the vic


BARDID: AT-2011-0005
Date: 2011-02-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: SUNDAY
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The Coast Guard received a mayday that a vessel was taking on water 29 nm east of Cape Pt.  The vessel had capsized and all four were sitting on the hull.  The occupants were recovered without injury but the vessel was determined to be a total loss.


BARDID: AT-2011-0006
Date: 2011-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:04:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: strong
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: SATURDAY
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Three adults and two children departed to fish the artificial reefs during a Small Craft Advisory.  Water and wind conditions deteriorated.  The operator had difficulty stayign on course and the motor stalled.  Waves broke over the transom and the vessel 


BARDID: AT-2011-0007
Date: 2011-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:11:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: FRIDAY
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel caught on fire.  5 people onboard were recovered without injuries.  The vessel superstructure was destroyed and the vessel is considered a total loss.


BARDID: AT-2011-6000
Date: 2011-11-12 00:00:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: SATURDAY
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel became flooded in rough waters and sank.  The two occupants abandoned it in a dinghy and rowed/drifted for three days until they arrived on shore.  The occupants were treated for dehydration, hypothermia, sunburn and a breakdown of muscle tissue.


BARDID: AT-2011-9000
Date: 2011-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: UNKNOWN
Wind: UNKNOWN
Visibility: UNKN
DayofWeek: TUESDAY
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Victim fell overboard about 3.5 miles off Craigville Beach.  He was spotted an hour later by the Coast Guard and picked up.  He was flowen to Air Station Cape Cod and checked out.


BARDID: AT-2012-1000
Date: 2012-11-14 00:00:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Cape Lookout
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
According to the news media, a 25 ft boat took on water and sank in 80 ft of water.  The owner believes that a hose came off while fishing near 1700 Rock near Cape Lookout.  THe boat sank in 30 minutes.  The three onboard were rescued by a nearby boater.


BARDID: AT-2012-1001
Date: 2012-10-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Beaufort
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
According to the news media, a vessel took on water and sank 50 miles SE of Beaufort inlet.  The four people onboard didn't know that their vessel was taking on water until the EPIRB let out a signal and other vessels started to contact them.  The four were recovered by another vessel, and the boat sank.


BARDID: AT-2012-1002
Date: 2012-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Indian River
WaterConditions: calm
Wind: light
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
MISLE report indicated that vessel Obsession was traveling under sail and power from VA to Block Island, NY.  The operator had over 50 years sailing experience.  The vessel Line Item was on its way to Baltimore Canyon with 6 POB.  One person was checking radar and the other was scanning the horizon.  Both vessels had operational radar unites and nav lights used.

Three people were lying down in the Line Item and one person was lying down in the Obsession.  The three subjects on the flybridge saw the Obsessions’ mast head light.

A post-crash survey revealed that the Obsession had a disconnected wire connector in the forepeak leading to the combination navigation light on the bow rail.


BARDID: AT-2012-1003
Date: 2012-01-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:59:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Oregon Inlet
WaterConditions: very rough
Wind: strong
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
MISLE report indicated a solo sailor was traveling from Bermuda to Charleston, SC when his vessel took on water.  He activated his SPOT device and was rescued by the Coast guard and taken to the hospital.  His vessel was left afloat with the navigation lights on.

An interview with the operator revealed that the winds/weather were the cause.  He knew he wasn’t going to reach the coast and had lost both autopilots.  Besides the SPOT, he had a VHF radio.  He didn’t have an EPIRB and didn’t mention having a cell phone.   He was fighting weather/sea spray for 2 days before activating the SPOT.  According to him, it took 3 hours between SPOT activation and rescue.


BARDID: AT-2013-0001
Date: 2013-01-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityTown: St Augustine
WaterConditions: rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Victim suffered what is suspected to be broken legs after he impacted the boat after a large swell.  He was 40 nm offshore E of St Augustine FL.  The victim was picked up via CG helicopter and taken to a hospital


BARDID: AT-2013-0002
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-01-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:52:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Brunswick
WaterConditions: very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel began to take on water 30NM e of Brunswick, GA due to hazardous waters.  The owner wasn't able to keep up with the water flow in and his sails were tattered.  The vessel's EPIRB activated which triggered a rescue by the Coast Guard of the owner and his cat.  The vessel sank after.


BARDID: AT-2013-0003
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:22:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
WaterConditions: rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was reported capsized with two survivors and two dead, trapped in the cabin.  The vessel was reportedly on autopilot while heading out to a fishing spot.  The vessel hit a series of waves and rolled to the port side, and capsized.  Another recreational vessel picked up the survivors.  Due to the fact that these vessels typically do not capsize, weather is listed as a cause.  No one was wearing a pfd.  Alcohol results came back where one of the deceased was noted as having a 0.05% BAC.  The other deceased was clean.  Although the operator had checked weather forecasts before departing, he will went out.


BARDID: AT-2013-0004
Date: 2013-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
NearestCityTown: Charleston
WaterConditions: rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
vessel took on water and capsized.  Four people were found clinging to the hull.  The people were rescued but the vessel was left adrift, heading towards the jetties.


BARDID: AT-2013-0005
Date: 2013-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unkn
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Victim fell off the back of a boat and is presumed deceased.  Victim was reported being alone at the stern when he went missing.


BARDID: AT-2013-0006
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:54:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: storm
Visibility: poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Sailboat with two people onboard was caught in storm weather conditions (winds of 44 mph with gusts 10 mph more than that and 10-15 ft strong seas).  The vessel lost steering and engine power, and began to take on water and the occupants called for help.  The Coast Guard rescued the two individuals but had to leave the vessel adrift.


BARDID: AT-2013-0008
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:17:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: moderate
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel took on water and the bilge puimp was unable to keep up.  The vessel capsized.  Two people were recovered from the water but the vessel is considered a loss.  Hazardous waters and weather contributed.


BARDID: AT-2013-0010
Date: 2013-12-06 00:00:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Two boats were found adrift.  It was reported in the news media that a subject had been towing a pwc from his sailboat.  It is presumed that the victim fell overboard, and is dead.  The waters were reportedly rough.


BARDID: AT-2013-5013
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2013-11-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:19:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: moderate
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
CG report indicates that a vessel was taking on water in the atlantic.  The sole individual onboard abandoned the vessel and was rescued from his life raft.  The vessel is considered a loss.  With 7 ft seas, it is assumed hazradous waters were a cause.


BARDID: AT-2013-5015
Date: 2013-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:27:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Beach Haven
WaterConditions: rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: moderate
Visibility: good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: vessel destruction
RedactedNarrative:
according to a news media report and CG report, a sailboat became dismasted while in rough seas 3 nm offshore NJ.  The CG rescued the occupants and the boat was left adrift with a plan to retrieve it in the morning. The operator was not able to use his engine in the seas.


BARDID: AT-nC-2010-0009
Date: 2010-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:23:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: cape fear
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
11 June 2010: Sector NC received a report of a collision between the recreational vessels "WANDA GALE" and a vessel 12.3 miles off the mouth of Cape Fear River. Initial reports stated that the vessel struck the WANDA GALE in the stern while both vessels were operating off Holden Beach.


BARDID: AT-USCG-2010-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-12-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Nantucket
WaterConditions: very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: strong
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous Waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
D1 Command Center received 406MHz EPIRB for the Sailing Vessel RAW FAITH.  Vessel was en route from Salem, Ma to Bermuda when it sustained multiple system failures and began taking on water (source of initial failure was a hull penetration around the steering compartment; the water then traveled throught he rudder packing).  02 People on board were rescued by CG Airsta Cape Cod and vessel sank approx 80 nm Southeast of Nantucket.THE SURVIVAL EQUIPMENT ON BOARD THE VESSEL INCLUDED ONE SURVIVAL SUIT, TWO LIFE RAFTS, A HANDHELD RADIO AND TWO EPIRBS.


BARDID: AT-USCG-2010-0002
Date: 2010-10-31 00:00:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Provinceton
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: storm
Visibility: poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
News media report indicated that a boat took on water 10 miles off Race Point in Provincetown.  One person was taken onboard a Coast Guard vessel for a possible case of hypothermia.  The Coast Guard was able to control the flooding and bring the vessel to Macmillan Pier.


BARDID: AT-USCG-2010-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2010-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:54:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Ponce Inlet
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: storm
Visibility: poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: UNKNOWN
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: disabled boat
RedactedNarrative:
Coast Guard received a report of a disabled sailboat 50 miles off the coast of Jacksonville.  The sailboat had been demasted and had been dead in the water for two days.  The owner/operator had failed communications but had managed to send a mayday which caught the attention of a tug and was able to shoot a flare. In discussions with the subject, HE LEFT THE MARINIA WITH ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS WHICH LED TO HIM LOSING POWER SUNDAY NIGHT, EARLY SUNDAY MORNING OFF OF ST AUGUSTINE HE WAS HIT BY A STORM THAT RIP DOWN HIS MAST, HE STATED THAT THE STORM WASNT STRONG ENOUGH TO DO THAT AND WAS SUPRISED IT CAME DOWN…73 YOM PURCHASED 35' BRISTOL SLOOP 5-WEEKS AGO AND DEPARTED PONCE SUNDAY AFTERNOON.  HEADED FOR CAPE FEAR NC,  HE HAD PURCHASED 3 NEW BATTERIES AND UNDERSTOOD THAT CENTERBOARD STUCK IN 'UP' POSITION WHICH PROVIDED LITTLE STABILITY.  HE WAS ILL ON SUNDAY AND DID NOT EAT/DRINK VERY MUCH.  ON MONDAY MORNING THE I/B DIESEL ENGINE FAILED TO START AND THEN SUDDEN/SHORT SQUALL DE-MASTED VSL DESPITE USE OF GENOA SAIL ONLY.  HE MADE APPROXIMATELY 6 MAYDAY CALLS BETWEEN MONDAY AFTER THE STORM AND TUESDAY NIGHT.  HE FIRED 1 FLARE MONDAY AFTERNOON.  HE SPENT TIME CUTTING OFF MAST/SAIL APPARATUS.  HE WAS NOT AWARE THAT T/V CALUSA COAST HEARD HIS CALL AND RELAYED TO USCG.  WEDNESDAY AM HE DECIDED TO EAT SOME BREAKFAST AND MENTIONED HE IS FAIRLY CERTAIN HE HEARD PROPELLER TYPE AIRPLANE.  WHEN HE CAME BACK ON DECK SHRIKE WAS ABOUT 100YDS OFF BUT HAD NO IDEA WE WERE LOOKING FOR HIM.


BARDID: AT-USCG-2010-0007
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:13:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: light
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were fishing for sharks and saw a pod of dolphins. They wanted to get a closer look at them so they boarded their dinghy with a submersible camera. Once on the dinghy they stated that their main vessel suddenly went up in flames. The survivors informed the 47270 crew that they had an extra 5 gallon gasoline jug onboard the boat along with the 5 gallon tank that was attached to the enigne. The survivors were embarked onto the cg 47270 and life jackets donned.  There may be foul play


BARDID: AT-USCG-2010-0008
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:53:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
CG received a report of a vessel on fire that sank in 22 feet of water.  Light debris and diesel sheen were visible.  THe vessel was towed by the Coast Guard.  The owner states that the engines had been replaced recently and only had 4 hours running time on them.  The captain apparenlty heard a "pop" followed by smoke.


BARDID: at-uscG-2010-0009
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:27:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: Beaufort inlet
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
cg received a distress call from vessel Reel Time reporting taken on water at high rate. SEC.NC confirmed that all 8 people onboard have put on lifejackets. subjects were fishing in the BARTA fishing tournament out of Beaufort, NC.  The source of the flooding was identified as the vessel's shaft that fouled inside the E/R resulting in the shaft seal being pulled out of the back of the boat (A line in the bilge got wrapped around the shaft and pulled the shaft seal out causing the engine room to flood.). As the vessel became sluggish, the engine produced a black smoke.  The engine room became flooded.  The vessel occupants shot off 5 flares


BARDID: AT-USCG-2010-0011
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:44:00
State: AT
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
WaterConditions: unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unkn
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent3: sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The Coast Guard received a EPIRB alert.  According to subjects, the vessel was allegedly transitting from St Thomas to Colon, Panaama.  One person was on watch and another was sleep.  The sleeper suddenly awoke to a loud noice and then heard the bilge alarm sounding.  The boat was flooding and the bilge pumps could not keep up.The two individuals onboard deployed a life raft.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0002
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-02-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:03:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAGUARO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF BOAT 1 REMOVED ONE OF THE FUEL LINES FROM THE T-ADAPTER TO THE ENGINE. THE SPILLING FUEL IGNITED. THE BOAT WAS A TOTAL LOSS, NO INJURIES.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0003
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAGUARO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Submerged Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/6/10 at approx. 1600hrs a call was dispatched in reference to a sinking boat about 1/2 mile from the dam. I could see the dam and did not see any boats or persons that appeared to be in distress near the dam. Approx. 1/2 mile from the dam i noticed a black/white boat that appeared to be resting on an underwater rock. The bow of the boat appeared to be about 3 feet underwater and the aft about 1/2 foot above water. The bilge pump was still functioning and was spraying water. Another boat came along side my patrol boat and stated his passenger was the owner of the sunken boat. The owner stated that his boat had struck the underwater rock and immediately began to sink. He was transfered to my boat. I asked the owner how many people were on the boat at the time of the accident. He stated 5 and they were taken by another boat to the dock area. I asked of injuries and he stated there were none. I asked him what had happened. He stated that they had been traveling at just over a drifting speed when they struck the rock. He told me the boat was stuck on the rock and the front of the boat sunk rapidly. I asked if he had been operating the boat and he stated his son was operating at the time of the accident. I trasnported him to the aid station were he was reunited with the members of his party. All members denied injuries. No one in the party had any odor of an alcohlic beverage and all denied any alcohol on board. The owner stated he would work with the marina to remove the boat. Nothing further.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0006
Date: 2010-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:24:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAGUARO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/3/10 at approx. 1624hrs the above listed boat operator was towing a skier on saguaro lake. The skier was on a wakeboard and was attempting a 360 degree turn in the air. As he transferred the ski handle from one hand to the other hand behind his back, his right hand became stuck in the handle. When the slack of the ski rope was taken out, the handle wrenched the skiers right hand. The boat operator stated that he had never seen the tower jerk so violently as when the slack of the rope was removed. The skiers right hand was sideways in the handle and appeared broken. He was brought to shore to be self transported to the hospital. A passenger on the watercraft waived down a maricopa county sheriffs office and requested assistance. The skier was treated on scene for a possible hand fracture and was transported to banner gateway hospital for further evaluation. It was later determined that the right hand was not fractured but had severe soft tissue damage. Nothing further.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0008
Date: 2010-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MEAD
NearestCityTown: KINGMAN
County: MOHAVE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentCause2: Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 4/10/10 A SINGLE PWC OCCUPIED BY 3 WAS OPERATING ON THE AZ SIDE OF LAKE MEAD NEAR CASTLE REEF. AT APPROX. 1520HRS THE OPERATOR OBSERVED SOME SUBMERGED ROCKS JUST BENEATH THE WATER. THE OPERATOR LET OFF THE THROTTLE AND ATTEMPTED TO TURN. THE PWC STRUCK THE SHORELINE AND THE 3 OCCUPANTS WERE EJECTED ONTO THE ROCKS. ALL 3 SUFFERED MINOR NON THREATENING INJURIES (ONLY OPERATOR WAS BEYOND FIRST AID). THEY THEN CALLED FOR ASSISTANCE.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0009
Date: 2010-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
ON 4/1/2010 AT APPROX. 1500 HRS THE INJURED PARTY FELL OVERBOARD AFTER THE PONTOON HE WAS ON HIT A LARGE WAKE. HE SUSTAINED SEVERAL LARGE CUTS TO HIS UPPER LEFT LEG JUST BELOW THE BUTTOCKS. HIS THUMB AND RING FINGER ON HIS LEFT HAND WAS ALSO INJURED. HE FELL OFF THE FRONT OF THE PONTOON AND CAME OUT THE STERN. THE CUTS WERE CAUSED BY THE PROP OF THE OUTBOARD ENGINE.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0010
Date: 2010-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
THIS WAS A TWO VESSEL ACCIDENT. BOTH WAVE RUNNERS WERE TRAVELING SOUTH WHEN OPERATOR 2 TURNED RIGHT IN FRONT OF OPERATOR 1. OEPRATOR 1 COLLIDED WITH OEPRATOR 2 HITTinG #2 VESSEL IN THE STARBOARD BOW.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0011
Date: 2010-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Ventilation
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR LAUNCHED HIS BOAT AND MOORED TO THE COURTESY DOCK. OPERATOR CLOSED HIS ENGINE HATCH AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF RUNNING. SOON AFTER CLOSING THE ENGINE HATCH, THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT EXPLODED EJECTING THE OPERATOR ONTO THE DOCK. THE BOAT THEN BURNED UNTIL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED IT.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0012
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:52:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/1/10 AT APPROX. 0952HRS OPERATOR 1 PUSHED OFF OF THE FUEL DOCK OF SCORPION BAY MARINA AND ATTEMPTED TO START HIS WATERCRAFT. AS HE TURNED THE KEY ON HIS 1987 MALIBU BOAT THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IGNITED INTO FLAMES. OPERATOR 1 AND PASSENGER JUMPED OFF THE BOAT INTO THE WATER AS THE WATERCRAFT BURST INTO FLAMES. SCORPION BAY FIRE BOATS RESPONDED TO THE BURNING BOAT AND EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES WITH FOAM SPRAY. THE BOAT RECEIVED EXTENSOVE FIRE DAMAGE AND CAPSIZED. OPERATOR 1 STATED HE VENTED THE BILGE WITH THE INTERNAL BLOWERS PRIOR TO STARTING THE BOAT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. INVESTIGATING OFFICER MARKED FOR CAUSE OF ACCIDENT AS FUEL VENT. HE BELIEVES THE OPERATOR DID NOT VENT PROPERLY BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0013
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:58:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unforeseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Floating Object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
AccidentEvent3: CAPSIZING
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that on 5/7/2010 at approx. 1630hrs he was proceeding from the north ramp of lake pleasant along the shoreline. He stated approx. 10 minutes on the water traveling in access of 20mph several large waves began to crest over the bow at which time the vessel began to take on water. He stated he immediately slowed down however the bow of the boat began to sink below the waterline due to the large amount of water in the boat. He stated within several minutes the boat capsized at which time he and his only passenger fell out of the boat and began to float without the aid of lifejackets. He stated he and his passenger stayed afloat with the assistance of a water cooler which had fallen out of the boat. About 10 to 15 minutes later a passing boat came and assisted them and took them to the north ramp were they met with waiting deputies and fire personnel. He stated the boat belonged to a friend and did not know of any problems the boat may of had. He also stated he did not re-call striking anything but that the boat took on water over the bow due to the lake being choppy. The watercraft was towed back to the north ramp, bilged of water and trailered. I then walked to the watercraft and looked underneath at the hull. I could clearly see an approx. 1/8 inch linear impression to the underside of the hull immediatly in front of a 2 foot by 2 foot goudge as if the boat had struck a pointed rock or floating log which created the scrape mark.  The gouge was leaking a significant amount of water suggesting that this may have been the point of the boat which may have started taking on water causing the bow to sink underwater. Nothing further.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0014
Date: 2010-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:26:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 AND VESSEL 2 WERE TRAVELING NORTH ON THE COLORADO RIVER. V1 LOST CONTROL VEeRING IN FRONT OF V2. V2 COLLIDED WITH V1 EJECTING BOTH OPERATORS. OPERATOR OF V2 WAS TRANSPORTED TO WARMC BY BHCFD.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0015
Date: 2010-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MOHAVE
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 OPERATOR STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING IN EXCESS OF 20MPH HE CHANGED DIRECTIONS AND WENT AIRBORNE OVER A LARGE WAVE. ALL 3 OccUPANTS SHIFTED WHEN THE VESSEL LANDED. PASSENGER 2 HAD A PREVIOUS BACK INJURY THAT SHE STATED WAS REINJURED WHEN THE VESSEL LANDED. THE VESSEL PROCEEDED TO THE COURTESY DOCK AT KATHERINES LANDING WERE ORANGE COUNTY PARAMEDICS REGAN PATIENT CARE. PASSENEGR WAS TRANSPORTED TO WARMC FOR FURTHER TREATMENT.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0016
Date: 2010-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:27:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: SHARP TURN
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/12/10 AT APPROX 1627HRS I RECEIVED A CALL REGARDING AN ANKLE INJURY RECEIVED AFTER FALLING OFF A PWC. UPON ARRIVAL I MADE CONTACT WITH V1 OPERATOR. HE STATED THAT WHILE HE WAS OPERATING HIS PWC HE MADE A SHARP TURN AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED AND WHEN HE DID HE FELL OFF THE WATERCRAFT. HE SAID WHEN HE HIT THE WATER THE THOUGHT HE INJUED HIS LEFT ANKLE. AFTER HE INFORMED ME WHAT HAD OCCURRED PARAMEDICS ACCESSED HIS CONDITION AND FOUND THAT HE BROKE BOTH THE TABULAR AND FIBULAR BONES IN HIS LEFT LEG. HE WAS THEN TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO JOHN C LINCOLN FOR FURTHER TREATMENT. NOTHING FURTHER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0017
Date: 2010-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person strikes propeller
RedactedNarrative:
PASSENGER WAS IN WATER BEHIND BOAT WITH MOTOR OFF. UPON REENTERING THE BOAT PASSENGER KICKED PROP WITH RIGHT FOOT. THIS REPORT IS FROM THE OPERATOR. NO OFFICER INVESTIGATED THIS ACCIDENT.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0018
Date: 2010-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/24/10 AT APPROX. 1030HRS V1 WAS WESTBOUND EAST OF BARKER ISLAND AT LAKE PLEASANT SURFBOARD SKIING WHEN THE OPERATOR LOOKED BACK AT THE BOARDER. UPON LOOKING FORWARD HE SAW THAT HE WAS HEADING STRAIGHT FOR AN ISLAND AND COLLIDED WITH THE ISLAND AT APPROX. 10MPH. NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE BOAT SUSTAINED MODERATE HULL DAMAGE AND WAS TOWED BY VESSEL ASSIST TO THE OWNERS TRAILER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0020
Date: 2010-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAGUARO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/26/10 AT APPROX. 1130HRS victim WAS BEING TOWED BEHIND A 21 FOOT MALIBU OPERATED BY operator. THEY WERE IN THE MAIN BAY OF SAGUARO LAKE IN THE TONTO NATIONAL FOREST. VICTIM ATTEMPTED TO JUMP THE BOATS WAKE ON A WAKEBOARD AND FELL. DURING THE FALL THE WAKEBOARD STRUCK VICTIM ON THE TOP OF HIS HEAD CREATING AN APPROXIMATE 1-1.5 INCH LONG CUT. VICTIM DROVE HIMSELF TO THE SHERIFFS OFFICE HEADQUARTERS IN MESA TO SEEK ASSISTANCE. I ADVISED VICTIM HE WOULD REQUIRE STICHES. VICTIM DID NOT COMPLAIN OF ANY OTHER INJURIES AND DID NOT LOSE CONSCIOSNESS DURING THE INCIDENT. VICTIM REFUSED TO BE SEEN BY AN AMBULANCE AND SAID HE WOULD TRANSPORT HIMSELF TO URGENT CARE. NOTHING FURTHER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0021
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANYON LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp Turn
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/29/2010 AT APPROX. 0845HRS operator WAS OPERATING HIS VESSEL WHILE TOWING AN INFLATABLE TORPEDO SHAPED WATER TOY. THE TORPEDO WAS APPROX. 8 FEET LONG AND CONTAINED 5 PASSENGERS. THEY WERE IN THE MAIN BAY OF CANYON LAKE NEAR PRUDENTIAL ROCK. WHILE MAKING A TURN THE TORPEDO TURNED ON ITS SIDE KNOCKING OFF ALL OF ITS PASSENGERS INTO THE WATER. DURING THE PROCESS OF FALLING INTO THE WATER one person WAS ACCIDENTLY KICKED ABOVE HER LEFT EYE BY HER BROTHER. victim SUSTAINED AN APPROX. 1.5 INCH LACERATION ABOVE HER EYE. victim WAS PROVIDED WITH FIRST AID CARE AT THE SHERIFFS OFFICE AID STATION AND WAS GOING TO SEEK FURTHER MEDICAL ATTENTION IN TOWN. NOTHING FURTHER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0022
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MOHAVE
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/29/2010 AT APPROX. 1500HRS operator WAS OPERATING THE PWC WITH HIS CHILDREN WHEN THE PWC CAPSIZED. A REPORTING PARTY TOLD OFFICERS OF THE INCIDENT. OFFICERS ARRIVED ON SCENE AT TELEPHONE COVE AND ASKED IF ANYONE WAS INJURED. operator STATED THAT HE HAD A TUBE IN HIS CHEST FROM DIALYSIS AND WATER WAS IN HIS CHEST. operator TOLD OFFICERS THAT HE WAS IN PAIN, OFFICERS CALLED NATIONAL PARK PARAMEDICS AND THEY TRANSPORTED operator TO A HOSPITAL IN BULLHEAD CITY.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0023
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:44:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: APACHE LAKE
NearestCityTown: TORTILLA FLATS
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Congested Waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/29/10 AT ABOUT 1744HRS operator REPORTED THAT HIS BOAT HAD BECOME SWAMPED WHILE IT WAS TIED TO THE GAS DOCK AT APACHE LAKE MARINA. DURING THIS TIME HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO FUEL THE BOAT WHEN SEVERAL LARGE WAVES CAME OVER THE TRANSOM AND GUNWALES OF THE BOAT CAUSING IT TO SINK IN A VERTICAL OR NOSE UP POSITION. THE BOAT WAS LATER TOWED BY ANOTHER BOATER TO THE MAIN MARINA BOAT RAMP WERE THE WATER WAS BAILED FROM THE INTERIOR AND PLACED BACK ON THE TRAILER. THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES AND NO FURTHER INFORMATION.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0024
Date: 2010-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:26:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARTLETT LAKE
NearestCityTown: CAVE CREEK
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: People on Gunwale, Bow, or Transom
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/16/10 at about 1126hrs i was notified by bartlett lake marina that a boat just raced up telling him someone had broken their ankle. Upon arrival we found a white male who had a severe propellor cut to his right foot. Deputy started administrating first aid. I spoke with the boats operator that told me they were up on plane in the main bay when the boat hit a large wave and the victim fell over the front of the boat. Operator state dhe ahd one beer. I had him blow into a portable breath tester which indicated .025. He said the victim had a few beers also. He told me they were on the water for baout an hour before the accidentand that he was very familiar with boating and has more than 500 hours of experience. While looking at the boat i saw a lot of blood on the front portion were the injured was sitting after he was pulled back into the boat. Rural metro fire arrived on scene and treated the injured party who was later flown to scottsdale osborne hospital by air evac4 for further treatment. Nothing further.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0025
Date: 2010-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:44:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
PWC HEADING SOUTH 1000 BLOCK RIVERFRONT DR. PWC 1 WAS SLALOMMING EAST TO WEST. PWC 2 DROVE OVER STARBOARD SIDE AFT OF PWC 1. PWC 1 OPERATOR HAD ABRASIONS ON RIGHT ARM, BUT NOT BEYOND FIRST AID.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0026
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:51:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: Restricted Vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/29/10 AT 1551HRS THERE WAS A MINOR INJURY (NOT BEYOND FIRST AID) WATERCRAFT ACCIDENT AT 1663 HIGHWAY 95. PWC 1 WAS HEADING NORTH TRAVELING 20MPH. PWC 2 WAS HEADING NORTH TRAVELING 20MPH TO THE WEST OF PWC 2. OTHER PWC'S CAME NEAR AND THEIR AFT SPRAY GOT INTO PWC 1 & 2 OPRATORS EYES. PWC 1 TURNED TO WEST AND PWC 2 COLLIDED INTO PORT SIDE. PWC 1 HAD 18" X 5" HOLE. $4050 DAMAGE. PWC 2 HAD A LOOSE PLASTIC PIECE ON BOW DMAGE $200. PWC 1 OPERATOR HAD CONTUSION LEFT SHIN (NOT BEYOND FIRST AID) WHEN IT STRUCK SIDE OF PWC. PWC 2 OPERATOR HAD NO INJURIES. WITNESS STATED "NO HORSE PLAY" BY ANY VESSELS.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0027
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:33:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: APACHE LAKE
NearestCityTown: TORTILLA FLATS
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb pinched vtw vsl and dock
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/29/10 AT 1733HRS operator WAS DOCKING V1 AT THE GAS DOCKS. operator SAID HE WAS NO LONGER UNDER POWER AND WAS HOLDING ONTO THE DOCK WITH HIS LEFT HAND WHILE SEATED IN THE BOAT. A LARGE WAVE STRUCK THE BOAT AND PUSHED IT AGAINST THE DOCK. operator LEFT MIDDLE FINGER WAS SQUEEZED BETWEEN V1 AND THE DOCK AMPUTATING THE TOP 1 INCH OF HIS FINGER. UPON MY ARRIVAL I FOUND operator SITTING IN THE BOAT HOUSE WITH A TOWEL OVER HIS HAND. I BEGAN ADMINISTERING FIRST AID TO HIM AND RTANSPORTED HIM TO THE APACHE LAKE AID STATION. SWA #262 ARRIVED AND TOOK OVER PATIENT CARE AND TRANSPORTED operator TO THE HOSPITAL. NO CITATIONS WERE ISSUED. NOTHING FURTHER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0032
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:34:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 WAS IN THE AREA BETWEEN CRAZYHORSE CAMPGROUND AND WINDSOR BEACH WHEN IT WAS STRUCK BY AN UNIDENTFIED VESSEL. THIS UNIDENTIFIED VESSEL STRUCK THIS PWC ON THE PORT SIDE CAUSING SCRATCHES AND 2 CRACKS 6" LONG.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0034
Date: 2010-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive Speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wave/wake
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
operator WAS SOUTH COLORADO RIVER HIT WAKE OF PASSING BOAT WENT SIDEWAYS AND HIT HIS HEAD ON STEERING COLUMN AND SIDE (RIGHT) OF PWC. HE WAS RENDERED UNCONSCIOUS. subject WAS AHEAD OF operator AND LOOKED BACK TO SEE operator FACE DOWN IN WATER. subject RETRIEVED operator FROM WATER AND TOOK HIM TO SHORE.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0036
Date: 2010-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:54:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/13/10 AT APPROX. 1254HRS V2 WAS DRIVING NORTH BOUND IN FRONT OF DAVIS CAMP NORTH. V1 WAS DRIVING THE SAME DIRECTION A FEW FEET AHEAD OF V2. V1 TURNED LEFT IN FRONT OF V2 CAUSING IT TO HIT THE LEFT SIDE OF V1. WHEN V2 HIT, THE VESSEL HIT THE LEG OF THE DRIVER OF V1 CAUSING IJURY TO THE DRIVERS LEG AND RIBS.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0038
Date: 2010-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:40:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARTLETT LAKE
NearestCityTown: CAVE CREEK
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/5/10 at about 1140hrs i responded to bartlett marina in regards to a jet ski accident and the injured person was at the marina. Upon arrival deputies were out with a white male who was complaining of back pain. He stated he was jet skiing with a friend when his friend turned and ran into him. He said the other guy and both skis were at their campsite near the yellow cliffs boat dock. Upon locating the 2 skis i spoke to a white male. I asked operator1 what had happened and he told me he was operating one of the skis and operator2 the other one. Operator1 said they were heading north about 20 feet apart going about 20 miles per hour. He looked back and thought he had plenty of room to turn so he did turn and then ran into operator2 on his ski. Operator1  was cited and released for ars5-350c reckless operation. Operator2 was treated by rural metro fire then flown to the scottsdale osborne hospital by airevac four. Nothing further.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0039
Date: 2010-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MEAD
NearestCityTown: KINGMAN
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper Lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: CAPSIZING
AccidentEvent3: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR STATED THAT LAST YEAR WHEN HE WENT OUT OF THIS COVE, THE COVE HAD WATER IN IT AND THIS YEAR IT DIDNT DUE TO DROPPING WATER LEVELS. HE STATED HE WAS COMING THROUGH THE COVE AREA AND DIDNT REALIZE HOW LOW THE WATER WAS. THE PWC WAS BEACHED DUE TO NOT BEING ABLE TO STOP IN TIME. IT HIT THE ROCKS AND FLIPPED THE SKI.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0040
Date: 2010-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:08:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR WAS THROWN OVERBOARD WHEN HE RELEASED THE THROTTLE AND VESSEL DECELERATED MORE RAPIDLY THAN OPERATOR ANTICIPATED.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0041
Date: 2010-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:03:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/19/10 AT ABOUT 1703 HRS VESSEL 2 WAS TOWING A SKIER THAT FELL IN THE WATER. OBSERVER HAD ORANGE FLAG. VESSEL 1 HEADING SOUTH DID NOT SEE SKIER AND DROVE OVER TOP OF SKIER AT APPROX. 20MPH. SKIER ATTEMPTED TO DUCK UNDER WATER BUT WAS STRUCK BY PWC RESULTING IN CONTUSIONS TO ARM AND HEAD. SKIER WAS TRANSPORTED TO HOSPITAL FOR PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES. V1 OPERATOR ADMITTED TO CONSUMING ONE BEER AT 1200 HRS AND DID NOT EXIHIBIT SIGNS OF IMPAIRMENT AND PASSED PST'S. NO ODOR OF ALCOHOL.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0043
Date: 2010-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
BOAT 1 WAS PULLING A RIDER ON AN INFLATABLE TUBE WITH AN APPROX. 25 FOOT LONG ROPE WHEN THE RIDER FELL OFF THE TUBE STRIKING HER HEAD ON THE WATER. THE RIDER WAS AIRLIFTED BY TRAMA FLIGHT ONE TO JOHN C LINCOLN FOR FURTHER MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR AN APPARANT CONCUSSION.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0044
Date: 2010-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: UPPER COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: GRAND CANYON
County: COCONINO COUNTY
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: activity equip strikes person
RedactedNarrative:
AT APPROX. 1500HRS ON 5/20/10 operator WAS ROWING A BOAT THROUGH AGRATE RAPID. SHE STATED THAT HER OAR HIT ROCK NEAR THE TOP RIGHT RAPID. THE OAR THAN STRUCK HER HAND. operator CALLED NPS DISPATCH VIA SATELLITE PHONE FROM BASS CAMP RM 108. SHE STATED THAT HER HAND WAS BROKEN AND REQUESTED A MEDEVAC. HELICOPTER 368 FLEW IN ON 5/21 AT 0830HRS. operator WAS FLOWN TO THE SOUTH RIM OF GRAND CANYON AND TAKEN BY GROUND AMBULANCE TO THE GRAND CANYON CLINIC.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0046
Date: 2010-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:34:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAGUARO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/8/10 AT ABOUT 1334HRS I RESPONDED TO SAGUARO LAKE AID STATION REFERENCE A SUBJECT WHO CAME IN ON A BOAT WITH A HEAD INJURY. UPON ARRIVAL victim WAS BEING TREATED FOR A LACERATION TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF HER HEAD NEAR THE TEMPLE. I ASKED HER WHAT HAD CAUSED THE INJURY AND SHE STATED SHE WAS WAKEBOARDING AND ATTEMPTED TO JUMP A WAKE. WHEN SHE LANDED SHE STRUCK THE WATER WITH ENOUGH FORCE THAT IT RESULTED IN THE LACERATION. I ASKED IF THERE WAS DEBRIS IN THE WATER THAT SHE HIT AND SHE STATED NO THE ONLY THING SHE HIT WAS WATER. THE OPERATOR ASLO STATED THAT victim WAS WAKEBOARDING AND LANDED WRONG AFTER ATTEMPTING TO JUMP THE BOATS WAKE AND STRUCK THE SURFACE WITH HER HEAD. SHE STATED IT TOOK PLACE ON SAGUARO LAKE NEAR BAGLEY FLATS. AFTER BEING TRATED FOR THE LACERATION she WAS ENCOURAGED TO BE SEEN BY A DOCTOR. NO CITATIONS ISSUED. CASE CLEARED. NOTHING FURTHER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0047
Date: 2010-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/25/2010 at approx 1200hrs vessel 2 was being ridden by operator2 in the main bay area near pipeline cove. Vessel 2 was drifting on the water and attempting to communicate with vessel 1. Vessel 1 being ridden by operator1 was traveling in the same direction as vessel 2 at a speed of approx. 10mph. Vessel 1 approached the left side of vessel 2 and scrapped the left thigh of operator2 with the side of the watercraft, which resulted in a non-life threatening minor abrasion/laceration to the thigh area of her left leg. Both vessells returned to scorpion bay marina to report the accident and to seek medical assistance. Peoria fire responded to the marina and further transported operator2 to arrowhead hospital for further treatment. Nothing further.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0048
Date: 2010-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:23:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARTLETT LAKE
NearestCityTown: CAVE CREEK
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/25/10 AT ABOUT 1623HRS WHILE IN THE SB COVE AREA OF BARTLETT LAKE I WAS FLAGGED DOWN BY ANOTHER BOATER WHO TOLD ME ABOUT A JET SKI THAT HAD CRASHED AND ONE OF THE PERSONS HAD GOTTEN INJURED. UPON GETTING TO THE COVE BEACH I FOUND SEVERAL PEOPLE STANDING AROUND A MALE. I ASKED ANOTHER WHITE MALE WHAT HAPPENED AND HE TOLD ME THEY WERE RIDING ON A JET SKI AND THEY ROLLED THE SKI OVER AND victim FELL OFF WITH THE TOW ROPE WRAPPED AROUND HIM. RURAL METRO ARRIVED ON SCENE AND TREATED victim. HE WAS THEN FLOWN TO SCOTTSDALE OSBORNE HOSPITAL FOR FURTHER TREATMENT OF HIS INJURIES BY AIR EVAC 4. THE OEPRATOR OF THE WATERCRAFT WAS ARRESTED FOR OPERATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL. NOTHING FURTHER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0049
Date: 2010-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANYON LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/30/10 at approx. 1750hrs operator was operating a pwc in the area of the no wake zone at canyon lake. She was traveling over 40mph and had a friend seated on the back. She was traveling south and allegedly crossed over the wake of a boat that had previously passed in the opposite direction. While crossing the wake, she lost control causing both her and occupant to be thrown from the pwc. During the fall operator said she did not hit anything however she felt an intense pain in her right thigh. She and Occupant were in the water for approx. 10 minutes trying to swim to shore. witness witnessed the incident and told subject2 who is a firefighter that the 2 people in the water looked like they hit the water pretty hard. They pulled up anchor and made their way over to the two and assisted. It was quickly determined that operator had a fractured femur. Operator was placed on the stern of subject2s boat. Subject2 began assessing her while witness drove the boat to the marina. Operator was subsequintly flown to scottsdale osborne hospital by air evac 8 with non life threatening injuries. Nothing further by this deputy.
*as of this being received, no charges have been filed.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0050
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/3/10 AT 1245HRS 2 PWC'S WERE HEADING NORTH IN 1600 BLOCK HWY 95. PWC 2 GOING STRAIGHT 30MPH. PWC 1 FOLLOWING PWC 2'S WAKE DROVE OVER STARBOARD SIDE AFT OF PWC 2. PWC 1 NO DAMAGE. PWC 2 DAMAGE STARBOARD SIDE AFT ABOVE AND BELOW WATERLINE. $2200.00 DAMAGES. NO INJURIES.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0051
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:52:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: CONGESTED WATERS
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/3/10 AT 1752HRS A 32 FOOT RUNABOUT WAS TRAVELING NORTHBOUND ON LAKE PLEASANT IN THE PROPER TRAFFIC PATTERN. TWO BOATS, A WHITE SEA DOO AND BROWN MANTA RAY CAME SOUTHBOUND AROUND THE POINT AT OUTHOUSE COVE AND IN THE NORTHBOUND LANES OF TRAFFIC. THE SEA DOO VEERED OFF TO THE RIGHT. THE MANTA RAY VEERED TO THE LEFT AND IN FRONT OF THE WHITE RUNABOUT. THE RUNABOUT RAN UP AND OVER THE PASSANGER COMPARTMENT OF THE MANTA RAY. AS A RESULT OF THE COLLISION, A PASSANGER IN THE MANTA RAY WAS KILLED INSTANTLY. 4 OTHER SUBJECTS IN THE MANTA RAY INCLUDING THE OPERATOR WERE TAKEN TO LOCAL HOSPITALS WITH SERIOUS INJURIES. NO ONE ON THE RUNABOUT WAS INJURED.
**AS OF RECEIVING THIS REPORT, NO CITATIONS HAVE BEEN ISSUED


BARDID: AZ-2010-0052
Date: 2010-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PLEASANT
NearestCityTown: PEORIA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/5/10 at 1315hrs i was on patrol on lake pleasant. I was dispatched to firemans cove area reference a single vessel incident that occurred up in the agua fria river. The information i received was from mcso dispatch of a male subject was suffering from a seizure after falling off his water skis into the lake. Upon arrival at firemans cove i was informed by dispatch that the operator was taking the victim to castle creek boat ramp to meet peoria fire. I made my way to the ramp were i met the operator of v1 and i asked him what happened. He told me the following: he said that while his son was waterskiing he fell into the water. He said he retreived him from the lake and once he was on board the vessel he sat in the bow seating area. He said another larger vessel had come by producing a large wake and a large amount of water swamped the bow area where his son was sitting. He said his son got soaked with the wake, he started to seize and shake uncontrollably. At approx. 1320hrs peoria fire arrived at the boat ramp by their fire boat and transported the injured skier to john c lincoln hospital for further observation by southwest ambulance. There is nothing further as this time.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0053
Date: 2010-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MOHAVE
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
ON 5/25/10 AT 1630 THE LISTED VESSEL WAS BEING OPERATED. victim WAS A TOWED WAKEBOARDER. victim FELL INTO THE WATER WHILE BEING TOWED STRAIGHT AHEAD AND DOING JUMPS ON THE VESSELS WAKE. victim STRUCK THE SURFACE OF THE WATER WITH THE BACK OF HIS HEAD. HE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY PERSONAL VEHICLE AFTER REFUSING TREATMENT.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0055
Date: 2010-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MEAD
NearestCityTown: DOLAN SPRINGS
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 HAD JUST STARTED TOWING PASSENGER ON A FLOATING TUBE WHEN SHE IMMEDIATLEY FELL OFF AND STRUCK THE WATER SURVICE INJURING HER LEFT SHOULDER. THERE WERE NO VIOLATIONS OF THE NAVIGATIONAL RULES BEFORE OR DURING THIS ACCIDENT-INJURY.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0056
Date: 2010-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LOWER COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: PARKER
County: LA PAZ COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: None
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
BOTH VESSELS TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND ON COLORADO RIVER. Vessel1 TURNed SHARP TOWARD vessel2. vessel2 INPUT STEER LEFT IN ATTEMPT TO AVOID vessel1. vessel1 AT LAST MINUTE PUT STEER RIGHT AND ROTATES REAR STERN INTO vessel2's RIGHT REAR CORNER PUNCHING A HOLE INTO BOAT. vessel1 operator FLEW OFF the PWC and HIT the BOAT AND then the WATER.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0057
Date: 2010-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person pinched btw vsls
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/4/10 AT APPROX. 1200HRS OPERATOR OF V1 WAS ATTEMPTING TO HAND KEYS TO HIS FRIEND ON A PWC BEACHED ON THE SHORELINE. THE CURRENT WAS TOO STRONG CAUSING V1 TO BE PULLED DOWNSTREAM TOWARD AN UNMANNED DOCKED VESSEL. AS V1 APPROACHED MOORED VESSEL THE OPERATOR OF V1 STUCK HIS RIGHT ARM OUT OF THE BOAT TO DEFLECT V1 FROM HITTING MOORED BOAT. THE VESSELS DID NOT COME INTO CONTACT. AS A RESULT OF DEFLECTING THE 2 VESSELS THE OPERATOR OF V1 SEVERLY BROKE HIS RIGHT ARM. HE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO EITHER VESSEL.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0058
Date: 2010-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:38:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/11/10 AT APPROX. 1538HRS operator1 WAS HIT BY PWC DRIVEN BY operator2 CAUSING INJURY TO HIS RIGHT THUMB ON THE COLORADO RIVER IN FRONT OF DAVIS CAMP.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0060
Date: 2010-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LOWER COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: YUMA
County: YUMA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
THIS IS A 2 VESSEL COLLISION WITH ONE REPORTED INJURY THAT OCCURRED ON THE COLORADO RIVER AND FISHER ISLAND. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED ON 5/28 AT APPROX. 1845HRS DURING DAYLIGHT. V1 WAS TRAVELING NORTHBOUND ON THE RIVER ON THE EAST SIDE OF FISHER ISLAND. V2 WAS TOWING A SKIER TRAVELING NORTHBOUND ON THE WEST SIDE OF FISHER ISLAND. V2 VEERED RIGHT AFTER PASSING FISHERS ISLAND AND BOTH VESSELS COLLIDED AT THE NORTH SIDE OF FISHER ISLAND. V1 RECEIVED MAJOR DAMAGE ON THE PORT SIDE OF THE VESSEL. V2 RECEIVED LIGHT TO MODERATE DAMAGE CONSISTING OF SCRAPE AND A CHIPS TO THE STARBOARD SIDE OF THE VESSEL DUE TO THE COLLISION. OPERATOR OF V1 WAS TRANSPORTED TO YUMA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT AND WAS RELEASED 2 DAYS LATER WITH A CONCUSSION AND SCRAPE MARKS ON THE LEFT ARM. NO CITATIONS WERE ISSUED.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0061
Date: 2010-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:21:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery Failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 LOST POWER AND DRIFTED INTO V2 WHICH WAS AT ANCHOR. V1 PUSHED V2 INTO THE ROCKS ON THE SOUTH EAST SHORE.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0062
Date: 2010-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityTown: PAGE
County: COCONINO COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: HAZARDOUS WATERS
AccidentCause3: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/3/10 AT APPROX 1800HRS I WAS CALLED BY DISPATCH TO RESPOND TO A 2 VESSEL ACCIDENT AT ANTELOPE POINT MARINA. THE OWNER AND PILOT OF NAUTILUS II STATED HE WAS TRYING TO DOCK HIS HOUSEBOAT WHEN A CROSSWIND PUSHED HIM INTO THE BOAT AT DOCK 4B12. HE THEN TOOK HIS HOUSEBOAT TO SLIP 3A33 TO DOCK IT UNTIL THE WIND SETTLED DOWN. DISPATCH WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ACCIDENT.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0063
Date: 2010-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:09:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
THIS WAS A 2 VESSEL ACCIDENT IN WHICH BOTH OPERATORS WERE TOO CLOSE. BOTH WERE TRAVELING NORTH APPROX. 20 YARDS OFF THE AZ SHORE. V2 OPERATOR SWERVED INTO THE PATCH OF V1 IN AN ATTEMPT TO SPLASH HIM. WHEN CORRECTING HIS VESSEL V2 WAS THROWN FROM HIS VESSEL INTO THE PATH OF V1. V1 TURNED HIS HEAD TO AVOID THE SPRAY AND DIDNT SEE V2 OPERATOR IN THE WATER. TRAVELING AT APPROX. 40MPH V1 STRUCK V2 IN THE HEAD CAUSING SIGNIFICANT INJURIES.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0064
Date: 2010-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:34:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
VICTIM WAS OPERATING VESSEL 1 TOWING A SUBJECT ON A WAKEBOARD. THE WAKEBOARDER FELL AND THE ROPE HANDLE SNAPPED INTO THE BOAT STRIKING THE OPERATOR ABOVE THE LEFT EYE ON THE LEFT SIDE OF HIS HEAD CAUSING A LARGE LACERATION.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0066
Date: 2010-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LOWER COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: YUMA
County: YUMA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person Ejected from Vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
THIS IS A VESSEL INJURY COLLISION OCCURRING ON THE COLORADO RIVER SOUTH OF MONKEY ISLAND ON 6/10/10 AT APPROX. 1800HRS. THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL WAS ATTEMPTING TO SLOW DOWN WHEN HIS WIFE MOVED FROM THE REAR SEAT TO THE SEAT LOCATED NEXT TO THE OPERATOR. THE OPERATOR WAS MOVING A STEP AWAY FROM HIS WIFES SEAT WHEN THE VESSEL VEERED LEFT INTO THE BRUSH LINE OF THE RIVER EDGE. THE OPERATOR TURNED THE VESSEL RIGHT TILTING THE VESSEL CAUSING ONE PASSEENGER AT THE BOW OF THE VESSEL TO FALL INTO THE WATER AND HIT WIFE TO COLLIDE INTO THE OPERATORS CONSOLE. OPERATORS WIFE WAS FLOWN OUT AND THE PASSENGER THAT FELL INTO THE WATER WAS TRANSPORTED BY LAND TO YUMA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER FOR FURTHER TREATMENT. THERE WERE 2 PASSENGERS ON BOARD THE VESSEL AT THE TIME OF THE COLLISION. ALL PARTIES WERE NOT WEARING PFDS AT THE TIME OF THE COLLSION. THE TOTAL ESTIMATE DAMAGE WAS APPROX. $500 BRUSH DAMAGE. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ALCOHOL AS A FACTOR IN THIS COLLION. NO CITATIONS WERE ISSUED. NO FURTHER ACTION TAKEN.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0067
Date: 2010-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityTown: PAGE
County: COCONINO COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/7/10 HOUSEBOAT "IVY LEAGUE" LEFT ITS SLIP AND STRUCK HOUSEBOAT "IMAGINATION DRIVING A JETSKI" RESTING ON "IMAGINATIONS" HETSKI RAMP THROUGH THE PLASTIC SIDING STERN OF "IMAGINATION".


BARDID: AZ-2010-0068
Date: 2010-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LOWER COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: YUMA
County: YUMA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier Mishap
RedactedNarrative:
THIS IS A SINGLE VESSEL INJURY COLLISION THAT OCCURRED ON THE COLORADO RIVER SOUTH OF WHITE ROCK ON JUNE 25, 2010 AT APPROX. 1515HRS. THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL SAID THAT THEY WERE TUBING NORTHBOUND ON THE COLORADO RIVER SOUTH OF WHITE ROCK WHEN THE VICTIMS LEFT LEG FELL BETWEEN THE TUBE AND WATER AND TWISTED HIS LEFT KNEE. THE MALE SUBJECT WAS TRANSPORTED TO YUMA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER FOR FURTHER TREATMENT BY RURAL METRO. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ALCOHOL WAS A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT. NO FURTHER ACTION TAKEN.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0069
Date: 2010-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
BOAT 1 MADE A LEFT TURN BEHIND THE DREAM CATCHER IN DOING SO BOAT 2 RAN INTO THE STARBOARD SIDE OF BOAT 1.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0070
Date: 2010-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:10:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAVASU
NearestCityTown: LAKE HAVASU CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL
RedactedNarrative:
WATERCRAFT 1 MADE A WIDE TURN TO ITS STARBOARD SIDE. WATERCRAFT 1 THEN WENT TO SPLASH WATERCRAFT 2 AND RAN OVER THE STARBOARD SIDE OF WATERCRAFT 2. WATERCRAFT 1'S BOW AND PORTSIDE TRAVELED APPROX. MIDSHIP UP AND OVER THE HELM OF WATERCRAFT 2. WATERCRAFT 2 WAS TRAVELING IN A STRAIGHT LINE WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0071
Date: 2010-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:26:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/10 at approx 1026 hrs i responded to a minor injury personal watercraft vs swimmer accident that occurred on the colorado river south of davis dam. Upon arrival i contacted the victim. Victim stated she was swimming adjacent the arizona shoreline when she was struck on her left side by a personal watercraft. Victim was approximately 15 feet from the high water mark. Victim was transported to teh western arizona reginal medical center for the contusions to her right side and right thigh. Via bullhead city fire department. Operator told me he was operating his rented personal watercraft northbound on the colorado rtiver approximately 25 feet from the high water mark. At this time a wake caused operator's watercraft to turn to starboard(right) towards the shore. Operator turned to port(left) and pulled the emergency shutoff. At this time the right rear end of operator's watercraft struck  a swimmer. Operator stopped to check on the swimmer and mcso and bhcfd were contacted. There was no sign of alcohol use from either victim or operator. Operator was later issued a citation for ars 5-346b operate personal watercraft too close to swimmer.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0072
Date: 2010-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:02:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator Inattention
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE
AccidentCause3: EXCESSIVE SPEED
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH AND TURNED LEFT WITHOUT LOOKING TO MAKE SURE IT WAS SAFE TO DO SO. OPERATOR OF V1 STATED HE WAS GOING APPROX. 10 TO 20MPH. VESSEL 2 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH AND STRUCK V1 AS IT TURNED INTO HIS PATH. V2 STATED THAT HE WAS GOING AS FAST AS THE PWC WOULD GO, APPROX. 53MPH.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0074
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:11:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE COLORADO RIVER
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with Recreational Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF V2 STATED HE TURNED INTO THE SHORE TO PARK WHEN HE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER PWC. THE OPERATOR OF V2 STATED THAT HE WAS TRAVELING AT APPROX. 5MPH AND THE OTHER PWC WAS TRAVELING AT APPROX. 30MPH. OFFICERS WERE UNABLE TO LOCATE THE OTHER PWC. THE REGISTRATION NUMBER GIVEN BY OPERATOR OF V2 WAS LISTED IN THE NARRATIVE OF THIS REPORT, BUT NOT ADDED TO THIS FORM WITHOUT FURTHER VERIFICATION.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0075
Date: 2010-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MOHAVE
NearestCityTown: BULLHEAD CITY
County: MOHAVE COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation Rules Violation
AccidentCause2: OPERATOR INATTENTION
AccidentCause3: IMPROPER LOOKOUT
AccidentEvent1: Person Struck by Vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/17/10 AT APPROX. 1730HRS. operator WAS OPERATING A PWC IN THE NO WAKE ZONE IN CABINSITE COVE ON LAKE MOHAVE. AS HE CAME INTO THE SHORE SHE STRUCK swimmer ON THE TOP OF HIS HEAD WHILE HE WAS SWIMMING CLOSE TO SHORE. swimmer WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL HOSPITAL. operator WAS CITED FOR RECKLESS OPERATION.


BARDID: AZ-2010-0076
Date: 2010-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: AZ
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAGUARO LAKE
NearestCityTown: MESA
County: MARICOPA COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: OVERLOADING
AccidentCause3: HULL FAILURE
AccidentEvent1: Person Departed Vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person Struck by Propeller
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/15/2010 AT ABOUT 1715HRS I WAS DISPATCHED TO A CALL OF AN INJURED FEMALE AT SAGUARO LAKE NEAR BOAT RAMP 2. WHILE ENROUTE I WAS INFORMED SHE WAS HIT BY THE PROP. WHEN I CONTACTED THE INJURED FEMALE SHE SAID SHE WAS ON THE FRONT OF HER ROOMMATES BOAT. SHE SAID THE OPERATOR WAS OPERATING THE BOAT AND IT STARTED FILING WITH WATER. SHE THOUGHT THE BOAT WOULD SINK SO WHILE IT WAS STILL GOING FORWARD SHE JUMPED OFF THE FRONT STARBOARD SIDE AND THE BOAT RAN OVER HER. SHE WAS CUT BY THE PROP ON THE END OF HER RIGHT BIG TOE AND HAD A CUT ON THE INSIDE OF HER LEFT CALF. I DID NOT SEE THE INJURIES AS THE CITIZENS HELPING HER HAD ALREADY PLACED A BANDAGE OVER HER WOUNDS. THE OWNER AND OPERATOR OF THE BOAT HAD TAKEN THE BOAT OUT OF THE WATER. IT WAS A 2009 14 FOOT TRACKER WITH A 25HP MOTOR. THE OEPRATOR SHOWED SIGNS OF BEING IMPARIED BY ALCOHOL. HE HAD HIS 2 GRANDDAUGHTERS AND HIS ROOMMATE (INJURED PARTY)ON THE BOAT. IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE BOAT IS ONLY RATED FOR 3 PEOPLE. HE SAID THE BOAT STARTED TAKING ON WATER AND THE INJURED PARTY JUMPED OFF THE FRONT STARBOARD SIDE OF THE BOAT. HE TRIED TO TURN TO MISS HER, BUT LEFT THE ENGINE ON AND HIT HER. A MAN ON A JET SKI TOOK THE INJURED FEMALE TO SHORE. THE BOAT SANK UNTIL THE INSIDE WAS FULL OFF WATER, THEN STOPPED. ANOTHER BOATER TOWED THE BOAT IN AND ALSO TOOK THE TWO YOUNG GIRLS INTO THIER BOAT. THE INJURED FEMALE WAS TRANSPORTED TO BANNER BAYWOOD HOSPITAL FOR HER INJURIES. THE OEPRATOR WAS ARRESTED FOR OUI. NOTHING FURTHER.


