# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: FL-2017-0750
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: SEWALLS POINT
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling southwest towards the Stuart Causeway from the east side of the waterway.  Vessel 2 was heading south on the east side of the waterway.  Vessel 2 and Vessel 1 collided approximately 1/2 mile north of the causeway.  Vessel 1 stopped and assisted in recovering the operator from Vessel 2 and assisted in CPR while returning to the dock.  V2 operator was transported to Martin Memorial North Hospital. 

Operator2:Multiple blunt trauma injuries, including left posterior rib fractures, hemothoraces (status post chest tube insertions), vertebral column fractures (thoracic), soft tissue blood extravasations, lacerations of kidneys/avulsions of kidneys, left ramus pubis fracture, subarachnoid blood extravasations, and skin injuries.


BARDID: FL-2017-0751
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:14:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOSTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: NORTH PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, 06/27/2017 at approximately 1114 hours, Boating Fatality # FWSA17OFF5893 occurred at the Old Port Cove Marina north docks, in Palm Beach County, Florida. Vessel 1 (V1 - DO 1277197) - a 2006 164 foot Westport Shipyard Inc Motor Yacht) was docked at the Old Port Cove Marina north dock at 116  Lakeshore Dr., North Palm Beach, FL 33408 when the incident occurred. 

The Motor Yacht (M/Y) Honey hired the cleaning company Eastern Marine Services to clean the bottom of the vessel. At approximately 1114 hrs, while the contracted diver was cleaning the vessel’s hull, the first mate Operator turned on the starboard bow thruster while the vessel was moored to the dock. After activating the bow thruster, Operator reported hearing a “clunking” noise and feeling a vibration, which was not a typical noise, and shut off the bow thruster. Operator reported he looked in the water near the vicinity of the thrusters to investigate the noise and observed a brush and its bristles floating in the water. He also observed what he thought were pieces of hair. 

At approximately 1120 Hrs., Operator called the dive company Eastern Marine Services to check if they had a scheduled diver in the water to clean the vessel’s hull. Company confirmed a diver was contracted to clean the hull of the M/Y Honey. At 1122 hours, Operator contacted U.S Coast Guard and notified them of the incident. Company with Eastern Marine Services also responded by boat. When he arrived on scene, he went into the water to look for victim. Company located Victim on the bottom and brought him to the surface. Victim was pulled onto the dock by emergency medical service personnel. Victim was declared deceased on scene by North Palm Beach Emergency Medical Service personnel at approximately 1201 hours.

 Chopping wounds of head.


BARDID: FL-2017-0752
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:34:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20, 2017 at approximately 23:35 hours, a vessel accident occurred on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) on the east side of the channel.  Vessel 1 (V1), a 31-foot 2000 Angler Marine, center console with two people on board was traveling southbound on the ICW to Bokampers.  

The accident occurred in a 25 MPH zone just south of the Commercial Blvd Bridge and north of the East Oakland Park Blvd Bridge.  Operator1 was operating V1 when he was on plane where he ramped vessel (V2) from the stern and exited through the starboard gunwale.  Vessel 2 (V2), a 22-foot 1998 Twin Vee Boats, center console was operated by Operator2 with 3 occupants.  V2 was traveling southbound on the ICW Bokampers.  

Operator2 and occupant1 of V2 were impacted by V1 and pushed into the center console.  Both operator and occupant were pronounced deceased at Broward Hospital.  Two others from V2 were transported to the hospital with minor injuries.  

V2 occupant1 had a left skull fracture, right lower leg fracture, liver laceration, hair missing from top of head on upper left side, badly fractured skull, lots of bleeding in the brain, head injury was cause of fatality.  

Operator2 head trauma, lung contusion, multi-facial fractures, skull fracture, left eye globe rupture, and brain material in left eye, forehead injuries.  He was pronounced dead by Broward Health on 05/23/17.

V2 Occupant3:Hurt knee and bruises

V2 Occupant2:Head injury, strained muscles in neck and bruises


BARDID: FL-2017-0753
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-12-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COMMUNITY HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 was docking when his vessel lost power and struck V02

I, Officer of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was in uniform on state water patrol, in Tavernier Creek, on December 7th, 2017, at approximately 1400hours. I was patrolling through Tavernier, Monroe County, State of Florida with my field training officer. 

Officer2 received a phone call on his state issued cell phone from his Lieutenant regarding a boating accident that had occurred on 12/3/17. Miami Dispatch had the reporting party’s phone number in our CAD system. I called subject and set up a meeting with him at his vessel that was docked at Mangrove Marina in Tavernier. 

We arrived at Mangrove Marina via patrol vessel and were waved down by Subject. Subject was sitting on the back deck of his vessel (Document number DO569171). I docked the patrol vessel along the starboard stern of his vessel. I asked Subject for his driver’s license and documentation for his vessel. I then asked Subject to tell me what had happened on 12/3/17 regarding the boating accident. 
	
	Subject stated that he was in his salon when he heard a commotion and saw antennas heading towards his vessel. He saw another vessel, "Pronto Due" from Chicago IL, crash into his starboard aft corner, and swim platform. He then saw the vessel, Pronto Due, hit another vessel parked at ASAP Barge and Crane Service’s dock, then hit the mangroves. Subject states that Mangrove Marina personnel helped push the vessel into the slip next to him. He states that the owner of Pronto Due, then apologized and said he would pay for the damages.  (see attached sworn written statement)


BARDID: FL-2017-0754
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-11-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE TALQUIN
NearestCityorTown: QUINCY
County: GADSDEN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 and his nephew launched Operator1's new Nitro bass boat in Lake Talquin for a day of fishing. ON the same morning, Operator2 and his wife launched their Stratos bass boat on the lake.  Around 9:30 a.m. Operator1 was running west bound on the lake toward the dam, and Operator2 was running east on the lake, the vessels were in a head-on situation. Each operator saw the other boat coming toward them and took actions to avoid each other too late and collided. 

The bow of Operator2's boat struck the port side of Operator1's boat causing Operator2 and his v1 occupant to be ejected.  Operator2 climbed back into his boat and attended to his injured wife. V1 occupant was not located at the time of the accident, emergency personnel recovered his body 4 days later.; VICTIM HAD A BROKEN LOWER JAW, BLEEDING ON THE BRAIN, BROKEN UPPER LEFT ARM, BROKE RIBS, BROKEN LEFT LEG; 

V2 occupant suffered:SEVERAL BROKEN RIBS, LACERATIONS AND WAS UNCONSCIOUS; 

OPERATOR2:CONTUSION ON LEG


BARDID: FL-2017-0755
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TARPON POINT BAY
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Owner/Operator attempted to maneuver Ves1 into slip when wind increase causing Ves1 to make contact with Ves2's pulpit. While doing so, Occ1 was injured attempting to stop Ves1 from striking Ves2. 
Occupant was contacted. Same advised he had injured his left knee. A contusion was visible to the outer side of the knee and a small laceration to the front of the knee. 
The Occupant stated he was assisting the Owner of Ves1 in placing Ves1 in the slip.  Occupant advised he was standing on the bow area of the vessel attempting to push away from Ves2's pulpit. In doing so, the rail of Ves1 broke as Ves1 made contact with Ves2. 
This action caused the Occupant to make contact with the rail and/or the pulpit of Ves2, causing the injury. Occupant refused medical treatment to responding EMS unit.


BARDID: FL-2017-0756
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling southbound to the Intracoastal Waterway approaching the Flagler Memorial Bridge. Information on Vessel #1 is very limited. 

Vessel #1 was a large trawler type boat estimated between 45-65' and named "Cannoneer". Vessel #2 and Vessel #3 were both unoccupied and properly docked in the Palm Beach Yacht Club, Vessel #2 was in slip #12 facing northbound. Vessel #3 was in slip #14 also facing northbound. The Palm Beach Yacht Club is located within a properly posted Slow Speed/Minimum Wake Zone. 

Vessel #1 failed to slow enough as it passed through the zone and created a large wake that was pushed into the Yacht Club. Vessel #2 and Vessel #3 were lifted and pushed against the wooden dock by the wake created by Vessel #1. Vessel #2 sustained gel-coat damage to the starboard side estimated at $1000. Vessel #3 sustained gel-coat damage to the port side estimated at $1000. Attempts to locate Vessel #1 southbound on the Intracoastal Waterway ended with negative results. There were no injuries as result of the boating accident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0757
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HURRICANE PASS
NearestCityorTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the personal watercraft was transiting Hurricane Pass towards the Gulf of Mexico. While passing Nav Aid 7A, operator took an aggressive turn to port and was ejected from his watercraft. Operator was transiting with other water craft operators and they observed him make the hard turn and separate from the watercraft. The operator was found face down in the water and quickly taken on board another watercraft and then to shore where emergency services took him to Mease Dunedin Hospital nearby. There was a laceration on the operators lower lip but it was not determined what impact caused this due to no evidence to support it. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0760
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-11-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:03:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHN'S RIVER
NearestCityorTown: COCOA
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 12, 2017, at approximately 1430 hours, Operator launched his vessel (V-1) from Leroy Wright boat ramp on the St. John’s River Brevard County Florida. Operator and three occupants headed southwest towards the St. John’s River. Operator was the operator of the V-1, and three people were occupants. At approximately 1700 hours, V-1 was being operated between the Leroy Wright Boat Ramp and the fishing pier when the operator made a hard port side turn while releasing the throttle.
The vessel took on water on the starboard side which resulted in V-1 capsizing. The vessel began sinking rapidly and all occupants were forced to go into the water. The operator and one occupant were rescued by Good Sarmatians.  Two of the occupants were found deceased underwater by Brevard County dive team near the shoreline of the boat ramp approximately four hours later. Both Operator and occupant1 were uninjured and declined medical treatment on scene. 
Autopsy report from Medical Examiner's Office is currently not complete.


BARDID: FL-2017-0761
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis 
On June 3rd, 2017, at 23:47 hours, a single vessel collision occurred on the Indian River Lagoon/ICW in Vero Beach, FL. Six occupants were onboard when the vessel struck channel marker number 149, an unlit metal day board while under way at an unsafe speed. The collision resulted in serious bodily injuries to 1 occupant and fatal injuries to another occupant. Alcohol was determined to be a contributing factor in the collision.
Injured victim’s injuries included lacerations on his spleen, a hematoma on his liver, and fractured ribs. He was transported to Indian River Medical Center and he was later transferred to Lawnwood Regional Medical.
Deceased victim: There is a 6.5 cm oblique gaping wound of the left parietal scalp. The wound margins exhibit dark red to dark brown abrasion. There is a 2.5 cm laceration just above the left ear. There is a 22.0 x 10.0 cm area of red abrasion/contusion extending from the lateral check and face to the lateral left neck, preauricualr region, and left ear.  There is a 30.0 x 15.cm area of red abrasion/contusion of the left chest. There is a 3.5 x 2.0 cm purple-red contusion of the left hip area.  There is an 18.0 x 15.0 cm area of red abrasion/contusion of the left knee and left interior thigh. There is a complete fracture of the distal shaft of the left femur. 
There is a 14.0 x 6.5 cm gaping chop type wound on the left lower leg. The wound extends into the subcutaneous tissue and the underlying tibia in the oblique pattern. There are multiple red contusions on the right lower leg, 1-3 cm in greatest dimensions. The anterior left ribs 3 through 9 exhibit fracture, with multiple displaced margins lacerating the adjacent pleura. There is a liquid and clotted blood within the right pleural cavity and left pleural cavity, approximately 250 cc left and 1350 cc right. There is a laceration of the posterior left ventricle of the heart and pericardial sac. 

There is a laceration of the superior vena cava at the right atrium. There are capsular lacerations of the right superior liver. There is partial atelectasis of the left and right lungs. The posterior left lung exhibits four lacerations. There is subarachnoid hemorrhage of the cerebrum and cerebellum. There is complete basilar hinge fracture of the temporal skull through the pituitary sella.


BARDID: FL-2017-0762
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: RIVER RANCH CANAL
NearestCityorTown: AUBURNDALE
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Drug
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis 
On April 21st, 2017, at approximately 15:55 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Dispatch received a call of a single vessel accident that occurred on the Kissimmee River just outside of the West Gate River Ranch Marina, in Polk County. The vessel (herein referred to as V1) was underway at a high rate of speed with only the operator on-board. 

Operator was observed operating his vessel south in the River Ranch Canal by witnesses in a separate vessel. The witnesses believe Operator was operating at a speed of approximately 70 mph when a gust of wind caused his vessel to lift and exit the water.  After the vessel left the water, the stern of the vessel re-entered the water first followed by the bow of the vessel. It is at this time that Operator was thrown from the vessel into the canal where he was later located. Good Samaritans directly on scene attempted to locate Operator but were unsuccessful during their initial search. 
Emergency personnel arrived on scene and began search efforts to recover Operator. Operator was located on April 22nd by the Polk County Dive Team in 30 feet of water. 
Autopsy findings. 1.	Drowning  2.	Hypertensive heart disease. A. left ventricular hypertrophy  B. cardiomegaly (490 grams)  3.  Nephrosclerosis 4. Pulmonary emphysema 5. Hepatomegaly (2250 grams) 6. Drug abuse a. Cannabinoids (urine) Cause of death: drowning Manner of death: accident. The following injuries were noted: Neck: The body of the 7th cervical vertebra has non-displaced fracture. The anterior aspects of the right 3rd-5th rib have non-displaced factures.  Toxicology 78 mg g/dl (o.07 d/dl) of Ethanol in blood, 82 mg/dl (0.08 g/dl) of Ethanol in urine and 72 mg/dl (0.07g/dl) of Ethanol in vitreous humor. Postmortem blood drug screen is negative. Postmortem urine drug screen is positive for cannabinoids. The green leafy substance was positive for Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol.


BARDID: FL-2017-0763
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-11-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:17:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 17th, 2017, vessel one (V1), a 30’ cabin motor boat with one occupant and a dog, was involved in a boating accident on Tampa Bay in Hillsborough County. V1 was reported over due by a family member of the occupant after not returning. V1 was located adrift and unoccupied on November 18th, 2017. The occupant has not been found.


BARDID: FL-2017-0764
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LOUISE
NearestCityorTown: WINDERMERE
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling southeast across Lake Louise and Vessel 2 was traveling northwest. The sun had set and being that Vessel 1 was a PWC, it had no navigation lights. Vessel 2 had navigation lights and they were illuminated. Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 approached each other as they rounded a bend in the shoreline. Vessel 2 took evasive action to avoid collision by making a hard right turn. Vessel 2 operator said it appeared as though Vessel 1 took the same action which put them back on a collision course. Vessel 2 turned back left putting his vessel perpendicular to Vessel 1. Vessel 2 operator said it appeared as though Vessel 1 was now headed back towards him so he accelerated to try and avoid collision. Vessel 1 continued on a direct course toward Vessel 2 striking it on the starboard side. Both the operator and occupant of Vessel 1 were ejected from the vessel. Operator of Vessel 1 was later pronounced dead at the hospital. victim1: 3 BROKEN RIBS, PELVIS FRACTURED IN 5 PLACES; victim2:LIVER LACERATIONS, A FRACTURED PELVIS AND HEMORRHAGING IN THE BRAIN. THE CAUSE OF DEATH WAS BLUNT FORCE INJURIES AND THE MANNER OF DEATH WAS AN ACCIDENT.; victim3:TORN LIGAMENT RIGHT KNEE, RIGHT ARM CONTUSION. ; victim4:BROKEN VERTEBRAE, SHATTERED TAILBONE, ABRASIONS AND CONTUSIONS. Victim5:ABRASIONS


BARDID: FL-2017-0765
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-12-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINE ISLAND SOUND
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to interview statements, on Sunday, December 17th, 2017, around 1735 hours victim was operating the 19 foot Key West.  While operating the helm, he left the vessel in gear and walked to the bow.  No one was in actual physical control of the vessel.  The vessel struck a sandbar ejecting victim off the bow.  The vessel continued to make way and struck victim.  He died on scene.  The three other occupants were uninjured.  
1. Sharp Traumatic Injuris of the Chest 	a. Chop wound of the right upper chest wall 	b.Intramucular hemorrhages. 	c. Fractures of right ribs 4 and 5. 2. Sharp Traumatic Injuries of right upper extremity. 	a. Chop wounds of right axilla and upper arm. 	b. Transection of right brachial plexus. 	c. Compound comminuted fractures of right humerus. 	d. Compound commiunuted fractures of right radius. 	e. Chop wounds of right forearm. 	f. Chop wound and lacerations of right hand. 	g. Fracture of right fifth metacarpal. 3. Mild cardiomegaly. 4. Mild pulmonary edema. 5. Horseshoe kidneys, incidental. 6. Mild cerebral edema.  Cause of death: Exsanguination due to Chop Wounds of right upper extremity. Manner of death:  Accident  Toxicology: Iliac blood screening result for Ethanol was listed at 0.197 g/dL. Cannabinoids screening results suggests the need for further testing. Vitreous blood screening result for Ethanol was listed at 0.186 g/dL.


BARDID: FL-2017-1005
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-19 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: Miami Beach
County: Miami-Dade
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media rescue crews took three people to the hospital after, officials said, they were involved in a boat accident near the 79th Street Causeway, Saturday afternoon. Miami Beach Fire Rescue responded to the scene after they received a distress call stating that a vessel had struck a channel marker. They found 3 people with serious injuries on board a boat, one suffered large lacerations on the head.  One of the boaters ended up in the water.  http://wsvn.com/news/local/2-injured-after-reported-boat-accident-near-79th-street-causeway/


BARDID: FL-2017-1006
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Pinellas
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media Pinellas County responded to a jet ski accident near Caladesi Island. The call came in at 2:37 p.m. and the incident reportedly involves two jet skis. The accident was between a father and son on a guided tour. They collided and the son was transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  http://www.abcactionnews.com/news/jet-ski-accident-near-caladesi-island-one-person-airlifted


BARDID: FL-2017-1007
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
County: Miami-Dade
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media and Misle - three men were rescued after their boat capsized in the waters off Key Biscayne Saturday morning. The men were on a 20-foot boat when it capsized about four miles east of Bill Baggs State Park around 10 a.m.  A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue boat responded and pulled the men out of the water. The three men were treated and released.  It's unknown what caused the boat to capsize.
http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/3-Men-Rescued-From-Capsized-Boat-Off-Key-Biscayne-420813223.html#ixzz4fvplt3aD


BARDID: FL-2017-1008
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-16 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Escambia
NearestCityorTown: McDavid
County: Escambia
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media A man was airlifted to a Pensacola hospital after a canoe accident on the Escambia River this morning. The incident happened near the Cotton Lake Boat Ramp south of McDavid. The man was pulled from the water by fishermen who were nearby, according to bystanders. He was transported by LifeFlight helicopter to Baptist Hospital in Pensacola. The McDavid and Molino stations of Escambia Fire Rescue and Escambia County EMS also responded to the call. 
http://www.northescambia.com/2017/05/man-airlifted-to-hospital-after-escambia-river-canoe-accident


BARDID: FL-2017-1009
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne
NearestCityorTown: Miami
County: Miami-Dade
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Carbon monoxide exposure
AccidentCause1: Carbon monoxide exposure
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media in Biscayne Bay, firefighters evacuated two female boaters when carbon monoxide from their boat’s engine somehow made it into the cabin, making the women dizzy and weak.  One of the women was transported to Mercy Hospital, and the other was treated at the scene.

Miami Fire Rescue arrived at about 2 p.m. to a 33-foot boat that was in the middle of Biscayne Bay with multiple people on board.  The boat checked out OK and was allowed to continue on its way.  
https://www.local10.com/news/2-women-on-boat-feel-weak-dizzy-after-carbon-monoxide-exposure-authorities-say


BARDID: FL-2017-1010
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media and Misle Coast Guard Rescues 2 Boaters, Dog Near Haulover Inlet
10/29/17 - Haulover Inlet, FL
Two people and their dog were rescued from a boat that was taking on water near Haulover Inlet Sunday, U.S. Coast Guard officials said. A Coast Guard boat and helicopter responded around 4:30 p.m. after receiving a report of the vessel taking on water near the inlet. The boaters and their dog were safely rescued, and no injuries were reported. They later posed for a photo with the Coast Guard crew.
https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Coast-Guard-Rescues-2-Boaters-Dog-Near-Haulover-Inlet-454104193.html


BARDID: FL-2017-1011
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-11-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a Coast Guard MISLE report, a 48-ft vessel carrying two people onboard was on fire for unknown reasons.  The two people, who had been sleeping before they noticed smoke, were rescued.  There was an estimated $80k in damages to the boat.  The two people were reported to have breathed in heavy smoke prior to evacuation.  They were treated by paramedics and taken to a medical center.


BARDID: FL-2017-1012
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-12-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:28:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: FREEPORT
County: Walton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On december 29, 2017 at approximately 1328 hrs, two individuals were recreational fishing on alaqua creek, just north of choctawhatchee bay, aboard a 14 foot open motor boat.  While drifting down the creek, the outboard engine was off and the vessel owner/operator was attempting to clear an entanglement of fishing line in the trolling motor from the bow of the vessel.  The second individual was fishing in the rear of the vessel and fell overboard into the water. The owner/op was able to grab the occupant but was unable to pull him inside the vessel. With assistance from a good sam the occupant was recovered but unresponsive.
M.e. noted cause of death as drowning, no autopsy would be performed, toxicology was requested of the deceased, report has not been received as of 4/23/18.


BARDID: FL-2017-1013
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Andrews Bay
County: Bay
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to New Media - A late night boating accident in Bay County Saturday sent two people to the hospital, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Officers. Driver hit a buoy in St. Andrews Bay south of the Hathaway Bridge. Three other people were on board the boat at the time of the crash. Officers said the impact caused one to fly off the vessel. She was transported to Bay Medical Center as a precaution. Another was was treated at the hospital for a broken arm.  http://www.mypanhandle.com/don-t-miss/two-hospitalized-following-boating-accident/813065018


BARDID: FL-2017-1020
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: Homestead
County: Miami-Dade
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media - A houseboat was destroyed after it caught fire off South Miami-Dade, Saturday afternoon.Big flames shooting from the 50-foot vessel floating just off shore near the Homestead Bayfront Park.
Firefighters eventually put out the blaze.
No one was injured.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation


BARDID: FL-2018-0001
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SARASOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 traveling northbound in ICW, Sarasota Bay at high speed.  V1 struck wave and the wind lifted the bow up into the air.  V1 flipped over backwards, capsizing.
Operator sustained several injures.  He had three broken ribs, a laceration to his lower right leg and ankle requiring 30 stitches, a laceration to his left cheek, a sinus fracture, 3 compressed discs in his back, and contusions on his chest and back.  Occupant suffered a broken right arm and multiple contusions on both arms and legs.


BARDID: FL-2018-0002
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STATE WATERS
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 3rd, 2018, V1 was ordered by Key West Bight Marina to move his vessel into another slip. While do so, the captain of vessel 1 experienced engine failure in his starboard engine and was pushed into two docked vessels by high winds. While trying to moore up to the dock, the vessel was again pushed by high winds into a third vessel, causing damage to all vessels involved.


BARDID: FL-2018-0003
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel 1 was entering the Ocean Reef area at approximately 1:28 PM Thursday January 4, 2018 on a 11 foot PWC (FL REG #3359 RF). The vessel entered the marked path at approximately 30 MPH. The operator stated that he was not paying attention and released the throttle when approaching channel marker 15. The PWC struck the channel marker on the port side causing significant damage. The PWC began to sink and the occupants stayed with the PWC until someone arrived.


BARDID: FL-2018-0005
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SARASOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: LONGBOAT KEY
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/7/18, all 5 subjects were in the canoe fishing the area of Sister Keys/ Long Bar in Manatee county.  While fishing the subjects canoe capsized and all 5 occupants went into the water. They were not able to upright their canoe.  After being in the water for approximately 40 mins a charter fishing captain saw one of the subjects waving the canoe oar around in the air.  He was able to pull all subjects onto his vessel and transport them to Cannons Marine on Longboat Key.  The 2 adult subjects were airlifted to Blake Hospital for hypothermia.  The 3 juveniles were airlifted to All Childrens Hospital for hypothermia.  All 5 subjects were eventually discharged from the hospital in good condition.


BARDID: FL-2018-0006
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WORTH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was underway westbound in the ICW with 4 people on board heading toward shore. Operator of vessel 1 had the bow of the vessel weighted down and waves began to come over the bow of the small vessel. The vessel submerged and completely sank. Four persons on the vessel, 2 children and 2 adults with no PFDs/ life jackets on the vessel ejected from the sinking vessel. Operator was operating the vessel under the influence see  PBSO Case 18-021307. The 2 children got transported by PBCFR run # 18-597 in reference to the cold conditions and there young age. Mother of the children 6/29/84 advised via phone that there was no injuries concluded with the 2 juveniles.


BARDID: FL-2018-0007
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS BACK RIVER WEST OF
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
During docking approach, vessel 1 lost engine power and proceeded to drift and turn beam into Dames Point Marina where she ended up "pinned" against the bow of vessel 2 and a dock piling. No injuries or contaminate spills. Damage to vessel 2 bow pulpit and starboard aft corner, paint damage to vessel 1 portside.


BARDID: FL-2018-0008
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEMENS LANDING YACHT BASIN
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/11/18 at approximately 1645 hours a vessel accident occurred in Pinellas County. A 28' sailboat with one POB struck an unoccupied 72 yacht that was moored at Demens Landing Marina. There were no injuries from the accident.

The operator of vessel 1 was leaving the marina in his sailboat for the purpose of recreational cruising  using a 6 horsepower outboard motor mounted on the transom for propulsion, traveling at approximately 5 mph, while steering with the sailboat's rudder. As the operator of vessel 1 was making his way out of the marina he lost steerage because a set screw that holds the steering arm onto the rudder shaft came loose, causing the loss of steering. When the operator of vessel 1 lost steerage his vessel continued straight, and struck Grand Central at an approximately 90 angle on its port side about 20 feet aft of the bow.


BARDID: FL-2018-0009
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: VENICE
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 cruising in northbound in Gulf of Mexico.  Alarms sound at the helm and smoke appears from the engine compartment.  V1 shuts down.  Dead in the water.  Taking water.  Sea Tow was called and arrived at approximately 1230 hours.  They were able to begin pumping the vessel just as it was about to sink and managed to keep it afloat.  They then towed it back into Marine Max Marina in Venice, arriving at approximately 1500 hours.  Both subjects were unharmed and the vessel was secured on a lift.  
I spoke with the two subjects.  Passenger 1 told me that at approximately 1100 hours, several alarms sounded at the helm reporting problems with the starboard engine.  At the same time, Passenger 2 noticed smoke or steam coming from the engine compartment.  She opened the hatch and smoke began to billow out.  Passenger 1 immediately brought the throttle to neutral and then shut off the engines.  Both subjects were unable to determine where the smoke was coming from but quickly realized that they seemed to be taking on water.  Passenger 1 then called into Coast Guard on VHF channel 16, requesting help.  
Both Passengers wrote and signed a sworn written statement which reflected their accounts.  I took pictures of the vessel including where the fire appeared to have started.  I was unable to determine if the fire was extinguished by the internal extinguish system or simply by the water that had been coming in.  Both twin Cummins diesel 425 HP engines had been almost completely submerged as well as the generator. The estimate of damage I was told was approximately $550,000.  There were no injuries to the subjects on board.  End of report.


BARDID: FL-2018-0011
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER FEDERAL PT
NearestCityorTown: PALATKA
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was idling south bound around Federal Point on the St Johns River operated by operator 2 with passenger 2 onboard at approximately 1200 hrs.  V1 was also south bound operated by operator 1 going to Palatka docks where his truck and trailer were.  V1 was going approx 20 mph when it hit the back of V2 and ran up the stern.  Passenger 2 was sitting on the stern and saw V1 as it hit V2.  She tried to deflect the bow and was ejected from V2.  She was not wearing a PFD.  After a brief struggle she was pulled onto the boat and was rushed back to Crystal Cove where she was examined by EMS.  She refused to be taken to the hospital at that time but said she might go to the hospital in Jacksonville.  The operator of V1, Operator 1, stated that V2 was in the sun's glare and he did not see the vessel until he hit it.  Operator 1 was issued a citation for violation of navigational rules (rule 8 Action to avoid collision) and a warning for careless operation of a vessel.  He did not have any insurance and stated the he would cover all expenses.


BARDID: FL-2018-0012
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Commercial vessel (V1) was transitting south of Key West during night and struck sailing vessel (V2) while it was anchored. No injuries.

Operator 1 was transiting from Stock Island to the Gulf of Mexico at approximately 17 knots. While just south of Key West he observed a dim anchor light in the distance. The operator continued to transit and then observed an anchored sailing vessel just ten feet off his bow. The commercial vessel then grazed the stern of the anchored sailing vessel. Operator 1 then slowed down, assessed his vessel damage and then assessed for damage and injuries on the sailing vessel. Operator 1 stated no parties were injured.


BARDID: FL-2018-0013
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/2/18 a 31’ foot vessel (vessel 1) was moored.  The owner of vessel had started one of the two engines and when trying to start the second engine vessel 1 exploded for unknown reasons. The explosion caused the vessel to catch fire which then spread to vessel 4 which was stored on land nearby.  The flames had also caused some damage to two other vessels moored nearby, a 41 foot (vessel 2) and a 39 foot (vessel 3)


BARDID: FL-2018-0015
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HALIFAX RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ORMOND BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 01-02-2018 at approximately 12:20am, V1, a white 2009 McMaster Yacht (Documented Vessel #DO1237560) was traveling south on the Halifax river as it approached the draw bridge on Highbridge Road.  After notifying the bridge tender of its intent to pass through, the bridge tender activated the bridge but was only able to open the east side of the lift gate due to previous mechanical issues.  
     As V1 began to pass though the opened lift gate, a strong gust of wind out of the east pushed V1 into the closed west side lift gate.  As a result of the contact, V1 sustained a large amount of damage to the upper starboard brow (fiberglass).  The bridge sustained damage to a small lubrication/grease line junction box that was attached to the west lift gate.  No injuries occurred as a result of this vessel crash and no other damages occurred.


BARDID: FL-2018-0016
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-01-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: DANIA BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
WHILE DOCKED AT THE DANIA BEACH MARINA, OWNER AND OCCUPANT WERE SLEEPING IN THE REAR CABIN, WHEN A NEIGHBOR AT APPROXIMATELY 0400 HRS WOKE THEM UP AND ADVISED THEM THAT THEIR VESSEL WAS ON FIRE. OWNER AND OCCUPANT EXITED THE VESSEL WITH NO INJURIES. THE VESSEL SUSTAINED FIRE DAMAGE AND WAS A COMPLETE LOSS. UNABLE TO DETERMINE CAUSE DUE TO DAMAGE.


BARDID: FL-2018-0017
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAE ISLE MARINA
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
A 30’ foot sail boat was returning to is slip in sea Isle Marina, while trying to get in the slip the sail boat hit 4 other vessels moored up at sea isle marina. The collision caused various damage to all vessel involved in the collision.

Throughout January multiple attempts were made by phone and stopping at Sea Isle Marina to contact  Passenger 1 and Passenger 2 by Officer 1 and Officer 2. No successful contacts were made with either parties. On January 29, 2018 Officer 3 was able to make contact with Passenger 1 at slip 109 in sea isle marina on vessel 1. Passenger 1 was accompanied by Passenger 3. Passenger 3 had stated that he was also there that night but was not the operator.
Passenger 1 told Officer 3 that Passenger 2 was having an affair behind his wife’s back with her and was caught the night of the accident. Passenger 1 explained that was why Passenger 2 left and would not answer his phone, not matching the original story. Passenger 1 said she has not talked to Passenger 2 since the accident, and Passenger 2 has changed his phone number. When asked to put Passenger 2’s phone number in her phone it comes up with a contact name of “Jose Baby”. We have reason to believe that Passenger 2 is Passenger 3 but have no witnesses from the scene that can place Passenger 3 as the operator.


BARDID: FL-2018-0018
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ROCKLEDGE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/11/2018, at aproximatley 11:45 AM, I, Officer 1, of The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was on patrol when I was dispatched to a complaint of a hit and run boating accident that came in to FWC Dispatch from USCG Sector Jacksonville. USCG Jacksonville advised FWC Dispatch that the operator of vessel 1, called in a complaint that while they were underway in the Indian River, Brevard County, just off of Georgiana, that vessel 2, had struck vessel 2, causing extensive damage.  

After launching a vessel I was able to make contact with operator of vessel 1, and the operator of vessel 2. At this time I initiated a stop on vessel 2, I introduced myself to the operator of vessel 2, as Officer 1 with The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and instructed him to set anchor so I'd be able to safely conduct a boating accident investigation. The operator of vessel 2 complied with my request, additionally he advised me that he spoke a little bit of English, when I asked the operator of vessel 2 if his sailing yacht had struck vessel 1 he advised me that he did hit them, on accident. I then asked the operator of vessel 2 to explain to me what happened, he was able to explain to me that the sailing yacht vessel 1 had passed his vessel, and everything was fine, after a little bit the operator of vessel 2 advised that he went in the cabin to look at his maps, and "Boom", his vessel had run into the back of the vessel 1. I asked the operator of vessel 2 if he was able to see from inside the cabin of his vessel, and he indicated that he could not. At this time I contacted FWC Dispatch and requested them to provide me with an Agency Translator. Once on the phone with the translator, I again asked the operator of vessel 2 to explain what happened leading up to the accident; he explained the same scenario to the translator.


BARDID: FL-2018-0019
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 15, 2018 Vessel 1 was in neutral approximately 3 miles South, South East of the US Sailing club watching the regatta. Vessel 2 (unknown at this time) was filming the regatta and collided with Vessel 1s starboard side. The collision caused injuries to one of the occupants of Vessel 1,  open fracture to his right hand. Neither vessel 2 or it's operator were located.


BARDID: FL-2018-0020
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was on plane heading out of Tavernier Creek when it struck an object on its STBD forward.

The Operator stated that he was doing approximately 18 knots at the time of the accident. 
I then took several pictures of the damage to the vessel (FL5692KA). The damage includes but is not limited to several scrapes and gouges to the starboard forward of the hull’s exterior, rips in the fiberglass in the starboard forward gunwale, cap separation of the starboard forward hull, cracks in the deck from starboard midship to the fore end, and rub rail separation along most of the starboard side. (See attached photos)

	Officer 1 and Officer 2 were on a patrol vessel nearby and were helping with the initial search for the vessel. I had them go out to the marker that FL5692KA had struck to look for signs of impact. Officer 2 took several photos of the marker. (see attached photos) The last marker on the left as you are heading out to sea, had paint and fiberglass transfer that matched the color of FL5692KA. The marker (red 2) did not have the wooden dayboard, or a light on it. There were no signs that the vessel had removed the marker during the impact.


BARDID: FL-2018-0021
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: VENICE
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading south on the Gulf of Mexico about seven miles offshore from the Venice Inlet and collided with V2 heading north. V1 sustained major damage while V2 sustained no damage. Collision occurred due to heavy fog and very low visibility. There were no injuries during this collision.

Officer 1 advised that due to the very low visibility they didn't need anymore units to respond on the water and that I can standby at the marine building. At this time, Officer 1 advised that there were no injuries. The mast on the sailboat (V1) was completely dismantled and the commercial vessel (V2) did not sustain any damage.


BARDID: FL-2018-0022
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KISSIMMEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: OKEECHOBEE
County: OKEECHOBEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
CASE SUMMARY
	SYNOPSIS	
On January 31, 2018 a 1996 Stratos 201 ProXL with FL1088JN was taking on water while spending the day out fishing. The operator of the vessel decided to try and return to the marina. At 12:30pm he beached his vessel on the bank of the Kissimmee river near Okee-Tanti and called for help. A pontoon that was passing by stopped to help tow the bass boat back to Okee-Tanti Marina. While being towed in the bass boat capsized and was tied to the marina, until assistance arrived.
	INVESTIGATION
·	On January 31, 2018 I officer arrived at Okee-tanti marina
·	I found the operator and the passenger by the overturned vessel in the marina
·	I interviewed the operator
·	I interviewed the passenger
·	 Officer 1 arrived on scene 
·	I informed dispatch no one was injured 
·	Inspected the over turned vessel.
·	Officer 1 asked dispatch for Lake Tow to recover the vessel.
·	Lake Tow arrived on scene
·	The Vessel got recovered
·	No violation was found
VESSEL DESCRIPTION - V1 1996 20 Ft Stratos Boat INC. 201 ProXL. FL 1088JN Fiberglass bass boat. HIN 8NZ9K2141596. White with a blue and black stripe. 225 Yamaha Vmax outboard.
OPERATOR/OCCUPANTS - Passenger 
Operator, Owner Uninjured 
INTERVIEWS - Operator, they were on our way back from Tin House Cove and noticed he was taking on water. We beached the boat 100 yards from Okee-Tanti. Operator didn’t remember if the plug was in the boat. The boat filled up with a lot of water and they decided to beach the boat outside of Okee-Tanti Marina. Then a pontoon came by and helped tow the vessel to the marina. While being towed the vessel took on more water and the boat flipped. They swam to the pontoon and climbed on board. They finished towing the vessel and tied it to the dock.
Passenger, they were on their way back from fishing when they noticed the boat was filling up with water. They beached the boat and walked around in the Okee-Tanti campground looking for help. A pontoon came by and offered to help. While pulling the vessel it flipped over and they tied it to the dock at the marina. 
ASSESSMENTS/INSPECTIONS -Vessel had no visible damage except for it being filled with water.  
	ACCIDENT ANALYSIS Prior to the he accident no one check to see if the plug was in the boat. During the day the boat filled with water. Once the boat took on enough water and with the pull of towing the vessel it caused the boat to capsize. Then they finished towing the vessel and secured it to the dock.
CONCLUSION
Based on the evidence gathered I concluded the owner forgot to put the plug in the boat which caused the accident. No laws were violated


BARDID: FL-2018-0023
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TARPON CREEK
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The accident involved only one vessel with one occupant, owned and operated by subject. V1 was traveling east through Tarpon Creek on Sugarloaf Key with a following tidal current. He had very limited experience in the jet drive propelled vessel and upon entering the bends of the creek, let off power decreasing his steering ability. Combined with the current, he found himself on the north side of the channel in between the shore and some old wooden bridge pilings. He turned the steering wheel and increased power causing the vessel to turn and accelerate over the pilings and collide with the south shoreline. Operator was airlifted to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami. Operator was diagnosed with five broken ribs along with a punctured and collapsed lung.


BARDID: FL-2018-0024
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: HUDSON
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 12th, 2018 at approximately 4:00 P.M. Vessel one was at drift near coordinates 28”22.307 N 82”56.996 W. After putting the anchor away, the operator of the vessel attempted to close the hatch of the compartment that the anchor was stored in.   As the hatch was closing, (2yr old juvenile), reached her right hand out. The lid of the hatch closed on her fingers causing lacerations to fingers two and three on her right hand.
She was transported by EMS to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa where the injury was stitched. Medical professionals at St. Joseph’s agreed that the mechanism of injury was consistent with the above listed causation. Additionally, they stated that there should be no permanent disfiguration due to the injury.       


BARDID: FL-2018-0025
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAN CARLOS BAY
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, February 10, 2017 at approximately 1650 hours, a single vessel boating accident occurred in San Carlos Bay just southwest of Punta Rassa Cove, in Lee County, FL. The accident occurred near channel marker “11”, at approximate coordinates N26° 29.6632 W82° 00.7069. V-1 was headed north when it caught on fire. One occupant was onboard, who jumped from the boat and was picked up by a nearby vessel. The involved vessel had just been rebuilt, with work done to both engines and fuel lines, a malfunction in which likely caused the fire.


BARDID: FL-2018-0026
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MANATEE POCKET
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 10, 2018, at approximately 3:50 PM, I, Officer, of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and Officer2 also of FWC were on water patrol in Martin County. I received a call about a boating accident with injuries at Shrimpers in the Manatee Pocket.
	When I arrived on scene at 4:24 PM, Officer3 of FWC was already on scene. I observed the vessel tied to another vessel at the dock. I observed a scuff mark on the Starboard side of the vessel and 2 planks missing from the dock (see photos attached). The operator of the vessel had been transported to Martin Memorial South Hospital. The vessel identified by valid FL Registration # FL9010MU, was still on scene tied to another vessel. The passenger and only witness on the vessel wrote a sworn written statement of what had happened (see attached). 
	From my investigation, the accident happened as Operator was approaching the restaurant to dock the vessel. There is a canal that runs in-between Shrimpers Restaurant and The Square Grouper Restaurant. He entered the canal traveling west and his bimini top was caught by the wind. The vessel started moving towards a dock. Operator leaned over the starboard side of the vessel to push off the dock. His stomach bumped the throttle forward. This threw him off balance and caused his arm to exit the vessel. His arm was crushed in between the vessel and the dock. After the accident, the passenger operated the vessel and tied to another vessel. This is when authorities were notified.
	Martin County EMS arrived on scene and transported Operator to Martin Memorial South Hospital. He was treated for his injuries. Operator broke his arm in 4 places. Two of the bones broken were the Radius and Ulna. Operator had surgery that night. 
	The vessel was taken from the seen by the passenger and he operated the vessel back to Operators residence. 
	I went back to the scene to talk to the owner of the dock. The dock is owned by Manatee Marina. The subject stated that the dock was going to be fixed and the approximate cost is $25.00. 
Operator had a compound fracture on his right arm. It broke the Radius and Ulna. The bone broke through the skin and that is what caused the blood on the vessel. The subject was transported by EMS to Martin Memorial South to receive treatment.


BARDID: FL-2018-0027
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was caught in a current, attempted a turn and struck 7 mile bridge on the starboard side.
I spoke with the operator who stated he was uninjured after the accident. The operator stated that he had been trying to go under the bridge when he was caught in the strong current and got turned around. While in the current, his vessel struck the 7-mile bridge on the starboard side. This collision caused a window to be broken on that side and ripped off his hard top and the swim platform. 

	After I collected his information, and made sure he was alright and not under the influence, I documented the damage to his vessel and left to go check on the bridge. I could see no structural damage, but some scaffolding from the recent repair to the bridge had been damaged. I documented this damage, and left the scene. Due to obvious accidental nature of this collision, I issued the operator two warnings in reference to careless operation, and lack of proper lookout.


BARDID: FL-2018-0028
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY / SOUTH OF DODGE
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling West inside Fishermans Channel. V2 was docked on its port side, West of Fishermans Channel. V2's bow was facing North. V1 slowed for the slow speed zone. V1's turned North after exiting the channel. V1's wake rolled past the vessel towards V2 which was docked. The wake caused V2 to roll and make contact with the dock on the port side of the vessel. V2 sustained damage to a ten foot long area of the rub rail.


BARDID: FL-2018-0029
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHRISTMAS
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 27,2018, a boating accident occurred at Bear's Bluff Mound on the St. Johns River in Orange County at approximately 1330 hours. There were two airboats involved and possibly a third. One airboat (V-1) with two adults and two children onboard collided with a stationary airboat (V-2) with two adults onboard. The adult occupants of V-1 and a couple witnesses claim that the air thrust from a third airboat (V-3) contributed to the accident. . Major damage was sustained to V-1 and minor damage was sustained to V-2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0030
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
	On 02/14/2018 at approximately 1:55 am a vessel out fishing was involved in a boating accident. The vessel launched out of the 14th street boat ramp in Pompano beach, Florida. As the vessel came out of the Hillsborough inlet and began heading south the operator realized that the conditions off shore were a little too rough. The operator of the vessel turned the vessel around to head back in the inlet. Once the vessel was turned around and facing north, a wave hit the vessel from the starboard side and caused the vessel to push into the rocks. The vessel began taking on water. The three occupants put on life vests and then called 911. At approximately 2:10 am Broward County fire rescue and tow boat US arrived on scene. Broward county fire rescue cleared all occupants of injuries. Tow boat US did not tow the vessel due to lack of payment for towing services. The incoming tide beached the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0031
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MONROE
NearestCityorTown: SANFORD
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 14, 2018 at approximately 1219 hours, I of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was notified by FWC dispatch in reference to a possible boating accident on Lake Monroe in Seminole County, Florida. I arrived at Wayside Park boat ramp at approximately 1248 hours and made contact with the operator. The operator stated he was fishing on Lake Monroe when he observed his vessel a 16 foot, White 1997 T D Penn side console taking on water. The operator stated he attempted to turn on his vessel and it did not work. The operator stated he began to lower the engines trim. Once he lowered the engine into the water, the operator stated he stepped toward the starboard (right) side of the vessel and the vessel capsized. The operator suddenly found himself in the water clinging to his vessel. The operator was wearing a type V inflatable personal floatation device (PFD) and held on to the side of the boat. The operator stated in roughly 5 minutes a vessel with two young adults picked him up and took him to Wayside Park boat ramp. The operator was unable to provide me with any information in regards to the good Samaritans. 
A deputy and sergeant met me at the dock and transported myself and the operator to the capsized vessel. I took photographs of the vessel, see attached. The operator completed a sworn written statement, see attached. The operator was fishing in the middle of the lake. The operator did not strike a fixed object. The operator stated there were no boats around and his vessel did not get swamped. The operator stated he recently had the vessels hull refinished and worked on.  The Sea Tow Captain removed the vessel later that evening.
No Further Law Enforcement Action Taken.


BARDID: FL-2018-0032
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAVERNIER CREEK
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, operated by O1 and O2, was heading in a south easterly direction on Tavernier Creek towards the ocean side when they came around a tight corner and encountered oncoming vessel traffic. O2 turned the vessel hard to the right and lost control.  The rear of the vessel skipped across the water several times before finally “grabbing” and sending the vessel in to the mangroves.


BARDID: FL-2018-0033
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARNES SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Documented vessel was outbound from Manatee Bay on February 19th, 2018 at approximately 1300.  The vessel got over to the green side of the channel to far and struck the stern of a sailboat that was secured in a slip adjacent to the channel.  The sailboat was unmanned at the time, and no one was injured on the striking the vessel.  Some fiberglass damage was done to both vessel; the striking vessel had bow damage, the struck vessel had damage to the stern and bow.


BARDID: FL-2018-0034
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WIGGINS BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 struck V-2's starboard side stern while V-2 was docked. Off throttle steering and operator inexperience appeared to be the cause.

Operator 1 said he just purchased the vessel days prior and this was the first time he was testing it out on the water. Operator 1 advised he did not make it very far from the dock when he realized that the throttles on the vessel were very stiff and he was having trouble operating the vessel. Operator 1 then decided to turn back and dock the vessel. As he approached the dock, the throttle stuck and he was unable to turn away from a vessel that was tied up at the dock. As a result Operator 1's vessel struck the starboard side stern of V-2.

	 I interviewed Operator 2. Operator 2 advised he had just tied up his vessel at the dock and was going to retrieve his trailer. Operator 2 heard a commotion and turned around to see that Operator 1's vessel had struck his vessel.

	During this investigation, I inspected the vessel's damage and photographed them. I inspected the throttles on Operator 1's vessel, the throttles were stiff but appeared to work properly.  When I asked Operator 1 how much experience he had operating this type of vessel, he advised this was the first jet boat however he has owned other types of vessels. When interviewing Operator 1, I asked if he tried to turn away from the vessel while his boat was in neutral, what is commonly referred to as off throttle steering, he advised it was a possibility. No injuries were reported as a result


BARDID: FL-2018-0035
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. MARY'S INLET
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was traveling west bound in the St. Mary's inlet when a boat wake caused the two occupants to be ejected.

Subject said that he and another were approximately 400 yards east of Fort Clinch heading west bound in the inlet when a wave ejected them from the vessel.  A good Samaritan vessel happened to be nearby and picked the two from the water.  The vessel continued under power until it struck the north jetty of Cumberland Island.  

The vessel was registered in Florida, FL 9355 PH.  It is a 1991 15' Gheenoe.  The vessel's bow was heavily damaged.  Subject2 pulled the vessel from the jetty rocks and it was submerged while Subject2 had it under tow. At some point between the crash and removal from the jetty the vessel lost it's  25 horsepower Johnson outboard.  Subject2 did not think the vessel could be repaired.  The estimated loss was roughly $2000.00  Due to the outgoing tide and the water  depth that the crashed vessel was in I was unable to inspect the vessel.  No enforcement action was taken.


BARDID: FL-2018-0037
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE KISSIMEE
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WALES
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday 2/17/18 at approximately 1:30 p.m. FWC Dispatch received a complaint of a boating crash with injuries on Lake Kissimmee near Polluted Waters. Myself and other FWC Officers responded to that location. Once on scene at Polluted waters, we located the operator on a good Samaritan vessel. Operator was injured and was airlifted to a local hospital. Operator vessel never collided with any other vessels. The physical evidence, information gathered to date, and witness statements all show Operator is responsible for the crash.
 According to witness statements, Operator was traveling west in a narrow water/marsh path at approximately 20 to 30 MPH warming up his engine.  According to the witness, Polluted Waters is known for a racing strip due to the shallow water/ marsh area and Operator was running a couple of practice rounds. According to one witness, Vessel 1 was traveling west in the marsh when another vessel (Vessel 2) came into the path of vessel 1 and then Vessel 1 tried to avoid hitting the vessel 2. The witness advised when vessel 1 tried to power his vessel, turned vessel 1 to the right, and hit an elevated portion of dry ground/tall grass with the front right portion of vessel 1’s bow which caused vessel 1 to go airborne and twist while in the air, then falling backwards, landing on the back portion of the airboat cage. Vessel 1 rolled on its side and never collided with vessel 2
Operator’ Injuries which included four broken ribs on his right side, a bone chipped around the right orbital socket, bone chipped on his right leg approximately two inches below the knee, and multiple contusions and abrasions. Doctors report that he should recover fully from these injuries


BARDID: FL-2018-0038
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 16, 2018 at approximately 0849 hours V-1 was traveling west right offshore of Shell Island approximately 1/2 mile east of the Panama City Pass.  V-1 was inside of the breakers and took a wave over the stern, capsizing the vessel.  The operator was thrown overboard and then climbed back on top of his capsized vessel.  FWC Officers arrived approximately 5 minutes later and got the operator on board their vessel.  

Based on the photos and witness statement, the cause of this accident was operator inattention and a big wave that capsized the vessel.  There were no injuries to the operator and he was safely removed from the water.


BARDID: FL-2018-0039
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was docked facing east. V2 was docked facing west. The vessels were docked across from each other. V1 was leaving the dock when a cable on the starboard (right) side grabbed the railing on the starboard side of V2. The railing of V2 was bent and pulled down.

On February 20, 2018 I responded to the Miami Boat Show in reference to a Boating Accident. Upon my arrival, I found the following. 

V1 and V2 were docked across from each other. V1 was leaving the dock. The area is very small and congested. V1 was attempting to turn between a post and V2 to exit the dock. A cable from V1 grabbed the rail of V2. The forward movement of V1 caused V2's forward hand rail to be pulled down and the deck mounts were pulled out of the deck. This is a very small area and very congested due to the amount of boats that were docked for the Boat Show.


BARDID: FL-2018-0040
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was docked behind V2. V1 was running one of the engines out of gear to level out the hours. The operator of V1 removed the console cover which put the vessel into gear. V1 moved forward and broke free from where it was docked. V1 made contact at the rear of V2 before the operator could stop the vessel.  

On February 19, 2018, I responded to the Miami Yacht show in reference to a Boating Accident. I learned that the incident occurred on February 13, 2018. The operator of V2 informed me that his company brought the vessel to Miami for the Yacht show. This operator said his vessel was docked facing South in front of V1. He said that V1 got thrown into gear and broke loose from where it was docked. He said that V1 made contact with V2 causing damage. He said a company provided by the Yacht show arrived the following day and started repairing the fiberglass on his vessel. 
I spoke with the operator of V1 and learned that V1 was docked behind V2. I learned that one of the engines was left running to level out the hours. The operator of V1 said he went to retrieve an item from the console and moved the cover. He said he accidentally bumped the gear which made the vessel move forward. He said V1 came loose and moved forward. He said the Bow of V1 made contact with Stern of V2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0041
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HOWARD
NearestCityorTown: WINTER HAVEN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 24, 2018, at approximately 2100 hours, a two-vessel collision occurred on Lake Howard, in Winter Haven, Polk County, Florida. Vessel 1 (V1), a Bayliner Marine- with six people on board- struck vessel 2 (V2), a Well Craft Marine -with three people on board. V1 was travelling south through Lake Howard when it struck V2. V2 was anchored at the time of the accident. Both vessels had their navigation lights on. There were no fatalities, injuries, or missing persons. There was approximately $3,000 worth of damage to the vessels. Both vessels were still operational. 

Operator of V1 stated that he was with a friend and his four foster children the night of the boating accident. He stated that he was driving his vessel around 30-35 MPH, heading south in Lake Howard. O1 looked towards the left side of the lake to find the Lake May Canal. When he looked forward, he saw the other boat directly in front of him. He stated that he turned his wheel to the left- in an attempt to avoid the other vessel- but it was too late. O1 struck the anchored vessel on it’s port side, O1’s starboard side. O1 stated that the anchored vessel had an anchor light on. O1 stated that his navigation lights were on as well. I asked O1 if he saw the anchor light prior to impact, he stated he did


BARDID: FL-2018-0042
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES BAY/GORDON PASS
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, February 15th, 2018, a 34’ Pursuit (V1) was traveling inbound through Gordon Pass, in Collier County. A 21’ Maxum (V2) was traveling in the same direction ahead of V1. Both vessels traveled through the idle speed zone in Naples Bay. As V1 began to slowly pick up speed, Operator1’s failure to maintain a proper lookout and inattention to avoid collision resulted in a boating collision with V2. Collision evidence determined that V1 struck V2 from directly behind, at the center of V2’s transom. After the point of collision, in a ramping motion, V1 traveled over V2, and drifted to the port side of V2 before eventually settling back into the water. There was significant damage to V2. There were no injuries that required attention beyond basic first aid.
V2 occupant was observed having one small cut on her right middle finger and a slightly larger cut on her right ring finger. Her right hand had possible minor swelling. She also had abrasions and minor contusions to her left shoulder. She did not advise of any other injuries. She refused medical treatment when EMS arrived on scene and again later in the investigation. No injuries that required attention beyond basic first aid. ;operator2:Minor cut to hand and wrapped it himself. Refused medical attention. Did not report any other injuries.


BARDID: FL-2018-0043
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CHICA CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
A large yacht suffering from an apparent mechanical issue collided with rocks in the marina, and caused damage to other vessels.

Once I had received all of the statements and by viewing the scene it was determined that V1 had accelerated quickly, which the owner had stated that the engines “had run away on him” and collided with the rocks. V2 was sideswiped by V1 as it rushed passed and suffered damage on its port side. V3 was pushed underneath the dock by the wake, and had to be removed by marina staff. It was damaged alongside its port side from the dock.

	Due to the apparent accidental nature of this accident no citations were issued.


BARDID: FL-2018-0044
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ARCADIA
County: DESOTO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 4th 2018 an airboat was traveling north on the Peace River and attempted to pass through a narrow shallow channel of water between land and a small sand bar.  When entering the shallow narrow channel the hull of the vessel made contact and grounded its self. The vessel stopped immediately and a female passenger on board fell forward out of her seat onto the front of the boat. Her face hit the grass rake causing her nose to break and a laceration. The laceration extended from the bridge of her nose across her cheek on the left side of her face. There were three occupants on board, there were no other injuries and no damage to the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0045
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: UPPER TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 25, 2018, at approximately 1500 hours I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was on land patrol when I was dispatched to a vessel that had sunk with two people unaccounted for, in the area of Culbreath Bayou.  When I arrived on scene I was informed by Operator that there was nobody else on the vessel with him at the time that it sank, and that the people that were onboard earlier in the day had been dropped off at the location where he first noticed his vessel taking on water. He advised me that he had not collided with anything and did not know why his vessel began taking on water.  I asked Operator if he was certain that the plug was installed and he said yes.  Then Operator advised that he had been on the water since approximately 1230 hours which allowed for approximately 2.5 hours on the water without incident.  I could see the vessel from land and was unable to see any obvious signs of collision or any holes or breaks in the hull that would have allowed his vessel to take on water.  Operator advised that he was at a friend’s house when he first noticed some water in the vessel.  He was tied up to his friend’s dock and decided to try to get the vessel up on plane to drain the water that was on deck.   Operator informed me that he only was able to go a few hundred yards before realizing that the vessel was going to sink at which point he headed for a dock near the old Tampa Bay Marina.  The vessel then capsized and he swam approximately twenty feet to shore

Once Operator informed me on what happened he advised me that he had been on the phone with his father and that his father was in the processes of calling commercial salvage.  On March 1st, 2018 I went back to the location and the vessel had been removed.  

I contacted Operator on 3/2/2018 at approximately 1700 and he advised me that he was able to recover the vessel and found a tube for the baitwell with a break in it. I believe that the cause of the accident was likely an unnoticed breach in the water tight integrity of the tube for the baitwell and a faulty bilge pump, which resulted in the steady flow of water into the bilge with no means to dewater.  By the time that Operator realized that the vessel was taking on water it was likely too late for deck scuppers to be effective at dewatering the vessel.  When Operator attempted to get on plane the vessel’s diminished handling and performance characteristics, from the water inside the vessel, made the vessel unable to maintain buoyancy and eventually capsized.


BARDID: FL-2018-0046
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 capsized with two people on board. Both operator and occupant were ejected. No injuries. 

Based on the statements given , they were traveling west bound from Black Fin Marina headed to the Seven Mile bridge, when the vessel took on multiple waves over the bow causing the vessel to take on water and to capsize. Both operator and occupant were ejected in to the water.


BARDID: FL-2018-0047
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OKEECHOBEE
NearestCityorTown: MOORE HAVEN
County: GLADES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was on a northwesterly heading, while V2 was on a southwesterly heading.  Both vessels collided and both occupants of V2 were ejected from the vessel into the water.  
The starboard side of V1 showed major damage, while the port side of V2 showed major damage.  All occupants were wearing personal flotation devices, as required by the tournament.  
Both occupants of V1 were uninjured.  The operator of V2, complained of a back injury and was transported by EMS to Hendry Regional Medical Center.  At the hospital, Operator2 stated that he had suffered a compression fracture of his lower back.  The passenger of V2 complained of neck soreness.  He was seen by EMS at the scene, but refused any medical treatment. 

Both vessels were traveling at a high rate of speed with a view of the other vessel blocked by vegetation during a highly competitive bass fishing tournament.  Based on video of the accident, there were approximately 3 seconds from the time the vessels can see each other to impact.  

Operator1 was operating as the give-way vessel and Operator2 was operating as the stand-on vessel in the crossing scenario seen on the aforementioned video.


BARDID: FL-2018-0048
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIAMI
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While attempting to dock, V-1 struck V-2 which was not being operated and tied to the dock of Duffy's Restaurant in North Miami, causing damage to V-2's port stern of vessel.
On February 17, 2018, at approximately 1700 hours, I received a report of a vessel accident at Duffy's restaurant dock in North Miami.  At approximately 1730 hours, I arrived on scene. The only parties still on scene were the owners of the striking vessel (V-1) and the struck vessel (V-2).  According to the owner of V-1, he rented a pontoon vessel (v-1) to the alleged operator. The owner of the V-2, stated that he watched the alleged operator of V-1 attempt to dock but hit V-2 that was docked/moored. V-1 struck V-2 on the port, rear side causing fiberglass damage. No other damage was sustained.  Due to the party from V-1 leaving the scene after giving their information to North Miami Police Department officers, I could not place anyone behind the wheel and furthermore issue citation(s).  No further involvement in the investigation.


BARDID: FL-2018-0049
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MADISON
County: MADISON
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 24, 2018 at approximately 1600 hours, Officer and I were dispatched to a vessel in distress on the Withlacoochee River Florida Georgia line just north of Pineapple Street. The vessel was stranded in the middle of the river grounded on some rock shoals/rocks. 
	Upon arriving on scene, I contacted Lowndes County Fire rescue and the Fire Chief advised that he had rescue swimmers on scene trying to get the stranded passengers back on land. I went back into Madison County where I met up with Officer. Upon arriving on scene we observed a vessel bearing registration number GA0678GT with 4 occupants in the middle of the river grounded on some rock shoals. Officer and I observed fire rescue assist the occupants onto the bank just north of the shoals. 
	Officer and I made our way to Olympia rd. and Madison HWY where the occupants of the stranded vessel were in ambulance. The first occupant advised that by the time the operator of the vessel  observed the shoals it was too late. When Operator1 tried to turn around the foot of the motor got caught on the rocks and would not allow him to move any further. Then the current pushed the vessel against the rocks which punctured the hull of the vessel allowing water to get in. 
	The second occupant suffered superficial scratches to her lower leg and felt dizzy. The paramedics on scene advised they were going to take her to Lowndes County Hospital. 
	Third occupant sustained head injuries and had back pain. She was also going to hospital in ambulance. 
	We were advised that the operator of the vessel was transported to Nankin boat ramp by vessel by his parents. 
	We met the operator of Vessel at the Nankin boat ramp along with his parents. Operator1 did not sustain any injuries. Operator1 wrote a statement reflecting the same verbal statement occupant1 had given during her interview.
	During our Investigation we were made aware there was no Personal floatation devices on board the vessel. Officer and I expressed to Operator1 the importance of boating safety and advised him that taking a boating safety course would be very beneficial to him, as well as required when operating a vessel upon Florida waters.
	The vessel was left tied to the bank 20 yards north of where the vessel was grounded. Operator1 advised he will be returning later next week to retrieve the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0050
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MALABAR
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was northbound in the Indian River when the operator noticed that the bilge was taking on water. He stopped the vessel to investigate. The vessel continued to take on water, including waves over the side, and capsized.

On 3/4/18, at approximately 5:30 pm, Operator was traveling northbound in his vessel along with five other occupants. As they approached the 192 causeway, Operator noticed that the vessel felt sluggish and he believed they were taking on water. He stopped the vessel to investigate. He opened a stern hatch to the bilge area and noticed that the bilge pump was not working despite a large amount of water in the bilge. Operator also noticed a hole in the hull which was letting water into the bilge. Operator stated that he believes that he may have struck a rock earlier in the day, puncturing the hull.

While stopped the vessel continued to take on water through the hull and waves began to come in over the gunwales. The vessel continued to take on water until it slowly capsized, coming to rest upside down on a sandbar (see attached photo).

Operator and the occupants exited the vessel prior to it capsizing. They were recovered from the water by Melbourne Beach Police Department and taken to the Yellow Dog Cafe in Melbourne.


BARDID: FL-2018-0051
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MADIERA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH EAST ENTERING INTO JOHNS PASS UNDER POWER. THE OPERATOR WAS UNAWARE OF THE SHOAL TO THE NORTH AND WAS ATTEMPTING TO ENTER AT NIGHT. V1 BECAME GROUNDED ON THE SHOAL WHICH THEN CAUSED FLOODING ONCE IT WAS UNABLE TO POWER OFF THE SHOAL. THE OPERATOR AND OCCUPANT WERE UNABLE TO KEEP UP WITH THE FLOODING AND ONCE THEY WERE SAFELY OFF THE VESSEL, IT CAPSIZED.


BARDID: FL-2018-0052
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: PAL BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading Northbound approximately 3 miles South of the Lake Worth Inlet and 3 miles offshore with four passengers on board. While trolling North, the boat's captain stated "a roughly 10 foot wave broadsided their starboard side causing the boat to capsize". 

When the boat capsized, all passengers on board including the captain were ejected from the vessel. Everyone on board was able to swim to the vessel and climb onto the hull while waiting for Coast Guard and the PBC Sheriff's Marine Unit to arrive on scene. All passengers were loaded onto the Coast Guard vessel and transported to Lake Park marina. One passenger had suffered a minor injury to his left foot. During the capsizing a hook was lodged into his left foot. 
PBC Fire Rescue Station #68 arrived at Lake Park Marina to transport victim to PBG hospital to remove the hook. No other injuries were reported by the captain or passengers. The vessel was transported back by Sea Tow.


BARDID: FL-2018-0053
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: HOBE SOUND
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling south in the Intracoastal Waterway behind Vessel 2. Vessel I was coming up on plane at approximately 25 miles per hour attempting to pass Vessel 2 which was also traveling south. 
Vessel 1 hit the wake of Vessel 2 at too high of speed causing one occupant riding on the front of Vessel 1 to launch into the air and sustain injuries upon landing on the deck. 

Vessel 2 did not stop and there is no known information of vessel 2. The captain of Vessel 1 only knew it to be a cabin cruiser type vessel over 35 feet in length. The injured occupant from Vessel 1 was transported to Jupiter Medical Center by Martin County Fire Rescue. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0054
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MELBOURNE BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis Narrative:
V1 was at anchor approximately 200 meters northeast of the Sebastian Inlet north jetty. The operator (only occupant) was fishing when the water conditions worsened and he attempted to pull the anchor to move back inshore. Due to a strong southeastern wind, V1 was being blown towards the beach and the operator was unable to pull the anchor because of all the tension on the line. V1 began taking on water from the stern and eventually capsized. The operator donned a PFD and jumped off the vessel prior to it capsizing. He swam towards the beach and was assisted ashore by a nearby surfer. The operator was uninjured and V1 was eventually beached about 400 meters northwest of where it capsized.


BARDID: FL-2018-0055
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 27, 2018, at approximately 1300 hours, I, Officer 1, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement (FWC) was on duty and in uniform, conducting law enforcement patrol in Collier County, Florida. I was dispatched to a boating accident in the Naples River Basin that involved the Naples Princess and two other vessels that were docked. 
The Naples Princess was undocking and slowed to clear vessel traffic and while doing so got caught in the wind and pushed into V3 and then collided with a piling that hit V2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0056
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MONROE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: ST. JAMES CITY
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, March 6, 2018 at approximately 1340 hours, a boating accident occurred in Monroe Canal in Lee County, FL. The accident occurred near York Road Marine and Ragged Ass Saloon. Vessel 1 (V-1) was headed northeast in Monroe Canal while Vessel 2 (V-2) was docked at York Road Marine on the northwest side of the canal. The operator of V-1 attempted to turn his vessel around in the confined canal, striking the starboard outboard motors of V-2. V-1 sustained no damage, while V-2 sustained approximately $3,812.00 in damages. No injuries were reported.


BARDID: FL-2018-0057
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINE ISLAND SOUND
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 headed west following bubble trail of Vessel 2. Vessel 2 slowed down due to shallow waters. Vessel 1 collided into the stern of Vessel 2.
Based on operator accounts and the damage I observed on the two vessels involved, it is likely that Operator1 was following Operator2’s vessel closely through unfamiliar waters near Bookelia Shoals.  The vessel navigational system sounded an alarm which distracted both the operator and the passenger of vessel 1.  
The operator of V1 did not observe V2 had slowed down to a near stop in the shallow waters. Once V1 realized V2 had slowed down, V1 1 attempted to steer hard to the left. V1 Starboard Bow underside struck V2 Port Stern causing fiberglass damage to both vessels. V1 sustained an approximate 3" hole with water intrusion. V1 continued to ramp over the Stern of V2 creating transfer marked on the haul of V1 all the way to the stern and V1s prop struck the stern of V2 under the rub rail causing a small section of gel coat to be removed and V1s prop to be broken on two blades. Both vessels then came to a complete stop. The injuries of the Operator and passenger of V1 were from being thrown onto the center console at the time of impact. 
 I asked Operator1 if he had any injuries.  He stated his arm was hurting and that he was going to go to the doctor on his own. I asked v1 occupant if she had any injuries and she advised she had a knot on her head. As she pointed to her head, I noticed blood was coming from a laceration to her ear lobe. Operator1:torn ligaments right arm and bruising to right arm and inner left thigh. Also Bruising to upper right shoulder.; v1 occupant:Laceration to right earlobe received 9 stitches. Bruising on hip.  Went to hospital on own after accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0058
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYSIDE KEY LARGO
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 2/9/2018, a vessel on the bayside of mm101 in Key Largo, caught fire likely due to a fuel system issue in the outboard engine. 

There were two brothers onboard. 

According to interviews, the two had just finished idling out of the residential canal and the engine would then not accelerate past idle. The engine was releasing black smoke and ultimately shut off. The operator attempted start the engine again and on the 3rd time he turned the ignition key, there was an explosion within the cowling of the outboard engine. The engine caught fire and The operator facetimed his dad who was on shore. The call came in at 6:10PM. The operator advised his dad of the situation and jumped off the boat with his brother. An unidentified good Samaritan picked the operator and the passenger out of the water and took them back to land. Neither occupant suffered any injuries. 
The father and the mother, along with their neighbor, boarded the neighbor’s vessel and navigated to the Hewes which was now on fire. When they arrived at the vessel, the father put the fire out with a fire extinguisher. They proceeded to tow the now disabled vessel back to their lift.


BARDID: FL-2018-0059
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 received damage and injuries from unknown vessel wake as it drove over the waves. V1 encountered a large wake which was created by another vessel (V2, Unknown) traveling East on the river in the ICW. V1 was traveling approximately 20-25mph and turned into the wake. V1 then accelerated as the vessel went over the first wave and into the several following waves. 

As the waves continued, victim who was sitting on a bench set at the starboard bow of V1 was thrown into the air several times and landed on the deck of the vessel in the middle forward area. She landed hard on the seat and eventually the deck.  She suffered compression fractures to her spine (T11, L1).  The wake also caused the vessel's port side windshield to break from the structure flexing. V1 came to rest just outside of the ICW. V1's operator called 911 and transported victim to a dock in the Bimini canal system, where EMS transported her to Cape Coral Hospital.

Victim was treated for her injuries and was release two (2) days later with a walker and instructions to follow up with a physician at a later date. The other passengers and operator were uninjured.


BARDID: FL-2018-0060
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINE ISLAND SOUND
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 02/18/18 The vessel began to run aground. That cause one of the passengers to fall forward and bump the throttle. That then caused the vessel to fully run aground injuring one passenger.

I interviewed the passengers and got written statements from them. They all stated they were coming in from the Gulf through Redfish Pass and were bird watching around the sandbars just inside the pass. They all stated they were traveling at slow speed when they began to hit sand. That caused one of the passengers to fall forward causing him to hit the throttle forward. That then caused the vessel to run aground on the sandbar. That caused one victim to fall and injure her shoulder. She was transported to Gulf Coast Medical center.


BARDID: FL-2018-0061
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
While on patrol in Brevard County, Officers, and Lt. responded to a search and rescue in the area of the NASA Causeway, Indian River. The boaters in distress had gone out in 25+ MPH winds in their 18ft vessel, upon the closure of their fishing trip, the couple decided to return to the Parrish Park Boat Ramp where they had launched from, when they had issues getting their vessel on plane. The vessel operator tilted the motor, while applying power, this caused the vessel to bog down, and subsequently causing water to come over the transom of the vessel. The vessel quickly began filling with water, the occupants put on their life vests and called 911. Officer, along with Titusville Fire Rescue responded by water. Titusville Fire Rescue was able to extract the occupants from their vessel, just as it started to capsize, and brought them to Kennedy Point Park where Officer, and Lt. awaited their arrival. None of the vessel occupants were injured. On 3/14/2018, around 10:00 AM, I was contacted by subject, whom informed me that the vessel had been removed from the water and was being stored at his residence.


BARDID: FL-2018-0062
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 at anchor and fishing was struck by V2 at the North Western fender of North bridge in Fort Pierce. V1 was at anchor just outside the Northwest fender of North bridge in Fort Pierce on the Indian River, and was outside the marked channel. According to the operator of V1, V2 was southbound on the Intra Coastal Waterway and while waiting for the drawbridge to open, encroached on the bridge very close. As V2 sat idle awaiting the bridge opening, the wind blew V2 into V1, striking the starboard corner of V1's bow with the starboard hull of V2 slightly aft of the bow. The occupants of V1 waved and tried to gain the attention of the operator of V2 prior to impact. The operator of V2 attempted to maneuver his vessel away from V1 and in the process of doing so, ran over the anchor line of V1 which first entangled the anchor line of V1 in the propeller of V2 and then cut the anchor line of V1 after the impact.


BARDID: FL-2018-0063
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel FL 0449 FU,  containing six persons on board, was having engine problems and attempting to back into dockage slip. While dock lines were being attached gas fumes in engine compartment exploded creating fire that consumed vessel and burned to slightly above waterline. Two persons were transported to the hospital. vessel FL 3897 RJ , moored in the next slip, received burn damage from the flames. 
Victim1: Engine compart exploded from fuel vapor causing fire that burned; Victim2:Transported to hospital and released


BARDID: FL-2018-0064
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Center console vessel, struck side of 7 mile bridge column, flipped over and capsized.

the operator had no experience driving a vessel. From witness statements and the operator’s statement, it appears that when he tried to go under the bridge he got ensnared in the current and when he tried to get out of it he panicked and throttled up which caused the vessel to hit the scaffolding of the bridge, flip over and then capsize.


BARDID: FL-2018-0065
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Two vessels were traveling north in the ICW when one vessel made a sharp turn resulting in another vessel colliding into it.
On 2/19/2018 two vessels traveling north at approximately 30-40 mph collided after the lead vessel made a sharp right turn.  The vessels gunwales made contact causing damage to both vessels.  The striking vessel owner (Operator1) made contact with the vessel he struck and exchanged information.  The operator of the struck vessel did not have a chief complaint following the incident but did receive small cuts from stepping on broken glass.  The next day Operator2 visited his primary care physician and was told he suffered a concussion and bruising.  The occupant of the struck vessel has not sought medical treatment but complained of pain in his ribs.

I met with the complainant on 2/20/2018 because the accident was reported the day after the incident.  Operator2 stated he was traveling north in the channel when a vessel approached from the rear on his starboard side.  He stated the vessel ramped over his vessel but he was not struck by the vessel.  He claimed the vessel motored off approximately 100 yards away but quickly came back to see if there were any injuries and to assess the damage.  Operator2 stated he felt loopy and "out of it".  He didn't feel he had any injuries at the time.  Vessel damage to V2 consists of minor fiberglass damage to the stern of the vessel, broken glass on the starboard windshield, and damage to the hardware holding the bimini top.  He  also stated his trim motor was not working properly before the incident but is not working anymore.  Operator2 stated he did not contact law enforcement because he thought he didn't have to and reported it the next day because of injuries.

I spoke with the operator of the striking vessel (Operator1) on 2/23/2018.  He stated he and wife and their two friends were traveling north in the ICW approximately 50 yards behind Operator2 when he witnessed Operator2 make a hard right turn.  Operator1 stated he could not avoid colliding with Operator2.  He also said their vessels made contact on his port side and on their starboard side.  Operator1 denied stating that his vessel ramped over the other vessel.  Operator1 stated he spoke to Operator2 after the collision and made sure he was ok.  He stated that Operator2 appeared to be ok and acted normally.  He specifically stated he was "alert and oriented".  Operator1 said he did not contact law enforcement because there appeared to be minimal damage and that there were no apparent injuries.  Damage to Operator1s vessel consists of what appear to be superficial cracks below the deck on the support structure.  The insurance surveyor stated he was unsure if the cracks were severe enough to be repaired. 
V2 occupant will seek medical treatment for bruised ribs and back.
Per primary care physician, operator2 sustained bulgings disks in neck and back, sustained lacerations to feet and legs from glass, and a contusion.  Subject to be treated with physical therapy.


BARDID: FL-2018-0066
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 4, 2018, approximately at 1425 hours, vessel V1 tried to dock at Sailfish Marina in West Palm Beach and hit vessel V2. 
Operator 1 told me that he was coming from the south and wanted to dock his vessel at the marina.  As he was turning right, he realized he underestimated the strength of the current and the wind and was pushed onto V2.  He hit the port side of the docked vessel with metal rub rail of starboard side of his vessel and T-top.  
V2 suffered scratches on paint, some of them through a layer of gelcoat on bow/port side.
The accident was caused by operator’s inexperience in close quarters environment with strong current and wind.


BARDID: FL-2018-0068
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAN CARLOS BAY
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was on plane exiting Matanzas pass, near Bowditch Point, when V2 slowed down due to a oncoming vessel creating a large wake. V1 failed to maintain proper distance, striking V2 causing damage to the port side stern. 
Operator 1 explained to me that he was exiting Matanzas Pass near Bowditch Point when he saw an oncoming boat creating a large wake. He slowed down due to the wake, as his vessel crossed the first wake and was in the trough between two wakes, his vessel was struck by V1 on the port side stern causing major damage to the port side area of the swim platform and stern. Photographs of the damage to V2 were obtained along with a written statement from Operator 1.   
On February 23rd, 2018, at approximately 1130 A.M. I arrived at the residency of Operator 2. Operator 2 stated he observed the oncoming vessel creating a large wake coming into Matanzas Pass. He saw V2 accelerate out of the channel exiting Mantazas Pass to avoid the large wake. V2 than returned to the channel in front of his vessel as his vessel was entering the trough of the first two wakes. Operator 2 attempted to decelerate and turn to his port when his vessel came down on top of V2’s port side stern. I obtained a written statement from Operator 2 and photographed the damage to his vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0069
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 24, 2018, at approximately 1730 hours, vessel 1 operated by Operator 1 tried to dock.  Operator 1 underestimated strength of the tidal current that pushed him onto vessels 2 and 3, causing damage to vessel 3.

I called Operator 1 and asked about the details of the incident.  He told me, he tried to dock his vessel at the Marina, but did not realized how strong the current was. As soon as he made the turn, the current pushed him over vessels docked on the south side.  He hit the bow of vessel 3 with the starboard side splash guard and anchor of vessel 2.
Vessel 3 suffered compression marks and paint scratches on the port side of bow stem.
Vessel 1 broke starboard splash guard.
Vessel 2 did not suffer any damages.


BARDID: FL-2018-0070
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: TREASURE ISLAND
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS UNDERWAY, MAKING WAY TRAVELING NORTHEAST CONDUCTING FIGURE 8'S WHILE DEPLOYING A SINGLE PARASAILER. OPERATOR 1 OF VESSEL 1 FAILED TO KEEP A PROPER LOOK OUT AND STRUCK VESSEL 2'S PORTSIDE STARBOARD QUARTER. VESSEL 2 WAS UNDERWAY NOT MAKING WAY. THE ONLY COMPLAINT OF INJURY REPORTED WAS TO OPERATOR 2 OF SOME LOWER BACK DISCOMFORT, SUBJECT REFUSED TO BE EVALUATED ON SCENE.


BARDID: FL-2018-0071
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
My investigation revealed that the tidal current was northbound going outbound at approximately 8 knots with a south west wind of 7 - 14 knots while Vessel 1 was making their approached into the Marina Fuel Dock area. Vessel 1 proceeded northbound from the south on the inside of the fuel dock near the marina office. Vessel 1 continued northbound with the tidal current and wind leaving the ability of the environmental's to overpower his bow thrusters causing him to strike the southwest portion of the marina office platform with the Starboard midship area of the vessel. During this abrupt impact, this action caused the starboard midship large glass window to burst into the cabin area. Vessel 1 continued to navigate northbound attempting to turn back southbound, however striking a concrete piling guide of a finger pier. Vessel 1 continued to attempt maneuverability back southbound but continued moving to the west striking a wooden piling knocking it down. Vessel 1 at this point was able to maneuver the vessel back towards the southwest out of the inner marina area and around to the east side of the fuel dock. Vessel 1 was able to dock successfully with the assistance of marina dock hands. No injuries were reported at the time of the accident. 
The municipal marina staff made me aware of the Vessel accident the following day and required a report be taken on the incident. I made contact with the Vessel owner/operator who explained the incident, along with marina staff. 
No injuries were reported to me while I spoke to subjects regarding the accident. 
Damage to Vessel one consisted of some fiberglass rub marks on the starboard side of the vessel from the piling guide and wooden piling, along with a broken out large Starboard midship window. The Damage to the Municipal marina consisted of a broken portion of the Southwest corner of the Marina Office, a bent metal piling guide and a broken and freed wooden piling. All damage costs are estimates only.


BARDID: FL-2018-0072
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
vessel 1 struck vessel two on the starboard side causing damage to steering column, fiberglass and plastic cowling on vessel.

At approximately 6:50PM I arrived at Xtreme H20 and spoke with the complainant and livery employee.  Subject advised two of their PWC’s had been involved in a boating accident and one of the PWC’s had significant damage.  Subject advised one of the subjects involved in the boating accident had a cut on his lower right leg. Subject stated when she advised them they were responsible for the damage to the PWC’s they left and had not returned.  Subject showed me the PWC’s involved in the accident and the rental paperwork they had signed.  In the rental paperwork it showed none of the PWC’s had damage before they were rented and were signed by the renters.  Subject then stated another employee was on the dock when they returned the PWC’s and had more information on who was operating which PWC.  The group had a total of 4 subjects who had each rented one PWC.
  
The PWC renters were identified. Subject2 advised the renters stated Operator1 was operating PWC #31 and had hit PWC#35 being operated by Operator2.  Subject2 stated Operator2 had a cut on his lower right leg above his ankle and asked if he wanted EMS.  Operator2 stated no and shortly after they left the area.  I asked Subject2 if they said how the accident occurred and he stated all they said was one PWC was on top of the other.  
Based on the damage to the PWC’s I determined PWC#31 struck PWC#35 on the starboard side at approximately a 45 degree angle. PWC#35 sustained damage to the starboard gunnel fiberglass and to the handlebars and cowling.  The cowling was cracked and broken.  The handlebars were also loose because the bracket had been broken.  PWC#31 sustained minor damage to the rub rail on the starboard bow.  I asked Subject2 if they stated where the accident occurred and he stated no.  I asked Subject2 if they said anything else about the accident and he stated one subject said Operator1 and Operator2 were getting close to each other and trying to spray each other with the PWC's before the accident occurred. 

I attempted to make contact with the subjects involved with the boating accident with no success. ; Operator2:laceration to right leg above ankle


BARDID: FL-2018-0073
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 struck V-2 while attempting to dock.  The Operator of V-2 was injured when his hand was caught between the two PWCs.

At the conclusion of their PWC tour through Key West Harbor and Man of War Harbor, Operator2 on V-2 was stationary alongside the floating dock awaiting assistance from the Fury employee.  Operator1 on V-1 attempted to dock after V-2, but the combination of current/wind conditions and Operator1's inexperience caused him to hit Operator2's PWC in front of him.  Operator2's right hand was crushed during the incident.  Both parties were brought to Zero Duval Street and took a taxi to Advanced Urgent Care.
Operator2's right hand was swollen and had several small lacerations.  He was examined by a doctor and X-rays were taken.  He called me following his release from the medical facility and reported that he had no broken bones or other damage and he wouldn't require any additional medical care.


BARDID: FL-2018-0074
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
INVESTIGATION
I affirm that on March 17, 2018, at approximately 4:00 pm, I responded to Boogies Watersports, Inc located at the Destin Harbor in reference to a report of a vessel crash.

One (1) white/yellow Yamaha Jet Ski pulled onto the dock with right   rear damage. One (1) white/yellow Yamaha Jet Ski  pulled onto the dock with lower bow damage.

I interviewed the staff of Boogies Watersports, who stated the vessels were inspected prior to being rented, and the damage was not there.

VESSEL DESCRIPTION

(V-1) 2015 Yamaha Jet Ski (FL0302PX), 10 ft. long, white and yellow in color, approximately 110 horse power. (V-2) 2015 Yamaha Jet Ski (FL0320PX), 10 ft. long, white and yellow in color, approximately 110 horse power.

OPERATOR/OCCUPANTS - INJURIES/FATALITIES

No reported injuries. The staff could not identify or provide any operator identification upon  arrival to the scene.  All parties related to this incident left the scene and walked into the large crowds at the Destin Harborwalk. 

INTERVIEWS

No operators and/or witnesses available to interview.

ASSESSMENTS/INSPECTIONS

Upon making contact with the staff with Boogies Watersports, Inc, I observed two jet skis’ with obvious damage. One jet ski (V-2) had damage to the right rear (see diagram) and the other (V-1) had damage to the lower center portion of the bow (see diagram).

ACCIDENT ANALYSIS

It is unknown where the two jet skis made contact. It is unknown who was operating the jet skis at the time of impact. It has been established by the staff of Boogies Watersports, Inc. that the jet skis were not in the damaged condition prior to them being issued to the operators. 

CONCLUSIONS

Based on information gathered to date, it appears the unknown operators were operating in a careless manner resulting in V-1 striking V-2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0075
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PALATKA
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling west from deep creek across the st johns river in stormy conditions. Vessel 1 was travelling approximately 50mph when in poor visibility during rain storm. Vessel 1 struck large waves causing operator to be ejected from the vessel. 

Operator was not wearing kill switch lanyard or personal floatation device. Vessel continued moving west at idle speed until reaching western shore and dock. 

Operator sustained multiple lacerations on his head, as well as tearing his acl in left shoulder. Operator was able to swim to shore where he was transported for medical treatment. ; operator received several lacerations to top of scalp, requiring staples. Operator injured left shoulder.


BARDID: FL-2018-0076
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MALLOY CHANNEL SOUTH OF MONUME
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Feb. 27th 2018 Vessel 1 was moored. when vessel 2 was heading southbound in the Malloy channel plowing with a wake surfer behind it. Shortly after a second vessel (vessel 3) was traveling northbound in the Malloy channel. The combined wake from vessels 2 and 3 caused damage to both vessel 1 and the dock.


BARDID: FL-2018-0077
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PUNTA RASA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/05/18 at approximately 2345 hours Operator 1 was operating his vessel near Punta Rassa boat ramp. Operator 1 was heading toward the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River when he struck a lit channel maker causing his boat to sink.
 On 03/06/18 at approximately 1200 hours I, Officer 1  with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was dispatched to a sunken vessel that happened on 03/05/18 at approximately 2345 hours.
I arrived on scene at approximately 1330 hours on 03/06/18. I discovered a vessel that was sunk near the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River bearing Florida registration FL3266 HK. I contacted the registered owner of vessel. I met with Operator 1 at Punta Rassa boat ramp and took down a sworn statement. Operator 1 stated he was a new boat owner and operator and had little experience. He also stated he was not familiar with the water way he was operating in. Operator 1 stated he was coming in from the Gulf and hit a sandbar near Punta Rassa boat ramp. He then called Seatow to assist him with getting off the sandbar. A Seatow employee arrived on scene and pulled Operator 1 off the sandbar and also jumped his batteries. Operator 1 then tried to follow the Seatow employee up the river and struck lit channel marker 13 causing Operator 1’s vessel to sink. The Seatow employee saw what happened and turned around to get Operator 1 off the boat. The Seatow employee took Operator 1 to Punta Rassa boat ramp.
After speaking with Operator 1 about the accident he made arrangements to have the vessel removed from the water. Later that night the vessel was removed without incident.
No further action was needed.


BARDID: FL-2018-0078
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW EDGEWATER
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWATER
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 went over the wake of V2, and an occupant on V1 fell in the boat.

On February 26, 2018 at approximately 1300 hours operator was operating V1, FL 0574 LU, south on the ICW in Edgewater, north of marker "65". Operator and the three other occupants explained another vessel, V2, was heading north in the channel. They also explained that V2 was an approximately thirty-five to forty foot cabin style vessel. There are no registration numbers, no vessel name, or any operator information associated with this vessel.  

Owner, the owner and occupant of V1 explained that they were approximately 30 yards from V2 when they passed one another. Owner described the wake from V2 being very large, and that V2 was traveling at a high rate of speed. Owner said once V1 went over V2's wake Victim lost her balance from where she was sitting on the bow deck. Victim fell hitting the deck of the boat. She suffered a broken left wrist and injured her back. Operator and his wife were sitting behind the center counsel. When V1 went over the wake it caused the mounts on the seat to break. Other than Victim's injuries no one else was injured. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0079
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: SEBASTIAN
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis Narrative:

V1 was on a plane cruising north in the Intra coastal Waterway (ICW) channel at dusk. At a time between 1902 and 1948 hours V1 stuck an unknown object which caused damage to his bow and the hull directly below the bow. The operator stopped the vessel and jumped into the water to inspect the damage, he discovered the vessel was being flooded by the damage to the bow. He instructed the only other occupant of V1 to jump into the water as well and both then swam to a nearby dock. The operator also dragged V1 out of the channel as he was swimming and tied it to a nearby sign post. V1 was recovered from the river the next morning, but will be a total loss according to the operator/owner.


BARDID: FL-2018-0080
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: PONTE VEDRA
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/21/18 at approximately 1040 am, Florida vessel FL9118PV was anchored when a wake from a passing trawler swamped the back of the vessel causing the transom to become submerged.

 I asked Subject to give me a brief synopsis of the events surrounding the boating accident. Subject advised me that he was anchored fishing just North of Marker 38 in the ICW. At approximately 1040 hours, he observed a 70 foot trawler traveling South pass him. Moments later, the vessel wake from the trawler swamped the back of his boat. He was not ejected from the boat. Once his boat was swamped, he got out of the vessel in waist high water in an attempt to move the vessel. He advised the motor started but quickly shut off. The boat's bilge was not pumping out water. He pulled himself onto the bow of the vessel and called his father, the vessel owner, for help. The next thing he remembered was getting pulled off the boat by his father and being transported to a boat ramp. Subject advised that he was taken to Flagler Hospital, treated for hypothermia, and was released that afternoon. Subject advised me that the boat was pulled from the water that day and was currently at his father's house.


BARDID: FL-2018-0081
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 24th, 2018, responded to a capsized vessel 5 miles south of sombrero beach. Upon arrival the vessel had sank in 35 feet of water and the 3 POB's were safely on a USCG vessel being brought in to the USCG station Marathon. The vessel sank at Coordinates N24. 36.806 W81. 08.206. SeaTow was hired by Captain Pips livery to recover the vessel. 

I interviewed the Captain of the vessel who stated they had trolled a little bit and then had just set anchor from the bow and the boat sank within 5 minutes of them being at anchor. 

Two people both had similar stories stating the water came in from the stern of vessel and that the bilge pumps were working but couldn't keep up with the vessel taking on water. all 3 person were in the water when rescued . 2 of which were wearing PFD. No alcohol was suspected as they had just got out for the day and had all of their drinks and food on ice untouched. The operator did state he had 2 beers when he got on good sam vessel named Tonica. 

The next day I made contact with the livery to inspect the vessel that was recovered. No signs of reason for capsizing was seen. The anchor was tied off from the bow but cut when retrieved. It was stated there was 150 feet or so of anchor line but on 2 feet when inspected due to loss. the ignition key was on and there was a bilge pump on the vessel . The vessel was stored on the water at the dock so there was no structural damage to bottom. When the diver went down to recover the vessel he stated all plugs were in and no sign of what sank the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0082
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOLLAR BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
SINGLE VESSEL BOATING ACCIDENT, RENTED MOTORBOAT VERSUS CHANNEL MARKER. VESSEL OPERATOR FAILED TO MAINTAIN PROPER VISUAL LOOKOUT AND COLLIDED WITH CHANNEL MARKER, NINE OCCUPANTS ONBOARD, NO INJURIES. 

I asked the OPERATOR to recount what had occurred. He stated that there were nine total occupants including himself and that they were traveling south near Dollar Bay. The OPERATOR stated he was in control of the vessel and cruising at about half-throttle, estimating his speed between 20-25 mile per hour. The OPERATOR recalled recently seeing “Red-70” channel marker prior to the accident. The OPERATOR stated that while operating on planing speed, another occupant distracted his attention regarding objects attempting to blow out of the boat, and when the OPERATOR turned his attention to these objects, they collided with a “buoy”.


BARDID: FL-2018-0083
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOLMES CREEK
NearestCityorTown: VERNON
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, February 24th, at approximately 1500 hours, a boating accident occurred on Holmes Creek near Culpepper landing in Vernon.  

The vessel, containing a father, juvenile son, and adult friend struck a submerged object believed to be a wooden log, on the creek.  The juvenile was thrown over the bow of the vessel and into the creek.  The vessel continued its direction and the juvenile was struck by the skeg on his upper right thigh, causing a laceration.  The father jumped into the creek to retrieve his son.  

The juvenile was transported to Northwest Florida Community Hospital in Chipley, Florida, where he received 28 stitches to his right thigh and was later released.


BARDID: FL-2018-0084
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 18, 2018 at approximately 1400 hrs, I, Officer, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was sent to a boating accident right off the Moonspinner on Panama City Beach.

I responded by land, and when I arrived on scene all individuals involved in the accident were safely on shore. I spoke to the owner of the vessel, and he advised that all four individuals on the vessel were in the cobia tower looking for fish. Operator was operating the vessel from the cobia tower. They were headed westbound along the breakers when they spotted a fish and decided to change course of direction and head southbound. As they began turning south, the boat took a wave over the bow and capsized the vessel. All four individuals were ejected from the vessel into the water. However, no one was hurt, and all were able to swim safely back to shore. Operator called Seatow and had them right the vessel and tow it to Safari Boat ramp. 

I met with Operator and Safari Boat ramp to get statements from everyone and take pictures of the vessel. While talking to Operator it was determined that the vessel suffered approximately $28,000.00 worth of damages. Operator had 2 Garmins on the vessel, the cobia tower broke, and there was damage to the center console and engine of the vessel. 

Operator has insurance with Progressive and provided the policy number. From my training and experience, it is believed that overweighing the cobia tower with four adults, and taking a wave over the bow as they were changing directions is what contributed to the capsizing of the vessel. 

No one was cited for the boating accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0085
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 1, 2018, our dispatch received a call from the United States Coast Guard about an overturned vessel. The 3 occupants were transport by Miami-Dade Fire-Rescue to Black Point Marina. According to the witness statement and interviews, the 3 occupants were fishing and noticed some water entering there vessel. A large wave struck the vessel, causing it to tilt to the side enough for water to rush in. The vessel then began to sink and overturn.


BARDID: FL-2018-0086
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-02-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On the aforementioned date and time a vessel was traveling southbound in Tampa Bay from Whisky Joes Bar and Grill and struck the Howard Frankland Bridge, ejecting one of the five occupants.  As a result, injuries were sustained and subjects were treated at St Joseph's Hospital as well Tampa Bay Community Hospital.  The vessel, a 19ft Yamaha, was totaled but caused no damage to the bridge.  

Occupant1 statement (please see attached), stated that she drove the vessel away from Whiskey Joe’s because Operator was drunk. Operator told her to turn towards the Howard Frankland Bridge, because she thought he might have wanted to go for more of a boat ride. As they began to approach the Howard Frankland Bridge heading southbound, Operator stated to go faster. Operator pushed himself in front of Occupant1, pushed the throttle forward, and blocked Occupant1 view and access to the steering wheel. The vessel struck the bridge and Occupant2 was ejected into the water. 

Occupant1 stated they retrieved Occupant2 from the water and began to head north back to the dock at the apartments. Occupant1 stated that Occupant3 and Occupant2 kept telling Operator to sit down, and Occupant3 stated to sit down or he is calling the cops. At this point, Operator sat down and Occupant1 resumed operation of the vessel. Occupant1 was not wearing a life jacket, has no formal boating training and never has taken a Florida Boater Safety course.
	Occupant3’s statement reads “I was hanging in the back and my sister was driving and the dumb guy took the wheel before the bridge and hit it. Occupant2 fell out and we went back and then went to the shore.” Occupant3 was not wearing a life jacket.
	According to the statements given by the occupants of the vessel, prior to striking the bridge, Occupant1 was seated behind the steering wheel in the driver's seat which is in the middle right hand side of the vessel. Operator was adjacent to her, in between the driver's and passenger seats. Occupant2 was in the left, mid passenger seat. Occupant3 was seated on the rear bench seat of the vessel. The statements confirm the vessel was heading southbound from Whiskey Joe’s and struck the bridge on the port side of the bow, at approximately 15-25mph. The impact occurred at the GPS coordinates of N27 55.848 W 82 34.915. The bridge gouged a large hole in the port side of the vessel and several windows were broken by the impact, as well as the impact of Operator, and Occupant2 as she was ejected. The minor extent of Occupant1 injuries confirms that Operator was in front of her at the time of impact, absorbing any damage she would have sustained if he was not operating the vessel at the time of the collision.

Occupant2 was receiving treatment for a collapsed lung, lacerated spleen, broken/bruised ribs, and other minors cuts and lacerations sustained from broken glass on the vessel.
Occupant1 received treatment for minor cuts and lacerations from broken glass on the vessel.
Operator was admitted to St. Josephs Medical Center in Tampa where he received treatment for a broken nose and lacerations to his nose, as well as other minor cuts and injuries sustained from broken glass on the vessel.
Occupant3 sustained minor lacerations from glass on his legs and feet.


BARDID: FL-2018-0088
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE INLET
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One approached the St Lucie Inlet with rough sea conditions. Vessel One turned around and struck the bottom. The operator of the vessel attempted to trim the motor up and the engine system failed. The vessel was a ground and took several waves over the transom. The vessel filled with water and drifted off the sandbar. The operator exited the vessel and the vessel capsized.


BARDID: FL-2018-0089
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PELICAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: BOCA GRANDE
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel operated by Operator 1 attempted to dock at a slip and hit a piling.  The piling owned by the State Park, was pushed over, and will need to be reset.

The operator explained that the rental company told her to "turn the engine off when docking" as she approached the dock she turned the engine off as previously instructed, and lost steering ability and made contact with the dock piling.


BARDID: FL-2018-0090
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOE BAY
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. JOE
County: GULF
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 operator  collided with anchored navigational marker while cruising inside St. Joe Bay.  His passenger  was ejected, but unharmed. According to Operator, he and his passenger were cruising North from St Joe Marina heading toward Wind Mark Beach area to fish when he accidentally struck a channel marker.  His passenger was sitting in the bow portion of V1 when operator collided with the anchored navigation marker on his port side bow.  He was cruising 25-30 mph when the collision occurred, and caused his passenger to be ejected from V1 over the starboard bow.  Operator also collided into his center console.  He stopped his vessel, turned around, and retrieved occupant from the water.  occupant was fortunately unharmed.  Operator claimed that the accident occurred because his vision was obstructed by occupant in front of him, and he did not see the navigational marker. V1 operator went to Sacred Heart Hospital complaining of chest and knee pains.  X-rays of chest area and knee area revealed no broken bones.  Hospital staff diagnosed the pains as muscle spasms, and V1 operator was released.


BARDID: FL-2018-0091
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: BIG PINE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/25/18 at approximately 5:30PM I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Officer2 received a call of a boating accident involving injuries in the Eden Pines area of Big Pine Key. The boating accident was reported as a Personal Watercraft (PWC) vs boat lift. 
Upon arrival we identified the resident at the incident location. He claimed that he heard a loud noise and when he came outside a male and a female were attempting to get back on their PWC. They got on the PWC and continued down the canal.  The PWC occupants stated they were heading back to a house further back in the canal system. An inspection of his boat lift did not show any noticeable damage. The boat lift is in a canal system which is idle speed/no wake.
We located the house and PWC. Nobody was at the house. We documented the PWC damage and contacted Monroe County Fire Rescue. MCFR stated that they had taken a male and female from that location to Lower Keys Medical Center on Stock Island. 
The operator at the time of the accident Operator and occupant were located and injuries were as follows: Operator experienced lacerations to his left forearm and Occupant had a fractured ankle. Through their answers to questions and witness statements the officers gathered the following:
Operator was the operator of the PWC and saw the boat lift after coming off plane and tried to avoid it but was too late. The PWC struck the boat lift and both occupants were ejected. Operator’s left arm was injured from the accident. They swam back to the PWC and Occupant operated the PWC back to their house. Upon arrival Occupant tripped at the dock and hurt her ankle. 
A witness statement (attached) of the neighbor across the canal was subscribed the following day. The witness stated that the PWC entered the canal at approximately 30 MPH. Operator tried to avoid the boat lift but struck it and ejected both occupants. The witness noticed that Operator was bleeding on his left arm. They both got on the PWC and Occupant operated it down the canal. 
OPERATOR:Lacerations to left arm. Stitches needed. 
OCCUPANT:Fractured left ankle. Hard cast needed.


BARDID: FL-2018-0092
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIAMI RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was outbound in the Miami River when he had engine issues with his port engine causing him to hit V2 which was docked. According to the statements, V1 operator was eastbound in the Miami River when he began to have issues with his port engine. V1 operator stated he realized his port engine was stuck in forward gear and did not want to go back into neutral which led him to turn the port engine off. In the attempt to control his vessel with one engine, he hit V2 which was docked on the north side seawall, with the bow of his vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0093
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYSIDE MARINA
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with governmental vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 78 ft Azimut, was entering Miami Bayside Marina while being operated by Operator 1. According to statements given by Operator 1, he was trying to enter Bayside Marina on one engine, as he had experienced an engine casualty earlier and decided to bring the vessel into the marina. Due to strong winds, the narrow entrance of Bayside Marina, and the engine casualty on the boat, Operator 1 lost control of the vessel and drifted into the Dodge Island Bridge with the starboard side of the vessel. While attempting to maneuver and regain control, the boat struck the City of Miami Fireboat (Vessel 2), which was docked at its slip, damaging and breaking the port side bow rail. The damaged sustained to the boat consisted of light fiberglass and gel coat damage to her starboard quarter and damage of an antennae array which was knocked off of its mount. After the collision, Operator 1 was able to regain control of his vessel and bring it into the marina without further incident. After interviewing witnesses, documenting damage to the vessels and speaking with the operator of the boat,  it was determined that the cause of the collision was due to Operator 1 deciding to bring the boat into the Bayside Marina, despite being aware of an engine casualty. The large size of the boat coupled with the narrow entrance of Bayside Marina and the high winds, made maneuverability difficult, with an engine casualty making safe entrance impossible. Operator 1 was cited for careless operation of a vessel resulting in an accident. All parties were provided with the relevant case information prior to clearing the scene.


BARDID: FL-2018-0094
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SIMPSON CREEK
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/2/18 thru 4/5/2018 I, Officer of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Division of Law Enforcement; conducted a boating accident investigation that occurred on 3/24/2018 between 1600 hours and 1700 hours.

My investigation revealed an unknown white vessel (V1) with a T-top was traveling south on Simpson Creek and created a wake that caused Operator2 to fall off her paddleboard onto an oyster bed.  This fall caused severe lacerations on her right leg and a partially torn ligament, which resulted in treatment at UF Shands in Jacksonville.  This treatment included, but was not limited to, thirty one stitches and treatment by antibiotics for the resulting infection from those lacerations.

There are no posted speed limits on Simpson Creek.

I am placing this case into inactive status due to not being able to develop any leads, find any viable witnesses, locate any evidence, or develop any leads.


BARDID: FL-2018-0095
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 10, 2018, at approximately 2100 hrs, a boating accident occurred in the canal. The captain of V#1 left the scene of the boating accident and never reported the accident to any law enforcement agency. One of the occupants in the building had taken some photos outside his house prior to the accident. The photo showed V#1 behind V#2. The occupant also told the victim that this boat gets trailered by a Ford 150. The occupant gave the victim the photos to possibly id the vessel. The victim and his wife were traveling near their residence when they saw a boat that matched the photo of V#1. The vessel had damage to the starboard side which was consistent with the damage on the victim’s vessel (V#2). The vessel was on a trailer connected to a Ford 150. The victim gave me the location of the residence to question the individual. On March 27, 2018, I went to the residence where I obtained a witness statement from his significant other which was onboard V#1 at the time of the accident. When Operator 1 arrived at his residence I obtained a witness statement and a confession post Miranda that he was involved in the accident and was the operator of V#1. Operator1 also admitted post Miranda that he did not report the boating accident to any law enforcement agency. According to the witness statements, Operator 1 and his significant other were moored to the sea wall behind V#2, repairing his vessel. V#1's throttle suddenly got stuck in reverse; when this occurred, Operator 1 tried to put the throttle in neutral, but instead put V#1 in full throttle forward. This caused V#1 to crash into V#2. V#1 struck V#2's lower units and then hit the sea wall. After hitting the sea wall, V#1 then slammed into V#2's starboard side causing damage to the hull, rail, and lower units. V#1 had propeller scratches on the starboard side and damage to the hull. Operator 1 was cited for failure to report a boating accident to law enforcement. nt with the damage on the victim’s vessel (V#2). The vessel was on a trailer connected to a Ford 150. The victim gave me the location of the residence to question the individual. On March 27, 2018, I went to the residence where I obtained a witness statement from his significant other which was onboard V#1 at the time of the accident. When Operator1 arrived at his residence I obtained a witness statement and a confession post Miranda that he was involved in the accident and was the operator of V#1. Operator1 also admitted post Miranda that he did not report the boating accident to any law enforcement agency. According to the witness statements, Operator1 and his significant other were moored to the sea wall behind V#2, repairing his vessel. V#1's throttle suddenly got stuck in reverse; when this occurred, Operator1 tried to put the throttle in neutral, but instead put V#1 in full throttle forward. This caused V#1 to crash into V#2. V#1 struck V#2's lower units and then hit the sea wall. After hitting the sea wall, V#1 then slammed into V#2's starboard side causing damage to the hull, rail, and lower units. V#1 had propeller scratches on the starboard side and damage to the hull. Operator1 was cited for failure to report a boating accident to law enforcement.


BARDID: FL-2018-0096
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 31, 2018 at 1944 hours, Officer 1 and Officer 2 were on state water patrol within Miami Dade County when we received a call about a possible vessel accident in the area of 79th Street Causeway. The call was heard by Lt. 1 via Inner-City radio and he advised our FWC dispatch center. 

At 1946 hours we arrived at 79th Street boat ramp and flagged down by Miami Dade County park officer who was able to advise which vessels were involved. We assessed the parties involved for injuries, there were none. I pulled one of the individuals involved aside. Operator 1 was the operator of the striking vessel (V1). 

Officer 2 was able to speak with the other vessel owners who owns vessel (V2) and who owns vessel (V3). 

Operator 1 explained to me that he launched his vessel on pier 1 and then reversed towards in between pier 3 & 4 to pick up his occupants that were in the parking lot. V2 was docked on pier 3 and V3 was docked on pier 4. Both vessels were unoccupied at the time of the collision with V1. Operator 1 stated he reversed in between V2 & V3 and tried to dock his vessel in front of V2. Operator 1 stated that when he was in front of V2 that he encountered throttle/shifting issues that caused his vessel to stay engaged in forward and strike V2 bow to bow then making contact with the pier positioning his vessel horizontally in between both pier 3 & 4. Operator 1 tried to recover the vessel and engaged in reverse causing him to collide with V3 forcing V3 to be partially pinned under pier 4.
 
The owners of (V2) and (V3) described the incident the same way and the owner of (v2) was able to provide a picture during the incident showing V1 making contact with V2. The rate of speed was minimal as they were within the piers of the boat ramp. 

V2 received damage at the bow and V3 received damage on its starboard side to include canvas top that broke and came loose and also damaged the shifting mechanism from going under pier 4. V1 received fiberglass damage in between midship and its bow from making contact with a pier post. 

None of the vessel have insurance. Operator 1 agreed to settle damages as a civil matter with and exchange of information with all parties involved. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0097
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: DE LAND
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 01 (V01) was docked at the Saint John's River Marina dock #95. The owner stated that at approximately 4:30AM he woke up and noticed that the vessel was taking on a large amount of water and that the port side engine compartment was flooded. The owner notified the Marina and they responded with a barge and several pumps. They began to pump the water out of the vessel and stabilized it where it remained until this Investigator's arrival to the scene. 

A witness stated that he had seen V01 sitting low in the water for the last two weeks.

V01 was salvaged and towed by Boat U.S. to the Midway Marina in Astor

03/31/2018, 0930 AM: A follow up inspection of V01 was completed at Midway Marina in Astor. The Marina mechanic stated that upon arrival at the Marina V01's two holding tanks were full and had to be emptied. After the holding tanks were emptied and the remaining water was pumped out V01 stabilized and stopped flooding.

No damage to the pontoons of V01 was apparent.

Upon inspection of the port side engine compartment it was noted that the engine exhaust vent was sitting one inch above the water line. The exhaust vent was not outfitted with any one-way valve type device. 

It is this Investigator's conclusion that the concentration of weight on the port side of V01 (four adult occupants, two full holding tanks, fuel, and personal belongings) caused the engine exhaust vent to submerge below the water line resulting in a sudden flooding.


BARDID: FL-2018-0098
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIAMI RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was out bound in the Miami River when he struck V2 which was docked. According to the statements, V1 operator came out of Seybold Canal and was eastbound in the Miami River with a strong outgoing tidal current. V1 operator stated there was a large vessel westbound which caused him to hug the south side seawall. The displacement of the large vessel pushed V1 onto V2 as they passed each other. V2 was docked on the south side of the Miami River and NW 5th Street Marina.


BARDID: FL-2018-0099
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/17/2018 at approximately 1315 hours EST, Vessel 1 (V1) was occupied by it's owner and his girlfriend.  V1 was in the Gulf of Mexico just west of the Panama City Pass in Bay County, FL.  Operator was at the helm and operating the vessel at idle to slow speed when Owner went to the bow area in order to connect a line to the sail.  
As Owner attempted to do this, a wave hit the port side of the vessel which caused him to be thrown over the starboard side bow and into the water.  Owner stated that he then recalled that he had not put the vessel's ladder back on the rear of the vessel and called out to Operator to throw him any lines and a life preserver to help him get back onboard.  After numerous attempts to get back on the vessel and Operator not being able to help pull him up on board, Owner grew tired and started going under water.  Owner told Operator to try channel 16 on the radio.  

Operator approximated that Owner was in the water about 15-20 mins when she flagged down a fishing boat with 3 persons on board.  United States Coast Guard got there about three (3) minutes after the fishing boat did to assist further.  Owner was transported to St Andrews State Park boat ramp where he was transported to Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center in Panama City, FL. where he was treated for hypothermia, pneumonia, and aggravated symptoms of COPD.  Owner was admitted and subsequently released five (5) days later on March 22, 2018.


BARDID: FL-2018-0100
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday March 23, 2018 at 2145 hours, I, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer was on State Water Patrol in the area Southwest of Bear Cut Bridge when I was dispatched to a report of a capsized vessel with multiple persons in the water. The reported location was in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) at ICW channel marker "61".
I ascertained that the 3 male occupants rescued by TowBoat US were uninjured and not in need of any medical evaluation. One female occupant was clearly in shock and had visible injuries to her upper leg/thigh area (determined to be minor lacerations, abrasions, and contusions). She refused any further EMS medical treatment or evaluation and requested to remain together with the rest of her party.
Operator stated that he had launched his vessel at Dinner Key Marina at approximately 2045 hours. He, and the other passengers listed above got underway and headed North toward the Miami River to "go eat around the Miami River and go sight-seeing". He stated that he was operating the vessel, they were "driving in the bay around downtown and Brickell taking pictures and seeing all the buildings". he noticed they were far from the channel (referring to the ICW channel running alongside the eastern seawall of Brickell Key) and turned the boat "right toward the channel and accelerated the boat to around 1/4 (one quarter) of throttle. He noticed he was 10-15 feet from hitting a pole (referring to ICW channel marker "61"), and "turned the boat left (to port) as hard as I could. Next thing I noticed we were in the water." 
Using the physical evidence of damages to the vessel and to the ICW channel marker "61", along with the Sworn Written Statements of all the occupants involved in the boating accident, it can be concluded that the vessel was traveling in a northbound course within or parallel to in close proximity to the ICW along Brickell Key. Operator was operating the vessel at a speed characterized as "vessel on plane" at approximately 20 miles per hour. Operator approached a fixed object (ICW channel marker "61"), which entered his field of view suddenly. Operator attempted to steer the vessel to avoid collision, however his efforts to avoid the ICW channel marker "61" were insufficient, and resulted in the starboard aft side of the vessel to strike the fixed object. At collision, all 4 occupants of the vessel were ejected in a north by north west vector. The collision caused the vessel damage described as deep through - hull gauges, which ultimately caused the vessel to begin taking on water. Once the vessel was flooded with seawater and lost its displacement characteristics of flotation, the vessel capsized and was maintained afloat by air trapped in the bow of the overturned vessel.
This section of the ICW where the boating accident occurred is categorized as a "Slow Speed Minimum Wake Manatee Zone", which is best described as a vessel shall be settled in the water, making way while creating a minimum vessel wake. 
Based on the time of the incident, with limited night visibility and shoreline light pollution created by the building and city lights, Operator failed to maintain a proper look-out (as defined by United States Coast Guard Navigation Rules & Regulations Inland 33 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) 83 Rule 5 Look-Out 83.05). Additionally, by operating at speed in excess of safe operation given the location and lighting conditions (as defined by United States Coast Guard Navigation Rules & Regulations Inland 33 CFR 83 Rule 6 Safe Speed 83.06), Operator was operating a vessel in a careless manner.
Operator also failed to meet the Florida requirement to possess a Boater ID card, obtained after successfully passing a boating safety education course.


BARDID: FL-2018-0101
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JEWFISH CREEK
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident that caused damage to the piling at the dock of a resort.

V1 was having engine problems and was headed northeast through Jewfish creek. V1 attempted to dock and caused a piling to crack and break. V1 had one operator and one passenger. No one was ejected, injured or wearing life jackets.

The operator was having engine problems and was headed northeast through Jewfish creek  to a restaurant to wait on a mechanic. He attempted to dock at The Anchorage and went towards the dock at an angle with his starboard bow against the dock. He attempted to pivot his vessel with his engines and states the wind was too much for him. During this maneuver, one of the pilings audibly cracked (according to eyewitnesses) and broke. The operator states he realized he was at the wrong dock and then went across the canal to the restaurant.


BARDID: FL-2018-0102
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUNTEX MARINA
NearestCityorTown: HOLLYWOOD
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Vessel struck by damaged pilin
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis: 
I was dispatched to a boating accident on March 1st 2018 at Suntex Marina located at 1400 Marina Drive Hollywood FL, 33019 involving two vessels. The call notes stated that  there were no injuries. The type of accident reported was a 33 foot vessel vs a 38 foot vessel inside the Marina basin. Once on scene I made contact with Operator 2 the owner of the vessel struck. I will refer to his vessel from here on as V2. The owner of the second vessel is Operator 1. I will refer to his vessel from here on as V1. While attempting to back into his boat slip, V1 struck a piling which fell into V2 causing damages. No injuries were sustained.

Investigation Chronology: 
Thursday, 3/1/2018 
1.	14:30 FWC dispatch receives a call from Broward County Sheriff Deputy Brumfield regarding a boating accident located at Suntex Marina in Hollywood Florida and that FWC would need to respond. Deputy advised the accident was 33ft vessel vs 38ft vessel named Endless Summer. There were no injuries reported.
2.	At 16:55 I arrived on scene and made contact with V2 owner Operator 2. He explained to me that his boat was moored in marina slip  when the neighboring vessel tried backing into slip off of his Port side. Upon backing up, V1 and owner Operator 1 struck the piling on the starboard aft corner of his vessel. The piling was separating slips. This caused the piling to fall over and strike V2 on his Port side just in front of centerline causing damage. Once on scene Operator 2 informed me that the authorities had been notified and that Operator 1 had left the scene and would return if called. 
3.	At 1700 I took some photo evidence of V2 damage which included the port side metal railing, windows, and window frames. I also made contact at this time with Operator 1 and told him I needed him to return to the scene.
4.	At 1715 Operator 1 returned to the scene and advised me he struck Operator 2 vessel by accident and did not see the piling. He stated that he has had 22 hours of vessel operation training with a private Captain, but did not specify on which specific vessel. 
5.	At 1734 I collected each party’s documentation and issued a case number to both subjects. I then closed the called with an On Going disposition. 
Interviews:
·	Operator 2 stated that he was onboard his vessel at the time of the accident. He stated that his vessel was moored and Operator 1 was attempting to back into his slip. He stated Operator 1 became nervous when he got close to the piling and used to much throttle to correct himself pushing the piling onto his vessel.
·	Operator 1 stated that he was backing into his slip and did not see the piling. He also stated that he did not have much experience operating vessels and that he caused the accident. 
Accident Scene Description:
When I arrived at the marina I observed both vessels moored in the water. The weather was sunny with very little wind and slack tide with minimal current in the marina basin. When first examining the vessels, V1 still had the piling leaning against his vessel which he later moved before I could take photographs. The damage to V1 was very apparent ( broken windows, bent railing ). V2 sustained very minor damage.


BARDID: FL-2018-0103
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Notification and Response: I was patrolling Black Creek near Jessie Island when I observed a disabled vessel. The operator said he stopped to assist a vessel that was caught up in the trees and afterwards his boat would not start. After talking with him for a few minutes I became aware of a Ski Nautique (V-1) with its bow partially in the trees adjacent to Jessie Island. The operator of the disabled vessel said that V-1 had just crashed into the shoreline and thought, by the operator's demeanor, that he may be drunk. The disabled vessel operator got his vessel's engine started and departed after I obtained his information. 
Preliminary Investigation: An unknown Good Samaritan was attempting to tow V-1 out of the trees from the stern of V-1. I noted that the line snapped while the Good Samaritan was pulling it out. Upon my arrival the Good Samaritan left the scene. I made contact with the operator of V-1 who was standing in the water attempting to push V-1 from the bow. The passenger of V-1 was also standing in the water assisting the operator of V-1. He said the front skeg may be stuck on a limb. I observed several limbs in the water that appeared to be freshly broken and it appeared as if V-1 had gone bow first into the shoreline. 

I checked with the operator and passenger of V-1 to see if either was injured. The operator of V-1 had blood on the left side of his head just above his ear. He refused having rescue respond to check him out but said he would get it checked out later. The passenger of V-1 claimed she was uninjured. The operator of V-1 had indicators that suggested he had been consuming alcoholic beverages (slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and unsteady on his feet). 
I asked the operator of V-1 what happened. He stated that he was travelling toward Knight's Boat Ramp (easterly direction) to the south side of Jessie Island and was following several large boats and got caught up in their wake. He said the wake pushed his boat into the shoreline where his front skeg hooked over a log. He and his passenger continued to attempt to free V-1 from the log. Eventually they freed it but V-1's engine would not start. I towed V-1 to Knights boat Ramp after securing a signed tow waiver. I told the operator of V-1 that I would need to inspect the vessel for damage upon removing V-1 from the water and onto the trailer. 
Damage Assessment: Upon our arrival at Knight's Boat Ramp I inspected V-1 for damage. I checked the bottom of V-1 where the forward skeg was located. The Skeg was bent toward the port side of V-1 but was not broken or chipped. I also checked the rudder for damage and was able to turn the rudder to port and starboard. I checked the propeller and did not observe any damage. I did not see any further hull damage but did see where debris had fallen from overhead trees upon collision. I noted that the Bimini top rails on the port side were bent out toward the port side. 
Statement of the Operator: I again asked the operator of V-1 what happened and asked how the vessel ended up bow first into the shoreline and about how fast was he travelling. He stated that he was "on it" (referring to the throttle) and when he hit the wake of the boat in front of him he lost control of his boat and it spun around throwing him to the left side (port side) of his boat. He said he hit his head on the gunwale. I asked if he had been consuming alcoholic beverages and he said he had a few. I asked if he felt like he was going too fast or following too closely. He stated that he should not have been so close and should have had a better grip on the wheel when he encountered the wakes of the boats in front of him. He said he may have been cruising around 25-30 MPH prior to the spin-out.


BARDID: FL-2018-0104
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On the above listed date and time, I was dispatched to a vessel crash involving two wave runners, behind Pineapple Willy's restaurant. Both wave runners were rented from Panama City Watersports, LLC. Operator of Wave Runner 1 was Operator1 and his daughter.  The Operator of Wave Runner 2 was Operator2 and his nephew. 

As I arrived on scene the Bay County EMS was loading Operator2 onto an ambulance and transported him to Bay Medical Center Sacred Heart Hospital.  A Panama City Police Officer was with the other wave runner operator.  Operator1 stated that he was not hurt in the crash and had refused EMS treatment.  Operator1 provided a Sworn Written Statement on the events that transpired (attached).  

Operator1 stated that the other operator pulled up and asked if he wanted to race. He nodded yes and they began to race east bound. He stated that the other operator got about 20 yards ahead of him and stopped right in front of him. He stated that he collided with him and as they impacted both people jumped off. He stated that he was able to help them get back on the wave runners and made it back to shore.

I interviewed Operator2 at the hospital and he was able to provide a Sworn Written Statement (attached). He stated that they both agreed to race and started to head east. He stated that he got ahead of Operator1 by about 10 or 15 yards and they made it to the end of their zone. He stated that he stopped because they were out of boundary to run. He stated that the other wave runner hit them from behind knocking them off. He stated that he felt a bad pain in his ribs after he was hit. He stated that they were able to get back on the wave runner and made it back to shore. He stated that when the race started Operator1 was on the north side of him. 

Operator2 sustained two broken ribs on his right side. 

I photographed both wave runners (attached). It appears that wave runner 1 hit the back, right side of wave runner 2. Which is consistence with Operator2's injures. I have concluded that Operator1 was operating in a careless manner. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0105
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EVERGLADES MANAGEMENT AREA
NearestCityorTown: WESTON
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
This two vessel accident with injury occurred in Everglades Management Area (Area
3A South) approximately one mile south of I-75, on the Rest Area Trail.  V1 was traveling south and V2 was traveling north on an airboat trail.  Upon seeing each other, both vessels decelerate and try to maneuver to their starboard side.  

Due to the low water conditions, high embankments and vegetation, both vessels are forced back onto the trail and collide.  V1's port bow collided with V2's port gunwale, just aft the grass rake and ramped V2 until V1's grass rake collided with the seating platform and caging structure.  

The operator of V2 incurred a laceration to his head and complained of back pain.  The operator of V2 initially refused medical treatment but after returning to the boat ramp, allowed medical treatment and was transported to Cleveland Clinic's emergency room in Weston, FL.


BARDID: FL-2018-0106
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was anchored started taking in water from stern. Operator started vessel to pull anchor and vessel capsized. From the statements provided the vessel began taking in water over the transom. Subject activated the bilge pump manually but the vessel still began to fill with water. Subject then started the vessel and began to walk to the bow of the vessel to pull the anchor. The vessel stalled and began to take on more water from the stern. The vessel then rolled over and remained upside down. Based on witness statements and inspection of the vessel once on shore, I concluded that the vessel started taking on water and the bilge pump system was not functioning properly.


BARDID: FL-2018-0107
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While operating a Personal watercraft, operator made a sharp turn and dislocated her shoulder. She also fell off the PWC while making the turn. She refused treatment while on scene, however she was taken to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center by friends later that afternoon.


BARDID: FL-2018-0108
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST OF NIXON BEACH
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 18, 2018, a boating accident occurred west of Nixon Beach between vessel bearing Florida registration FL 6118 SJ (V#1) and an 11 foot sail boat (V#2). Based on the witness statements and other relevant facts, V#1 did not maintain a proper look out and did not see the 11 foot sail boat on the water. The captain of V#2 had capsized prior to the accident and was in the water. V#1 collided with V#2's stern, which caused extensive damage to the stern of V#2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0109
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIDY ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 (FL3347LW) was traveling North, Northeast towards Paradise Bay boat ramp.  As V1 approached the Slow Speed zone, the operator attempted to throttle down.  The throttle was unresponsive and V1 plowed though the end of the dock.   A steel cable wrapped around the tower of V1, pulling it to the west which then caused it to make contact with V2 which was moored.  V1 came to rest facing west in the adjacent slip to V2.

As  the operator approached a slow speed sign, he attempted to throttle down to slacken his speed.  The throttle malfunctioned and the operator was unable to slow down. The operator turned to his starboard side attempting to avoid colliding with boats that were currently moored along the docks at Paradise Bay.  He collided with the furthest east dock portion.  The operator then had a metal cable that was strung between posts, wrap around the tower of his vessel.  This pulled his vessel to his port which caused the port side of his vessel to come in to contact with another vessel (V2, FL 5063RM) that was moored at the time of the incident.  The operator turned the engine off and the vessel then came to rest facing west in the adjacent slip to V2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0110
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BONITA BAY
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Responded to boating accident at Bonita Bay on Tyndall Air Force Base involving two of their pontoon vessels.  No injuries involved.

When we arrived, we were greeted by the owner.  She advised that an individual rented a pontoon vessel (USAF #7).  He took one trip out to Shell Island and was going to make another trip to drop off friends and family.  The wind pushed the vessel (USAF #7) into the basin and the renter tried to turn and power out away from the other pontoons on the lift.  While doing so, he collided with a pontoon vessel (USAF #8) that was on the lift. The staff at Bonita Bay advised the renter to go ahead and take the rest of the group out to Shell Island and to come back because the staff was going to notify Security Forces and FWC.  We advised dispatch of this and had them change this to a boating accident and that it was not a hit and run.  The owner also said one of her employees witnessed the accident.  I said I needed to speak with the individual when he gets a chance.  I started to photograph the damage done to the pontoon vessel (USAF #8) while an Officer gave dispatch the information of the vessel.

A witness already filled out a statement on printer paper.  He advised he was out doing a check ride.  When he came back into the dock pontoon 7 was not tied to the dock and was floating into the basin/boat lift area.  He said it looked like the renter threw the shifter all the way down into the forward position and tried to cut the wheel but slammed into pontoon 8 on the lift.

The damage to pontoon vessel USAF #8 was mainly the port side near the stern of the vessel.  I documented the damage with photographs (see attached).  The pontoon vessels did not have any registration or registration numbers but since they are government vessels, they are not required to have either.  The owner also advised us that they are self insured.  I asked the owner if she can get me any information on the vessels that were involved.  She provided me with a copy of a purchase order of the vessel as well as the manufacture statement of origin (included in attachments). 

The renter arrived back at Bonita Bay with the other pontoon vessel involved.  I asked the renter what happened and he advised that the boat started drifting into the basin and he tried to maneuver out and collided with the other pontoon vessel.  I had the renter fill out a sworn written statement.  I then started to photograph the damage that was sustained to USAF #7.


BARDID: FL-2018-0111
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TURTLE BAY
NearestCityorTown: ROTONDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS ADRIFT, WHILE  BOTH OCCUPANTS WERE FISHING FROM ONE SIDE OF THE VESSEL. THE VESSEL BECAME OVERLOADED ON ONE SIDE, SUBSEQUENTLY CAUSING THE VESSEL TO ROLL AND CAPSIZE.


BARDID: FL-2018-0112
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday April 7, 2018, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was on state water patrol in Hillsborough County, Florida. At approximately 1045 hours I was in a marked patrol vessel near the Gandy Boat Ramp and just south of the Gandy Bridge when I observed a white vessel resting on some rocks with three people on board wearing life jackets and one person standing on shore holding a rope attached to the vessel. I immediately activated my blue lights and approached the vessel. I asked if everyone was ok and if they needed medical attention and they stated to me that they did not. A few minutes later Tampa Police Department arrived on scene by land and assisted the people off the vessel. 
I then docked my patrol vessel a short distance away at the FWC Gandy Field Office and arrived on scene by land. I asked everyone on board again if they needed any medical attention to which they responded that they did not. I identified the vessel and the operator of the vessel. Due to the language barrier I had one of the passengers translate for me. I asked them what happened and they stated to me that the motor on the vessel staled out as they were heading out of the Gandy Boat Ramp channel. That is when the operator trimmed the motor up out of the water to see what the issue was. While the operator was trying to figure out what was wrong with the motor, the wind and current pushed the vessel onto the rocks causing the vessel to become stuck there. At the time of the accident the wind was very strong out of the southwest and the sea state was rough. 
The occupant then called Tow Boat US to have them come out and remove the vessel from the rocks.
During the time they were waiting for Tow Boat to arrive on scene the constant pounding of the wind and waves on the vessel and the rocks caused there to be a significant amount of damage to the vessel. Tow Boat arrived on scene around 1400 hours and removed the vessel from the rocks. They had to use float bags to keep it from sinking as they towed the vessel a short distance back to Gandy Boat Ramp.  Once the vessel was back at Gandy Boat Ramp I documented the vessel damage with pictures.
	The operator was not cited in this accident. No further action is taken at this time.


BARDID: FL-2018-0113
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 11th, 2018 at approximately 0830 hours V1 launched with two occupants on board from Memorial Boat Ramp in Vero Beach, and traveled South in the Intercoastal Waterway on the Indian River. V-1 stopped to fish and wait for two other vessels (containing family members) just South of the 17th Street Bridge along the eastern shore. The second vessel arrived at approximately 0930 hours. About 1100 hours, the third vessel arrived in the area of the other vessels. 

The group of three vessels decided to head South and find a better location to eat lunch and continue fishing. After slowly making their way Southwest to the channel (ICW), they picked up on plane. V-1 was leading the group of three vessels South, when the operator of V-1 became distracted. The operator of V-1 did not notice his vessel heading directly for the Green lighted dayboard marker 159 with sufficient time to avoid collision. V-1 struck marker 159 just starboard of the bow. 

The operator of V-1 was rendered unconscious and ejected from the boat. The passenger of V-1 sustained minor injuries. The occupants were recovered from the accident scene by the two vessels that were following. The operator was taken to shore and transported by EMS to Lawnwood Medical Center as a trauma alert, and was admitted for treatment. The occupant was transported by EMS to Indian River Medical Center and released. The operator was released from Lawnwood on March 2nd after being treated for water in his lungs.
Operator had only minor contusions and lacerations on his head and left arm. Due to being rendered unconscious during the accident, he ingested a large quantity of river water. He was transported to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center as a trauma alert by ambulance. After being admitted to the hospital, He was treated for water in his lungs and the secondary infections that occurred. He was released from the hospital following his treatment.

Occupant suffered minor injuries to her face (upper gum area), left arm, and left side ribs. The injuries included contusions and lacerations. She was transported to Indian River Medical Center by ambulance. She was released from the hospital after being treated for her injuries. She refused to have her injures documented by photograph.


BARDID: FL-2018-0114
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: COCOA
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
On 03/18/18 there was a boating accident involving a single airboat on the St. Johns river on the West shoreline South of State Road 520 in Orange County, Florida.  The vessel capsized ejecting the operator and an occupant into the water.  No injuries were reported.  The vessel, according to the operator, caused a grassfire that lead to the vessel being engulfed in flames.

The vessel was cut up and removed from the scene by Wieland.

INTERVIEWS 
 On 03/18/18, Officer obtained a sworn written statement at Lone Cabbage Boat Ramp. The following are paraphrased excerpts from that sworn statement. 
Ø	The vessel was traveling west of the river and struck some tussets on the starboard side of the vessel
Ø	The vessel rode up on the tussets and partially capsized coming to rest on its port side gunnel
Ø	The exhaust and fuel form the engine ignited the surrounding grass and resulted in a brush fire
Ø	The occupants were ejected from the vessel and landed in the grass to the south of the vessel and were uninjured
Ø	The occupants were transported to Lone cabbage boat ramp by the Brevard county Sheriff’s Office.


ACCIDENT SCENE DESCRIPTION
Ø	The weather was clear and bright with wind less than 10 miles an hour
Ø	The vessel was on dry marsh grass approximately 25 feet from any visible water.
Ø	The vessel was lying partially on its port side gunnel facing north west
Ø	There was a large brush fire now in the distance that appeared to have emanated from the accident scene.
Ø	There were no identifiable markings remaining on the substantially burned vessel


VESSEL DESCRIPTION / DAMAGE ASSESSMENT / ACCIDENT RECONSTRUCTION
 2017 13 Ft. Big Oh fiberglass airboat (FL 2616 RG) - The hull of the vessel was a total loss.  The vessel was completely engulfed in flames and was beyond repair.  According to subject he was able to salvage some parts of the motor block to be reused 

ACCIDENT ANALYSIS

PRE-ACCIDENT
The vessel was traveling West exiting the St. John’s River and entering the marsh grass being operated by Operator and traveling between 10 and 20 miles an hour.

ACCIDENT
The vessel struck a marsh grass tusset on the starboard side causing the vessel to partially capsize on the port side gunnel.  The occupants were ejected onto the marsh grass.  The occupants then according to Grosse’s statement pushed the vessel back upright.

POST-ACCIDENT
The occupants were transported to the Lone Cabbage boat ramp by Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.  The vessel was engulfed in fire and a large brush fire was ignited.  According to Brevard county Fire via Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, there was no threat to persons or structures and could burn out.
 
CONCLUSION
Based on evidence and information I have gathered to date, operator violated Navigation rule 6 when he was determining a safe operational speed. operator was operating the vessel at an


BARDID: FL-2018-0115
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MADEIRA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/2/18 at approximately 1100 hours a boating accident occurred in Pinellas County, just outside of John's Pass in the Gulf of Mexico. The accident involved 2 rental PWCs that collided resulting in minor injuries to one of the passengers and approximately $2000 in damage to one of the PWCs. 

According to the account of the accident, Operator1 was trying to spray Operator2 and V2 occupant with water from the PWC that he was operating as Operator2 and V2 occupant were stopped in the water on their PWC. Operator1 was not able to control his PWC and collided with the starboard side of their PWC, hitting V2 occupant and knocking both V2 occupant and Operator2 off and into the water. V2 occupant sustained a laceration over her right eye and contusions on her right arm as a result of the impact.

Damage to the PWC Operator2 and V2 occupant were on (FL3918RH) is estimated to be $2,000. PWC FL4720PZ was only scratched in the collision.

I issued Operator1 a written warning for careless operation and explained the seriousness of carelessly operating a PWC.


BARDID: FL-2018-0116
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: NEW PORT RICHEY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 8, 2018, at approximately 1536 hours, I was dispatched to a boating accident that occurred at Anclote Sandbar.  FWC dispatch relayed a man had been caught under a boat and was injured by the propeller. 

Victim was operating the rented pontoon boat on the Gulf of Mexico.  He and Occupant were fishing.  They later pulled up to the Anclote Sandbar and picked up the ladies.  Victim needed to urinate.  Victim pulled back on the throttle.  Unbeknownst to him, he did not put the vessel in neutral.  (It was still in forward)  Victim jumped into the water to relieve himself; the water level was above his head.  
 
The vessel continued to move, while the bow was pushed up along the shoreline of the sandbar.  The vessel swung wide, with the propeller headed toward the direction of Victim’s location.  The vessel’s propeller struck Victim’s arm.  Victim turned to get away from the vessel and the propeller caught his leg.  Victim screamed for someone to shut off the boat. 

According to subject, Victim was pulled under the water and was approximately ten to fifteen feet behind the vessel within two seconds.  Subject immediately turned the engine off and called 911.  Victim swam with his working arm and leg back to the vessel, where he was brought back on board by the occupants from the side of the vessel.  

Subject2 responded to Victim’s lacerations and conducted first aid.  She applied pressure with the family’s towels on both his arm and leg.  The party was instructed to bring Victim into the Gulf Harbor Yacht Club, where he would be met by the EMS crew.
  
Victim’s injuries consisted of:

Left Hand: 4 cm 
Left Forearm: 7 cm and 14 cm
Upper Right Knee: 9 cm
Calf Right Leg : 10 cm 
Outer Calf to Ankle: 18 cm
Top Foot: 7 cm


BARDID: FL-2018-0117
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 outbound in PWC tour line from dockage heading east in Grand Lagoon toward Shell Island. V2 westbound in Grand Lagoon returning to dockage from tour. Winds SE at 15-25 MPH across water. V2 on south side of channel attempting to hold position to provide time for tour line to pass. V2 throttle on and off in reverse to hold position. V1 exiting slow speed zone and increasing speed. Spaces between each PWC in tour increasing as each increases speed before the previous. With wind at back, V2 being forced into channel despite throttle at full reverse.

Despite throttle at full reverse, V2 entering channel crossing the PWC tour line. As it crosses, PWC operator 1 turns port to avoid collision. Despite the crossing situation making V1 the give way vessel,  operator 1 tries to continue in line with the PWC tour. Operator 1 has indecision and off throttle steering before turning to port and colliding with his starboard side to the starboard bow of V2 which is still moving forward across the channel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0118
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: dania cutoff canal
NearestCityorTown: dania beach
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
I responded to a delayed vessel accident. Vessel 2 was properly docked at the Harbour Town Marina fuel docks. Vessel 1 was attempting to dock at its turning basing berth located North/across from the fuel dock on the Dania Cutoff canal. Vessel 1 was maneuvering for a reverse docking. Vessel 1 drifted South while positioning for docking. Vessel 1 bow struck the Starboard amid ship of Vessel 2. Vessel 2 sole occupant fell to the deck when Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2. 

Vessel 2 occupant reported soft tissue injuries to his left Achilles, left shoulder and neck area. Vessel 1 sustained no damage or injuries to anyone on board. Vessel 2 sustained damage to the starboard amide ship side. Vessel 2 has since been repaired and returned the owner. Vessel 1 Captain failed to ensure Vessel 1 avoided contact with Vessel 2. All additional occupants can swim. No one on either vessel fell into the water. Vessel 1 captain holds licensing for commercial cargo transport out of Honduras and Panama.


BARDID: FL-2018-0119
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JOHN'S LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WINTER GARDEN
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
LEAVING A FRIEND'S HOUSE, I WAS APPROXIMATELY 60 YARDS FROM SHORE AND SUDDENLY STRUCK SOMETHING UNDERWATER FAIRLY LARGE. IT MADE A VERY LARGE NOISE AND IT WAS OBVIOUS THAT THERE WAS DAMAGE UNDER THE BOAT.


BARDID: FL-2018-0120
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE HICKORY PASS
NearestCityorTown: BONITA SPRINGS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 LEFT THE DOCK TRAVELLING EASTBOUND IN HICKORY PASS. THE CAPTAIN OF THE VESSEL NOTICED THE VESSEL WAS TAKING ON WATER. HE FLAGGED DOWN ANOTHER PASSING VESSEL WHICH ASSISTED THE VESSEL BACK TO THE DOCK. THEN ONCE AT THE DOCK, THE STERN OF THE VESSEL SETTLED AT THE BOTTOM IN SHALLOW WATER LEAVING THE VESSEL PARTIALLY SUBMERGED. NO ONE WAS INJURED FROM THE VESSEL CRASH, AND THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY $10,000 OF WATER DAMAGE TO THE SINGLE VESSEL.


BARDID: FL-2018-0121
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PANSOFFKEE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: SUMTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Starting in gear
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling east towards Lake Panasoffkeee in a finger canal from residence.  Upon starting the engine, Vessel 1 throttle was fully open and traveled east at a high rate of speed, striking vegetation and then a dock.  Vessel 1 bow made impact with the dock causing the engine to push forward, the vessel to buckle and ejecting the operator. 

 The operator had minimal injuries considering the impact.  Broken right arm just below the elbow, chip in right hip, and a fracture to his right rib #6.


BARDID: FL-2018-0122
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTEL WATERWAYS
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, March 26, 2018, at approximately 0915 hours, the operator was undocking at Palm Harbor Marina, West Palm Beach.  while he was pulling out of the dock, strong current pushed him on to another boat.  He was not prepared for the strength of the current and maneuvering in close proximity to other vessels. The operator told me he had hundreds of hours of experience however, less than 100 hours in this vessel.
The vessel suffered minor scratches on starboard side.


BARDID: FL-2018-0123
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, April 16, 2018, 46-foot catamaran docked at a marina sustained damage from a wake thrown by two unknown vessels.
On Monday, April 16, 2018, I, Officer 1 of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was dispatched to Cracker Boy Boat Works, located at 1124 Avenue C, Rivera Beach, in reference to a boat damage caused by a wake.

Upon my arrival, I’ve met Owner 1, the owner of damaged vessel (2002, 46-foot Soubise, DO 1128047). He told me, at approximately 1000 hours, approximately 50-foot cabin cruiser went by, throwing a big wake.  His vessel was docked outside and the wake caused damage on either side of his catamaran.  Also, he told me that marina has a monitoring system and the incident has been captured on video.

A witness to this incident gave sworn, written statement to the same.

I spoke with the front desk employee of Cracker Boy Boat Works and asked for the video of the incident. After reviewing the video, I concluded two approximately 50-foot cabin cruisers went by in close proximity to each other and created a wake causing damages to the catamaran. However, leading vessel visibly slowed down to “slow speed-minimum wake” at designated area. The vessel’s bow settled in the water and proceeded within the rule. 

Damaged vessel at the time of incident was docked where there was not enough area between the dock and the vessel to absorb any potential wake. 

46-foot catamaran sustained indentation on center port hole on port side and indentation on second aft port hole on starboard side.

The leading cabin cruiser was identified as “Seas the Moment”, hailing port: Virginia Beach, Virginia. Second vessel could not be identified due to obstruction to the name on the stern.


BARDID: FL-2018-0124
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHALE HARBOR CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
14 foot sailing vessel pulled under Whale Harbor Bridge due to strong current. 
On Sunday, March 11th, 2018 at approximately 8:55 PM, I Officer  we of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), were both in uniform, in a marked patrol vessel in Tavernier Creek. We were dispatched to a boating accident where a sailing vessel reportedly struck the Whale Harbor Bridge. 
At approximately 9:11 PM, we arrived on scene. I observed a small red sailboat with its mast pinned under the Whale Harbor Bridge. One older male, Operator 1 was still onboard the vessel. I asked the man onboard if he was injured and if anyone was in the water, to which he replied he was not injured and that he was alone on the vessel. I threw Operator 1 a life jacket and once he put it on I assisted the male onboard the patrol vessel. Operator 1 stated he was a member of Towboat U.S. An Officer contacted Capt. from Towboat U.S. in Islamorada, Florida. Capt. gave a 25 minute estimated time of arrival. 
At approximately 9:47 PM Towboat U.S. arrived on scene. Operator 1 got onboard the Towboat US vessel and assisted the captain in the removal of his own vessel from under the Whale Harbor Bridge. Once the sailboat was freed, Operator 1 got back on board his vessel which had sustained minor damage from being pushed against the bridge. Vessel was still seaworthy. Operator 1 lowered the sail and gathered his personal belongings. While the captain of the Towboat U.S. vessel prepared to tow Operator 1's vessel, Operator 1 stated that he was leaving our Whale Harbor station after speaking with an officer to get directions to Buttonwood Sound and while trying to enter back into the Whale Harbor channel on the bay side of the bridge, the current was too strong for him and it pulled his vessel towards the ocean side and under the bridge where his mast got caught underneath.


BARDID: FL-2018-0125
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel struck broken metal day marker, causing significant damage to vessel, causing it to capsize.  

On Tuesday March 27th at approximately 1:30 pm, operator  was outbound in south sound creek.  When he was approaching marker 11, he started to slow down and come off a plane; he stated he was traveling at approximately 15 mph.  He stated that he looked at his GPS at the same time he was slowing down.  It was at this time that he struck marker 11, which is broken and sticks out of the water approximately 2-3 feet; a floating green marker has replaced metal day marker.  

Significant damage to vessel was sustained when Operator hit marker.  The initial impact was at the forward half of starboard side of vessel and ends approximate mid-ship, causing the vessel to take on water.  Operator maneuvered vessel to shallow water and had all persons on board put on life jackets.  He called Tow Boat US to recover vessel. 

No persons given medical treatment or transported.  

There were a total of 12 persons onboard the vessel at the time of the accident, the children sitting towards the bow of the vessel were ejected from vessel at time of impact; all children were recovered safely.


BARDID: FL-2018-0126
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON FEBRUARY 25TH 2018 AT APPROXIMATELY 0140 HOURS, Operator 1, VERIFIED BY FLORIDA DRIVERS WAS ENTERING THE DEERING BAY CHANNEL. 

OPERATOR 1 STATED THAT HE STRUCK A SUBMERGED OBJECT AT THE ENTRANCE OF THE CHANNEL. OPERATOR 1 STATED THAT HE FELT A VIOLENT CRASH AND THE VESSEL IMMEDIATELY LOST ABOUT 50 PERCENT OF THE FORWARD MOVEMENT. OPERATOR 1 INSPECTED THE ENGINE ROOM AND FOUND THE STARBOARD TRANSMISSION SMOKING. 

OPERATOR 1 TURNED OFF THE STARBOARD ENGINE AND MADE IT BACK TO HIS DOCKING SLIP USING THE PORT ENGINE ONLY.  OPERATOR 1 STATED THAT HE NOTICED A VIOLENT VIBRATION ON BOTH MOTORS AND A GRINDING NOISE FROM BOTH TRANSMISSIONS.

I FWC OFFICER RECEIVED THE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BOATING ACCIDENT ON FEBRUARY 27, 2018 AT APPROXIMATELY 1107 HOURS.

I MADE CONTACT WITH OPERATOR 1, TOOK A SWORN STATEMENT FROM HIM. I ALSO TOOK PICTURES OF THE DAMAGE TO THE PROPELLERS.


BARDID: FL-2018-0128
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOASTAL WATER WAY
NearestCityorTown: NOKOMIS
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 20, 2018 at approximatley 1640 I Officer 1 of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was dispatch to a boating accident that invloved one vessel hitting a dock/boat lift. The individual on the vessel was injured and transported to the hospital. On April 17, 2018 at approximately 1640, I of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on land patrol when I was dispatched to a boating accident (FL 2346ES) involving one person who was injured. The boating accident accord at approximately 1515 in the Intercoastal waterway (ICW) near channel marker 20. Sarasota county marine patrol arrived on scene at approximately 1540 along with Officer 2 FWC. I went to Sarasota Memorial hospital to meet the operator of the vessel, who was identified as Operator 1.  Once I arrived at the hospital I asked Operator 1 to explain what happened. He stated that he was fishing near a dock and boat lift on the west side of the ICW channel marker 20. He stated he was up front standing on the bow fishing and operating the trolling motor when he noticed that he was getting closed to the boat lift and dock. He put the trolling motor in reverse but noticed he had left the vessel motor in forward gear. At this point he said he realized he was going to crash. He put his arms up in the air to protect his face. His body got pinned between the boat lift and center console of the vessel. Operator 1 then saw a vessel nearby so he drove the vessel over to the good Samaritans, he asked them for help since Operator 1 was injured. The good Samaritans called 911 and drive his vessel across to the east side of the ICW, so the ambulance could take him to the hospital. He was picked up by EMS. The residence owner let Operator 1 keep his vessel at the address for a couple day. The only damage to the vessel was to the plastic windshield, it had several cracks. Operator 1 had four broken ribs.


BARDID: FL-2018-0129
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEERPOINT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
I spoke to the operator about the incident. He advised me that he was going from High Point across the lake towards Cedar Creek when he hit a wave that caused his boat to jump. As he jumped, he accidentally revved the engine and when the boat came down, the high RPM’s caused the boat to jeer sideways in an abrupt change of direction, which ejected him from the boat. He advised that after he was the in the water the boat began to continue driving itself in circles (known as death spinning). As the boat approached him and was about to run him over he lifted his right leg to kick the boat away. He was able to kick the vessel away from him once. The second time however, his right leg and pants were caught in the propeller. Because his pants wrapped around the propeller the motor was killed in place and he was able to grab onto the stern of the vessel. He was not able to get back on the vessel and waited for help. He advised that he attempted to calm himself at this point to avoid heart problems of which he has past medical history. He advised me that two men had come by water approximately 20 minutes later and pulled him from the water and returned him and his boat to the boat ramp. ; The operator :Lacerations to right leg from vessel propeller. Suffered from shock. Afraid of heart problems from past medical history. Transported to Bay Medical. Leg stitched at hospital and preventative for infection of wound given. Nurse advised will be kept over night and released following day with antibiotics.


BARDID: FL-2018-0130
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, March 29, 2018 around sunset, a vessel, a 14 ft. Logic Marine, was headed East on the Caloosahatchee river. The Operator did not see two pilings that were used to hold up a slow speed/25 mph sign just Eats of the Edison bridge. He collided with the two pilings wedging his vessel in between the pilings crushing the sides of the vessel inward. At impact, the operator and his passenger were thrown to the vessel deck. Both subjects received minor lacerations to their arms and refused all medical treatment. The operator called Seatow for assistance in an attempt to remove them and the vessel from the pilings. Due to conditions, the vessel was removed the following morning.  Operator had consumed alcoholic beverages but refused any tasks or consent to testing.


BARDID: FL-2018-0131
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: PALM VALLEY
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/15/18 at approximately 1130am, vessel 1 was jumping the vessel wake of an unknown 20 foot vessel. During the course of jumping the vessel wake, the PWC flipped over causing the operator to be ejected off and injured. Xrays showing he injured the tendon on top of his left shoulder joint and would be in a sling for several weeks. It was advised that there was no damage sustained to the PWC. ; Injury occured upon impact with water. Injured left shoulder. The hospital took x-rays and advised the tendon on top of his left shoulder joint was partially torn.


BARDID: FL-2018-0132
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MOSQUITO LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 24, 2018 at approximately 1525 hours, a single vessel capsizing accident occurred within Turner Flats, Volusia County, Florida. V1 is a 16 foot Gheenoe vessel powered by a single outboard motor. V2 is an unknown center console vessel. V1 was operated by an adult male and had one adult female passenger. 

V1’s occupants were travelling westbound from turner flats. V2 was travelling eastbound toward turner flats. V1 attempted to cross the wake from V2. V1 rolled over and ejected both occupants. V1’s occupants were rescued from the water by a Good Samaritan vessel and transported to JBs Fish Camp to meet with EMS. V1 was righted by good samaritans and transported by the operator of V1's son. Operator sustained a fractured L1 vertebrae during the accident and was admitted to Florida Hospital New Smyrna.


BARDID: FL-2018-0133
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 traveled south in the Atlantic Ocean from Haulover Inlet. V1 made contact with the Southern rock Jetty at Goverment Cut Inlet. V1 made final rest on top of the Jetty.

 V1 was traveling South in the Atlantic Ocean. The operator of V1 said he did not see the Channel Markers and he could not see the lights from buildings to guide him into the inlet. V1 continued traveling on a Southern track, past the Channel Markers for Government Cut. V1 made contact with the South Jetty. V1 came to rest on top of the Jetty. All persons on board were rescued by Miami Dade Fire rescue boat 73. They were then transported to U.S.C.G. station Miami Dade. The operator was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital by Miami Beach E.M.S.  for a laceration to his left forearm. The two other passengers were cleared by Miami Dade Fire Rescue and received treatment for minor bruises and abrasions. ; Ocupant 1 was treated for minor bruises and scrapes by EMS. Ocupant 1 was not transported to the Hospital.; Occupant 2 was cleared by EMS and was not transported to the Hospital. He sustained minor bruises from the accident.; The operator had a laceration on his left forearm. He was transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital by Miami Beach EMS transport. The Miami Dade Fire rescue boat rescued the operator and the two other passengers.


BARDID: FL-2018-0134
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANCLOTE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TARPON SPRINGS
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was entering Port Tarpon Marina.  V-2 was docked at Port Tampa Marina.  V-1 had a mechanical failure and was unable to shift out of gear.  V-1 struck a concrete dock, wood piling and V-1's port bow
I spoke with the operator of V-1.  The following summarized information.

1.  OPERATOR stated he was operating V-1 from the second story helm.
2.  OPERATOR stated when entering Port of Tarpon basin the transmission control would not disengage.
3.  OPERATOR stated he went downstairs to the first story helm.
4.  OPERATOR stated he shut down V-1's engines.
5.  OPERATOR stated V-1's forward momentum caused V-1 to collide with the Port of Tarpon concrete dock, mooring pole and a parked sailboat V-2.
6.  OPERATOR stated no injuries were reported on either V-1 or V-2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0135
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOSEPH SOUND
NearestCityorTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1, occupied by a female operator and a juvenile passenger hits a large wave on the starboard side, front of PWC, ejects both passengers. Female passenger suffers broken ankle, juvenile passenger is uninjured. The operator advised that while the tour guide was on the beach with the other participants, she and her son were running up and down the pass on the PWC, traveling around 25 MPH. She said she saw a big wave at the last second and tried to slow down as water splashed up in her face. She said the starboard front of the PWC hit the wave and ejected the two of them into the water. She said she heard her left ankle snap as it was trapped in the floorboard of the PWC when she went overboard. She told us she has been operating PWC's for many years up north and that she has well over 100 hours of experience with them. She agreed that she was probably going too fast for conditions at the time of the accident. The operator was given a verbal warning for operating her PWC too fast for conditions. Her son was not injured, and they were both wearing their life jackets. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0136
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
While headed EB in Fairway, between dock "C" and "B" at Sunset Bay Marina, V1 drifted south bound, thus striking the port side (between port quarter and port beam) of V1 into the bow/anchor of V2 and striking the bow anchor of V3 near the port bow of V1.
Upon arrival at the marina, I made contact with the owner of Vessel 1. Per the owner of Vessel 1 was headed east bound along the "C" dock, at Sunset Bay Marina, attempting to dock his vessel at slip C-20. While headed down the center of the fairway between docks "C" and "B", the owner of Vessel 1 changed his position from the helm at pilothouse of the vessel, to the Portuguese bridge station on the starboard side of the vessel. 

While transitioning between the stations, the owner of Vessel 1 advised that due to wind and water current, his vessel drifted south bound, thus striking  the teakwood pulpit/anchor on the bow of the docked vessel two with the port side of his vessel, between the port bow and port quarter of V1, thus damaging V1's port side window frame. 

The railing near the port bow of V1 then made contact with the bow of the docked vessel 3, thus resulting in damage to the railing and wood of V1. Upon speaking with the Captain of vessel 3, no damage was sustained to V3 in the accident. 

At the time of the accident V1 was occupied by the owner of Vessel 1’s wife and son, as well as local vessel captain. No parties onboard the vessel were injured during the incident. Both V2 and V3 were unoccupied at the time of the incident. 

At the conclusion of the call, the owner of Vessel 1 was cited pursuant to USCG Inland Navigation Rules (33 CFR 83.08), Rule 8, Action to Avoid Collision Resulting in an Accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0137
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading north on the ICW approaching Indiantown bridge when V2 (a large unknown vessel) heading south passed V1. V2 make a large wake causing the one of the occupants from V1 to fall and sustain injuries.
 PBCFR transported the injured subject from v1 to Jupiter Medical Center. No property damage was reported. S4 was not reported to FWC until 50 days after incident. Passenger 1 advised that no Law Enforcement responded to the scene or hospital. Passenger 1 advised she suffered multiple fractured bones in her lower back. She flew back to her residence in Canada to continue medical care.
 
I have made numerous attempts by phone and email to get ahold of Passenger 1. I have been unsuccessful in reaching her to get the necessary information for this report.
; Passenger 1:Lower back injuries. details unknown.


BARDID: FL-2018-0138
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:23:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: ALACHUA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, March 3, 2018 at approximately 1923 hours, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was alerted by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, of an unmanned vessel drifting on Newnan’s Lake.  The vessel was launched from the Owens Illinois Park (Windsor Boat Ramp), located at 11309 SE 16 Ave, Gainesville FL.   The 14-foot boat (Vessel 1) was recovered by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and towed to the Owens Illinois Park (Windsor Boat Ramp), located at 11309 SE 16 Ave, Gainesville FL.   

A 2005, Dodge Pickup truck, attached to a small boat trailer was parked in the parking lot of the Windsor Boat Ramp.   The suspected operator of the vessel was not with the vessel and is still missing.  Search ongoing for missing subject.  FWC has two (2) patrol vessels, and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office has one (1) aircraft, and one (1) patrol vessel, in reference to the search.      

On Monday, March 5, 2018 at approximately 1402 hours, the (deceased) subject was located in the lake, by (FWC) Lieutenant and the body was recovered by the Alachua County Sheriff Department’s Dive Team.  Time of Death was noted at 1530 hours, by the Alachua County Sheriff Department.


BARDID: FL-2018-0139
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GRIFFIN
NearestCityorTown: FRUITLAND PARK
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Air boat being operated during windy conditions flipped over causing four POB's to be ejected into the water. Incident occurred close to the shoreline and all occupants were able to swim to safety. Vessel was pulled out by owner with aid of a winch. Approximate damage to vessel, $3,000.00. Investigation revealed the following:   Vessel operator has approximately 100 hours experience operating this vessel. All passengers were relatives. Operator admitted having knowledge that it was very windy to be operating an air boat at the time of the incident and was staying close to the west end of the lake. The water was choppy caused by windy conditions. The operator was idling through a narrow canal with aquatic vegetation on both sides, viewing wildlife.  As the operator was making a left turn to swing back out into Lake Griffin, a strong gust of wind blew against the port side of the vessel, causing it to flip over; ejecting all passengers overboard and into the water.  There was approximately 909 lbs. of body weight on the vessel which may have played a contributing factor in the vessel flipping over.


BARDID: FL-2018-0140
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/28/2018 a boating accident occurred that consisted of an anchored vessel sinking during recreational fishing by the owner.

My investigation discovered the following:

1) That any breach of the integrity of the hull of the vessel was not a factor in causing the vessel to sink.  I observed no holes or cracks in the hull that could of caused water to enter.

2) That the owner/operator of the vessel stated that he could not offer any explanation of why the vessel sank.

3) That the passengers of the vessel could not offer any explanation of why the vessel sank.

4) That impairment of the owner/operator or the passengers were not a factor in the vessel sinking.  My interview with the owner/operator and the passengers revealed no clues that they may of been consuming alcohol, were impaired by drugs, or were fatigued that resulted in contributing factors to the accident.

5) That Sea Tow discovered that the bilge pump was not operational.  Further that the plug was present when the vehicle was recovered.

My investigation revealed that during several hours of fishing that water may of splashed over the stern resulting in the boat getting heavy enough to sink since the bilge pump was not working.  This gradual filling of the boat by water would of gone unnoticed by the passengers or the owner/operator until the boat started sinking.  Therefore equipment failure resulted in the boat sinking.

Case status:  Non-offense, closed.


BARDID: FL-2018-0141
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VSL 1 WAS DRIFTING, WITH THE OCCUPANTS TRYING TO FIX THE ENGINE.  THE WIND TURNED THE VESSEL, PLACING THE STERN TOWARDS THE WAVES.  THE VESSEL TOOK ON WATER AND SWAMPED.  A PASSING BOAT NOTICED OPERATOR 1 STANDING IN THE PARTIALLY SUNK VESSEL, WAVING HIS ARMS.  THE PASSING BOAT STOPPED AND TOOK THE OPERATOR AND OCCUPANT ABOARD.


BARDID: FL-2018-0142
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: BAL HARBOR
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 jumped a waved and landed on V1. The operator of V1 was injured. Operator 1 was hit by his Operator 2 who was operating the other PWC. The PWC landed on top of Operator 1. Operator 1was transported to Aventura Hospital for his injuries. Hospital staff informed me he had fluid in his lungs.


BARDID: FL-2018-0143
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: DE LAND
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
WHAT: Reckless operation of 33' vessel, injuring passengers onboard at time of crash.

WHERE: St. John's River, 

WHEN: Sunday, April 8, 2018 at approx. 1900 hrs

HOW:a 33' center console vessel with 13 people on board had left the river and crashed into the trees. When I arrived at Ed Stone Park Boat Ramp, State Road 44, West Deland, I was met by Lake County EMS. I launched a vessel and proceeded to the crashsite, with EMS onboard to treat for possible injuries.  At marker 26, I found a good Sam vessel occupied by Volusia County Fire & Rescue(VCFR) paramedics who said they had all of the crash victims onboard and requested I transport the most serious injured to awaiting EMS at Ed Stone Park. I took onboard 2 Hispanic Females, 1 Hispanic male, and 1 Hispanic female teenager. The male occupant was uninjured but wanted to accompany his injured wife and daughter.  

When I asked how the vessel crashed he told me he believes he fell asleep at the wheel. He stated he was traveling approx. 30-40 mph. at he time of the crash. The vessel was 70' ft from the riverside. He provided a sworn written statement attesting to being shaken awake, and it was too late to avoid the collision with the land. The operator stated he has fallen asleep like this in the past. He believes this may have contributed to the crash. ; Occupant 1 was treated and transported to hospital via EMS after complaining of rib pain. She impacted with the interior of the vessel during the crash.; Occupant 2:During the crash, M impacted something inside the vessel that caused a puncture wound to her left hip. She was treated by EMS and refused ambulance transportation.; Occupant 3 received a cut to her left ankle as a result of an impact with some object inside the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0144
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HAINES
NearestCityorTown: KISSIMMEE
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 24, 2018 I was notified on a vessel crash that had occurred at a boat dock in the Four Lakes (retire community) and that there were no injuries.  I responded to investigate what had occured.  Two pontoon boats were involved.  One was being operated and one was moored to a boat slip. Further investigation is pending.

V-1 was docked at boat slip. V-2 was docked at boat slip.  O-1 stated that he was taking his boat out and backed out of his boat slip.  O-1 indicated that he “thought” he backed out enough and turned to the left to leave.  He also indicated that it was very windy out and that he “misjudged” the distance between V-1 and V-2.  As he was turning, V-1’s starboard side bow (pontoon) struck V-2’s starboard side transom.  There were no occupants on V-1 other than the operator.  There were no occupants on V-2.  

   V-2 has a transom extension where the outboard motor is attached.  V-1 continued down it’s starboard side and subsequently struck and stopped on top of V-2 outboard motor which was pushed down under the water.  The owners of V-2 were notified and responded to the scene.  They assisted with removing V-1 after taken some photographs.  Owner of V-2 later sent me some of these photographs.  Due to V-1's starboard side pontoon taking on water, it was pulled over to the shoreline before my arrival.


BARDID: FL-2018-0145
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, April 21, 2018 at approximately 1727 hours, a single vessel boating accident occurred ½ mile offshore of Sanibel Island, in Lee County, FL. The accident occurred in the Gulf of Mexico at approximate coordinates N26° 26.179 W82° 07.629. V-1 was headed southeast along the coast of Sanibel Island, when the engine room caught on fire. The vessel occupants navigated the vessel towards the beach, at which time they abandoned the vessel and swam safely to shore. No injuries were reported. Prior to the accident the occupants had noticed the batteries had stopped charging, and the battery gauges were fluctuating, indicating that machinery failure related to the electrical system was the most probable cause of the fire.


BARDID: FL-2018-0146
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYSIDE
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 5th, 2018 at approximately 2200 hours I responded to a call from my dispatch center about a boating accident near World Wide Sportsman in Monroe County, Florida.  I was with an Investigator and an Officer, all three in agency issued uniforms and in a marked agency patrol vessel.  We arrived on scene, at approximately 2230 hours and dropped the Officer to collect witness statements from all parties involved.  The Investigator and I then inspected the vessel, where it made contact with the mangroves on the Southern end of Little Basin.  SeaTow was already on scene and had attached a line to the vessel, but had not attempted to pull the vessel from the mangroves.  There was one male on board the vessel who claimed to be the owner of the vessel.  

As SeaTow pulled the vessel from the mangroves, I accompanied  aboard his vessel to document the damage, as well as, ask him what happened.  According to the owner, his son was operating the vessel with the owner sitting beside him assisting in operating the vessel.  As the vessel was traveling West out of Little Basin, another smaller fishing vessel, with no navigation lights, cut the owner's vessel off causing them to veer to the right and collide into the mangroves.


BARDID: FL-2018-0147
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:46:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OKEECHOBEE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 4, 2018 V-1 was traveling across Lake Okeechobee from the C.Scott Driver boat ramp in Okeechobee County to the South Bay vicinity in Palm Beach County. V-1 encountered high winds as it neared the center of the lake.  The high winds on the shallow lake generated waves and hazardous water conditions. V-1 penetrated a wave and became swamped. 

As a result, Victim1 (passenger) was ejected. Operator lost power to his outboard motor while attempting to retrieve Victim1 from the water. He attempted to use the trolling motor to navigate toward Victim1 but the rough conditions caused him to fall overboard. When Operator returned to V-1, Victim1 was no longer in sight. The wind and waves were more than the trolling motor could overcome. At an unknown time later, the trolling motor lost power, leaving Victim1 without rescue and Operator adrift. 

The hull of Operator’s vessel remained intact and the foam lining inside the hull allowed the vessel to remain upright and semi-buoyant. 

Following the accident, flights of tournament fisherman were returning to the C. Scott Driver boat ramp. At approximately 5:05 p.m. check-in for the final flight was completed and the tournament director was notified vessel had still not arrived. 

A search and rescue mission comprised of several agencies was initiated to locate the individuals. At approximately 10:45 p.m., a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputy located Operator at the Pahokee Marina in Palm Beach County. Operator was found in the middle of the parking area, wearing a weather suit and his Type-V inflatable PFD. EMS arrived shortly after and transported Operator to Lakeside Medical Center. Operator was admitted for treatment of hypothermia and dehydration.  Victim1 was found deceased on January 10, 2018.  Autopsy results list the cause of death as "drowning".


BARDID: FL-2018-0148
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MATANZAS PASS
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, April 29, 2018 at approximately 1510 hours, a two-vessel boating accident occurred in Matanzas Pass at the Nervous Nellie’s Restaurant Docks, located at 1131 First Street, Fort Myers Beach. V-1 was undocking and V-2 was docked/unoccupied. As V-1 backed away from the dock, the starboard rear corner impacted the starboard side of V-2, causing damages estimated at $3,000. The operator of V-1 then left the scene without providing information or attempting to contact the owners of V-2 or law enforcement. No injuries were reported. Operator inexperience, congested waters, and weather were contributing factors.


BARDID: FL-2018-0149
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck a piling and a piling guide on the floating dock at the Sailfish Marina in Palm Beach County while attempting to undock. V1 was undocking forward from the south side of the central dock and began traveling west to exit the marina. Tidal current pushed V1 south laterally and caused its port side to collide with the north side of the south dock. 
	
All persons involved were uninjured. The operator of V1 was unable to control his vessel in the tidal current and was the primary cause of the accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0150
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, April 17, 2018, Operator 1 was operating vessel FL 7744 NU. While docking at Sailfish Marina, he damaged another vessel “Reel Candy”.

On Tuesday, April 17, 2018, I, Officer 1 of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was dispatched to Sailfish Marina, located at 98 Lake dr, Palm Beach Shores in reference to a boat accident.

Upon my arrival, I’ve met Operator 1 and asked him about the incident.  He told me, he was trying to dock his vessel (28-foot Mako, FL 7744 NU) and strong current pushed the stern of his vessel on to another vessel (47-foot Jersey, “Reel Candy” DO 930043).

Mako sustained cracked cowling on starboard engine.
“Reel Candy” sustained damage to bow leading edge.


BARDID: FL-2018-0151
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was drifting west in the St Johns River @ Jaxport and became swamped/flooded for an unknown reason. The operator and two occupants were picked up by a good Samaritan.  Operator 1 stated that he had purchased the vessel two weeks ago and today was the first time he had taken it on the water.
Officer 1 met with JFRD at the Arlington boat ramp where they had towed the vessel and took photographs and inspected the vessel. Subject stated that a livewell hose appeared to be kinked and could have been the source of the water in the vessel as the livewell pump had been engaged while the men were fishing.
END


BARDID: FL-2018-0152
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 15, 2018, at approximately 2000 hours I, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer 1 was dispatched to a vessel accident in the area of Miami Beach just north of the 79th street bridge on the Meloy Channel. Dispatch advised that a Personal Watercraft (PWC) crashed into that the back of a house and that people were in the water. 
At approximately 2030 hours, Officer 2 and I arrived at the house. I made contact with Miami Beach Police Officer 3 he advised that one of the PWCs (FL3963PL) was tied up in the back of the house and that the operator of that PWC was not involved or injured. Ofc. 3 advised that the other PWC which was the one that struck the back of the house was approximately a block north of the house and was with Miami Beach Fire Rescue fireboat. The PWC with damage was being operated by Operator 2. 
I went to the back of the house and saw a wooden dock, with assistance from witnesses on scene and upon further inspection of the dock I was able to determine where the PWC Operator 2was operating struck a dock piling. From speaking to Operator 1 he advised that both PWCs were traveling south in the Meloy channel, he was in front of Operator 2. Operator 1 describes a loud bang and then turned around and saw subject hunched over the steering controls of the PWC. The witnesses at the house also heard a loud bang but did not actually witness the PWC collide with the pilling. They called emergency services and Miami Beach Fire Rescue Fireboat arrived on scene to rescue Operator 2. Operator 2was transported by Miami Beach Fire Rescue to Jackson Memorial Hospital as conscious. 
Investigator 1 was able to speak to Operator 2 at the hospital but Operator 2 was unable to remember the timeline of what occurred prior to striking the pilling. 
Operator 2 did not have any life-threatening injuries.


BARDID: FL-2018-0153
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel boating accident occured 5/4/2018. Vessel involved is a 20 foot Pontoon Deck Boat. The vessel was returning to a private residence from Anclote Key Preserve, Pasco County, when it began taking on water. Vessel sank with 9 people on board. Prior to sinking the vessel began listing to the port side. Bilge pumps were manually turned on, but could not keep up. All occupants were picked up out of the water by a good samaritan. No injuries were reported.


BARDID: FL-2018-0154
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHARLOTTE HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, April 28, 2018 at approximately 1220 hours, a single vessel boating accident occurred on the Burnt Store Sandbar, approximately 1.75 miles south of the Burnt Store Marina. The accident occurred in Charlotte Harbor, at approximate coordinates N26° 44.187 W82° 04.457. V-1 was anchored and the occupants were recreationally fishing, when the vessel suddenly sank. The occupants were picked up by a good Samaritan vessel and were uninjured. Upon salvaging the vessel, it was determined that one of the livewell hoses had a hole in it and was pumping water into the bilge, causing the vessel to sink. The accident resulted in approximately $2,400 in damages.


BARDID: FL-2018-0155
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANCLOTE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TARPON SPRINGS
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V-1), a sailing vessel, was entering Port Tarpon Marina. Vessel 2 (V-2) and Vessel 3 (V-3) were docked at the marina. V-1 began to back up towards his berth. V-1 engine failed while in reverse. V-1 starboard side rubbed against V-3 bow rail. V-1 mast lines tangled with V-2 outriggers. No injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2018-0156
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Two Personal Water Crafts (PWCs) collided while operating on the South West side of Monument Island.
On April 18th, 2018 at approximately 5:30 vessel 1, a 11-foot was being operated by Operator 1 . Operator statement and diagram show the PWC was being operated on the South West side of monument island at approximately 10 miles per hour (MPH).  
Vessel 2 a 10-foot PWC was being operated by Operator 2. Vessel 2 was rented from Dr. Jet ski rentals Dr. Jet Ski does not know the name of the operator but claims that the operator worked for Dr. jet ski (Dr. Jet Ski refused to fill out a sworn statement).
The owner and manager of Dr. jet ski deny that one of their workers were operating the PWC and added that a Dr. Jet ski employee signed a contract stating they would not allow anyone else to operate the PWC.
Both PWCs were being operated on the southwest side of monument island when vessel 2 collided with the starboard side of vessel 1 at approximately 30 MPH. The collision caused damage to the bow of vessel 2 and broke one of its motor mounts. Vessel 1 has a cracked hull and multiple pieces of cracked plastics from the collision. There were no injuries in the accident and both vessels were able to make it to sunset harbor marina, where the photographs and report were taken.


BARDID: FL-2018-0157
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel with seven total occupants was heading southbound on the Intracoastal Waterway near Jupiter, Florida.  While underway, the operator was having mechanical issues and slowed down to assess the problem.  When operator attempted to get back on plane to move to a safer location, a loud “pop” noise came from the engine compartment.  Occupants observed flames coming from the compartment and abandoned the vessel.  Good Samaritan's rescued the occupants and transported them to the nearest sandbar.   The vessel was engulfed in flames and sustained extensive damage.
Conclusion:  Due to the vessels excessive damage and condition, the cause of the fire is not able to be determined.  It was reported that the origin of the fire began in the engine compartment of the vessel.  Improper ventilation after refueling or electrical malfunctions could not be positively identified or denied during the investigation.  The vessel was removed from the water with the use of a forklift and transported away by a flatbed tow truck.  All occupants involved did not receive medical care beyond first aid from EMS and denied medical transport at 1615 hours.;


BARDID: FL-2018-0158
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
A 19’ vessel with six occupants was heading southbound at approximately 4 mph on the ICW in Palm Beach County, Florida.  The seas were 1-2’ with 15-25 mph sustained winds.  The vessel was near maximum loading capacity and repeatedly took water over the bow while traversing to the boat ramp.  The bilge pump was not able to keep up with the water intrusion and the vessel capsized.  All occupants safely abandoned the vessel and were rescued by a good Samaritan.  No injuries were reported beyond first aid.


BARDID: FL-2018-0159
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER ISLAND
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday April 20, 2018 a 58' vessel in Martin county ran aground in the ICW causing an occupant to be thrown forward down the stairs causing right shoulder/wrist injuries.  right shoulder dislocation, contusions on right side of his back, and right wrist sprain. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0160
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARNEY
NearestCityorTown: GENEVA
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/3/18, at approximately 1848 hours, a single vessel incident occurred on the south side of Lake Harney, in Volusia County Florida. The vessel (V-1) was under power when the engine area caught fire for an unknown reason, as V-1 reached shore. The two occupants abandoned the vessel and went ashore leaving V-1 adrift and on fire. V-1 burned to the waterline and self-extinguished. No injuries occurred in this incident. State Fire Marshal Investigator was advised of the incident and responded to the scene during the recovery of the vessel to conduct an inspection (Report in attachments). The investigator concluded that the evidence suggests that the fire started in the engine area and was likely electrical in nature. The cause of the fire is found to be "accidental".


BARDID: FL-2018-0161
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
         This accident was a vessel fire which resulted in property damage. Vessel 1 ( V1 ) was the vessel that caught fire and burned to the water line. The operator was en route to the state road 4A boat ramp to remove his vessel from the water. While approximately half way across Pine Channel at ( P2 ), The operator started experiencing engine trouble. The engines rpm started to surge and then it started to knock and slowdown. At this time the operator stopped his vessel and shut it off.  The operator then opened the engine compartment cover in an attempt to diagnose the problem. When the engine cover was opened the vessels engine compartment burst into flames.
	At this time the operator attempted to use his B1 fire extinguisher but the head broke and it became inoperable. The operator then attempted to deploy his anchor but the vessel drifted and turned putting him and his passenger down wind of the fire. The operator was unable to deploy the anchor or retrieve life jackets do to the flames and smoke. At this time the operator and his passenger abandoned ship and started swimming away from the burning vessel.
	The burning vessel continued to the Northwest being driven by the strong wind and tidal current. At ( P3 ) the vessel was approaching a large commercial vessel which was owned by and docked at a man’s residence. The man in an attempt to prevent his commercial vessel from starting on fire, operated his smaller vessel ( V2 ) ( FL 9233 PE ) and came along side the burning vessel at ( P3 ). The man then pushed the burning vessel back out into Pine channel away from his commercial vessel to ( P4 ).  The man then went and rescued the operator and the occupant from the water by assisting them into his vessel at ( P5 ).
	The man's vessel sustained fire damage to its starboard bow. This damage included paint, fiberglass,navigation lights and electronic controls. The man, the operator and the occupant were all uninjured during this event.
	At ( P6 ) ( V1 ) made landfall at the residence of a woman. ( V1 ) was still fully engulfed in flames which caused property and environmental damage to electrical equipment and vegetation located on the woman’s property. At this time the Monroe County Fire Department and Fire Rescue arrived by land and extinguished the fire. The operator arrived at residence and had a tow truck remove his vessel from her property.


BARDID: FL-2018-0162
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CUT ON LAKE OKEECHOBEE
NearestCityorTown: MOORE HAVEN
County: GLADES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
WHAT: BOATING ACCIDENT WITH INJURIES

WHEN: Thursday May 3, 2018 at approximately 10:00AM

WHERE: UNCLE JOE’S CUT TO LAKE OKEECHOBEE

On Thursday May 3, Self-dispatched to a call for service involving a single boat accident resulting in one injured person. I met up with FWC Lieutenant at “Uncle Joe’s Fish Camp” to launch my patrol vessel. After arriving at “Uncle Joe’s” boat ramp I made contact with a black male who explained to me that he was the operator of the vessel at the time of the crash. Operator 1 continued to explain that he and his friend were the only two people aboard the vessel. 

The operator explained to myself and the Lieutenant that with the occupant sitting on the bow of the vessel they were traveling westbound on “Uncle Joe’s Cut” when the cricket bucket started to fly away. Operator 1 reached for it and in doing so accidently turned the wheel and caused the vessel to become off course veering right. Operator 1 stated that he then tried to quickly correct his actions by counter steering but the vessel did not turn. Operator 1 went on to explain once the vessel made contact with land that the occupant was ejected from the vessel and striking a tree, a bush, and a rock. The occupant claimed of pain to his head, shoulder, collarbone, and chest area and was transported by EMS to Hendry Regional Medical Center for treatment. The Lieutenant made contact with FWC Officer and asked him to gather a statement from The occupant at Hendry Reginal Medical Center regarding the incident. The Lieutenant and I had Operator 1 put on a life jacket per agency policy and board our vessel to take us to the grounded vessel. Once at the location of the grounded vessel I took photos and checked all coolers and compartments to make sure no alcohol or drugs were involved and for any fishing violation. Operator 1 and the occupant had waters, sodas, monster energy drinks, and Gatorade in the coolers aboard the vessel. Lake Tow Recovery arrived on scene and ungrounded Operator 1’s vessel, I then followed Operator 1 back to Clewiston boat ramp where he launched from, to insure his safe return. Once Operator 1 put his vessel on his trailer I observed scratches and gouges on the bottom side of the hull.


BARDID: FL-2018-0163
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 traveling at slow speed struck V2 at anchor
Operator 2 explained that they were at anchor and sleeping at approximately 0400 hours when they were awoken by a loud noise and shaking of their vessel. They went out on the deck to see that they were struck by another sailboat that was underway. The striking vessel was a 41’ monohaul sailboat. The striking vessel impacted Vessel 2 bow to bow. The passengers of the Vessel 1 made sure everyone was okay on Vessel 2 and then they assessed the damage and exchanged information. The striking vessel’s windless anchor was inoperable due to the impact so they explained that they would moor at the nearby fuel dock until law enforcement came to conduct a boating accident report. 
I documented photographs of the damage to  Vessel 2. I asked if their all-around anchor light was on. Operator 2 and the other occupants claimed it was on. I had them activate their all-around anchor light and could clearly see that it was operable. 
I then went to the fuel docks and met with the striking vessel. The vessel was a 41’ monohaul sailboat. The sailboat had two occupants onboard. Operator 1 stated that he was operating the boat and Occupant 2 was down in the birthing area sleeping. Operator 1 claimed that he was traveling at approximately three knots early morning attempting to come into the entrance of Boot Key Harbor. He was traveling from Ft. Pierce and said he was very tired. He saw the vessels anchored south of the entrance and was navigating through them. His bimini fell and when he went to adjust it he hit Vessel 2. He said the “Viking Princess” did have its all-around anchor light on. They assessed the damage and exchanged information. He realized his anchor was jammed due to the accident and went to the nearby fuel dock to await an accident report. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0164
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: APALACHICOLA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BLOUNTSTOWN
County: CALHOUN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/13/2018 the operator was operating his vessel (with a 40 horse Mercury motor mounted on it) When he struck an underwater buoy near Ocheessee Landing on the Apalachicola River. There was significant damage to the lower unit on the motor which resulted in $3,741 in estimated property damage but no damage to the hull of the vessel hull. The operator was not injured after the collision with the underwater buoy.


BARDID: FL-2018-0166
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: APOLLO BEACH
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling on Tampa Bay when it suddenly made a hard turn. The two operators onboard went overboard. As Vessel 1 continued in this turn, it came back around and the female operator was struck by the propeller. She was eventually taken to shore where she was transported by ambulance to the Hospital. On Friday March 30th 2018, Operator 2 picked up Operator 1 and began heading to Pine Key, Tampa Bay. As they began heading south towards Pine key the Captain, Operator 2, allowed Operator 1 to steer the vessel. By actively steering the vessel Operator 1 became the Helmsman while Operator 2 remained the Captain. At approximately 9:45 p.m.some point as they were heading south, Operator 1 let go of the boat steering wheel. The boat turned hard to the starboard(right) and Operator 2, Operator 1 and her dog were ejected out the port(left) side into Tampa Bay.

 The boat remained in a turn and headed back towards the operators. Operator 2 was able to avoid the boat, however Operator 1 was not. As the boat approached OPERATOR 1 she grabbed her dog and dove under the water. The Boat propeller struck OPERATOR 1’ right arm, nearly amputating it.

  OPERATOR 2 was able to climb back into the Boat and gain control. He pulled OPERATOR 1 and her dog from the water and wrapped a t-shirt around her injury.  OPERATOR 2 drove the rest of the way to Pine Island.  911 was called and someone recognized the severity of the situation and drove the Boat with OPERATOR 1, OPERATOR 2, and the dog to shore. They arrived at shore at approximately 10:30 p.m.  OPERATOR 1 was assessed by EMS and at approximately 10:45 was transported to Tampa General. ; OPERATOR 1:Two large laceration from the propeller to the right arm.  Broken right arm. Extensive reconstructive surgery to right arm.


BARDID: FL-2018-0167
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was operating on one engine and could not maneuver to avoid collision with bridge due to current.   The operator  turned to starboard to avoid the bridge and got caught in the current. The vessel collided the bridge with the port stern and the tower of the vessel. The vessel started listing to the port and the vessels tower ripped off. The vessel traveled through the bridge spans and was now on the Bay side of the bridge. The tow boat operator arrived on scene, attached a rope to the disabled vessel and towed the vessel to the side of the channel and set the anchor. No other injuries were reported. Statements were collected and photos were taken of the vessel once the vessel was recovered and brought to shore. No further action was taken.


BARDID: FL-2018-0168
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLORIDA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of Vessel #1 advised me that he was traveling at approximately 30-40 mph when he felt the vessel start to handle differently and noticed the vessel start to take on water. The operator slowed the vessel down and came off a plane and as the vessel settled in the water the vessel rolled over and capsized as it filled up with water. The operator was able to exit the vessel before it rolled over and was picked up by a Good Samaritan boater that was in the area. The operator was not injured. The vessel was towed into Mangrove Marina in Tavernier by a friend of the vessel owner and later pulled out of the water by the owner/Operator after he retrieved his trailer from another location. As the vessel was being towed into shore and the bottom of the boat hull was exposed there a small portion of the fiberglass that was missing and appeared to have been delaminated which caused the vessel to take on water. Therefore, I did not find the operator at fault and the accident was caused due to a issue with the fiberglass hull.  I did not observe any fuel or pollutant leakage during my time while on scene . Note; I spoke with the Progressive Insurance adjuster and she advised me that the vessel was total loss and the value of the vessel was $57,000.


BARDID: FL-2018-0169
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LEMON BAY
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading north in Lemon Bay ICW by marker 17A at approximately 10 MPH. As V1 approached Stump Pass Marina entrance channel marker, a large wake from an unidentified vessel (V2) hit V1 on its port-side. The inexperienced operator failed to navigate the wake conditions appropriately. 

Occupants 2 and 4, sustained back injuries from being ejected from their seats.

V2 was described as a "Large", white cabin cruiser. It was possibly 30-40 feet long.


BARDID: FL-2018-0170
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one a PWC was East bound at marker #10. Vessel two a 24 ' open motorboat was West bound approaching marker #10. Wake from vessel two caused the passenger on vessel one, a four year old girl to strike her head on the handle bars of the PWC causing a laceration above her right eye. Medical staff used liquid sutures (glue) to close the wound;Victim received laceration above right eye from impact with handlebars on PWC. Was treated and released from Bay Medical ER on Panama City Beach.


BARDID: FL-2018-0171
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: HUTCHINSON ISLAND SOUTH
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pushed into the surf by the winds where it ended up grounded on the beach.  
On 4/24/18, I, was called about a vessel that had been pushed into the beach in south St Lucie County by Diamond Sands. 

I talked with the owner and operator of the vessel who stated that the motors were working fine and that the wind had pushed them into the surf. He stated that him and his 9 year old son were sailfish fishing and were trolling when this happened. He then stated that the motors hit the bottom and the bow of the vessel hit the beach. He was unable to remove the vessel from the beach.     

Upon talking with the subject I detected an odor of alcoholic beverage coming from the subjects mouth. The subject was unsteady on his feet and had to use a vehicle for support. The subject performed poorly on field sobriety tasks and was arrested. He refused to provide a breath sample. 

In a review of the 911 recording, which came in at 6:56 pm, you can hear the 9 year old passenger stating that his dad is falling down all the time and is unable to drive the vessel. The dad is not wearing a life jacket but the child is. The adult is unable to drive the vessel and the vessel is drifting closer to shore and the surf. The vessel then hits the beach and it seems that the dad is falling out of the boat at this time. 

At this time a person that lives on the beach also called 911 and can be heard saying that the subjects have exited the vessel, are on the beach and the vessel is tipping towards them. She then goes to the beach, and gets the subjects away from the vessel in the surf.


BARDID: FL-2018-0172
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SYKES CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MERRITT ISLAND
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Officer 1 with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a call for service involving a vessel that had been damaged by another vessel.  When I arrived on scene I spoke with the vessel owner who advised me that his vessel and dock had been struck by another vessel at some point in the last week.  His vessel has been on the dock lift and has not moved in the last week.  I took photographs of the damage which consisted of damage to the dock walk way, pillar support for the boat lift, and two dents to the vessel’s pontoons.  
	
The owner advised me that his neighbor to the north of him had video surveillance on his property and will review the footage in the next few days.  I advised the owner that I would like to review any findings that come from the video footage.  

The owner had no information on the striking vessel.  

I asked the owner to estimate the damage to the vessel and dock and he advised me that it would be at least a couple thousand dollars to repair the dock and a couple thousand dollars to repair the pontoons on his vessel.  
	
The owner contacted me on 4/18/18 and advised me that there was no relevant information on the video surveillance system.


BARDID: FL-2018-0173
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One was attempting to dock at Sunsett Bay Marina in Stuart, Florida. The operator of Vessel One collided with Vessel Two on it's port side. Vessel Two was docked at the marina and was struck on it's port side.


BARDID: FL-2018-0174
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUWANNEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JASPER
County: HAMILTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V-1) was traveling south on the Suwaannee River on Monday, May, 7 2018. At approximately 3:56 PM, the operator advised that the steering locked up on the vessel. He advised that in the past he could " jiggle " the steering wheel and it would unhang. The operator stated that he could not get the steering to work and when he noticed he was going to impact the bank, he pulled back on the throttle at the last second before impact. V-1, despite reducing speed impacted a rock on the starboard bow portion of the vessel. The operator injured his knee and was transported to Lake City Medical. The operator had undergone X-Rays. After speaking with the medical personnel it was believed the operator had a torn ACL and ligament damage along with swelling and bruising.Passenger had minor injuries to his finger but refused treatment.


BARDID: FL-2018-0175
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident. Vessel 1 was traveling south in the South Sound Creek in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park heading toward the Atlantic Ocean. Vessel 1 struck a broken channel marker and five occupants were ejected forward of the vessel. Vessel 1 continued traveling south toward the occupants. EMS transported one person to Ryder Trauma Center. She was diagnosed with degloving of the right upper extremity and blunt injury from propeller strike.  Another person received a small scratch on her forehead but refused medical treatment. No other individuals were injured.


BARDID: FL-2018-0177
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLORIDA BAY
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Capsized vessel Indian Key Channel. Two persons onboard. No injuries. 

The occupant stated they were going too fast and when they hit a wave, the boat flipped. The operator stated that he noticed his rub rail coming off and once they took a wave the boat went up in the air. Both parties stated they were going too fast for the conditions. The operator estimated his speed to be approximately 80 miles per hour.  A deputy also stated the vessel was traveling southbound at approximately 80 miles per hour.

Vessel was capsized but it was not a navigational hazard or environmental hazard. There was no sheen on the surface of the water from oil or gasoline. Vessel was estimated to be worth approximately $5,000.  Photos were taken of the vessel. 

Vessel was later retrieved by commercial salvage (Sea Tow).


BARDID: FL-2018-0178
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COCOHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator and victim were on a PWC (V-1), following a tour guide on a PWC. The victim was right behind the operator on the PWC. As V-1 made the second turn, he was outside of the wake in front of him, as he attempted to steer right, he let off of the throttle and continued straight. As a result V-1 struck a mangrove branch, causing a laceration on the head of the victim. She was transported to and treated at NCH.; 


BARDID: FL-2018-0179
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: RUSKIN
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
36 foot vessel caught fire at dock behind a residence. In Hillsborough county Florida between 0630 and 0642 hours. Vessel became fully involved by the time Hillsborough County fire arrived to extinguish the vessel. Fire Investigators with Hillsborough County concluded the cause of the fire was indeterminable. No body was on the vessel at the time of the fire. There were no injuries. There was no evidence of collision with another vessel, and no available evidence of illicit activity.


BARDID: FL-2018-0180
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WORTH LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was grounded on the sandbar on the north side of Peanut Island with 7-8 occupants on board.  The female occupants sat in the bow of the vessel while four of the male occupants were in the water attempting to push V1 off the sandbar.  The occupants would not identify who the operator was.  The vessel was in gear and victim stepped to the starboard rear of V1.  He was struck by the prop causing lacerations and fractures to his right leg, left ankle, and left hand. Right leg amputated above knee (surgical as result of injuries), 5th finger left hand amputated, fractures to 3rd and 4th fingers left hand, fractured left ankle


BARDID: FL-2018-0181
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ARCADIA
County: DESOTO
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 15, 2018 a single vessel accident occurred on the Peace River in Desoto County Florida. At approximately 1350 hours V1 was traveling south in the Peace River. During that time there was a tornado warning with high winds. V1 was attempting to make a turn in the river but because of the high winds, V1 was pushed towards the shore where it stuck a sandy beach and V1 rolled ejecting both passengers. The operator of V1 became pinned under V1 but was removed shortly after and transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries of broken bones and a back injury. The operator was transported to the hospital with back injury. After a surgery, subject was released.


BARDID: FL-2018-0182
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COCOHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was following a tour on a PWC. V-1 operator struck a mangrove branch as a result of off throttle steering. Victim suffered a laceration to his left cheek and bottom lip as a result. Victim was transported to NCH, where he was treated then released the same day


BARDID: FL-2018-0183
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACKWATER SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Overturned vessel in Blackwater Sound. Five persons onboard with no injuries.   
Vessel capsizing was caused by the inclement weather. Operator stated that while making way towards the dock, the vessel started taking waves over the "front of the boat". Once the boat started taking on water, the vessel became unstable and caused the vessel to capsized. The sea conditions were approximately 1-2' chop on the bay. 

The sea conditions that day started deteriorating fairly quickly. Operator started noticing the conditions worsening and started heading towards the dock. When the vessel started taking on water and the personnel on board started shifting, it made the vessel unstable causing it to capsized.   

Vessel was later retrieved by the owner with the help of a good Samaritan.


BARDID: FL-2018-0184
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE KEYSTONE
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/29/18 at approximately 1750 hours, V1 (2018, 10 Feet in length BRP PWC, FL 5044 RN) struck a private dock located on Lake Keystone in Hillsborough County, FL.  V1 was traveling North in Lake Keystone when it struck the dock causing injury to both persons on board the PWC. The female passenger was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital North in Lutz, FL where she received treatment for 4 broken ribs.  The operator of V1 refused treatment on scene for minor injuries consisting of lacerations to his arms and feet. The operator was subsequently arrested on scene in reference to an outstanding warrant out of Hillsborough County, FL.  Damages to V1 are estimated to be approximately $5,000.00.  The operator of V1 was later cited for careless operation of a vessel. 

	


BARDID: FL-2018-0185
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACKWATER SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was coming around a Mangrove tree point of land when operator 1 advised 2 PWC's were coming at him head on.  Operator 1 stated he turned hard to port to avoid a collision and went up in the Mangrove trees approx. 40 feet, ejecting him from his vessel in the process.  Operator 1 and his 2 passengers, reported to be uninjured, were picked up by an unknown friend in a following vessel and taken to shore.  Owner/operator 1 did not report the accident and his abandoned boat was found later by a passing boater in the trees.


BARDID: FL-2018-0186
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PENSACOLA BAY
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
A single vessel accident occurred in Pensacola Bay due to rough wave action.  A small vessel attempted to transit the bay, and was swamped by a wave which sunk the boat and caused the occupants to be ejected into the water.

Between VHF and dispatch I heard that the swimmers had been picked up from the good Samaritan vessel by a TowBoat US vessel and transported to the Pensacola Yacht Club dock at Bayou Chico.  As I arrived at the yacht club I saw at least 6 EMS personnel hovering over an infant who was laying on her back on the dock and struggling to breath.  I asked dispatch to notify investigations that this would be a possible death of an infant and to send an investigator to the scene. 

A white female was already on a stretcher and a different EMS crew was attending to her.  She was awake and did not have any apparent physical injuries.  I found a white male, taking care of a small boy.  He told me he was the owner / operator of the boat that had sunk.  His wife, her 4 year old step-son, and 9 month daughter had been in a recently purchased 14 ft Collinsworth vessel and attempted to cross the Bay. They had purchased the used boat on 17 May and this was their first outing.  The vessel was a stick steer, with a 15 HP outboard in the rear.  The male stated the bay was too rough and a big wave swamped their vessel and caused it to sink immediately.  He told me they tread water for approximately 25 minutes before a good samaritan picked them up.  EMS transported the 9 month old and wife to Sacred Heart Hospital for care. An Officer and I searched Pensacola Bay, along with USCG, for the capsized vessel but did not find it. The Officers also searched the bay in the larger Fincat vessel, and still did not locate the capsized vessel. I ended my water patrol soon afterwards and ended shift for the day.

The following morning I visited with the family of four at Sacred Heart hospital.  The mother had been released the same evening as admission, but was still being observed by staff since she had ingested saltwater.  The baby was alert and smiling as I entered the family's room.  Staff advised that the baby would need to stay for one more night before being released since she had ingested a large amount of saltwater.


BARDID: FL-2018-0187
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER/JULLINGTON CREE
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/19/18 at 1945 FWC JRCC received a report of a vessel that was out of control with no one on board in the vicinity of the St Johns River and Julington Creek.
The vessel was located crashed on the west shore of the St Johns River at 2030.

The operator was "cutting donuts" and was ejected. He was picked up by a Good Samaritan who took him tot the spot where the vessel eventually crashed. The vessel traveled in the "out-of-control-mode" for approximately 3.9 miles.

The throttles were found in the wide-open position. Given the size of boat and HP, it is estimated the vessel was traveling at 45-50 mph at impact. Strike marks on trees indicated it flew 20-feet-high in the air and traveled 50-60 feet before landing.

There were no injuries.

The boat was valued at $27K and is a total loss.

The operator was arrested for BUI Property Damage and tested .210 BAL.


BARDID: FL-2018-0188
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: IMPERIAL RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BONITA SPRINGS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/07/18 at approximately 9:00pm, V-1 was heading up the Imperial River in an easterly direction with only the owner/operator on board at the time. 

V-1 was reportedly traveling at just slightly above idle speed when it collided with the west side of an L-shaped residential dock. In the same instant, V-1 also collided with V-2, which was resting in a boat lift attached to the dock. V-2 was unoccupied at the time of this accident. 

Immediately following impact, V-1 operator proceeded to back away from the dock and continue on its easterly track up the river. Upon hearing the collision from inside the home, the owner/operator and his wife immediately ran outside, but were unable to make contact with V-1 operator. 

Damage to the dock included several broken wood cross-members and/or support braces as well as a broken/missing security light. V-2 sustained substantial chips and/or scratches to the gel coat on the bottom of the hull in the aft portion of the vessel. V-1 sustained damage to the bow section of the aluminum deck portion of the vessel. 

Review of security camera footage provided post-accident by the owner of V-2 corroborated statements made by both parties involved and confirmed that the operator of V-1 was a fault for the accident.

V-1 operator stated that he momentarily diverted his attention away from the direction of travel and toward the instrument panel of the vessel just prior to impact with the dock in order to make some adjustments to dash switches. He stated that he did not realize that he had done any damage to either the dock or V-2. 

V-1 operator is being cited for violation of Inland Navigation Rule #5 - Failure to maintain proper lookout resulting in an accident. He is also being warned for leaving the scene of an accident without notifying the person affected, no sound producing device onboard and fire extinguisher not in serviceable condition.

There were no reported injuries and no safety equipment was deployed with regard to this boating accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0189
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 14, 2018 at approximately 9:45 PM, I, received a call regarding a vessel fire. I responded and arrived on scene. Fire rescue and the Martin County Sheriffs were already on scene.

The vessel was docked at the Docks behind Allied Marine. The Firemen said the smoke was coming from electrical wires and the vessel was smoking. The firemen worked to find the source and stop it from continuing to build. 

The operator stated he just got back from the Bahamas around 6:00 PM. He Left the vessel at 7:00 PM and received a phone call around 9:30 PM that the vessel was smoking. The operator gave a rough estimate of damages to be $100,000. 

The Fire Marshal confirmed over the telephone that it was an electrical fire but they still were not positive on what started it.


BARDID: FL-2018-0190
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/12/18 at approximately 2030 hours a single vessel accident occurred in Tampa Bay. A 17' vessel with 4 people on board was heading north when the vessel struck the sandbar 100 yards South of Whiskey Joe's. The vessel capsized when it hit the bar. None of the vessel occupants were injured in the accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0191
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-2 was traveling in a wheel ditch. V-2 slowed for kaykers in the narrow cut. V-1 did not see V-2 slow until till late and struck the backside port corner and engine cowling.

 in the area that is locally known as "Robbie's Wheel Ditch" this is a narrow canal/cut that runs parallel to US 1 and it is on the bayside of MM 77. It sits about 3/4 of a mile from US1. This area is a very narrow mangrove cut that has a blind corner in the center of the cut. It is not a slow speed zone, although it is marked by many signs stating the area is narrow. This area is frequented by kayakers, paddleboarders and also boat and PWC traffic.

The operator of V-2 stated verbally and also via a written statement what had transpired. He stated to me that he was traveling in the area and slowed down for some kayakers that were in front of him. The next thing he knew his wife had turned around and stated that a PWC was coming right for them. The PWC struck the port side stern quarter of the vessel and also the engine cowling. Vessel 1 was traveling at an approximate speed of between 10 to 20 mph at the time of the impact with vessel 2.
The operator of vessel 1 stated that he was operating the PWC and did not realize that the vessel in front of him had slowed down. By the time that he did and he let off the throttle it was too late. He crashed into the back of vessel 2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0193
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAINT LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JENSEN BEACH
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 14, 2018 at 1842 hours I responded to a reported vessel crash at the Jensen Beach Causeway. Upon my arrival on scene, I observed the unoccupied vessel, a 17' Sea Fox center console pinned against the seawall of the South West Causeway catwalk. I met with the vessel operator, as well as the three passengers who had managed to climb onto the catwalk uninjured. The vessel owner and operator stated that while traveling North on the Intracoastal Waterway approaching the Jensen Causeway his motor died. Due to the strong wind and current conditions the operator was unable to control his vessel, which subsequently struck the concrete seawall of the catwalk. Assisted by several fishing bystanders, the operator and his passengers were able to exit the vessel and climb onto the safety of the catwalk where the vessel was secured with rope. At The operator's request his vessel was removed by Tow Boat U.S. and towed to the North Causeway boat ramp where it was trailered from the scene by the operator. I observed damages sustained to the vessel to include a severely cracked motor cowling, a broken bimini top, a torn section of rub rail as well as possible structural damage to the vessels starboard midship resulting from the strong wind and current pushing it into the concrete seawall. No injuries were observed or reported in this incident. During the investigation into this incident it was discovered that the vessel was equipped with only two personal flotation devices of an improper type, for four persons aboard. It was also discovered that the vessels visual distress signals were expired (2003). I issued the operator a citation for his PFD violation, and a verbal warning for the expired VDS. No further information to report at this time.


BARDID: FL-2018-0194
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MATLACHA PASS
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling N into Matlacha Pass when Cpl 1 came upon vessel moving. Opt 1 could see by the was the vessel was sitting in the water that it was taking on water, the vessel was directed to a shallow area, Punta Bianca shoreline where the vessel sunk, Tow Boat US check the hull, stated that there was a hole in the vessel which looked like the vessel had possibly struck something underwater, causing the transom to fail.


BARDID: FL-2018-0195
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: VENICE
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SUFFERED ENGINE FAILURE WHILE ENTERING VENICE INLET. VESSEL THEN DRIFTED ONTO ROCKS ON NORTHSIDE OF CHANNEL ENTRANCE 1.


BARDID: FL-2018-0196
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINE ISLAND SOUND
NearestCityorTown: CAPR CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VI was anchored approximately one half mile Northwest of Bird Key In Pine island Sound Lee County Florida, The captain noticed the vessel was taking on water. He attempted to pull anchor and run the water out of the vessel, but the anchor line got tangled up in the propeller. The vessel sunk to the bottom in three feet of water which cause approximately $14,000 water damage to the vessel, No one was injured during the vessel crash, Tow Boat US salvaged the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2018-0197
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling westbound in the Intracoastal Waterway attempting to enter the Suntex Marina at 2620 Lake Shore Dr. in Riviera Beach. Vessel #1 was overloaded with passengers and began taking on water in the choppy water conditions. Vessel #1 then capsized forcing everyone on-board into the water. All persons were rescued from the water. There were no injuries as result of the boating accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0198
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MATLACHA PASS
NearestCityorTown: ST JAMES CITY
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 31, 2018 at approximately 1200 hours while on marked patrol on Lee County waterways, Cpl responded to an incident involving a possible vessel crash. Upon arriving Cpl made contact with the operator of the vessel, Operator 1, and he stated the following. While operating his vessel In the ICW, in the area of marker 8, "Miserable mile" he observed a large vessel making a large wake, he slowed his vessel and turned into the wake. While into the wake the occupants in the bow area of the vessel were thrown up out of their seats, one occupant, was injured from this event and was transported to Cape Coral hospital with unknown back injuries. Cpl was in the area at the time of this incident and observed the vessel entering into the "miserable mile" the size of the vessel was estimated at approximately 58 ft. No other information from this vessel was recorded.


BARDID: FL-2018-0199
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday January 14, 2018 at approximately 1000 hours, boating accident # FWSW-18-OFF-581 occurred on Tampa Bay, Hillsborough County, Florida. 

Vessel one (V1) with one occupant was operating on Tampa Bay during the day of January 13, 2018. At and unknown time and for an unknown reason V1 sunk and the operator of V1 was separated from the vessel resulting in fatality. The operator of V1 was found in the morning hours of January 14, 2018. 

Based on interviews, evidence and information gathered to date, I find that the accident was likely caused weight transfer in a vessel with relative instability (a canoe) causing the vessel to capsize ejecting the sole occupant/operator of V1 who also sustained a head injury due to a fall within the vessel prior to being ejected. Medical Examiner stated the manner of death was drowning, with the further contributory cause of blunt impact to head with subdural hemorrhage.

Victim was not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) and did not have one accessible on the vessel. He was found underwater and pronounced deceased on scene by Tampa Fire Rescue. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0200
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKES PASSAGE
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 25th, 2018 vessel one was traveling eastbound from Boca Grande towards Key West, Florida. Vessel one had (5) total occupants. One of the occupants was standing on the gunwale while the boat was traveling at high speed (25-28 knots) according to the GPS download. The occupant that was standing on the gunwale slipped off the side and went into the water. It was reported by the occupants on board that he never surfaced. An extensive 3 day search was conducted by FWC and USCG boat and air assests but the search turned up negative results. No body was recovered and subject is still listed as missing.


BARDID: FL-2018-0201
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-02-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: KEY WEST HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was found floating face down next to a vessels anchor line. Victim floated off in the tide and was later located on a sea grass flat. Victim was unresponsive. Victim had left in a kayak the previous night. Vessel 1 was never located.

On February 4th, 2018 at approximately 0948 AM I was dispatched to a call of a man found floating in the water in Key West harbor, Monroe County, Florida. At 738 AM a call came out of a body floating in the water near an anchored vessel in the area east of Wisteria island. Officer was dispatched to the call and went on water patrol.  Officer arrived on scene at approximately 9:14 AM and found a naked man on a sea grass flat.  Officer 2 also arrived on scene and began to speak to a witness that had seen the body of the man on his anchor line. The witness, had seen the body earlier and by the time he called the police the wind and current had taken the body away. 
 
Earlier in the morning U.S. Coast Guard had gotten a report of a missing/overdue kayaker. She stated that her husband had left on a kayak the night prior when she was sleeping. He had failed to return.  
The body was positively identified as the man that was found floating on the sea grass flat.

The body was recovered and brought into USCG sector Key West. Dean Lopez funeral home took custody.

Officers brought me out to the vessel and I made the next of kin notification to her.
I attended the autopsy on February 6th, 2018 with Medical Examiner. Dr. did not detect any foul play and has listed the cause of death as drowning.

It is suspected that victim fell out of his kayak and while trying to get back in the kayak suffered contusions to the groin area. The contusions are consistent with someone trying to climb back in a kayak. He also had a contusion on his left arm in the tricep area. This injury is also consistent with trying to climb back into the kayak. He was also found with a rope burn on his right wrist consistent with when he was initially found on a subjects vessel anchor line. He had a small cut above his right eye due to a crab or fish bite, post mortem.


BARDID: FL-2018-0202
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/19/2018 at approximately 6:30 AM a recreational 21’ vessel with 3 persons on board was attempting to navigate through the Sebastian Inlet on an outgoing tide. Vessel began to take waves over the bow of the vessel that eventually swamped the engine causing it to stall. Vessel was unable to re-start. Operator anchored the vessel to attempt to work on the engine, during that time the vessel continued to take on water. Operator was able to safety swim to shore to call for help. A good Samaritan vessel was flagged down and safety removed the 2 passengers. Vessel completely swamped, capsized and was washed ashore by the surf. Estimated damage is $4,000. No injured occurred to any occupants.


BARDID: FL-2018-0203
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one's sailing mast struck power cables over the 20th Street Bridge in Boot Key Harbor.

Damage was done to power lines and power line posts.

All persons on board were uninjured.

I then asked the operator what occurred that caused the collision, and he stated that he saw the other sailing vessels anchored on the other side of the bridge and was looking for a mooring field to spend the night and simply did not see the hanging power line.


BARDID: FL-2018-0204
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COW PENS
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel collision with fixed object. V1 struck channel marker 73A at the North entrance to Cow Pen’s Cut. 

The USCG stated that they had stopped the involved vessel for a safety inspection. Once the inspection was complete, the vessel’s operator asked to follow them into Venetian Shores Marina, as that was where they were going. While passing through Cow Pen’s Cut, the vessel fell behind and then began shining their spotlight directly up. The USCG vessel returned to them, and discovered they had struck a channel marker at the north entrance to Cow Pen’s Cut.  It was at this time that the USCG called an Officer. 
We proceeded to make contact with the vessel Everyone on board stated they were uninjured and that nobody required Emergency Medical Services. The operator stated that they were following the USCG vessel in to Venetian Shores Marina and as they were entering Cow Pen’s Cut, the USCG vessel “was going too fast”, causing them to have to follow their white wash. At this time, the operator struck the green channel at the entrance to Cow Pen’s Cut.


BARDID: FL-2018-0205
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel one was making repairs to his vessels throttle cables while at the dock.  The vessel engine was on and shifted into gear.  The bow of vessel one struck the stern of vessel two which was docked just ahead of it.


BARDID: FL-2018-0206
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PENSACOLA BAY
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6th, at approximately 9:00 p.m., a single vessel with two persons onboard struck a partially submerged rock pile at Fair Point, in Gulf Breeze, FL near Old Navy Cove ejecting the operator and causing minor injuries to both occupants.; The The occupant went to the hospital the night of the accident (May 6th) for her left arm injury. No broken bones were discovered. On May 9th, during the follow up investigation, I observed several bruises on the interior of her left arm near the elbow joint. She stated that she does not have a full range of motion and has been wearing a sling during the day. ; The operator had a laceration on his left calve and complained of pain on his abdomen. Operator refused treatment from EMS personal.


BARDID: FL-2018-0207
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/12/18 at approximately 2:30pm, a possible boating accident occured near 79st boat ramp, in Miami-Dade County Biscayne Bay.

I arrived at approximately 2:45pm and confirmed an accident did occur between two personal water crafts (PWC). Both occupants were being treated by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue boat 73. 

Operator of vessel 1 stated that he was jumping wake behind a vessel and subsequently landed on vessel 2.

Operator of vessel 2 stated that he along with Operator1 were riding PWC in the area of Marker # G29 on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) when V1 landed on him. He was thrown off the PWC and then recoved to his PWC and waited for medical attention.

Both parties remained on scene and were being treated by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue boat. Minor injuries were observed and both refused transport to area hospital. 

Operator1 was cited for careless operation of a vessel resulting in a accident and failure to comply with boating safety school.


BARDID: FL-2018-0208
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MARKHAM PARK JETSKI LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WESTON
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 struck V-2 on the front port side. This caused severe damage and both subjects to jump into the water.
V-1 was traveling south bound at a high rate of speed on the Markham park jet ski lake and V-2 was traveling east bound at idle speed on the lake. 
 V-1 bow area struck V-2 on its port side. V-1 had very minor damage to its bow area. V-2 had severe damage to its front port side and was no longer operable. Operators of both vessels stated that they had no injuries. 

Operator 1 was traveling south at a high rate of speed when he impacted with Operator 2 on V-2 who was idling east back to his launching point. 
Operator 1 stated that he did not see Operator 2 until it was too late. Operator 2 stated he could see Operator 1 coming toward him but thought that Operator 1 could see him too and was going to go around his vessel, he tried to move out of the way to avoid the accident but it was to late.


BARDID: FL-2018-0209
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MOUTH OF POQUITO BAYOU/GARNIER
NearestCityorTown: SHALIMAR
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 7, 2018 at approximately 1745 hours, a white male was operating his vessel at an unknown speed and unknown direction, when his vessel struck a residential dock. The operator was found floating face down in the water and unconscious. He was transported to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center where he was admitted. The operator’s vessel was floating near the dock. The operator sustained internal injuries to the left side of his face and skull. The residential dock sustained about $1500 worth of damage. The vessel sustained damage that may be less than $100. The vessel is insured. There were no other occupants on the vessel. No other injuries were reported. 
Based on my investigation, I have determined that there is insufficient evidence to conclude how the operator vessel collided with the residential dock. There is very little damage to the starboard side midship of the operator’s vessel. There is no visible damage to the residential dock, other than a large portion that was separated from the main portion. The operator sustained internal injuries to the left side of his face and skull. There is no evidence on the vessel or dock to indicate that the operator had impacted either. There were no witnesses to the accident, except for the owner of the residential dock, whom heard the impact of the vessel from inside their house. 

The only facts that are available are the operator left his house by vessel at approximately 1645 to 1700 hours on April 7, 2018. The operator was underway in an unknown direction, at an unknown speed in Garnier Bayou, Shalimar. At some point, while underway, the operator’s vessel collided with the residential dock. The operator became separated from his vessel, and was found floating face down in the water. As a result of the boat accident, the operator sustained internal head injuries. The injuries are on the left side of his head. There was no bruising visible on the exterior. Injuries include: Small brain bleed, fractured left orbital, sinus, and parietal.


BARDID: FL-2018-0210
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CRYSTAL RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/28/2018, a white open motorboat 19 feet in length, struck Channel Marker Red 20 located in Crystal River Florida, just east of the Fort Island Park Boat Ramp. The operator and two occupants were uninjured, but damaged occurred to the vessel and channel marker. The damage to the vessel was estimated to be $7000.00, and the damage to the channel marker including replacement was estimated $2500.00.

I met with the complainant who was also the operator of the vessel. He explained to me that he had been operating his vessel (FL1679MW) east bound in Crystal River with two occupants. He explained that he began to throttle his vessel up to head towards Kings Bay in Crystal River. He explained that his visibility was impaired from heavy rain conditions and his bow “pointing up”. He explained that as he was throttling his vessel up, he observed that he was closing in on a channel marker. He explained that he attempted to maneuver his vessel to the left to avoid hitting the marker, but still made contact with it on his starboard side of his vessel. After hitting the marker, He explained that he was unsure of the extent of the damage to the vessel, so he returned to the dock at Fort Island Ramp


BARDID: FL-2018-0211
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Boating accident involving two personal watercraft, no injuries.

At approximately 1620 hours, I arrived by vessel. Upon arrival, I observed two PWC’s secured to a floating dock. I was greeted by the operator and his daughter. Both subject's stated that they were on PWC’s and involved in an accident. I observed no injuries on either party. I asked the operator to describe what happened, to which he stated that he and his Daughter were doing donuts on the PWC’s. The operator stated that while he and his daughter were doing donuts, they came too close to each other and the PWC’S made contact


BARDID: FL-2018-0212
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HATCHINEHA
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WALES
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday May 25, 2018 at approximately 2326 hours a male was operating an airboat, that was traveling North on a trail off Lake Hatchineha. The operator was attempting to turn when he hit dry land or underwater obstruction. The sudden stop made one of the occupants fall off her seat and strike her head/eye on the mid section of the port side gunnel. The operator called 911 and transported the occupant to Camp Mack boat ramp where they were met by EMS and transported to Lakeland Regional Medical Center in Lakeland, Florida. The occupant was treated for a two inch laceration above her left eye and also had a fractured left orbital. I asked the operator if he had been drinking and he said, "Yes but early in the day during dinner." I asked the operator to perform horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) and I got several clues that he may be impaired. I requested the operator to perform Standard Field Sobriety Tasks (SFSTs). The operator completed the walk and turn and one-legged stand but I didn't get any clues. The operator was advised that alcohol may have contributed to the accident even though he was not arrested for BUI.Occupant sustained an Orbital Fracture to her left eye and a 2 inch laceration above her left eye.


BARDID: FL-2018-0213
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
During a head on situation, V1 made a turn towards his port side to avoid a collision which caused him to hit the rocks on the shoreline of Oleta River State Park.


BARDID: FL-2018-0214
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: CARRABELLE
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/28/2018 at approximately 1630 hours, a vessel entering the Carrabelle river Channel crossed a wave that caused the bow to pitch below the waterline causing the Bow-cap to break free of the hull and take on water. All passengers put on life vests and boarded a nearby vessel that witnessed the incident. The vessel was able to be brought into the Timber Island Boat ramp. All occupants of the vessel were safe with no injuries.


BARDID: FL-2018-0215
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/6/17 at approximately 11:20 p.m., V-1 was heading in a southbound direction in the ICW just south of Spanish River Bridge. V-1 hit a wake causing the operator to be thrown into the throttle. The vessel made a left turn which threw the operator out of the vessel to the right and ramped up the shoreline into the mangroves. No one was wearing a life jacket and the operator was not wearing a kill switch. The operator was uninjured and the two occupants onboard were admitted into Delray Hospital due to injuries received from collision with mangroves.

VICTIM1:Treated and released for possible concussion.; Victim2:Skull fracture: broken nose and left cheek bone.


BARDID: FL-2018-0216
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday May 23, 2018, I, the Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on state water patrol in Hillsborough County, Florida. I received a call from the FWC Dispatch Center of a boating accident on Egmont Key in regards to two vessels that collided at the marina. I made contact with operator 1 met him on his vessel near Demens Landing Park and identified his vessel. I asked operator 1 what happened and he stated to me that he was anchored in Egmont Key trying to catch bait. Operator 1 stated a Park Ranger was trying to launch his boat from the boat lift. According to operator 1, the Park Ranger told him that he was going to back off the lift and that he needed to move his anchored vessel. Operator 1 complied with the Park Ranger, pulled his anchor and moved his vessel out of the way of the boat lift near a large pilot boat.

The LT. also with FWC interviewed the operator of the Park Ranger vessel Operator 2. According to Operator 2 he told Operator 1 that he needed to move his vessel so that he could drive his vessel off the lift. Operator 1 stated that Operator 2 complied and moved out of the way of the Park Ranger vessel. As Operator 2 was backing off the lift he split the throttles of his engines to spin the vessel around. According to Operator 2 as he was doing so the strong current that day started to push the two vessel together. Operator 2 stated that he tried an evasive maneuver to avoid a collision. However, there was not enough room in the marina to avoid the two vessels hitting each other. Operator 2 stated that operator 1 did not try and move the vessel out of the way.   

I spoke with operator 2 on Wednesday May 30, 2018. He confirmed his side of the story that he instructed Operator 1 to move his vessel and that as he was backing up the current pushed the two vessel into each other. Operator 2 also confirmed that he tried to move his vessel out of the way but there was not enough room or time to do so.

After my investigation I have come to the following conclusions:

-Operator 1 was at anchor at the time Operator 2 told him to move his vessel.

-Operator 1 complied with Operator 2's direction to move out of the way of the boat lift.

-Operator 1 moved his vessel a short distance away from the boat lift near the pilot boat.

-Operator 2's vision was obstructed from the small marina and congested waters.

-Operator 2 tried an evasive maneuver to avoid a collision.

-Operator 1 did not move his vessel far enough away from the boat lift to give Operator 2 enough room to back off the lift. Also, he did not try and avoid the collision with the other vessel.

-Both men failed to keep a proper lookout in regards to what the other vessel was doing.

-The current that day was strong and played a role in the accident.

Due to the fact that both parties have some fault in this accident neither one has been cited.

End of report.


BARDID: FL-2018-0217
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO/DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27, 2018, at approximately 3:00 PM. Vessel 1 (V1) a 11ft. Yamaha personal water craft (PWC), was being operated just south of the Destin Pass, near the West Jetties. She was jumping waves along with 4 other PWC’s when she jumped a wave “twisted” and upon landing was ejected, and her head struck the handle bar area of the PWC, then fell into the water. She sustained a head injury from the impact. She was transported to shore by a male and called EMS. EMS arrived and transported her to Destin ER. She was admitted to the hospital for observation and X-rays due to her ingesting water after being ejected into the water. She showed no visible signs of injury but did not recall much of the incident to her unconsciousness immediately after sustaining the head injury. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0218
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Struck V2 while V2 was Docked at Key West Bight Marina

Upon arrival, we met with the operator of V1. Operator1 explained that he dropped of his wife at the dock so she could pick up some food. Operator1 explained that he was told that he could not dock at the Marina. He stated "that as he was leaving the dock, The wind was very strong, causing his vessel (V1) to strike the stern of vessel (V2) that was docked already at the Marina". (See W/S Attached)

I observed a subject on V2, and asked if he observed the collision.  He replied "yes" The witness explained that he was onboard his vessel when the collision occurred.  He explained that V1 was approaching his vessel from the stern. He explained that V1 the operator, then accelerated and turned hard just off of the starboard side of V2. The action drove V1 port side into the stern of V2. V2 had marks on the starboard side near the water line. V1 had a approximal 12 inch hole on it's port side.


BARDID: FL-2018-0219
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HENDERSON
NearestCityorTown: INVERNESS
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3-24-2018 at approximately 06:15 hrs, V1 was traveling west in Lake Henderson. V-2 impacted V-1 on the port side stern. V-2 then spun 90' counter clockwise and came to rest with the transom of V-2 resting on top of the port side gunwale of V-1. The total cost of the damages were approximately $2100.00


BARDID: FL-2018-0220
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WALK ON WATER
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WALES
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 10th, 2018, a single vessel boating accident occurred between an airboat and a tree on Lake Walk on Water in Polk County. V1, with five occupants on board collided with a tree. Four of the occupants were ejected from V1. Three of the occupants ejected were transported to hospitals for their injuries.

V1, a 19' airboat with five occupants onboard, was traveling northwest on the Lake Walk in Water at approximately 20-30 mph. V1 was being operated by Operator. The other occupants were Occupant1, Occupant2, Occupant3, and Occupant4. Operator lost control of V1 causing the vessel to begin a slide to the right. Operator attempted to correct the slide which resulted in V1 sliding to the left. colliding with a tree on port side.

Operator, Occupant1, Occupant3, and Occupant2 were ejected from V1 following the collision. Occupant4 remained on V1. Operator and Occupant2 were ejected to the west of the tree landing on the ground. Occupant1 and Occupant3 struck the tree after being ejected. Operator, Occupant3, and Occupant1 all sustained injuries from the boating accident. A multi-agency search and rescue operation began involving the Florida Fish and Wildlife and the Polk County Sheriffs Office. A good Samaritan heard the accident occur and helped direct the Polk County Sheriffs Office to the scene of the accident. He transported the three injured subjects to the Walk in Water boat ramp. Occupant1 was then transported to Osceola Hospital as a trauma alert with injuries to his head. Operator and Occupant3 were transported to Lakeland Regional Hospital for injuries to their face and chest respectively.


BARDID: FL-2018-0221
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/22/18 at approximately 1400 hours, a single vessel accident occurred at Fish Island Marina, City of St. Augustine, St. Johns County, Florida. V1: an approximately 50’ white recreational fishing boat, unknown occupants. V2: a 27ft O’Day Corp fiberglass Sail boat, unoccupied.

V2 was secured to a dock at Fish Island Marina, where the owner resides (not home at the time of incident). I spoke to a neighbor of the RO who stated V1 was traveling in a southern direction in the channel of the ICW, closest to Channel markers 11 and 12. V1 was traveling at approximately 30 mph creating an excessive wake. V1 wake caused V2 to make contact with the dock, causing fiberglass and weather stripping damage to the mid ship on the starboard side.  

Given the limited information on the description or occupants of V1, the investigation cannot go any further.


BARDID: FL-2018-0222
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. LUCIE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6th, 2018, I was dispatched to a boat accident in the area of Nettles Island, St. Lucie County. Vessel 1 capsized due to equipment failure as water entered the rear of the vessel after a new motor was mounted on the transom. Neither of the two people on board were injured. The vessel was recovered and returned to the owner.SEA-TOW was able to recover the vessel and tow it back to the boat ramp where Operator 1 loaded it on his trailer. I was unable to identify any physical defects in the hull that would cause it to take on water.


BARDID: FL-2018-0223
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While was conducting vessel patrol on Black Creek, we witnessed a boating accident. The accident occurred at the Old Ferry boat ramp, V-1 operated by Operator 1. After the boat cleared the trailer, it reversed in a counter clockwise direction backing into the port side of V-2 which was beached on the west side of the boat ramp waiting to be recovered. The occupants of V-2 started yelling at the operator of V-1 and pushed V-1 away from their vessel. While the operator of V-1 was trying to maneuver back to the ramp to pick up passengers, it struck V-2 two more times, once on the port/aft corner and once on the stern. It caused damage to the fiberglass swim platform and top of V-2’s motor (see pictures). We made an approach and yelled at the operator of V-1 to turn his vessel off. We tied V-1 off to our patrol vessel and beached it near the boat ramp. Both vessels were recovered and photographed for damage.


BARDID: FL-2018-0224
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 01 May 2018, I received a call from dispatch about a vessel that had washed up on the beach near Ft. Pickens. Dispatched advised three males were on the boat and are all okay.  Advised that the Ft. Pickens Rangers were with them and the vessel.  I contacted the Park Ranger.  The Ranger provided me contact numbers for the occupants on board at the time of accident.

I contacted all three personnel on the vessel and received their statements.  Due to weather, Rough Surf I was unable to enter the Gulf to locate vessel.  

My understanding is the vessel was heading east towards the Pensacola fishing pier at which time the waves were getting larger.  The captain and crew decided to turn around and head west towards the Pensacola Pass.  While heading west,  a wave came over the transom of the vessel causing the engine to stall.  The captain tried to get the vessel started but was unsuccessful.  The stern of the vessel continued to get hit by waves and causing the waves to come over the stern allowing water to enter the vessel.  As more water entered the vessel, the boat filled up causing the vessel to capsize and roll upside down.  The vessel continued to float and the three members floated on it to the shore where the vessel washed up on the beach.  

No injuries were present.  No life jackets were being worn at the time of incident.  

Tow Boat US recovered the vessel from the beach a few days later. The boat was salvaged.


BARDID: FL-2018-0225
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Anchor hit occupant
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was at anchor in the Gulf of Mexico just off of Keewaydin Island. The operator of the vessel began their return voyage to the local boat ramp and in doing so forgot to recover his anchor from the gulf bottom. As the vessel accelerated, the anchor was abruptly pulled from the bottom and shot out of the water into the air. The injured subject was sitting in the rear of the vessel when the anchor flew through the air, thus striking her in the head with the anchor chain. She received a laceration to the right side of her head as a result of this contact. After the accident, the operator called 911 and notified us of the incident while he was enroute to the boat ramp at Bayview Park. Once they arrived at the boat ramp, EMS transported the subject to the hospital for treatment. ( 17 stitches were applied to her laceration ). 
]SUBJECT WAS AN OCCUPANT IN THE REAR SEATING AREA OF THE VESSEL AND WAS STRUCK IN THE HEAD WITH AN ANCHOR CHAIN.


BARDID: FL-2018-0226
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAN CARLOS BAY
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 6, 2018 at approximately 730 hours while on marked patrol on Lee County Waterways a CO responded to a vessel crash located at Punta Rassa Boat Ramp, 15001 Punta Rassa Rd, Ft Myers Fl 33908. Upon arriving a Cpl made contact with the owners / operators of the listed vessels involved in the crash, the operator of vessel 1 made the following statement. While unloading vessel 1 from the trailer, the operator of vessel 1, over throttled the vessel in reverse causing the vessel to move quickly back. The operator of vessel 1 further states that In an attempt to slow the reverse motion, so the vessel would not strike the dockage he leaned to place his hand out, while he leaned he struck the throttle causing vessel 1 to move, quickly, in a forward motion to the right, also causing the operator to fall backwards onto the deck of vessel 1. The estimated speed within seconds was approximately 20-25 mph. Vessels 2 and 3 were moored to the dockage to the right of the ramps and the Incident, in a westerly direction. When vessel 1 struck vessel 2's bow and trolling motor first with vessel 1 moving over vessel 2 while causing structual damage, then striking vessel 3 stern first, causing significant engine damage and structual damage before landing back into the water coming to a stop. The only occupant and operator at the time was in vessel 1 who stated he had no injuries, It appears that none of the dockage at Punta Rassa Park were struck or damged


BARDID: FL-2018-0227
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE LAKE CONWAY
NearestCityorTown: ORLANDO
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 12th, 2018, at approximately 1645 hours, I responded to the shoreline on Little Lake Conway at, and met with the victim in reference to a boating accident. Upon my arrival, Orange County Fire Department Station was arriving to the dock. The victim was lying on the back of a white Azure 21 foot vessel that was still in the partially in the water. The vessel was assisted back into the hoist at the dock so that it could be raised up for the Fire Department to provide treatment to the victim. I spoke with the operator of the vessel who stated the following: On May 12th, 2018, at approximately 1630 hours, he was operating his father's boat on Little Lake Conway, teaching his friend, the victim, how to wakeboard while their wives were onboard watching. While in the area of latitude 28.487043 and longitude -81.339827, he began throttling up, travelling in a northwest direction, attempting to pull the victim up and out of the water on an approximately 50 foot lead when he saw him let go of the rope and appear as if he was in pain. The operator turned the boat around to go back to the victim, jumped in to pull him back to the boat, and then drove the vessel back to his parent's house.
 On the way back, the victim was complaining that his right leg/knee was hurting. The Deputy obtained a sworn statement to be submitted with this report. I spoke with the witness who stated the following: On May 12th, 2018, at approximately 1630 hours, she was sitting in the front starboard portion of the boat while her husband, was driving and their friend, was attempting to learn to wakeboard. As the boat began to accelerate to bring the victim out of the water, he immediately fell and said he heard a "pop" and that he was in pain. Her husband immediately turned the boat around, jumped in the water, and swam the victim back to the boat. The victim’s wife was in the boat as well and when the operator got him back to the boat, the three of them helped to lift him back aboard as he complained of knee and quad pain. The Deputy obtained a sworn statement from a witness to be submitted with this report. I spoke with the witness, the victim’s wife, who stated the following: On May 12th, 2018, at approximately 1630 hours, her husband, the victim, and their friends, the operator and his wife, were out boating on Little Lake Conway. 
Her husband was attempting to learn to wakeboard and while beginning to come out of the water, he dropped the rope, fell, and waved for them to come back as if he was in pain. The operator of the boat turned the boat around, and they pulled the victim out of the water as he complained of his right leg and thigh hurting. The Deputy obtained a sworn statement from the victim’s wife to be submitted with this report. Orange County Fire Department transported the victim to Orlando Regional Medical Center to be treated for his injuries. Due to be treated, I was unable to speak with him at the time of this incident. It should be noted that the operator of the vessel had a valid Florida Boater Safety Education card , and the victim was wearing the required Life Jacket while wakeboarding. I made sure that the vessel involved in the incident had all needed safety equipment on board at the time of the incident and that there were no boating violations to be documented.


BARDID: FL-2018-0228
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:52:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACKBURN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OSPREY
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 4, 2018, at approximately 1608 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received a call of a missing kayaker in Blackburn Bay in Sarasota County. At approximately 1653 hours, the body was located in the water, deceased.

It was later found that Victim was participating in a marine event called, WaterTribe Everglades Challenge, where participants kayak from Ft. Desoto park to Key largo. Victim was found wearing a life vest, yellow jacket, black pants, black shoes, blue and black gloves, and glasses. The only apparent injury found on Victim at the scene were small lacerations to the back of his head. Based on the information gathered to date, there is no definitive explanation as to the events leading to Victim’s death. According to the medical examiner’s report the cause of death is listed as, Arteriosclerotic and Hypertensive Heart Disease and contributing factor was drowning. End of report, no further action taken.  


BARDID: FL-2018-0229
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel taking on water with three individuals on board. Near the archaeolgical site off Manasota beach in Enlewood.


BARDID: FL-2018-0230
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHERRY LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MADISON
County: MADISON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 26, 2018 at approximately 1930 hours I was dispatched to a boating accident that took place at Cherry Lake in Madison County. A vessel with 9 occupants and 2 skiers had struck a dock. 

I arrived on scene at approximately 2030 hours. By the time I had arrived EMS had already left the scene. I was informed by a deputy that everyone aboard the vessel refused any medical treatment. Upon arriving at the dock I observed a vessel half way submerged under water. 

The first occupant/operator of the vessel I interviewed advised that he did not sustain any injuries. I asked him to tell me what happened. He advised that he was using the rear view mirror to watch the wake boarders, he was towing to make sure they were still up right. While doing so an occupant of the vessel yelled “watch out” and this is when he looked up and observed the dock. He advised he tried turning the vessel the other way to try and avoid the dock but by then it was too late. 

The second occupant I interviewed advised she did not suffer any injuries. She advised that she was looking back at the wake boarders when she heard people yelling, she then looked forward and remembers seeing the boat about to hit the dock. 

The third occupant I interviewed advised she did not suffer any injuries. She was sitting in the passenger seat when the accident took place. She was looking back at the wake boarders until she heard Occupant 1 yell the operator’s name. She then looked forward and saw the dock they were getting ready to hit. She ducked to try and avoid getting hit. 

The fourth occupant advised she did not suffer any injuries. She was sitting on the stern of the boat watching the wake boarders. She turned around when she heard screams and this is when the vessel crashed into the dock. 

The fifth occupant I interviewed advised she did not suffer any injuries. She was sitting towards the back of the boat port side watching the wake boarders. The next thing she remembers was being under the dock. 

The sixth occupant I interviewed advised he did not suffer any injuries. He was sitting on the bow of the vessel watching the wake boarders. He remembers hearing people screaming followed by the crash shortly after. 

The seventh occupant I interviewed he did not suffer any injuries. He advised that the operator was rounding a curve missed it and next thing he knows he is under a dock. He is the owner of the vessels son. 

The eighth occupant I advised did not suffer any injuries. She advised she was sitting at the bow of the boat when she noticed a dock that stuck out further than the other docks. She remembers calling to the operator of the vessel making sure he was aware of the upcoming dock. At this moment he looked ahead and noticed the dock. He tried to avoid the dock but it was too late. 

The ninth occupant I interviewed advised he did not suffer any injuries. He was sitting towards the back of the boat watching the wake boarders. He advised he felt the impact of the boat when it hit the dock.

After the interviews I was approached by the owner of the vessel. He advised that he was not on the boat at the time of the accident. He advised he let his son borrow the vessel for the day. He spoke to his insurance company (Progressive) and plans on using them to help with damages.


BARDID: FL-2018-0231
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE MANATEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: RUSKIN
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While taking a break from tubing and retrieveing a subject out of the water, a dog jumped out of the vessel and into the water.  The operator bent over to get the dog from the water, losing his balance and falling over into the water.  When he fell into the water his foot hit the throttle and put the boat in gear.  The unmanned boat started doing circles and struck both the dog and a female, who had been tubing. Female sustained prop strike injuries to both knees.  


BARDID: FL-2018-0232
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAN PABLO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/3/18 at approximately 1600 hrs, I was dispatched to a report of a boating accident at the 2315 Beach Blvd. Upon my arrival, the Jacksonville Beach Police Department was already on scene.
I made contact with the manager of Beach Marine Rentals. She advised me that she had rented out two Yamaha Jet-skis (FL5014RF and FL5016RF) to two people at approximately 1330 hours for a 2 hour rental. The owner stated that she left work at 1430 hrs but was called back to work at approximately 1510 hrs by her employee because the operators had returned from their rental and stated they had run into each other.
An Officer was dispatched to Jacksonville Memorial Hospital to make contact with the operators. He collected sworn written statements from the operators. The male operator stated to him that they had been traveling South in the ICW to return the jet-skis back to the marina. He was operating his jet-ski just behind and to the left of the female operator's Jet-ski. He stated he remembered approaching some power lines and a creek on their starboard side. As they neared the intersection of the creek with the ICW a yellow boat traveling at a high speed cut out in front of them from the creek. To avoid collision the male operator turned to the right but the female operator turned to the left. The male operator collided with the port side of the bow of the female operator's jet-ski and ramped over her. After the collision both operators were ejected from their jet-skis into the water. The male operator helped the female operator back onto her jet-ski and then got back onto his jet-ski, they then returned to Beach Marine Rentals. After collecting the statements, the Officer left the hospital and turned the statements over to me.
	On 6/5/18 at approximately 1700 hrs, I made contact with the male operator by phone. He advised that he and the female operator were on the way back to North Carolina. The male operator stated that the female operator had been released from the hospital with a sprained left rotator cuff, an abrasion to her left bicep, and an abrasion to her left hand on the knuckles. He also stated that she did not have any head trauma.


BARDID: FL-2018-0233
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: RIVERVIEW
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/15/18 at approximately 1400 hours, V1, (1982, 30 feet in length SeaRay cabin vessel bearing registration FL 6987 HW) became engulfed in flames while moored. The inboard motor of V1 exploded when the operator went to start it after raising the rear hatch to vent fumes.  The explosion knocked the operator back towards the rear of V1 but did not cause injury.  The operator of V1 attempted to distinguish fire by using his fire extinguisher but was unable to do so.  Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded and extinguished the fire.  The Hillsborough County Fire Investigator also responded and conducted a fire investigation. (report attached) The approximate value of V1 according to the registered owner is approximately $35,000.00


BARDID: FL-2018-0234
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HILLSBOROUGH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 WAS GOING WESTBOUND APPROACHING THE DOCK TO REFUEL.  WHEN THE PORT SIDE OF THE VESSEL MADE CONTACT WITH THE FUEL DOCK THE WIND PUSHED THE FRONT END AWAY. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO DOCK THE VESSEL OPERATOR THREW A LINE TO THE DOCK ATTENDANT TO ATTACH THE FRONT CLEAT OF THE VESSEL TO THE DOCK.  WITH THE FRONT OF THE VESSEL ATTACHED TO THE DOCK THE OPERATOR ATTEMPTED TO USE THE ENGINES TO PULL THE PORT SIDE OF THE VESSEL TO THE DOCK.  IN DOING SO THE OPERATOR PUT THE VESSEL IN FORWARD GEAR INSTEAD OF REVERSE.  THE VESSEL MOVED FORWARD  AT IDLE SPEED UNTIL THE FRONT END OF THE VESSEL STRUCK THE FUEL PUMP.


BARDID: FL-2018-0235
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER IRON BEND
NearestCityorTown: OSTEEN
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/03/2018 at approximately 2:00 pm,  V-1 and V-2 were traveling south on the St. Johns River at Iron Bend. 
After the bend in the river, V-1 stated he looked over both his left and right shoulder to see where V-2 was located. V-1 stated he did not see V-2. V-1 then slowed down and  turned left. V-2 then struck V-1 on the starboard side of vessel. V-2 ramped V-1 over the center of the seat. All four occupants from V-1 and V-2 were ejected. All statements from subjects involved and witnesses recall the same occurrence of vessel crash.  Op and occupant of V1 sustained fractures to left legs. Op V2 sustained fractures to facial bones


BARDID: FL-2018-0236
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 2 (FWC VESSEL) EXECUTED A VESSEL STOP ON VESSEL 1 FOR A NO-WAKE VIOLATION. OPERATOR OF VESSEL 1 STATED HE TOO HIS ATTENTION OFF THE HELM WHILE BEING STOPPED. VESSEL 1 COLLIDED WITH VESSEL 2, RESULTING IN STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO VESSEL 2.


BARDID: FL-2018-0237
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: JOHNS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WINTER GARDEN
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/19/2018 at approximately 1327 hours, I responded to 17543 Deer Isle Circle (John's Lake) in reference to a boating accident. While enroute I was advised that the victim was being transported to South Lake Hospital (Clermont) as a "code. 

Master Deputy continued to the scene and I responded to the hospital. While I was enroute to the hospital, I learned that the victim, Victim was pronounced dead at 1420 hours. 
Upon my arrival to the hospital, I met with Deputy First Class. 

I learned the following: The victim (Victim) and his 13 year old grandson (reporter/witness) were fishing in a tournament on Johns Lake. Inclement weather was approaching and the victim and his grandson decided to head back to the boat ramp. While the victim was preparing the boat to go to the boat ramp, he fell into the water and when he came to the surface and was speaking to his grandson. 

Orange County Fire Rescue responded to the scene and transported him to the hospital. I then met with the victims, ex-son-in-law. I told Occupant’s father that we are in the process of recovering Victim's boat and asked if he could provide a location to the whereabouts of Victim's truck keys, which had the boat trailer attached at the boat ramp.  He did not know the location, but advised he would go get a spare set of keys and meet me at the boat ramp with his son.

I then responded to the boat ramp, where Master Deputy had moved the boat to shore from where it was recovered (28*32126" N/81*38139"W). I observed no damage to the vessel. The poles and fishing gear were all stowed. The bow/ transom seats were folded down, which possibly indicates they were getting ready to leave, because of the weather. A pair of sunglasses were found right next to the trolling motor on the deck of the boat. 

I made contact with the grandson, age 13, while his father, Occupant’s father was present. Occupant stated the following: He and his Grandfather were fishing in the Orange County Bass tournament. They arrived early in the morning and were fishing all day. At approximately 1315 hours, the bad weather began to come in and they decided to leave. 

As his Grandfather was lifting up the trolling motor, he tripped on the fishing poles, which were lying on the deck of the boat. He then saw his Grandfather fall out of the boat and into the water. After he fell into the water he quickly surfaced and told him (Occupant) to throw him a rope. Occupant said he threw him a rope and pulled him close to the boat. Once his Grandfather was close to the boat, he pulled himself to the back of the boat and held onto the transom. 

Occupant then used the bow trolling motor to tow his grandfather approximately 50 yards to shore. As they were approaching the shore line, his Grandfather asked him "How much farther". He (Occupant) then looked back at his Grandfather and observed him passing out and going unconscious. 

At this point he ran to the back of the boat and grabbed his Grandfathers arm and kept his head out of the water. He then jumped out of the boat and pulled his grandfather who was lying face up onto the shore. His grandfather was still unconscious and not breathing. He used the cell phone and called 911. 
While he was on the phone with 911, he was answering questions from the operator and doing what they said. Emergency personal then arrived and took his Grandfather to the hospital. Occupant completed a sworn written statement. I asked Occupant if his Grandfather mentioned not feeling well during their time together that day. Occupant said "no". I also asked Occupant if his Grandfather was wearing a life jacket when he fell out of the boat. Occupant said "no.”

Occupant’s father took possession of the truck (white 2005 Chevrolet pickup truck tag, trailer, and boat (2006 Triton) with all of it.  IT WAS DETERMINED LATER FROM THE MEDICAL EXAMINER THAT THE VICTIM DIED FROM NATURAL CAUSES ATHEROSCLEROTIC AND HYPERTENSIVE CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE.


BARDID: FL-2018-0238
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/26/18 at approximately 1320 hrs, I responded in reference to a call of a vessel accident via the VHF radio channel 16. Upon arrival I observed a large motoryacht bearing the name " Ensign D III, drifting in the center of the ICW with a yellow and white waverunner floating near the stern of the vessel. I further observed three young girls standing inside the stern of the motoryacht, which appeared to be visibly shaken and upset. I made contact with the motoryacht captain who was standing at the stern of the vessel. He stated that he was heading northbound on the ICW at slow speed when he observed a yellow/white waverunner southbound on the ICW. He further stated that the waverunner, with three young girls onboard, past him on his port side traveling approximately 25 mph. He advised that after the waverunner past him on his port side, it continued for a short distance and began looping around, and now was approaching his vessel along the starboard side. He further advised that as the waveunner began to pass his vessel, the operator of the, made a sharp turn to port striking the starboard side of the captain’s vessel. He stated that he immediately put his vessel in neutral, looked over the port side, and observed all three waverunner occupants had been ejected into the water. He assited the three occupants onto his vessel as I arrived on scene. I observed minor lacerations and abrasions to the waverunner occupants. I requested Pompano Beach Fire Rescue respond where I transported the waverunner occupants via my BSO Marine Patrol vessel. All three waverunner occupants were evaluated and treated on scene by Pompano Beach Fire Rescue. Due to the age of waveunner occupants, their parents/guardians responded to the listed location. All three victim's refused medical transport. He, captain of the 60 ft motoryacht," Ensign D Ill", and his passanger received no injuries. I observed minor paint damage on the starboard side of his vessel, however, he was unable to advise the extent of the damage until a survey is completed. I observed extensive damage to the Yamaha waverunner . The handlebar/steering column had been broken, and heavy fiberglass damage to the front of the waverunner. The waverunner appeared to be taking on water and was towed by Sea Tow to dock/lift. I attempted to make contact with an independent witness . As of this report, no response has been received.. The operator of (V2 was issued a warning citation for violation of FSS 327.395(1) I. No boater ID Card. A case card was issued to all parties involved.


BARDID: FL-2018-0239
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH FORK CANAL
NearestCityorTown: DANIA BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL ONE OPERATOR ADVISED THAT HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO DOCK HIS VESSEL IN SLIP. HE LOST BOTH ENGINES AND THEN USED HIS BOW THRUSTERS WHICH ALSO FAILED. HE STUCK VESSEL TWO WHICH WAS DOCKED AT SLIPAND THEN STRUCK THE DOCK BETWEEN TWO SLIPS CAUSING DAMAGED TO THE VESSEL TWO AND THE DOCK. NO ONE WAS ON BOARD VESSEL TWO. NO INJURIES REPORTED.THE VESSEL CRASH HAPPENED THE DAY PRIOR TO MY ARRIVAL.


BARDID: FL-2018-0240
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was approximately four miles west of Red Fish Pass in the Gulf of Mexico. The subjects were attempting to anchor the vessel at a reef, but the anchor kept dragging. Once the vessel's anchor caught the bottom, the vessel listed to one side taking a large wave over the gunnel. At this point, the vessel was swamped and sitting low in the water. Due to the rough sea conditions, the bilge pump could not keep up with the water flooding the vessel. The owner of the vessel cut the anchor line. At some point, the anchor line became wrapped up in the propeller, and V1 capsized. The five subjects in the vessel climbed on top of the hull and waited for emergency response. The subjects on V1 did not report any injuries at the scene. The owner of V1 made arrangements with a private source to have the vessel removed from the water.


BARDID: FL-2018-0241
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 2, 2018 at approximately 1400 hours, I responded to a vessel fire. The vessel was located in the ICW near marker 64. 

Upon my arrival, I learned Miami Dade Fire Rescue had already extinguished an electric fire that was located in the engine room. The operator of V1 had Sea Tow take V1 back to where he docks at Bayside Marina. I accompanied V1 back to the dock. Once at the dock I learned from the operator/owner that there was an electrical fire in the engine room as he was cruising slowly in the ICW. The owner said he immediately turned off the engine and threw out the anchor. He said he then used the radio and phone to call for assistance. The boat had no physical damage on the outside. The electrical damage on the inside was covered with fire extinguisher contents from Fire Rescue. V1 was docked at its slip in Bayside Marina. I provided the operator with a business card containing this case number for his records.


BARDID: FL-2018-0242
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WIGGINS PASS, INTERIOR CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SINGLE VESSEL BOATING ACCIDENT, MOTORBOAT COLLISION WITH MOSTLY SUBMERGED OBJECT (SURFACING MANATEE). VESSEL OPERATOR UNINTENTIONALLY BUT FATALLY STRUCK MANATEE WITH VESSEL. THREE TOTAL JUVENILE OCCUPANTS ONBOARD, NO INJURIES. NO LAW VIOLATIONS.


BARDID: FL-2018-0243
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V#1 was entering the canal north of NE 167th St with 5 passengers onboard. The operator and passengers of V#1 are unknown. V#1 collided with V#2, which was not in operation and was suspended from a dry lift. After the accident, the owner and occupants of V#1 docked the vessel at the owner’s slip just west of V#2 in the same canal. An eye witness saw the accident and notified FWC. Once An Officer arrived on scene, we made contact with the eye witness. After running the Florida registration on V#1, the Officer and I were able to determine an owner. The witness lives in the condos adjacent to the boat slip. According to his witness statement, the witness was on board the vessel at the time of the accident, but stated that he was not operating the vessel. According to his verbal statement, the witness was asleep onboard the vessel. The witness also stated that his friend was operating the vessel. The owner of V#2 provided me with a video of the accident that was captured by his neighbor's surveillance camera.


BARDID: FL-2018-0244
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: RIVER CONECTING TWO LAKES.
NearestCityorTown: CLERMONT
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V#1 was idling beneath a highway overpass in an idle speed zone, when the operator reported seeing V#2 on full plane, entering into the idle speed zone and heading towards him. Prior to collision, operator of V#1 reduced his speed even slower pulling over to the right side of the river, so as to allow V#2 a wide area to pass by. Operator of V#1 attempted to get the attention of the other vessel operator by waiving his arms in the air, however V#2 continued towards him at the same speed. Vessel operator #2 was on full plane when it struck into a tree stump along the west shore line, deflected, and crossed directly into the path of V#1. V#2 subsequently glanced into the bow of V#1, with its starboard side, causing V#1 to rotate 180 degrees in a clockwise rotation and came to rest facing the direction the vessel came from (facing highway over pass).V#2 came to rest, perpendicular on the east side of V#1  with its outboard up against the center port side of V#1. No one was ejected or injured. Driver of V#2 was arrested for suspicion of BUI and transported to the county jail. Both vessels were able to be driven away from the scene.


BARDID: FL-2018-0245
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V#1 was attempting to dock. While docking, V#1's anchor which is mounted on the bow, struck V#2's starboard stern.


BARDID: FL-2018-0246
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Boating accident involving PWC's in the Gulf of Mexico off of Panama City Beach.  One PWC turned in front of the other.  The rear PWC collided with the starboard side of the lead PWC.  No injuries and warnings issued. to both operators.  (operator of V01) advised he was following the other jet ski and advised he turned and let off the throttle and he couldn't stop in time and hit the other jet ski.


BARDID: FL-2018-0247
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: HOLLYWOOD
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday 06/03/2018 at approx. 8:00pm, vessel #2 and vessel #3 were traveling together at slow speed Northbound on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) just North of North Lake, Hollywood Florida. Another PWC, vessel #1 was also traveling Northbound, however that vessel was traveling fast enough to be on a plane. That vessel was observed by a Hollywood Police Officer (Marine Unit) who attempted to advise the operator of vessel #1 to slow down to the area’s slow speed restriction. Seconds later vessel #1 struck and proceeded to run over vessel #3. Vessel #1 then slide off the back Vessel #3, and fell on top of the rear starboard quarter of vessel #2. During the collision the operator of vessel #3 was struck in the back, however the operator declined all medical assistance. The resulting damage to vessel #3 were multiple scratches and cracks in the rear body panels of the PWC, the estimated damage by the owner/operator is approximately $1,200. Vessel #2 had several scratches and a few cracks in the right rear body panel, the estimated repair cost is $400. Vessel #1 had multiple scratches and cracks on the keel and front starboard body panel, the estimated repair cost is $500.


BARDID: FL-2018-0249
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 struck a wake, accelerated do to squeezing of the throttle, struck another wake, and  jammed leg on PWC gunwale prior to being ejected.  V1 a rented PWC from Raging Watersports St. Augustine was occupied by one 28 year old adult male. V1 was being operated back to the dock of Raging Watersports when V1’s operator tried jumping a large vessel’s wake. V1 landed improperly causing V1’s operator to fall on board and then being ejected into the water. V1’s operator sustained injuries and was rescued from the water and taken to Flagler Hospital St. Augustine for treatment of his injuries (broken leg,ankle).  PFD and Kill Switch was used.


BARDID: FL-2018-0250
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/12/18 at approximately 12:30 pm the operator launched his vessel in Bayou Chico. He was accompanied by his wife and three children. They departed Bayou Chico and entered the Gulf of Mexico through Pensacola Pass. They traveled east within approximately 400 hundred yards of the beach cruising at slow speed to look for cobia. At approximately 3:00 pm there was an explosion on the V1 the children to be expelled. The adults were still on the V1 after the explosion. None of the occupants of V1 were wearing a lifejacket at the time of the explosion. The children swam back to V1. The operator had a cut above his right knee and a child had burns on her legs below her knees. They all put on their life jackets. A good Samaritan vessel assisted tow V1 away from shore. On 5/29/18 I arranged to look at V1 in the Tow Boat U.S. boat yard. The deck of V1 was sealed without any large hatches for me to see below it. There was a small access approximately four to six inches in diameter above the fuel tank under the leaning post. I looked inside it, but I did not see any apparent issues. There was a hatch on the starboard bow of V1 that gave me access to the fuel line and vent hose. I unscrewed the fuel hose from the gunnel and attempted to pull it, but it was firmly secured. I pulled on the vent hose and found that it was loose. I pulled the vent hose out from under the deck of V1 until I reached the end which should have been secured to the fuel tank. 
If the vent hose was not securely fastened to the fuel tank of V1, then it would be possible that the vapors from the fuel tank were not able to escape from inside the hull. The vapors trapped within V1 combusted due to an ignition source within the vessel causing the accident.


BARDID: FL-2018-0251
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW PALM VALLEY
NearestCityorTown: PALM VALLEY
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1(21FT STINGRAY)WAS NOT VENTILATED LONG ENOUGH PRIOR TO STARTING.BUILT UP GASOLINE VAPOR IN V1 ENGINE HATCH IGNITED AND CAUSED SUBSEQUENT EXPLOSION AND FIRE.

Based on my investigation I have concluded the following:
The vessel had built up fuel fumes due to being almost out of fuel. The operator checked the oil but only briefly had the engine hatch up. Passengers 1 and 2 were in the stern of the vessel behind the driver’s seat both received minor burns (see injury supplement and photos). In the bow of the vessel were passengers 3-6. 
Based on information gathered it appears the brief exposure to the air provided oxygen to the engine hatch and when the vessel was started the mix was ignited causing the explosion and  fire. Following the explosion all occupants jumped into the water and swam to safety. The vessel Operator was subsequntly issued a warning for no boater safety I.D.


BARDID: FL-2018-0252
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:40:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: CROOKED LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WALES
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, January 1, 2018, at approximately 0140 hrs. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a vessel accident at Crooked Lake, located in Polk County. Four subjects were onboard a 1994, 13-foot Bobby Jones airboat that was being operated in a flooded marsh. The operator drove through a barbed wire fence, fatally injuring a passenger.

At approximately 0130 hrs., the airboat was heading south along the west shoreline of Crooked Lake. The operator maneuvered the airboat and headed southwest into a flooded marsh at approximately 15 mph. The grass was approximately 3 feet high and the water level in the pasture was approximately 6 inches deep. According to Op.'s statement, he observed the fence when it was approximately 10 feet directly in front of the boat. He attempted to maneuver the boat to avoid the fence. Based on the airboat’s speed, shallow water and distance to the fence, the airboat subsequently crashed through the fence. All occupants were struck by the barbed wire fence and sustained injuries.

Occupant1 received a mild head injury without a concussion. The injury was consistent with being seated on the left side of the front passenger seat and getting struck by a wooden fence post. He was treated for the injury at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. He was wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the accident and he knew how to swim. 

Fatal victim received multiple lacerations and abrasions to her left and right thighs, the left side of her face, and on the top of her left hand and arm. The District 10 Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that she died from multiple blunt force and sharp force injuries. She received a hyperextension neck injury and her femoral artery on her left leg was severed. The injuries were consistent with her being seated in the front passenger seat of the airboat. She was struck by the barbed wire fence as the airboat collided with it. She was treated for the injuries at the scene. She was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident and she knew how to swim. The District 10 Medical Examiner’s Office autopsy report concluded that there were no common drugs of abuse, including no Ethyl Alcohol discovered in her blood or urine at the time of the accident. 

Operator received minor scratches and bruises on his ribs. Injuries were consistent with him being seated in the driver’s seat located behind the passengers and getting struck by the barbed wire fence. He was thrown into the cage and subsequently fell into the bottom of the boat.  He was treated for the injuries at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a personal floatation device and the engine cut off safety lanyard was not attached to him at the time of the accident.  He advised that he had over 100 hours total vessel operating experience.  He also advised that he knew how to swim. Lakeland Regional Medical Center laboratory report concluded that there were no common drugs of abuse, including no Ethyl Alcohol discovered in his blood or urine at the time of the accident.

Occupant2 received a laceration on the right side of his face. The injury was consistent with him being seated on the right side of the front passenger seat and getting struck by the barbed wire fence. He was treated for the injuries at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. He was wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the accident and he knew how to swim.


BARDID: FL-2018-0253
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel accident on Black Creek resulting in injuries. V1 traveling towards knights boat ramp on black creek. Operator advised that she looked to the side to talk to her husband, and when she looked forward V1 had veered close to shore and struck an overhanging tree limb. Two young girls sitting in the bow on the port side were struck by the tree limb causing injuries. 


BARDID: FL-2018-0254
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The Wellcraft had been tied to marker #26 for about an hour while the occupants were fishing. It was tied using about 40ft of anchor line. Subject had borrowed the Wellcraft and took it out on a test run to see if he wanted to buy it.  After about an hour, the waves became bigger and bigger and began to come over the sides. In a very short time the Wellcraft filled with water. While it was sinking the occupants attempted to retrieve the life jackets but were unable to. Everyone onboard, except subject1, went into the water. 

  The occupants swam to the channel marker and struggled to hang on and stay afloat. Subject2 was not able to stay with the marker and drifted away.  Subject3 was not able to stay afloat and eventually drowned.  The MacDill Marine Unit picked up Subject2 from the D2 Spoil Island, everyone else was recovered from the water by the Sheriff’s Office. Everyone was taken to the Davis Island Boat Ramp where EMS was waiting. Operator was taken to Tampa General for exhaustion, Subject3 was declared dead onscene. No one else was injured. The Wellcraft was still tied to the marker when it sank.

attempted to raise the Wellcraft, however the anchor line broke and the Wellcraft sunk. Vessels search for two days for the sunken Wellcraft. On April 13th FWC Officers  assisted in the search using side-scan sonar. The Wellcraft has never been found.


BARDID: FL-2018-0255
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUWANNEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FANNING SPRINGS
County: LEVY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
A pontoon boat that had been changed into a houseboat was launched in the Suwannee River.  Soon after launching the operator stated he lost power due to water in the bilge, the bilge pump was inoperable.  the left pontoon filled with water and the vessel then capsized.  The operator and occupant swam to a friend's vessel and then attempted to right the pontoon, they were unsuccesful.  Once they tied the overturned pontoon to a marker they returned to the boat ramp and notified of the accident.  the vessel was recovered by commercial salvage company, no injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2018-0256
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOSTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, June 9, 2018, at approximately 1633 (4:33PM) I was on patrol in Manatee County when I was dispatched to a reported vessel accident that had occurred at CORTEZ BRIDGE both vessels were then docked at BRADENTON BEACH MARINA with no injuries to any parties. 

Upon arrival at the BRADENTO BEACH MARINA I made contact with the operators (later identified by GEORGIA and FLORIDA Identification Cards as OPERATOR 1 VESSEL 1 and OPERATOR 2 VESSEL 2). Both OPERATOR 1 and OPERATOR 2 agreed to provide voluntary recorded sworn statements that were each taken utilizing the agency issued RECORDED STATEMENT OUTLINE. OPERATOR 1 was operating VESSEL 1 (later identified by GA Registration as a 24ft Parks Multi-color open motorboat) and OPERATOR 2 was operating VESSEL 2 (later identified by FL Registration as a 22ft Proline white cabin motorboat). 

In his recorded statement OPERATOR 1 explained that his vessel was headed south in the Inter Costal Waterway about to cross under the Cortez Bridge. As the vessel had entered a marked slow speed zone OPERATOR 1 said that he reduced the speed of the vessel to comply with the posted speed zone reducing the vessel to a speed that brought the vessel’s bow (front) down and provided just enough speed to maintain steerage of the vessel. It was then that OPERATOR 1 said, “I turned around just in time to see the bottom of the boat coming right at me”, upon identifying the vessel rapidly approaching him OPERATOR 1 said, “then I threw the throttle forward and got away as fast as I could… it was by the grace of god that I got out of there”.  After giving his sworn recorded statement OPERATOR 1 showed the damage to his vessel which included the complete destruction of his starboard (right) power pole which the connection to the vessel had been completely sheared off showing blue exposed wires and leaving the power pole floating in the water connected only by wires to the vessel, white paint transfer and scuffing to the vessel engine cover, and scuffing and white paint transfer to the vessel antenna. All damage to OPERATOR 1’s vessel were photographed and documented. 

In OPERATOR 2’s recorded statement, he explained that he was returning from PALMA SOLA BAY headed south in the Inter Costal Waterway operating his vessel at approximately 25 MPH. OPERATOR 2 went on to explain that a vessel on his left was getting to close and he maneuvered to his right reducing speed slightly. It was then that the vessel in front of him in OPERATOR 2’s words, “came to a sudden stop and no one on the boat was looking backwards”. OPERATOR 2 then said that he was, “sucked in” by VESSEL 1’s wake which forced him to collide with VESSEL 1. Due to OPERATOR 2’s vessel being in the water I was unable to photograph any damage or paint transfer on the keel of the vessel.  

OPERATOR 2’s collision with the rear of OPERATOR 1’s vessel was a violation of F.S. 327.33 VIOLATION OF NAVIGATION RULES RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT, the rule violated was FAILURE TO AVOID COLLISION. OPERATOR 2 was issued a citation for this violation upon signing and receiving a copy of the citation OPERATOR 2 said, “I knew I was going to get a ticket it’s my fault for hitting them from behind”. OPERATOR 2 was also issued a warning for an expired vessel registration. 
 
END OF REPORT NO FURTHER ACTION TAKEN.


BARDID: FL-2018-0257
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OKEECHOBEE
NearestCityorTown: MOORE HAVEN
County: GLADES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/22/2018 at approximately 1500 hours, I was dispatched to a call regarding a vessel that sank at the S-131 Lock in Lakeport, Glades County.
Upon arriving on scene, I observed a vessel completely submerged in the lock, with an oil spill boom deployed around the vessel. South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) personnel were already on scene. All persons that observed the vessel sink provided sworn written statements. All are consistent and indicate the following:

1. The operator entered the lock from Lake Okeechobee (lakeside), intending to lock through to the rim canal (landside) to his residence after a day of fishing.

2. The vessel entered the lock with a storm approaching.

3. There was a malfunction with the lakeside gate, and SFWMD personnel attempted to fix the problem.

4. SFWMD personnel determined that the water level difference between lakeside and landside was low enough to open the landside gate.

5. The landside gate was opened, despite the lakeside gate not being closed due to the malfunction.

6. A large amount of water flowed into the lock from the lakeside, causing the vessel to strike the landside gate.

7. Water came over the stern of the vessel and swamped the boat. The operator was washed out of the vessel toward the stern, while wearing an automatic PFD, which did not inflate.

8. The operator went under the vessel and struck the landside gate while submerged.

9. The operator was pulled under the landside gate and the vessel sank.

10. SFWMD personnel assisted The operator in reaching the shoreline.

Lake Towing was called and successfully recovered the vessel, which was returned to The operator.


