# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: AL-2015-0059
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wolf Bay
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements taken at the scene and evidence on the vessels the following events took place. 

Vessel #1 was following Vessel #2. Vessel #2 made a sharp turn to port. Vessel #1 struck vessel #2 on port side striking the leg of the passenger operator1. 

The vessels were part of a PWC tour. Both operators returned to Orange Beach Marina where the injured was treated for a lower leg injury. He was transported to South Baldwin Hospital. 

Damage to both vessels were minimal.


BARDID: AL-2015-0060
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Sheffield
County: Colbert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored out near Colbert county side on Pickwick lake. Vessel 2 had left an island referred to as Sandy beach. Vessel 1 advised they saw vessel 2 coming directly at them and began yelling and waving their hands. Vessel 2 advised they did not see any lights on Vessel 1. Vessel 2 ran into and ramped over vessel 1. There were 2 females on vessel 1 that needed medical attention. The vessels made it back to Florence harbor where they received medical attention. The two females were transported to ECM hospital for cuts and bruising. I was unable to test vessel 1 navigational lights due to damage to the helm.


BARDID: AL-2015-0061
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perdido Pass
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements taken from the operator and evidence at the scene the following events took place at the above date and time. 

Operator had taken his family on a boat ride into the Gulf of Mexico. As he approached the east side of Perdido Pass the vessels engines lost power. The vessel began to drift north west. Wave conditions along with current caused the vessel to drift into the concrete wall located under water between the two east jetties. The vessel became stuck on the wall. A passing vessel called for assistance. All occupants from the vessel were safely removed via Orange Beach Marine Unit PWC.


BARDID: AL-2015-0062
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: Killen
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements by the operators, (vessel 1) was returning to the Lock 6 boat ramp as part of a fishing tournament. As he was idling toward the dock he saw vessel 2 leaving the dock. He thought that they were part of the tournament, but they were not. V2 increased throttle and didn't see the other vessel (1) due to his bow rising obstructing his view. V1 tried to maneuver his vessel out of the way, but was unable to get clear before the impact. It was a glanced off the starboard side near the operator station of V1's vessel. V2's vessel impacted with the bow, but did not do any damage to it, according to him. While the vessel approaching the dock is required to yield right of way to vessels leaving the dock (state code 220-6-.07(6), vessels operators must maintain a proper look-out (state code 220-6-.07(19). This area was congested due to the end of the fishing tournament, and additional caution should have been exercised due to the number of vessels in the area before attempting to come up on plane.


BARDID: AL-2015-0064
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Double Springs
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating the vessel. It was occupied by four adults. Two males, two females, and three children. All Children were under the age of eight years. They had been swimming at a sandy beach area, and decided to head back to their camp about a mile from there location. They had noticed that the vessel had been taking on water throughout the day. The operator pulled the boat's throttle back to the neutral position. At that time they were out in the middle of the main body of Smith Lake in the Corinth Area. The boat immediately sank to the bottom. No one was wearing a PFD including the three children. The two male subjects swam to shore leaving the two women and three children in the water. A boater came by and was able to get the stranded women and children in his pontoon. He took all seven people to their camp, where the Double Springs Fire Department was waiting. Three of the Adults were taken to Walker Baptist Hospital. They were treated and released later that night. 
I have spoken with the Winston County District Attorneys office and I am in the process of receiving warrants for both male subjects involved. The warrants will be for reckless endangerment, overloaded vessel, and child under eight not wearing a PFD.


BARDID: AL-2015-0065
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee / Harris Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 21st approximately 1:50 pm. According to operator of vessel #2, he was doing circles in an open area, and His uncle was following the family's pontoon boat watching them tubing, when they came by, Operator2 said when he came out of the circle the other guy nailed him. Operator2 said he didn't see him coming. 

Operator of vessel #1 stated, " I didn't see Operator2 until the last minute it was like he came out of nowhere and I ran into him." 

Vessel #1 had damage to the front port side, near operator's seating position. Vessel #2 driven by Operator2 had damage to the starboard side front.  Operator1 suffered a broken bone as a result of being struck


BARDID: AL-2015-0071
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Demopolis
County: Greene
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The listed vessel was occupied by 8 individuals, including the 36 year old victim. The vessel was stopped near the 224.5 Mile Marker when the victim jumped into the water. It is unknown exactly why the victim jumped into the water. The victim went under water three times, when on the second time surfacing, it was noticed that she was "gurgling". Three of the occupants of the vessel jumped into the water to assist, but to no avail. The victim went under water for the third time and did not resurface. The victim's body was recovered the following day, 07/26/15, by Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Divers.


BARDID: AL-2015-0078
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Lincoln
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
(vessel 1) stated that he stopped at a friends boat house before he was heading home.  After he left from there, he stated he was on his way home and he could barely see cause of how dark it was.  When he was making the curve he stated that before he could make an evasive maneuver to avoid the dock, he was already on top of it.   (the passenger of the vessel) was complaining of her right leg hurting, but there wasn't any visible marks or bruises.  She also denied medical treatment.  operator was arrested by Lincoln Pd for BUI.
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0079
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jordan
NearestCityorTown: Wetumpka
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
*****The time of notification and time of arrival are the same due to this being a delayed report.******

The female victim stated that she was sitting on the swim platform area of a boat (Vessel #2) that was beached in the canal and was stationary. Vessel #1 approached and struck vessel #2 and the victim. Due to not being notified until approximately 8 hours later troopers were unable to determine if the operator of vessel #1 was under the influence of alcohol at the time the accident occurred. There are also conflicting witness statements as to whether or not alcohol was involved. Some time after the accident the female victim was taken to Elmore County Hospital by privately owned vehicle for treatment. She was later transported by helicopter to UAB Hospital for further treatment. 
According to the victim,  the operator of vessel 1 had been spraying vessel 2 earlier and she was of the belief that that was what he was about to do at the time the collision occurred.


BARDID: AL-2015-0080
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coosa River
NearestCityorTown: Rockford
County: Coosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The vessels involved in this accident were at the sandbar located approximately two miles south of Mitchell Dam on the Coosa County side of the Coosa River. The operators had been playing at the sandbar when they decided to return to their home which was north of their location. Vessel -1's operator stated as he began to leave the sandbar he rapidly accelerated and turned sharply to his left. At that time he collided with Vessel-2 on it's starboard side which was stationary at the time. Vessel-1's operator stated he the thought Vessel -2 had already departed the area. Vessel -1's operator estimated his speed between 10-20 mph at the time of impact. Vessel -2 was towed back to their residence due to taking on water. No injuries were reported.
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0081
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Waterloo
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to witness statements at approximately 5:30 pm Operator and his wife Occupant had just left the South Second Creek Boat Ramp traveling West.  They were traveling at approximately 4000 RPM's in their 22' pontoon boat.  While the vessel was in gear Operator got up and went to the back of the boat to rearrange a chair and cooler.  At the same time Occupant was sitting on the couch bent over giving water to their dog.  As soon as Operator turned around they hit a private pier at approximately a 45 degree angle.  The collision sent Operator flying into the back of his wife Occupant.  Occupant then hit the console of the boat.  This accident happened approximately ½ mile West of Second Creek.  
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0082
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Short Creek
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2015 at 1:00pm a heavy Thunderstorm hit the Short Creek Area of Lake Guntersville.  According to witnesses on-board Vessel 1, they were attempting to reach the boat ramp area off of AL. HWY. 227 when the heaviest weather hit.  The high winds caused Vessel 1 to capsize, resulting in all 4 passengers entering the water.  All evidence suggests that two people drowned in an attempt to swim to safety. Two others were able to swim to Safety and call 911.
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0084
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was adrift unable to start their engine when they drifted into the main channel from the Lauderdale County side.  Vessel #2 is a commercial tow M/V "Winchester" pushing barges (9X9) that had locked up through Wilson Lock and was continuing upstream toward Wheeler Lock.  The collision occurred at about the 260.5 mile mark on the Tennessee River.  After the collision, the pontoon boat passengers were assisted by the crew of the "Winchester" and a fishing boat that was in the area.  Two passengers were not able to located and were later recovered deceased.


BARDID: AL-2015-0085
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
OtherAccidentCause: missing bilge hatch cover
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Due to a missing hatch cover that is located in front of the outboard motor that leads directly into the bilge area, Vessel 1 appeared to take on water due to choppy conditions.  The operator maneuvered Vessel 1 to the shoreline along LB Wallace Dr. in Guntersville. Vessel 1 then continued to flood and mostly submerge before it was recovered.


BARDID: AL-2015-0086
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mallard Creek
NearestCityorTown: Hillsboro
County: Lawrence
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was stopped in Mallard Creek.  Passenger exited vessel to untangle tube line from around the prop.  Winds and current were high and vessel drifted away from S1.  S1 went under the water. S1 was found by other boaters approx. 40 min. later.  S1's spouse stated he had health issues, notably COPD and part of right lung removed.  See Lawrence Co. S.O. I/O report, Witness Statements, site and vessel photos, and Google Earth site photo for details.  Cause of Death was listed as drowning by Lawrence Co. Coroner.
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0087
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: Muscle Shoals
County: Colbert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to operator statements, two people were operating separate personal watercraft and collided near the mouth of McKeran Creek (also known as Donnagan Slough).  The vessels were both traveling north toward the main river on Wilson Lake.  Operator2 (Vessel 2) said he visually checked to see if it was clear and then turned toward the left.  Operator1 said that he went to turn but did not have time to avoid the collision.  Vessel 2 (white) had damage to the port side mirror, front storage hatch and fiberglass damage to the steering column.  Vessel 1 (yellow) had small white markings on the side near the forward area of the gunwale, and underneath on the hull almost the entire length of the hull.  Operator1 did not have any injuries reported.  Operator2 had a compound fracture of the left leg and was airlifted to Huntsville Hospital for surgery.  
 
Operator2 stated that he had been through the state boating education through his high school driver's education class, passed his test but did not have his social security number, so his information was not submitted for certification.  He does not have a vessel endorsement on his license.  Operator1 did not have any boating education certification, nor did he have a vessel endorsement on his license.  
The following state navigation regulations apply to the events of this accident:
 
 (vessel 2) would have been required to not abruptly change course without first determining it could be done safely, state code 220-6.07(8).
 
Operator1 (vessel 1) would have been required to reduce speed due to his position as a give way vessel to avoid a collision, state code 220-6.07(10).
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0088
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Delta
NearestCityorTown: Spanish Fort
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel I was traveling West bound in Conway Creek attempting to enter Chacaloochee Bay.  Vessel II was traveling Northwest Bound in Chacaloochee Bay attempting to enter Conway Creek.  During these maneuvers, Vessel I and Vessel II made contact with port sides of their vessels.   After contact, Vessel II made an overt action to beach the vessel.  This caused the vessel to take on water and become swamped.  Two persons on Vessel I sustained non-life threatening injuries.  Both parties refused medical treatment.   Update:  Operator on V1 has a fractured foot.


BARDID: AL-2015-0089
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Arley
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
During the week of July 20-July 30, 2015, Trooper received multiple reports that a boat had crashed and hit a sea wall at the mouth of Bear Branch on Smith Lake and was left there unoccupied, but was not notified by a law enforcement dispatch.  According to the wrecker driver, a family member of the boat owner contacted him to remove the vessel from the property.  Subject indicated that Operator was driving the boat at the time of impact to the sea wall.  Subject also stated the parties involved knew the property owner and would contact them for repairing the sea wall and damages.  Upon interviewing the scene on July 24, the property owner  had not been notified by involved parties and located two half gallon bottles of Seagrams #7 whiskey in his trash can that was not his.  As of July 30, 2015 Marine Patrol or any other law enforcement agency had not been notified by the involved parties.  On July 30, 2015 at 1330 hours Troopers interviewed Operator, and he admitted to driving the vessel upon impact to the sea wall and not notifying authorities.   The operator stated that he misjudged the shoreline.  The two passengers were interviewed on August 1, 2015.  One passenger was taken to Cullman Hospital and treated for a broken pelvis in two different spots.  The case will be turned over to the Winston County District Attorney's Office for further review.
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0090
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou St John
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was returning from dinner at The Wharf and was having trouble with his GPS unit.  He attempted to follow his track, but steered well south and ran up on rock jetty at Ono Harbour.


BARDID: AL-2015-0091
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dog River
NearestCityorTown: Mobile
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating a jet ski with a passenger on board in the area of Navco Park in Dog River. The passenger/ owner was seated directly behind her. In the course of operation Occupant was thrown from the vessel leaving only Operator alone at the controls. Operator was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed when she struck a piling and large concrete structure, throwing her from the vessel. Neither Operator nor Occupant are currently licensed to operate a vessel in the state of Alabama. The crash in the reporting troopers opinion occurred due to operator inexperience.  Operator was transported to USA Emergency Room.  Her injuries include a broken pelvis according to medical staff at the E.R.
 


BARDID: AL-2015-0092
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Second Creek
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Owner/Operator and passenger launched vessel at Second Creek boat ramp.  Cranking battery was dead.  Owner jumped battery with jumper cables from trolling motor battery.  They traveled approx. 1/4 mile and started to smell smoke.  Passenger opened battery compartment and saw fire.  They traveled back to boat ramp and grounded the vessel, ran, and called 911.  See Acc. photos, Google Earth site photo, and Witness and Operator statement for details.  No injuries reported.


BARDID: AL-2015-0093
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was on board the canoe by himself with no safety equipment and per his aunt could not swim. The fog was very thick and 3 people on the bank heard him call for help but could not see him due to the fog. They called 911 and waited


BARDID: AL-2015-0094
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: Gulf Shores
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Onboard navigation aids
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on evidence and statements taken from the operator and passenger the following events took place on the above date and time.

While operating in Mobile Bay operator was attempting to work on his GPS. While looking at the GPS he was not watching where he was headed. The vessel veered to the south and struck a small jetty located on the north shore of Fort Morgan. The vessel was launched over the jetty onto the shore. No injuries were reported at the time of the accident. Vessel damage was a total loss based on insurance claims.


BARDID: AL-2015-0096
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay LaLaunch
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements taken from both operators and a witness that took place on the above date and time, all parties involved were part of a jet ski tour of the area. The tour was ending and the guide directed everyone to line back up to return to their base. Vessel # 1 was traveling faster than the other personal watercrafts to get back in line. The operator of vessel # 1 struck vessel #2 on the rear right side. The operator of vessel #1 was then thrown from the personal watercraft across the front of vessel #2. This caused Vessel # 2 to strike the operator of vessel #1 in the head. The operator of vessel #1 was transported to South Baldwin Hospital for treatment.


BARDID: AL-2015-0097
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou St. John
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on witness statements the following events took place on 9/2/2015 at 3:00 p.m. Vessel # 1(Angler) was operating in the east end of Bayou St. John. A passing vessel created a wake. The operator of the Angler turned into the wake. The steering cable then broke causing the vessel to turn sharply. All passengers aboard vessel #1 were thrown from their seats. A female passenger injured her neck and head when she was thrown into the side of the vessel. The injured female passenger was transported by ambulance to Baptist South for her injuries.


BARDID: AL-2015-0098
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Eclectic
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/07/2015 Trooper responded to the Tallassee Slough area in reference to a boating accident that occurred the day before on 09/06/2015 at 4:106 p.m. According to the statement of the female operator of vessel # 2 (PWC), she was not under power and was drifting. Male operator of vessel # 1 attempted to dock along side vessel # 2 and failed to come to a complete stop. This caused him to hit vessel #2 on the port bow and then slid down the stern. On 09/10/2015 Trooper interviewed the male operator of vessel #1. He states that as he approached vessel #2 he attempted to use the pwc on water braking system but failed to hold the braking switch long enough. This caused the operator of pwc # 1 to hit pwc # 2 with the bow of his pwc.


BARDID: AL-2016-0001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-02-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coffeeville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Coffeeville
County: Clarke
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 0945 a call was received from Clarke County 911 dispatch regarding an overturned vessel at the base of the Coffeeville Dam that was spotted at around 0700. Trooper met with the Chief of Coffeeville PD. The vessel was capsized at the time of arrival.  The body of the victim was located on the east side of the River about 100 yards from victim's vessel. Surveillance video from dam and the autopsy report were not available at the time of this report. More information will follow.


BARDID: AL-2016-0002
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-02-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:01:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Hutsville
County: Colbert
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Fishing boat found without the occupants inside. 2 brothers had taken this vessel out to fish that morning. A multi agency search began. One brother was found by a local fisherman on March 1, 2016. The other brother was finally located on March 19, 2016. This is a preliminary report. I have no further details at this time.
I still do not have a complete report to submit. The Sr., Trooper who worked this accident keeps getting his report kicked back by his Commander.


BARDID: AL-2016-0003
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:12:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: Demopolis
County: Marengo
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was operating down river when operator noticed the dam. Operator of vessel #1 placed motor in reverse. This caused the engine to stall. The operator and passenger both jumped from the vessel as it went over the dam. 

The operator was picked up by bystander vessel. The passenger was picked up by another bystander vessel. The passenger was found floating face down. Both the operator and passenger were transported to boat ramp. Demopolis PD performed cpr on the passenger with no results. Passenger was pronounced deceased by county coroner. Operator was transported via ambulance to Bryan Whitfield Hospital in Demopolis, where he was later released.


BARDID: AL-2016-0004
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Smith Lake
County: Cullman
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
(This incident only involved 1 vessel) According to the witness statements and evidence gathered the vessel (Airboat) ran into a rock wall in Upper Ryan's Creek. The operator of  the vessel stated that he was "fixated on his passenger" when the vessel made impact with the rocks on the shoreline. Both the operator and the passenger were thrown of the vessel onto the rocks and into the water. 

The operator of this vessel put the passenger back in the Airboat and drove to the owners address when he docked the vessel. The operator then drove himself and the passenger to Cullman Hospital for treatment. The operator had head lacerations, was treated and released from the hospital the same day. The passenger had multiple head lacerations, back injuries and was hospitalized for several days.


BARDID: AL-2016-0005
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Pell City
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involves 2 vessels a Pontoon ( vessel #1) and an open motor boat (vessel # 2). There was a bass tournament on Logan Martin Lake. Pontoon vessel had just launched and was trying to get away from the dock. Operator of open motor boat saw that the operator of Pontoon boat was having trouble maneuvering the vessel. The open motor boat operator sat idle trying to give the Pontoon vessel plenty of space. The pontoon vessel operator stated she backed up a little and turned sharp to the right giving the vessel some throttle and before she knew it she had hit the open motor vessel in the area of the port bow towards the port beam causing a hole in the fiberglass above the rub rail. This action also caused damage to the starboard bow of her Pontoon.


BARDID: AL-2016-0006
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neely Henry Lake
NearestCityorTown: Ashville
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involved only 1 vessel (Open Motor Boat) A St. Clair Co. Deputy was on scene and MP Trooper was notified and arrived on scene. The Operator of this vessel stated that while operating on plane speed he looked down to replace his letterman tool when the starboard bow of his vessel struck the outside left section of a pier. Operator was thrown from his vessel and the open motor boat continued forward because operator of vessel did not have his cut off engine switch attached. The vessel struck the next pier with the port stern before veering to the right and wedging up on a wooden sea wall. The operator was not wearing a pfd when he was thrown from the vessel. there was a lot of property that was damaged. There was no injury.


BARDID: AL-2016-0007
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tuscaloosa
NearestCityorTown: Tuscaloosa
County: Tuscaloosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involves 2 vessels. Vessel # 1 (Stratos - Open Motorboat) and Vessel # 2 (Master craft - Open Motorboat) which was on a boat lift and not moving on the water. On April 4, 2016 Operator of vessel #1 stated he was en route to the boat ramp when he stopped to check on his fishing rods. During this time his boat drifted to the left so when he started to move his vessel again he was headed toward the dock. The operator of Vessel # 1 stated the bow of the vessel was up in the air as he was planning off the boat. The operator of vessel #1 stated he saw the dock and backed off the throttle about the time he began making contact with the dock lift, and the boat (vessel #2) in the lift. The operator of vessel #1 was not injured and did not seek medical attention. Vessel was removed later by Hansel King Dock Builders.


BARDID: AL-2016-0008
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Athens
County: Limestone
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involved 2 vessels. Vessel #1(Allison) and Vessel # 2 (Stratos). Vessel #1 returned to the dock after fishing. He tied of to the boat ram & went to retrieve his vehicle & trailer to load vessel # 1 onto it. Vessel # 2 returned to the dock and the operator went to retrieve his vehicle and trailer. He left his son in the vessel to operate the vessel and drive it around from the dock to the ramp. When the "new" operator of vessel # 2 engaged the throttle to move vessel # 2 he drove up on top of vessel # 1, submerging and causing damage to vessel # 1. Operator reported having less than 1 minute of operator's experience. This was his first time ever operating a vessel.


BARDID: AL-2016-0009
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:50:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee Lake(RL Harris)
NearestCityorTown: WEDOWEE
County: RANDOLPH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On march 19th 2016 a call was received from randolph county 911 about a missing boater. To help speed the search and rescue victims cell phone was tracked. Within 30-45 minutes victim was located at a shop up from gobbler creek area on lake wedowee deceased. 

There was significant damage to the starboard side of the vessel all the way from the bow to the stern. There was also a large amount of damage to the underside of the vessel and damage to the lower unit on the outboard engine. There appeared to be wood fibers in the paint and fiberglass of the vessel. There was some issue with the steering on the vessel. 

It was very hard to turn and the investigator believes this played a big part in the accident. The object the vessel collided with was never located. 

The victim sustained an injury under the chin that led to severe bleeding. Victim was able to make way to the dock and tie up fishing boat. Then he appeared to have tried to get help at a residence that was under construction therefore no one was home.


BARDID: AL-2016-0010
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: LEESBURG
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involves 2 vessels. Vessel #1 (bayliner) and vessel # 2 (norris craft). Operator of vessel # 1 was driving bayliner in the yellow creek slough area. The owner of vessel # 1 was trying to teach the operator how to operate this vessel. When operator of bayliner turned around in the slough vessel # 2 was not visible to operator of vessel #1. This resulted in a collision when vessel #1 hit vessel #2. Both occupants in vessel # 2 were sitting on vessel fishing. Operator of vessel #2  was thrown from the vessel. Operator was transported to the hospital. Operator of vessel #1 was arrested for bui and owner was arrested for vpl.


BARDID: AL-2016-0011
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tensaw River
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL WAS TRAVELING SOUTH BOUND IN THE TENSAW RIVER AND STUCK AN UNKNOWN OBJECT. THIS CAUSED EVERYONE IN THE VESSEL TO BE THROWN AROUND AND INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED


BARDID: AL-2016-0012
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SMITH LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LOGAN
County: CULLMAN
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Review analysis: vessel #1 left the slough bordered by county road 324 and was approaching (at or above speed) the cut between goat island and speegle's point to the right of mid-channel. Vessel #2 left the area of speegles's marina traveling toward  goat isalnd in mid channel at an apx. Speed of 10-20 mph. 

V-1 and v-2 collided in open water. A passenger on v-2 entered the water but was immediately recovered. He was not wearing a pfd. Upon inspection, all required safety equipment was present on both vessels. Due to conflicting statements, it can only be determined that the navigation lights on v-1 were operational. V-2 navigation lights cannot be verified as operational prior to the collision. No injuries were reported.


BARDID: AL-2016-0013
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neely Henry Lake
NearestCityorTown: ASHVILLE
County: ST. CLAIR
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Sgt arrived on the scene after the accident occurred. A saint clair deputy was on scene and explained to sgt that the operator of the vessel had been arrested for bui and that one female passenger was in custody for disorderly conduct. The other 3 passengers appeared to have been drinking also. No one was wearing a pfd. 

Sgt proceeded to identifty each passenger still on scene and had them indicate their position in the vessel. The passenger that was seated in the center back seat was thrown forward into the bow of the vessel and was reported as knocked unconscious for a brief period and had an injury to the right shoulder. Passenger refused to be transported from ems on scene but was carried by personal vehicle to the hospital for examination. Sgt inspected and photgraphed the vessel and then released it to the joint owner to take home. 

The deputy inspected the pier to ensure no one was missing from the vessel and to photograph the pier damage. Sgt then travelled to the county jail to interview the operator and the other passenger. None of the occupants were licensed to operate a vessel and alcohol impairment is listed as the contributing factor to this collision. 

By witness statements received the vessel was believed to be traveling at above plane speed (40mph). It struck the center of the wooden pier and traveled directly center and traveled over the top. No other passengers were reported as injured. Although the navigational lights were operational a witness statement reported that the boat was not displaying the red/green/white navigation lights, only the blue ground effects lights were visible prior to the collision.


BARDID: AL-2016-0014
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Guntersville
NearestCityorTown: GUNTERSVILLE
County: MARSHALL
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on evidence and witness statements vessel (glass stream) was leaving a boat ramp heading into the waves and the operator decided it was too rough. When the turn was made to go back to the boat ramp waves started breaking over the stern, causing the capsizing.  The 2 occupants then entered the water and were assisted to shore by a motorist on al-hwy 69 causeway.


BARDID: AL-2016-0015
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tuscaloosa
NearestCityorTown: MORTHPORT
County: TUSCALOOA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Mp trooper received a call from tuscallosa pd regarding a missing boater on lake tuscaloosa near hwy 69 bridge. He arrived on scene at 10:50 pm and was notified that 2 occupants in the vessel had struck the seawall at 13641 country club drive northport, al. 

Both occupants of the vessel were ejected from the vessel. The passenger was pulled from the water and transported to the hospital via ems and admitted for his injuries. The operator was missing. Side scan sonar located the victim on 2nd pass. Divers entered the water at this point and on 4th pass located the victim. Victim was pulled from the water and the medical examiners office was notified at 2:00 a.m. the operator was deceased. Next of kin was notified the next morning. At the time of this report the passenger was still in the hospital being treated for injuries sustained in this accident.


BARDID: AL-2016-0017
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: ALEXANDER CITY
County: TALLAPOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF VESSEL # 1 STATED THAT HE WAS BEHIND A BOAT AND THE BOAT ABRUPTLY TURNED. THIS CAUSED THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL # 1 TO TURN QUICKLY TO AVOID HITTING THE OTHER VESSEL. BY DOING S VESSEL # 1 JUMPED THE WAKE OF THE BOAT AND CRASHED INTO VESSEL # 2. AT LEAST ONE OF THE WITNESSES SAID THAT THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL # 1 HAD BEEN DRIVING DANGEROUSLY AND JUMPING WAVES PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT. WHEN ASKED MORE THAN ONE WITNESS SAID THATVESSEL # 1 WAS TOO CLOSE TO THE BOAT THAT MADE THE WAKE THAT VESSEL # 1 JUMPED JUST PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT.


BARDID: AL-2016-0020
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SHOAL CREEK
NearestCityorTown: KILLEN
County: LAUDERDALE
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements, Operator1 was traveling downriver, ahead of V2.  She turned to shop and was hit by V2.  The sharp turn and abrupt change of course was a possible contributing factor (State code 220-6-.07(8)).  In addition, State code 220-6.07(10)b states, “if there is danger of collision, all vessels will slow down, stop or reverse until danger is averted.  The vessels may have been too close to allowed time to avoid the collision.  The location was congested during the time of accident, which may have been a contributing factor.  Operator1 was unable to provide a statement due to injuries.


BARDID: AL-2016-0021
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Oyster Bay
NearestCityorTown: Gulf Shores
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Notified of boating accident in the vicinity of oyster bay and icw. Upon arrival vessel was tied to the dock. 

Gulf shores pd & fire & rescue were already on the scene. There was one deceased victim was strapped to a backboard that was on the dock and there was a deceased victim laying in the front floor area of the vessel. They were advised that another passenger onboard the vessel was flown to pensacola fl for treatment. 

Other passengers onboard vessel were able to confirm that there were 7 persons total on the vessel. According to other on board vessel they had been at the gumbo key concert all day and launched from the boat ramp at weeks bay. The operator of the vessel had struck a pier which is the next pier to the east of where the boat was upon the marine patrol troopers arrival on the scene. 

Mp troopers took pictures of scene and the deceased victims. Upon investigation the gps chartplotter was positioned facing upwards towards the sky, turned on with a very bright screen. The operator's post was bent backwards.

 The emergency cut-off switch was hanging down on the dock with a loop in the end (appeared it had not been worn at time of the accident.) The engine control box (throttle) appeared to be in the reverse position. The radio was on the on position but was turned down. The position of the gps chartplotter damage (bent back) to the operator's sect post as well as the head injuries to the operator  lead to the conclusion that the operator was standing up operating when it struck the pier.

 Damage to the vessel included a crushed windshield on the starboard side , busted glass in the windshield on the port side, hull damage to the forward and mid gunwale, broken antenna on the starboard side, bent all around white stern light, and a bimini top that was torn completely off and still hanging in the pier that was struck. 

There was considerable damage to the pier that was struck. The major damage as well as the deceased and injured passengers were all on the starboard side. It appeared that the starboard side was higher in the water than the port side when it was struck and went under the pier. The water depth around the pier was shallow less than 2 ft. Vessel was towed to impound yard in the early morning hours of 6/19/2016. Personal items were secured and returned to the individuals in the accident and family members of the deceased. 

Large quantities of alcoholic beverage cans were in a trash bag behind the operators seat as well as a plastic cup with a white liquid marked malibu, bushwacker, kahlulaon the cup in the cup holder of operators station. A green powder substance in a foil bag with 25g and wvmd was found inside of a plastic ray ban sun glass case inside a beach bag. A plastic pill container with possible medication was also found in a storage compartment of the vessel. No other items were recovered. Father of one of the victims inquired about a handgun that his son usually carried onboard but mp troopers did not find a handgun. The owner of the pier the vessel damaged was not home when the accident occured. He was interviewed and he said there had been a navigation sign ( a red 100marker that flashes every 4 seconds at night) that was supposed to be there across from the green 99 marker which is south of pier that was struck. It was still in place. Photographs were taking showing the red 100 marker was missing. On 7-5-16 photographs were taken showing the marker had been replaced.  Green powder substance and pills were turned over to mobile forensics lab but they released it back without testing to mp troopers because there was no suspect.


BARDID: AL-2016-0022
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: CEDAR BLUFF
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
THERE WAS ONLY ONE VESSEL (KAWASAKI JETSKI) INVOLVED IN THIS ACCIDENT. OPERATOR WAS RIDING JETSKI. OPERATOR BEGAN SMELLED SMOKE AND THEN THE SEAT BLEW OFF. THE JETSKI THEN CAUGHT FIRE. ANOTHER BOATER CAME BY AND TRIED TO PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER. THEN CALLED 911. MP TROOPER WATSON ARRIVED ON SCENE AT 1:11 PM. CEDAR BLUFF FIRE GOT THE PWC TO SHORE AND PUT IT OUT WITH THE FIRETRUCK. THE JETSKI BURNED TO THE WATERLINE. OPERATOR WAS NOT HURT.


BARDID: AL-2016-0023
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: ST FLORIEN
County: LAUDERDALE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ACCORDING TO STATEMENTS AND VIDEO OPERATOR OF VESSEL WAS TRAVELING DOWNRIVERAND NOTICED A MALFUNCTION IN THE GAGES ON THE VESSEL. OPERATOR LOOKED DOWN THINKING THAT VESSEL HAD BEEN PUT IN NEUTRAL.THE VESSEL WAS MOVING AND HIT THE PIER OF PROPERTY OWNER. OPERATOR OF VESSEL LEFT BUSINESS CARD BECAUSE NO ONE WAS HOME. OPERAOTR WROTE THAT HE HIT THE PIER AND WOULD FIX THE DAMAGE. THERE WAS ONLY THIS VESSEL INVOLVED AND NO INJURIES.


BARDID: AL-2016-0024
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: FLORENCE
County: LAUDERDALE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
THIS IS A 1 VESSEL ACCIDENT. OPERATOR & PASSENGER WERE ATTEMPTING TO GET THE PWC BACK TO BOAT RAMP AT WATERFRONT MARINA. THE VESSEL KEPT CUTTING OFF. THEY WERE USING A BATTERY BOX TO "BUMP START" THE VESSEL BECAUSE THE BATTERY DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH CHARGE TO CRANK. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO START THE VESSEL THE ENGINE BACK FIRED CAUSING A FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. VESSEL OCCUPANTS WERE ABLE TO GET OFF THE VESSEL WITHOUT INJURY. SOMEONE CAME ALONG BESIDE THE PWC AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT ALSO CAME ON THE SCENE.


BARDID: AL-2016-0025
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WOLF CREEK
NearestCityorTown: FO;EY
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR ADVISED HE WAS RETURNING TO WOLF BAY PASSING UNDER WOLD CREEK BRIDGE ON COUNTY ROAD 20 WHEN THE VESSEL WAKE FROM A PWC IN FRONT OF HIM PUSHED HIM INTO THE BRIDGE PILING WHILE OPERATING AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH. OPERATOR WAS THROWN FORWARD OVER THE HANDLEBARS. THE PASSENGER HIT HER HEAD ON THE PILING GIVING HER A LACERATION OVER HER RIGHT EYE AND BREAKING HER COLLAR BONE.


BARDID: AL-2016-0026
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perdido Pass
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements from the passengers and evidence on scene the following events took place. Vessel # 1 operator was traveling north in the gulf of mexico. A passenger was watching the gps as the vessel approached perdido pass. The vessel struck the south side of the east jetties at perdido pass. 911 was dispatched all emergency response agencies responded. They removed the operator and passengers off the vessel. 4 of them were injured and 2 were not.


BARDID: AL-2016-0027
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perdido Pass
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements taken at the scene and evidence at the scene the following events took place on the above date and time. Vessel #1 had lost one of its gears and was traveling North West on one engine. As the vessel approached Perdido Pass the vessel struck the east jetty on the south west corner. MP Troopers were notified and arrived on scene and removed all five occupants from the vessel. They were transported to MP Trooper HQ and checked out by paramedics. All refused treatment. The vessel removed and towed to boat yard by Sea Tow services.


BARDID: AL-2016-0028
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:25:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fish River
NearestCityorTown: Fairhope
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involves only one  vessel. Vessel was traveling North Bound in Fish River , headed back to Honey Road Ramp. Operator attempted to trim motor down while coming down off of plane. While the motor was trimming the vessel made a sharp turn to the right causing 3 of the occupants to be ejected into the water while the operator remained on board the vessel. 

2 of the occupants surfaced and returned to the vessel.  1 of the occupants never completely surfaced and the other 2 occupants lost sight of him. It appears that the missing occupant struck his head on some part of the vessel while being ejected. Divers were able to recover the body.  MP Trooper was able to verify the path the path of the vessel through its on board GPS unit.

Overloading, inexperience were causes.


BARDID: AL-2016-0029
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: Montgomery
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2016, at approximately 7:26 p.m. MP Trooper received a call from ALEA Central Dispatch in reference to an accident that had occurred on the Alabama River near Maxwell Air force Base. MP Trooper arrived on the scene at approximately 8:30 p.m. He observed a vessel that had crashed into a rock pile on the river bank near Maxwell Air Force Base. 

3 people were onboard the vessel. The 2 passengers had been treated and released by medics prior to MP Trooper arrival on the scene. Technical Sergeant assigned to the 42nd Security Forces Squadron was on scene at MP Trooper's arrival. He advised MP that  alcohol was on the vessel and he had removed the cans to the shore. MP Trooper conducted a physical search of the vessel to check for safety equipment. All required equipment was on board the vessel. Then MP Trooper instructed the operator of the vessel to put on a pfd and MP Trooper made sure it was secure and had the operator step on the patrol vessel. Field sobriety tests were conducted . There were no signs of impairment. Alco Sensor FST Intoxicator results were way below the legal limit. The Operator stated that the medics felt like he had blacked out due to dehydration.


BARDID: AL-2016-0030
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: Autaugaville
County: Autauga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident involved 2 vessels that collided on July 3, 2016 and was reported on July 4, 2016.  Operator of vessel #1 (Fisher) was traveling north from Plaster Landing headed toward Strickland Landing when Operator of vessel #2 (Power Quest 2) collided with vessel #1. 

MP Trooper  contacted both vessel owners and met them the next day to survey damage to vessels. Vessel # 1 had damage to the port side and pontoons. Photographs were taken and Trooper asked if there had been any injuries. One passenger injured her back but had not received any medical help beyond first aid. 

Everyone on board vessel #1 was instructed to write a statement as to what occurred the night of the accident. Then contact was made with operator of vessel # 2 who admitted to colliding with vessel #1. All people aboard vessel #2 were instructed to write statements about what occurred the night of the accident. Trooper then took pictures of the damage to vessel # 2 . This vessel had damage to starboard side, stern, and propeller damage.  Trooper checked to see if navigational lights were operational and they were operational. Then Trooper went back to Operator of vessel #1 to check if this vessel's navigational lights were operational and they were.


BARDID: AL-2016-0031
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06-20-2016 the owner and witness were completing maintenance on this vessel (Open Motorboat) One of the batteries was weak and the owner & witness were attempting to jump start the battery. During this process a spark was created which ignited nearby gasoline fumes.  The owner attempted to throw the nearby gas can overboard but was unsuccessful in doing so. The fire spread quickly throughout the vessel  and both men were forced to jump overboard to prevent injury to themselves. 911 was called and the Alexander City Fire Department arrived on scene to extinguish the fire. It appears the vessel was a complete loss.


BARDID: AL-2016-0032
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: LINCOLN
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF VESSEL # 1 COULD NOT STOP WHILE APPROACHING THE DOCK AND COLLIDED WITH VESSEL #2 LOCATED IN THE BOATLIFT AND NOT BEING OPERATED AT THE TIME.


BARDID: AL-2016-0033
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOLDIERS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: PERDIDO BEACH
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR ADVISED HE WAS ENTERING SOLDIERS CREEK AND JUST BEGUN TO THROTTLE UP AND RAN INTO A NEW CHANNEL MARKER. HE ADVISED HE WAS LOOKING AT SOME NEWLY CLEARED PROPERTY TO THE LEFT. 2 PASSENGERS WERE INJURED BEYOND FIRST AID.


BARDID: AL-2016-0034
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ole River
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on evidence at the scene and statements taken by obpd the following events took place on july 29, 2016. Vessels # 1 and # 2 were operating in close proximity of each other. Vessel # 2 struck vessel # 1 causing damage to both vessels and an injury to a passenger on vessel # 1. The injured was transported by ambulance to south baldwin treatment.


BARDID: AL-2016-0035
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COOSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WETUMPKA
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 AND VESSEL # 2 WERE BOTH OPERATING THEIR VESSELS IN RAINY CONDITIONS WITH NO NAVIGATIONAL LIGHTS ON. THEY PASSED ONE ANOTHER IN A NARROW CHANNEL. VESSEL #1 OVERCORRECTED AND INSTEAD OF MOVING TO THE RIGHT HE SWERVED TO THE LEFT CAUSING VESSEL # 1 STERN TO COLLIDE INTO VESSEL  # 2 PORT SIDE BOW. BOTH VESSELS HAD SOME DAMAGE. NO ONE WAS INJURED.


BARDID: AL-2016-0036
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: MONTGOMERY
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Sr. trooper was dispatched in reference to a boat fire on alabama river in montgomery county. Operator provided a written statement of the incident. Operator stated that all documentation or vessel had been destroyed in the fire on the vessel. Other passenger who was injured was interviewed in the hospital. 

Passenger stated that the vessel just caught on fire and passenger jumped overboard. The vessel was submerged under the water and did not have any identity markings to conduct a thorough investigation as to the cause of the fire.


BARDID: AL-2016-0037
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:10:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: SOMERVILLE
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Overloading
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On tuesday june 20, 2016, 3 people planned a kayaking trip for the next day. On the way to the tn. River the vehicle operator stopped to buy gasoline at a sunoco and one of the passengers went in to purchase a bottle of gin with a fake id he had used before to purchase alcohol. 

Then they travelled to the river. On the way to the river another one of the passengers complained of having a headache. Another passenger gave this person a half bar xanax and told them it would be good for their head. This person took the medicine. When they arrived at the river they put the kayaks in the water. No life jackets were provided. One of the kayaks was a 2 person kayak and the other was a one person kayak. One of the males and a female set of in the two seat kayak and the other male set out in the single kayak. 

They set out for an area called bluff city where there are rock bluffs with a swing rope for jumping in the water. The three sat on the three met back up at the area and got off by the swing ropes. During this time they all smoked a blunt and drank the gin. One of the group that had travelled to the area in the one seat kayak decided to cross back over to the other side with the two seat kayak. 

Leaving the other two in the group on the island with access to only the one seat kayak. According to witnesses swimming near by the female decided to use the single seat kayak and was in the river about 30-40 yards from the bank when the other male in the group swam out to the female in the kayak and tried to get in the kayak with her. This caused the female in the kayak to fall overboard. 

Then they both tried to swim back to shore and the female tried to get on top of the male and he pushed her away and swam to shore "yelling" for help. Two of the witnesses entered the water and attempted to rescue the female but were not successful. 

One of the witnesses called 911 and that is when marine police senior trooper came on the scene. The rescue squad was with him. They begun search for the female while trooper began investigating the events that led to this situation. 

The male who had attempted to climb aboard the kayak was very disruptive and disorderly during the investigation so he was arrested for public intoxication. The rest of the witnesses and the other male with the group were then questioned. 

On july 23, 2016 the females body was found floating among the fallen timbers close to where she was last reported going under the water. An autopsy was performed and the cause of death was rules a drowning. The toxicology report was still pending at time this report was written.


BARDID: AL-2016-0038
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: PELL CITY
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Unknown
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
At 5:30 pm marile police senior trooper was notified of a pwc accident that had occurred at 5:00 pm near powell's campground. A female passenger had fallen off the back of a pwc and sustained some type of internal injury. She was being transported to a local hospital but while en route they were diverted to uab hospital in birmingham. According to statements from operator and victim , the pwc was cruising at approximately 20 to 25 mph when the female passenger came off the back of the craft. The water conditions this day were choppy from holiday traffic. Any sudden acceleration, turn, or wake could have contributed to the fall overboard. No modifications to the craft's performance were noted and all required safety equipment was onboard and used properly at time of operation.


BARDID: AL-2016-0039
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: FISH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MAGNOLIA SPRINGS
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling south bound in fish river. The vessel struck a wooden bulkhead causing the operator to be ejected from the vessel and into the water. The operator struck head on an unknown object prior to entering the water. 

Passenger was thrown down in the vessel, striking head on an unknown object. The passenger was then knocked unconscious and searched for help approximately 3-4 hours after the accident occurred. The operator was discovered near vessel, approximately 6 hours after the accident occurred, the operator was in less than 2 feet of water. Both the operator and the passenger had visible signs of trauma to the head.


BARDID: AL-2016-0040
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: ALEXANDER CITY
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that he and his family launched their vessel at wind creek state park. He said they rode from the ramp to dennis creek and then toward bay pine marina. Operator said that he heard a back fire and the engine cowling blew off and flames began coming from the engine compartment. Passenger retrieved a fire extinguisher but a passing boater advised them to jump overboard and abandon the vessel due to the severity of the fire. The operator and passengers were then picked up and transported to bay pine marina by the boater. Operator advised that they had been riding only about 15 minutes prior to the explosion and operator had just picked up boat from kowaliga marina from being worked on.


BARDID: AL-2016-0041
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: RIVERSIDE
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating trolling motor while fishing. Operator said trolling motor stopped operating properly. Operator looked down to see if he had accidentally kicked the switch off. He heard and felt two loud pops. Operator looked back and saw that the back of the vessel was on fire. Operator jumped into the water and swam to shore.


BARDID: AL-2016-0042
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-11-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jordan
NearestCityorTown: DEATSVILLE
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 FELL OVERBOARD AND DROWNED WHILE FISHING IN THE SLOUGH AT THE END OF BLACKBERRY RD (LAKE JORDAN) THE CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING THE FALL OVERBOARD IS UNKNOWN AS THERE WERE NO WITNESSES. THE VICTIM'S SPOUSE ADVISED THE VICTIM HAD A PAST HISTORY OF HYPERTENSION. THE VICTIM'S BODY WAS TURNED OVER TO ELMORE COUNTRY CORONER.


BARDID: AL-2016-1000
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Harding
County: Lee
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to news media reports, a 55-year old female drowned on Lake Harding after falling out of a canoe.  Alcohol was indicated as a factor.  The victim was not wearing a life jacket.


BARDID: AL-2016-1001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-17 00:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: Pickensville
County: Pickens
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a 27-year old male died after falling overboard a vessel.  The victim was reportedly not wearing a life jacket.  The cause was not indicated.


BARDID: AL-2016-1002
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Graveline Bay or Bayou Aloe
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a Coast Guard report, three people were injured after a vessel ran aground at Dauphin Island Airport.  One child suffered cuts to his arm, another child and an adult suffered head injuries.  The vessel suffered significant damage ($13k) as a result of the grounding and was considered a loss.  The vessel was overloaded with people; the vessel was rated for 5 people and 8 were onboard.


BARDID: AL-2016-1003
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coosa River
NearestCityorTown: Southside
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news report, one man was injured after the boat he was riding in broke apart while it was being operated at high speeds (60mph).  The injured victim was ejected into the water and taken to the hospital with broken ribs.


BARDID: AL-2016-1004
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Canal
NearestCityorTown: Gulf Shores
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news article, a 42-ft yacht was destroyed after a fire.  Four people were onboard at the time, and it is thought that the engine may be at fault as the engine was making strange noises prior to the incident.  The vessel was considered a total loss.


BARDID: AL-2016-1005
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a Coast Guard report, a canoe carrying two people onboard swamped and sank causing the subjects to be ejected.  They were in the water for approximately 25 minutes before being rescued.  The vessel was reported as not recovered.  The subjects were not wearing life jackets.


BARDID: AL-2016-2000
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Rough
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel 1 advised he was west bound ICW entering Alabama when he passed a sportfish headed east bound throwing a large wake which caused his passenger to fall in the vessel fracturing her L! vertebrae.


BARDID: AL-2017-0001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-01-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee Lake(RL Harris)
NearestCityorTown: WEDOWEE
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On january 17, 2017 marine patrol senior trooper received a call about a possible missing boater at new harmony boat ramp. Another boat operator was preparing to remove his vessel from the water after fishing, when he noticed a vessel adrift in the back of the slough. He also observed a vehicle sitting on the ramp with the trailer in the water. 
The radio was playing in the vehicle, and there was a wallet an a cell phone in the driver's seat. The vessel operator that was coming in for the day then called 911.  When officer arrived on the scene he observed a dark green minivan sitting at the ramp with the trailer in the water. The operator of vessel that called 911 retrieved the missing person's vessel as instructed by sr tr and tied it to the boat dock. 
As officer walked towards the vehicle he could also hear the radio playing. All valuables were in the driver seat and the key was in the ignition turned in the on position. He then walked towards the vessel . The vessel was powered by a trolling motor. The trolling motor was still raised in the up position and the battery cables were not hooked up. 
Officer called randolph county and clay county rescue squads. Randolph county deputies came out with their boat and a diver as well to assist. Identification was made from the wallet of the missing vessel operator. Officer then got in touch with family to see what time operator had left to go fishing. It was determined to be around 1:00 pm - 1:30pm. 
Family member stated that missing operator had medical issues-high blood pressure and diabetes. Search and rescue attempts were made at this time. Around 9:30pm the missing vessel operator was retrieved from the water. He had a small abrasion above the right eye and some bruising under the same eye. After reviewing all the evidence from the scene it appears as if vessel operator was trying to get his vessel out of the water when he slipped and fell and ended up in the water. 
No one observed the incident. The randolph county coroner pronounced victim deceased at the scene. The family did not want an autopsy performed because there was no suspicion of foul play. All personal belongings were released to family.


BARDID: AL-2017-0003
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay LaLaunch
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of rental pontoon advised he was making a right turn into bear point marina coming from the west when he encountered a sailboat leaving the marina. He attempted to maneuver out of its way and a combination of strong winds from the east and rookie operating skills found the pontoon vessel striking the lower unit of the port i/o of a 50 ft houseboat moored in the first slip as you enter the marina.


BARDID: AL-2017-0004
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:02:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: WOLF CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Seat broke loose
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
According to other person on board vessel 1 (only vessel) , he and victim were fishing in wolf creek. They were tied off to a tree and fishing when victim advised he was not feeling well. Moments later victim fell backwards out of the stern pedestal seat which broke under the pressure, and fell overboard. Other person on board vessel went in the water and turned him face up and called for help. A pontoon vessel with 2 persons onboard came and assisted. One of the passengers from the pontoon began cpr while the other passenger from pontoon and man on vessel 1 pulled victim onto pontoon vessel. He was taken to closest pier where ambulance was waiting. The victim could not be revived at the hospital and passed away.


BARDID: AL-2017-0005
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:08:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tensaw River
NearestCityorTown: CROSSROADS
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of vessel 1 was traveling north bound on the tensaw river when v1 crossed over another boat wake and the operator was thrown from the vessel. He was recovered quickly but he had already drowned. This is an immediate preliminary report. No more details at this time.


BARDID: AL-2017-0006
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: KILLEN
County: LAUDERDALE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Per statements , it was noticed vessel #1 (only vessel involved in accident) was moving in the boat lift. Owners of vessel # 1 launched the vessel to take it to turtle point to secure it and then determine what happened to the boat lift. 
Just past the point of brooks acres on beach hollow road the vessel had taken on water and the engine stopped. They were able to drift back to shore and exit the vessel. It was secured to a tree by killen voluntary fire department. The vessel was recovered Saturday by jay landings marina in decatur. On wednesday, sr. Trooper noted there was damage to the bow area of the vessel below the water line. Paint transfer on the forward crossbar and the cable on the stern side was broken on the lift.


BARDID: AL-2017-0009
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:50:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: CATOMA CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MONTGOMERY
County: MONTGOMERY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Witness was heading towards catoma creek when they noticed a bright yellow object floating in the water. They assumed it was an official marker and continued past.  Approximately 400 yards downstream near the entrance to the alabama river witness saw an empty kayak. That is when they began to suspect something was unusual about the floating yellow object. 
Upon closer inspection witness discovered the bright yellow object was victim's body and an inflated life jacket. Witness then notified authorities. It was discovered during investigation that victim was an epilectic and took medications for it daily. The day before he had an epilectic attack. 

There was no damage to the kayak and no visible wounds or damage on the victim. All that is known at this time is the victim fell overboard for unknown reason and went into the water. Cause of death is unknown pending autopsy. Victim was wearing an inflatable life jacket improperly. That is why it did not prevent possible drowning. 
Received this follow up report on may 6, 2017 preliminary autopsy listed cause of death as hypertensive and arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease complicated by drowning.


BARDID: AL-2017-0010
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CEDAR BLUFF
NearestCityorTown: CEDAR BLUFF
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel # 1 was maneuvering in an area of water that had a number of underwater hazards, stumps, trees, etc when the vessel struck an underwater log. 
The vessel was damaged in the underneath center of the vessel just past the midway from bow and stern. There was a hole knocked in the boat from the collision and operator took vessel to the nearest shore and banked it. There he asked a nearby landowner for help. There were no injuries and the vessel was put back on the trailer.


BARDID: AL-2017-0011
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jordan
NearestCityorTown: WETUMPKA
County: ELMORE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Trooper was notified by owner of vessel #2 that his boat had been struck at the state dock on lake jordan. Owner of vessel# 2 had beached his vessel between the dock and the ramp and engaged power pole to hold his vessel in place. He then existed boat. Leaving it unoccupied to go retrieve his truck and trailer. 
During this time operator of vessel #1 was attempting to dock his boat and struck vessel #2 in it stern area knocking it into the dock. Operator of vessel #1 stated that the reverse cable for his vessel had apparently broken leaving him unable to reverse the boat's course and this caused a collision with vessel # 2. Photographs were taken of both vessels and attached to the investigative report. No injuries reported only property damage.


BARDID: AL-2017-0012
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: COOSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WETUMPKA
County: ELMORE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Trooper and capt met with son of deceased victim, who had been kayaking with victim when the accident occurs. Wetumpka pd was also present during the interview. Based on these statements the circumstances of this accident are as follows. 
Son of victim stated that he and the victim were kayaking on the coosa river. The victim had borrowed a pfdii to wear on the trip provided through coosa river adventures. Coosa river adventures also transported victim and son to launch area. 
Victim son then stated that  he and victim were paddling downstream and had to stop a few times to bail water out of the kayaks due to the rough water. As they continued they came upon a set of rapids. As victim attempted to travel through the rapids his kayak turned sideways and he was ejected. 
At that time son of victim paddled over to victim. The victim was able to grab onto son's kayak and son paddled downstream and was able to get the victim to the shore. 
Son stated his father, the victim, began to lose consciousness. Son began to yell for help and was able to flag down a boat for help.  The operator of that boat and son loaded victim onto boat and traveled to goldstar park in wetumpka. 911 had been called and was waiting for boat at the boat ramp. Victim was transported to elmore community hospital  where he was later pronounced deceased. An autopsy has been ordered but not received in montgomery office yet. Capt took possession of pfd victim was wearing, the kayak, and victim's prosthetic leg.


BARDID: AL-2017-0013
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:33:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: YORK
County: Sumter
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
*Immediate report only* victim went fishing at night with brother in separate vessels. Brother last saw victim around 8:10pm on 5-9-2017. Brother said victim usually fished until light was gone. There was a full moon out this night so this may have contributed to victim staying out longer than usual. Brother did not stay out to fish and went home and fell asleep. He woke up around 3:30 am and realized that victim was not home yet and he went back out onto water to look for him. At approximately 7:00 am victim brother found the victim floating 40-50 yards from boat, near sumnter park on the tombigbee river. Victim brother stated that the victim had been consuming alcohol. Victim was diabetic, with a history of high blood pressure..trooper little took possession of victim vessel and began an accident investigation. Trooper little made photos and released the vessel and possessions to victims brother. Victim was not wearing a pfd. No alcohol containers were found onboard victim's vessel. Accident investigation still open at this time.


BARDID: AL-2017-0014
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay LaLaunch
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling west bound in the icw. The operator was traveling close to the shore due to strong south wind. As operator entered bayla launch area his gps track shows the vessel traveling on the south shoreline. 
Operator then stated he struck something causing the vessel to come to an abrupt stop. Operator struck head on t-top and was thrown to the deck to the vessel. Based on operator statements he possibly was knocked unconscious. Once he regained consciousness he cranked his boat and continued home. He thought he had struck a day marker. Operator never sought medical treatment. 
On may 1st obpd took a report from a land owner regarding damage to her pier. Based on owners statement the accident took place on april 29th at 9:30 pm. She did not see the accident but did hear it. On may 9th sgt of marine patrol received a call reporting a vessel that had possibly been involved in an accident located at a local boat dealership. 
After inspecting the vessel it was determined this vessel could have been the vessel that hit land owners pier. Contact was then made with the property owner. Evidence was located in the vessel and at the scene that connected the two incidents together. Based on these findings it was determined that vessel #1 struck property owner's pier. Operator never reported this accident so an investigation had to be done to connect the two events. This caused the report to be completed late.


BARDID: AL-2017-0015
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Dadeville
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 15, 2017, Sr. Trooper met with operator of Vessel #2 at the Marine Police Central District Office in reference to a delayed boating accident report. 
Operator of vessel #2 stated that while his boat was docked at Chucks Marina it was struck by an unknown female on a PWC (Vessel #1) Operator of vessel # 2 said his vessel was tied up and unmanned at the time the accident occurred. There was visible damage only to owner of Vessel # 2 outboard engine. There was no other damage to the vessel hull or rigging's. 
On May 19, 2017 Trooper was able to make contact with operator of vessel # 1. She stated that as she was coming into the fuel dock, she attempted to put the PWC into reverse but her hand slipped. When her hand slipped it came down and pulled the emergency shut off lanyard out from under the kill switch. This caused the operator of vessel #1 to lose control of the PWC and drift into the outboard motor of vessel # 2. Photos were taken and attached to report.


BARDID: AL-2017-0016
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: R.L. Harris/Lake Wedowee
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Kayak flipped over in swift water putting 3 occupants into the water. 1 occupant was rescued by a family member. The other 2 drowned.


BARDID: AL-2017-0017
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Weiss
NearestCityorTown: Centre
County: Cherokee
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
2 PWCs - 10 year old operating PWC 1 turned in front of PWC 2 being operated by a 14 year old. 10year old sustained severe injury to left leg, almost severed. 14 year old complained if neck and back pain. Both were airlifted to Children's Hospital of Atlanta, GA.


BARDID: AL-2017-0018
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Warrior River
NearestCityorTown: Akron
County: Hale
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to witness on scene there were two groups of people banked on the sandbar and one group had small children. Witness stated that the children were in the water playing next to their group's pontoon boat. 
The other group had a subject with them riding a personal watercraft. The witness stated that the subject on the PWC came in towards the sandbar really fast and seemed to have lost control. The PWC (vessel #1) struck the side of the other pontoon boat ( vessel #2) and struck one of the children and came to rest on the sandbar. 
The witness then said there was a lot of screaming, yelling, and cursing. So much so that the other people on the sandbar began complaining about the language. The witness stated the operator of Vessel #1 seemed to be shaken and apologized. The child who had been hit by the PWC was hurt so they took him to the hospital. The juvenile was treated and released. He had a fractured middle finger on his left hand and a severe laceration on the tip of the same finger. He had also sustained a bump on his head. 
The operator of vessel #1 was interviewed as well. He stated that he had come up to the sandbar too fast and that he was not familiar with the PWC. When he saw he was about to come up on the sandbar he let off the throttle which made him loose control. He was trying to tell people to move out of the way but they couldn't hear him and it all happened so fast.


BARDID: AL-2017-0019
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gantt Lake
NearestCityorTown: Gantt
County: Covington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/29/2017 Trooper was contacted by Sgt. that there was possible drowning at Gantt Lake. The victim had been kayaking that night and fishing and never returned. The kayak and paddle was located but search was called off at the end of the day due to lack of evidence and continued changing stories from witness. Later the search continued for victim but there was no sign of person in the water. On 6/02/2017 the victim was reported in the lake and the Covington Sheriff's Office and ALEA Crimes unit transported body to DFS.


BARDID: AL-2017-0020
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Warrior River
NearestCityorTown: Hueytown
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At approx 6:45 pm on 6/1/17 a two vessel collision occurred on the Warrior River near 1395 Shortown Branch Rd Bessemer. 
V-1, according to an eye witness was traveling east up stream when a bass boat cut a point in the narrow channel. V2 was moving on plane speed and struck V1 at the port bow and traveled over the top before landing upside down on the opposite side. 

Both operator's were killed in the accident. Operator of V1 had blunt force trauma and the operator of V2 by apparent drowning. Operator of V2 was wearing a manual inflatable PFD that was not activated. The passenger of V2 had minor injuries and was not transported to the hospital.


BARDID: AL-2017-0021
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tallapoosa River
NearestCityorTown: TALLASSEE
County: ELMORE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/11/2017 at 1832 MT I was notified by ALEA Central Communication Center of a missing person on the Tallapoosa River below Thurlow Dam in Tallassee, AL. I spoke with a member of the Tallassee Fire Department and was advised that a kayaker had overturned and had not been seen since.  He stated that the incident had occurred about 1630 MT. According to F.D. personnel, a kayak, paddle and life jacket were found down river from the scene of the accident.  I was also advised that the search was going to be called off for the day momentarily due to darkness and weather concerns (lightning in the area).
 
On 7/12/2017, I arrived at the scene of the staging area at approximately 0810 MT.  At approximately 1010 MT the body was located by ALEA Aviation unit approximately three (3) miles south of the dam.  The body was recovered and brought back to the boat ramp behind AES Manufacuring in Tallassee, AL. Tallassee P.D. investigators and the Elmore County Coroner examined the body for signs of foul play and noted none.

As reported by witnesses Victim and a friend were kayaking down the Tallapoosa south of Thurlow Dam.  The two got caught in swirling water and their vessels capsized. Friend was able to make it to shore and last saw Victim floating ahead holding on to a life jacket. At that time Friend left the area to go get help. He also stated that he and Victim  had been abusing crystal methamphetamine for the past two weeks. About an hour later Tallassee P.D. was notified of the incident and responded to begin a search. 

A second witness saw the two men kayaking and observed them become dislodged from their vessels at approximately 1625. According to her she saw them both float down the river and out of sight.

According to Victims family members (not on scene), the victim could not swim.


BARDID: AL-2017-0022
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee / Harris Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Driver of Vessel 1 stated that he and his friends pulled out from their cove and turned the boat off.  He stated that they were sitting on the west side of the river channel with their docking lights on listening to music.  He stated that his passengers saw a boat heading towards them.  The boat then collided with their boat.

Driver of Vessel 2 stated that he and his father were out fishing for the night.  He stated that they were finished fishing and were heading back to his vehicle at the time of the accident.  He stated that as he was driving he saw a boat on the east side of the river maybe 200 ft off the east bank. He stated that he stayed on the west side of the river approximately 300 ft off the shoreline, to be a very safe distance from the other boat.  He then collided with a pontoon boat that he stated had no lights on approx. 800-1000 ft south of the cove that he had just exited. His father sustained injuries. The collision also caused damage to his boat and gear.

During the Trooper''s observation, which was about an hour after the accident, the lights on both vessels were working.


BARDID: AL-2017-0023
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:10:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Harding
NearestCityorTown: Opelika
County: Lee
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/21/2017, at approximately 2100hrs central time, I Trooper was contacted by Lt.. Lt. stated that there had been a boating accident on Lake Harding involving a fatality. He stated that the Lee County Sheriff''s Office was on scene and was working the preliminary investigation. 

On 07/22/2017, I drove to the Lee County Sheriff''s Office and picked up their completed I/O report. I then started contacting witnesses to find out what exactly happened.

The first witness I spoke to over the phone stated herself and four others were at an island swimming when a storm started to come over the lake. 

Everyone decided to get back on the boat and try to outrun the storm. As they were making their way back to the boat ramp, she saw a bright flash of light and felt a percussion. Subject said lighting had struck the boat and she noticed victim was unresponsive on the deck. 

The boat motor had also shut off and they were dead in the water. Two people then jumped into the lake and started pulling the boat to the nearest house and dock. 

As the two men started pulling them to shore, subject began CPR on victim. The two men were able to get the boat to shore where the medics arrived and took over life saving efforts. Victim was transported by ambulance to East Alabama Medical Center was pronounced deceased by Coroner.


BARDID: AL-2017-0024
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25th, 2017 Vessel 2 was travelling up stream in the Spring Creek channel on Lake Guntersville when it was struck by vessel 1 as it left the shoreline.  Vessel 2 was struck on the starboard side by the bow of vessel 1.  According to witness statements the operator of vessel 1 was possibly passed out while underway.  The operator was arrested at the scence for Boating under the influence of alcohol.


BARDID: AL-2017-0027
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: Fairhope
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling North bound in Mobile Bay near Pointe Clear.  Vessel 1 struck a swimmer outside of the Grand Hotel''s Swim Area.  The swimmer heard and observed the vessel.  The swimmer swam down into the water in an attempt to avoid being struck by the vessel.  The swimmer made no attempts to wave or notify the vessel of his presence.  The vessel operator nor passenger observed the swimmer prior to impact.  The lower unit (propeller) on vessel 1 struck the swimmer''s left and right legs.  After impact, the vessel turned around to investigate what the vessel struck.  The operator and passenger of vessel 1 pulled the swimmer into the boat and brought him to shore for medical attention.  The swimmer was transported to Thomas Hospital for medical treatment.  I observed no buoys or signs that designate a swim area or boat exclusion zone.  The Grand Hotel has two beach areas where hotel customers swim and access the water.  The swimmer''s wife was on the beach near these swim areas during the incident.


BARDID: AL-2017-0028
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I was notified of an explosion that occurred on a personal watercraft near the campground at Wind Creek State Park.  I drove to where the personal watercraft was being removed from the lake.  I photographed the vessel and then traveled to Russell Medical Center to speak with the operator.  

Owner/operator stated that he was attempting to start the watercraft and the starter would not disengage. He further stated that he pulled the emergency shutoff switch in an attempt to stop the starter.  This attempt by him did not stop the starter.  Operator said he removed the seat and was attempting to remove a battery cable when a spark caused gasoline vapors to ignite.  Operator said that he jumped from the vessel to get away from it and then swam to shore with the assistance from nearby relatives. 

Operator sustained burns to his face, underneath his arms and his back.  He was transported to Russell Medical Center in Alexander City and later transferred to the University of Birmingham Hospital''s burn center.


BARDID: AL-2017-0029
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tuscaloosa
NearestCityorTown: NORTHPORT
County: TUSCALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
While patrolling on Lake Tuscaloosa, I received a report of a boating accident involving a child. I patrolled to the area and no one was available to report any information. I ran the registration numbers of the boat and contacted the owner. I was informed that the owner was pulling up to his boat house, he noticed his daughter about to jump from the upper deck and was going to land on his boat. 

Operator then put his vessel in reverse and did not realize the victim was behind the boat. The victim was struck by the prop and received lacerations and fractures to her lower leg. Operators wife is a nurse practitioner and took immediate action to care for the victim. The victim was airlifted to Childrens Hospital in Birmingham and was treated for the lacerations and fractures. The victim is expected to make a full recovery.


BARDID: AL-2017-0030
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Houston
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the witness statements and evidence gathered, vessel #1 was traveling eastbound in excess of 50 miles per hour downstream when operator1 Struck Vessel #2.  Vessel #2 was a pontoon boat pushing a 2 stall boat dock with swim platform for Free State Boat Docks.  Upon impact, vessel1 struck the swim platform and went airborne, ejecting operator out of his vessel.  He was wearing a Type 3 inflatable personal flotation device and emergency cut-off switch, where then two nearby witnesses pulled him to safety into their boat.  Vessel #1 operator transported himself to the hospital, where he was checked out with brusing.


BARDID: AL-2017-0031
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Gulf Shores
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he left Carrabelle, FL on Tuesday,18 July 2017 at noon and was headed to Gulfport, MS.  While off the coast of Alabama, approximately five and one half miles south of Gulf Shores, he hit a squall which produced waves big enough to strike his vessel and tear the motor from it''s mounts.  

He advised he got caught in the trough which rolled his sailboat almost 180 degrees from starboard to port and back.  He maneuvered into the waves and took them head on, causing the vessel to crash down several times.  He advised he heard a strange sound, ,which turned out to be the motor pulley rubbing against the door covering the motor access.  When he opened the access he had smoke pour out which prompted him to dump two fire extinguishers into the motor compartment.  The displacement of the motor also created a void in the shaft log allowing water to flood the hull. 

Operator called 911 and I responded with Trooper.  The USCG also responded from Dauphin Island.  Upon arriving on scene the operator advised the fire was out and he needed a tow.  The USCG called Sea Tow as the operator was a member.  While being towed, operator had to call tow vessel to stop and allow to dewater.  The vessel was towed to Pensacola Shipyard and hauled out.

07/22/2017   Preliminary subsequent examination showed some burned wires, diesel fuel in the bilge, water coolant lines disconnected, and the exhaust line disconnected.  Motor had dislodged from its mounts and shoved forward against the bulkhead.  The motor cover showed sign of the pulley wearing a hole in it as it was rubbing against it while spinning.  The main battery Perko switch had also melted, sending errant electricity throughout the electronics.  Batteries were disconnected by the owner.  A surveyor was contacted and I am awaiting results for an accurate damage cost.


BARDID: AL-2017-0032
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 22, 2017 vessels 1 and 2 collided while jumping the wake of an unrelated vessel.  According to evidence and witness statement V2 struck V1 on the port side in the midship area and ramped over V1.  This impact caused the ejection and injuries of the V1 operator.


BARDID: AL-2017-0034
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: Foley
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised he was returning to boat ramp at Pelican Point.  Strong winds from the southwest continually pushing the vessel to the northeast combined with operator inexperience and lack of local knowledge found the vessel in very shallow water.  The propeller grounded into the bottom not allowing the operator to maneuver.  Eventually the motor cut off and the vessel was pushed up onto a submerged rock wall designed to protect from erosion.  The vessel floundered on the wall which produced holes in the keel flooding the vessel.  Upon my arrival I towed the vessel off the rock wall, removed all the occupants, and towed the vessel to Pelican Point ramp where it was put on the trailer.


BARDID: AL-2017-0035
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Arley
County: WInston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24, 2017 at 5:33 PM, I was notified by Winston County Sheriff''s Department of a one-vessel collision with a boat dock.  According to witness'' statements and evidence gathered, Vessel #1 struck a floating two-stall boat dock with swim platform, doing heavy damage.  Vessel #1 also struck a boat that was moored on a HydroHoist boat lift in the dock.  

The vessel came back down into the water and came to rest against an adjacent boat dock, doing minor damage to decking boards on the dock.  The owner of the second dock that sustained minor damage said he would not place an insurance claim and repair the dock at his own cost and did not want to be a part of this report.  

Some passersby who witnessed the crash offered to render aid, but the driver and passenger refused help and left the scene of the crash. The witnesses were able to identify and report registration numbers of Vessel #1.  

After further investigation, I was able to locate the boat driver and boat owner, as well as the passenger, in the Big Bridge area of Crane Hill.  Upon interviewing the driver, he admitted to striking the boat dock and leaving the scene.  Both subjects said they were kissing when Operator lost control and struck the dock.  When Operator was initially questioned about alcohol consumption, he denied at least two times that he had anything to drink.  He finally confessed that he had consumed three shots of Vodka before the crash.  He was not found to be impaired at the time of my arrival at his residence.  Among the property damaged in the crash was a 46 ft. wide by 28 ft. long two-stall King Quality steel boat dock with swim platform, a 19 ft. 2005 Triton TR-196 bass boat H.I.N.# TJZX9284b404 with a Mercury 200 H.P. Optimax Serial # 5JUBT21244T009075, a HydroHoist boat lift, and $2,000 worth of electrical wiring and components.  The driver and passenger were not injured beyond first aid treatment.


BARDID: AL-2017-0037
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: BCDA (Bear Creek Devlopment Au
NearestCityorTown: Bear Creek Alabama
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The call came in to Haleyville Police dispatch at 1529 on 07/10/2017. I received the call at 1534 on the same date and arrived on the scene at 1613. The call came in as a runaway boat and as I crossed the County Road 79 bridge I observed an unoccupied aluminum flat bottom boat turning hard counter-clockwise circles at the location shown on the diagram. I launched my patrol boat and approached the vessel. I noticed the vessels motor was surging, so I waited around two minutes. The vessel came to a stop and I then secured it to my tow line. I towed the vessel to the Twin Forks boat ramp, where a black truck sat on the ramp with a boat trailer in the water. I ran the vehicle''s tag and it came back registered to the owner of the vessel. With assistance from the Bear Creek Fire Department we loaded the vessel on the trailer and pulled it out of the water. 
 
Three witnesses saw the boat go north under the bridge and out of sight. There were also three witnesses in another boat that came around a curve and saw the accident vessel turning in circles with no one on board. I searched both banks of the river north of the bridge and ran side scan and down scan sonar in an attempt to locate the operator. Haleyville Rescue arrived with their boats and assisted with running sonar. Silt made it difficult to obtain clear images on my sonar. Rescue units continued searching until 11:00 p.m. and then suspended operations until the next morning. 
 
At 10:00 a.m. on the next date units with ALEA Marine Patrol, Marion County, Franklin County, Colbert County EMA, Bear Creek Police and Volunteer Fire Department, Franklin County Dive Team, Haley Rescue/Dive Team, Winfield Fire/Dive team and SARTEC K-9 Search K-9 with 4 K-9''s resumed searching for the missing operator. Despite obtaining possible sonar images during the day, the operator was not located on that date. Various agencies continued search operations on a daily basis until the operator''s body was recovered on the morning of July 20th, 2017 at approximately 6:16 a.m. 
 
Body was positively identified by the Marion County Coroner. An autopsy was ordered and a preliminary cause of death report is attached to this report.  It is assumed the person fell overboard and then was struck by the propeller/boat.  The person died of trauma.


BARDID: AL-2017-0038
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin Lake
NearestCityorTown: Lincoln
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 19, 2017, between the hours of 10:00pm to 11:00pm, there was a boating accident on Logan Martin Lake between 2 vessels.  According to witness statements, at the time of the accident Operator2 had just taken physical control of Vessel 2 when they collided together.  Prior to the collision, another subject had been driving Vessel 2.  Witnesses on Vessel 2 stated that they were cruising along and didn''t see Vessel 1 until they heard someone from Vessel 1 yell.  According to operator2 that is when he took control of the wheel, and then he collided with Vessel 1.

Operator/owner of Vessel 1, stated that they were idling along up river when his passenger started screaming "boat".  His boat was then struck towards the front on the right side.  

At first the two drivers were going to exchange information, and resolve the matter between themselves.  During the information exchange there was an altercation that broke out, and a gun was eventually drawn and fired towards the water.  The two boats then separated and left the scene.

During the investigation it was noted that Vessel 1''s stern light was blown.  Also, subject who was operating Vessel 2 prior to the collision, stated that she leaned in for a selfie with other passengers.  She was distracted and not keeping a proper lookout resulting in her husband taking the wheel at the point of collision.


BARDID: AL-2017-0039
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Shelby
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 16 at about 8:56 pm there was a boating accident in Waxahatchee Creek. There were 3 boats involved. Vessel 1 and 3 were tied together and traveling in the creek going away from the main channel. Vessel 3 did not have a working stern light so this was the reason they were tied together. Vessel 1 had all of their navigation lights working but the stern light was blocked by flags attached to a pole next to the motor. 

Vessel 2 was traveling in the same direction as 1 and 3 but at a higher speed. Vessel 2 impacted Vessel 1 on the starboard side of the stern impacting the side of the motor and went forward almost to the operator''s station. One person was injured on Vessel 1 and had to be transported to local hospital. Vessel 3 was damaged by Vessel 1 being pushed into it during the accident. 

The operator of Vessel 2 was arrested for Boating Under the Influence on the scene.


BARDID: AL-2017-0040
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Riverside
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 17 around 10:45 I was notified of a boating accident on Logan Martin in the Riverside area. Once on the scene I met with Capt.. We were advised that one victim had been transported to UAB in Birmingham in critical condition and the other was transported to the local hospital in Pell City. It was told to me that the vessel impacted the railroad bridge pylon and continued on. The vessel ran ashore approximately a quarter of a mile down river. The emergency cut off lanyard appeared not to be worn and was found wrapped around the throttles which were in the full throttle position. We were unable to determine the operator of the vessel at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2017-0041
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:28:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Childersburg
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Dam/lock
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator was paddling Talladega Creek with family members. When they came to the area of the low head dam at the grist mill, Operator said he was going to go over the dam. His family tried to talk him out of it.  As the family members paddled to one side to carry their kayaks around the dam, Operator went over.  He nosed straight down into the rocks below the dam and appeared to hit his head on one of the rocks. He was unable to get out of the hydraulics forces below the dam. When the family did not see Operator come out the other side, the father-in-law went into the water to help him. When he got Operator out of the water, he was unresponsive and CPR was started. Local ambulance service transported him to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. 


The kayak was recovered on a later date but does not have any manufacturer''s information nor HIN on it. It is a sit inside 10'' kayak.


BARDID: AL-2017-0042
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee / Harris Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 5, 2017, I received a call about a boating accident on Lake Wedowee near what everyone calls the motel.  Lt. and I responded to where the victim was  taken.  When we arrived at the marina the paramedics were already loading the injured passenger into the ambulance.  At the hospital the injured passenger of the vessel was identified.  The driver of the vessel was identified as her husband.  

Driver stated that he was heading towards the marina at the time of the accident.  He stated that he hit a huge wake from another vessel and victim was tossed from the front seat to the bow of the boat.  Operator stated that victim came down face first on the bow.   victim suffered from a nose injury, dislocated shoulder, and was having some back pain as well. 


BARDID: AL-2017-0043
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling northwest from the Gulf of Mexico and attempted to enter into Perdido Pass. Vessel #1 struck an underwater sea wall near the mouth of the pass, damaging the hull and transom area. The vessel then began to take on water. ALEA Marine Patrol arrived on the scene and was able to tow the vessel back to the owner''s residence. The vessel was then placed on a lift where it was inspected for damage. The owner / operator of the vessel, stated it was his first time attempting to return through the pass and was unfamiliar with the area. No injuries were reported.


BARDID: AL-2017-0044
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Warrior River
NearestCityorTown: Cottondale
County: Tuscaloosa
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Dam/lock
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and son were fishing below Bankhead Dam and vessel floated into spillway water. The vessel was capsized and both occupants were retrieved from the water by another fisherman. Both occupants were uninjured and vessel and occupants were taken to boat ramp to recover vessel. No further action was taken by me.


BARDID: AL-2017-0045
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements and evidence the following events took place on the above time and date. Vessel 1 was traveling North West in the Gulf of Mexico approaching Perdido Pass. The operator attempted to enter Perdido Pass at the submerged wall location  at the east jetty. The vessel struck the wall and traveled half way over the wall. The operator used the engines to pull the vessel from the wall. Alabama Marine Resource vessel arrived on scene and offered assistance. 

The vessel was escorted to the Pass Condominium. During preliminary investigation it was determined that both had been drinking. She was charged with BUI for operating the vessel. At the scene both parties claimed they had no injuries. Once at the Police Department victim claimed she had broken her foot. She was transported to South Baldwin Hospital. She was released with simple bruising. 

Subject was anchored approximately 200 yds south east of the point of impact. His statement places the husband as driving at the point of impact. Once he was able to remove the vessel from the submerged wall he placed the wife at the wheel and allowed her to drive back to the condo. 

Due to the conflicting statements the husband was given a PBT at the scene. His BAC was .302. He was not charged for BUI. The wife was charged for her actions after the accident.


BARDID: AL-2017-0046
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Anderson Creek
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/1/17 at approx. 6:45pm. 2 vessels were involved in a minor collision in Anderson Creek during the Elk River Boat Party.  V2 drifted into V1, which was at anchor.  See Accident photos for damage.  Before Lt. and I arrived on scene, V2 had left the area.  See operator and witness statements to reason.  No fatalities or injuries reported at scene.


BARDID: AL-2017-0048
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Riverside
County: St.Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of Vessel 1 was towing victim on a tube on Logan Martin Lake near Broken Arrow Creek. Victim’s father was a passenger and witnessed the accident. The operator stated he was pulling Victim in a circular motion and came too close to the shoreline. Victim was towed into the shoreline and ejected from the tube. Victim was transported to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham due to minor injury from striking the shoreline. I observed the operator at Children’s Hospital and there was no detection of alcoholic beverages. Victim was wearing a Coast Guard- approved personal flotation device at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2017-0049
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: North Elk River
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/9/17 at approx. 1:30pm., V1 was cruising in Elk River at idle speed.  A wake from another vessel caused their small pontoon to swamp and then capsize.  The operator and 3 passengers were pulled from the water by another pontoon boat.  Sgt. and I towed the upside down vessel as near as possible to the western shoreline and tied it to a tree.  Tow Boat U.S. recovered the vessel and returned it to the owner''s residence.  No fatalities or injuries reported on scene.


BARDID: AL-2017-0050
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Sheffield
County: COLBERT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator advised that he and his wife were swimming. They were anchored about 300 yards East of Seven Mile Island. They got back onto their boat and started the engine and heard an explosion. They used fire extinguishers to put it out. They made it to Riverfront Park boat ramp. Trooper met them at the boat ramp. There were no injuries reported at the scene of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2017-0052
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:50:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Columbiana
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim and his friends were adrift near the mouth of Waxahatchee Creek. Victim started doing flips off the back of the pontoon boat. Some of his friends tried to get him to stop and just sit on the boat. Victim jumped into the water once again but did not resurface. His friends looked for him for several minutes before calling 911. Victim was not wearing a PFD at the time that he jumped into the water.


BARDID: AL-2017-0053
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Warrior River
NearestCityorTown: Brookwood
County: Tuscaloosa
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9-3-2017 at approximately 7:15pm vessel operator was fishing near Lock 15 on the Black Warrior River in Tuscaloosa County. Operator was traveling east at idle speed southeast of the old lock wall when he struck a boulder that was beneath the water's surface. The operator stated that he never saw the submerged rock. The collision damaged the hull of the boat. There were no injuries and both the operator and passenger were wearing personal flotation devices as required by Alabama law.


BARDID: AL-2017-0055
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perdido Pass
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised he was northbound into Perdido Pass attempting to surf the wake of a Parasail vessel inbound Perdido Pass as well.  He stated he was on the port side of the parasail wake attempting to turn left out of the swell and the pontoon tip dug in the water and flipped the cat boat end over end.  
The charter vessel GETAWAY stopped and picked him out of the water and started to take the cat boat in tow.  I arrived on scene and took the operator on my vessel and resumed tow of the cat boat.  I towed it to the beach where the owner and friends could flip it upright, and i resumed towing it to Boggy Point boat ramp where it was placed on a trailer for repair.  The operator was released uninjured to a chaperone.


BARDID: AL-2017-0056
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/04/2017 at approx. 0530hrs, operator was traveling northbound on Lake Martin paralleling the western side of Chimney Rock Island. Operator1 stated that he believed he had past Wishbone Island and was heading into open water when he ran aground. He ran up the shore line on Wishbone Island and struck two trees at approx. 15 to 20 mph. Operator1''s boat had damage on both the port and starboard sides of his bow and also on the lower hull. Operator1''s boat was towed by Tow Boat U.S. to The Ridge Marina.


BARDID: AL-2017-0057
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Arnica Bay
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Initially the story passed on to me at the emergency room of South Baldwin Regional Medical Center by renter of the pwc''s,  was that subject1 and Operator1 had just climbed back onto their pwc from falling in the water and they were hit by a boat wake.  

Subject1 was in the seat and Operator1 was standing on the stern platform.  This boat wake supposedly caused Operator1 to fall, striking the pwc on the way down. She advised Operator1 came up complaining of pain and shortness of breath.   Operator1 was placed on a pwc and returned to Bear Point Marina by her mother where she received initial assessment and first aid.  She was transported to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center where she was diagnosed with bilateral pneumothorax, a broken rib, contusions to back and chest, and a laceration to the back of the head.  She transported by helicopter to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola for expanded care.  
A written statement was taken from Operator2 by Alabama Extreme Watersports at their dock when the group returned for medical attention and is included in the attachments.  Clearly these injuries could not have occurred from falling from a standing position onto a pwc and into the water.  The Alabama Extreme Watersports manager called Operator2 later that night to check on Operator1 and received a retracted statement, now saying that Operator2 had apparently run over her daughter.  She advised that they were spraying each other with the pwc''s.  
I went to Extreme Watersports to inspect the vessels and found the following damage:
AL9407JJ (#3) Maroon/white in color.  Did not have any damage.  There were some blood stains presumably post accident from transport back to the dock.
AL9440JJ (#6) Green/white in color.  Had damage to the port side gunwale, gelcoat and fiberglass damage indicating a strike from port side aft to forward.  The plastic cowling on the port side just under the steering wheel was cracked through from forward of the steering wheel to where it meets the seat.  Again indicative of a strike from the port side.
It is unknown if this damage was sustained during the crash which caused the injuries, or at some other time and the injuries were sustained as described.  
09/09/2017  I spoke with both operators.  Operator2 advised that she travelled toward Subject1 and Operator1 from their port side and at the last minute turned right to attempt to splash.  Unfortunately both Subject1 and Operator1 fell off their pwc just prior to that happening and Operator2 made contact with Operator1.  Operator1 advised she saw her mother coming and turned away.  She was struck in the back of the head and back.  Subject1 fell to the opposite side of the pwc and was not injured.  Operator1 also advised that she had since suffered a double stroke, causing her to have to re-learn how to accomplish many things.


BARDID: AL-2017-0058
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neely Henry Lake
NearestCityorTown: Ohatchee
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/3/17 at apx. 12:30p.m., Vessel 1 was approaching the idle speed area of Ten Islands Park on Neely Henry Lake and had come completely off plane.  Vessel 2 was also coming off of plane and attempting to come up to Vessel 1.  
When Operator2 let off of the throttle, she lost steering ability and misjudged the speed of her approach.  Operator1 stuck out her right leg attempting to stop Vessel 2 from striking their craft.  Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 at the starboard beam ejecting all 3 occupants into the water on the port side.  All were able to re-board their craft and docked to the pier at Ten Islands Park where emergency response was called to the scene.  Operator1 was transported by ambulance due to a possible broken bone.  All parties involved in the incident were wearing a Coast Guard approved PFD.


BARDID: AL-2017-0059
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of vessel 1 stated that while leaving the No Wake Zone at the Alexander City Boat Ramp he heard a small pop under the engine cover. He then stated that he saw a large burst of fire in the same area. Subject also stated that he, his wife, and two children then dove into the water before the fire completely took over the boat. While the fire was burning the boat drifted to the area below a railroad bridge where it burned until it completely sunk. Due to the boat fire there was damage to several crosstie on the bridge.


BARDID: AL-2017-0060
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: Prattville
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel # 1 was leaving the tributary from Cooters Pond toward the Alabama River. Vessel # 2 was stationary and waiting to enter the tributary into Cooters Pond after seeing Vessel #1. 

At that time, Vessel  #1 exited the No Wake zone and accelerated rapidly. In doing so Vessel #1 collided with Vessel #2. The operator of Vessel #1 stated he did not see Vessel #2. Both operators were transported by ambulances to Baptist South Medical Center in Montgomery, AL with serious injuries. Both vessels involved were able to be towed back to Cooters Pond and docked.


BARDID: AL-2017-0061
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:08:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ole River
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
One hour delayed response to a report of a vessel grounding with a fatality in the area of Ole River at the East end of Ono Island due to jurisdictional questions.  Escambia County fire-medics and FWC officer on scene indicated that two occupants were transported via ambulance to Baptist Hospital in Pensacola for treatment.  A third subject was still on scene deceased.  
Initial investigation showed the vessel was travelling around the east end of Ono Island attempting to enter the ICW west bound, struck a sand island, rotated counter-clockwise about two hundred degrees in the air and landed on the t-top and starboard bow quarter, crushing victim1 in the process.  Statements given to the fire-medics on scene from the other two occupants indicated that victim1 was the operator.  The Baldwin County coroner was notified, and the body was transported to the Alabama Department Of Forensic Sciences for autopsy.  The vessel was released to Sea Tow to right, tow, and secure at their facility.  Subsequent investigation indicates that subject2 was the operator at the time of the crash.


BARDID: AL-2017-0063
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: Florence
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements, Subject reported by phone that a vessel had hit his dock and boat, which was in the lift.  He stated that a neighbor heard the impact and saw a vessel leave and travel to another private dock down river.  
Subject got into neighbor’s vessel and stopped in the water near where the vessel was docked.  Subject pointed out the vessel that had hit his dock and vessel.  
The Operator of the vessel was in the bathroom of his house applying a bandage to his right arm, due to a cut that was caused during the impact.  Victim stated that he was driving the vessel, hit a wake and his fire extinguisher and paperwork came out of the glove box.  He reached to grab the paperwork, and then his vessel hit something.  
He turned the vessel around, headed back to his house in case his vessel was taking on water.  The vessel had damage on the port side at and below the waterline.  A piece black metal had pierced the hull of his vessel and was laying on his dock.  Victim provided a phone number so Subject could contact him to make reparations.  
The damage to Subject''s pier and the pontoon boat was consistent with the damage to Victim''s vessel and the black metal piece found fit the lower unit of Subject''s boat motor.  Subject stated he was comfortable contacting Victim to make arrangements for reparations.


BARDID: AL-2017-0064
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake - Elk River
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the statement of the operator, he had launched his boat and was unable to get the engine to stay running.  He noticed water entering the vessel and tried to get back to the launch ramp with the trolling motor.  The vessel sank and another boater (name not available) helped him get it back to onto his trailer, but the vessel was upside down.  There was no visible damage to the bottom of the vessel, and the drain plug was missing when I arrived on scene.  The water likely entered the vessel at the drain.  There were no injuries due to this incident.  subject lost his cell phone, the trolling motor and fishing equipment when the vessel sank.  The extent of the damage to the engine and vessel is not fully known at the time of this report.


BARDID: AL-2017-0065
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: First Creek
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/15/2017 at approx. 12:00pm., Operator2 was operating his 44'' Gibson houseboat(V2) in First Creek.  His wife, was also onboard.  Per Operator2, he was attempting to dock his vessel in his rental slip (400 Dock/Slip 405) at Joe Wheeler State Park Marina.  A wind direction change and gust of wind caused a collision with the vessel docked at Dock 400/Slip408.  
This vessel is a 50'' Sea Ray(V1) and was unoccupied.  Both vessels incurred damage(See uploaded photos).  The issue is whether the damage to the underside of the bow pulpit(2 holes) of V1 was caused by this incident or is older damage.  
No injuries were reported.  Damage estimates are based on statements from the owners of the vessels involved.


BARDID: AL-2017-0066
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Town Creek on Guntersville Lak
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call from Marine Trooper on October 18, 2017 at 1311 hrs. advising me of a possible drowning on Lake Guntersville.  Tpr.1 gave me the number of the Assistant Superintendent at Lake Guntersville.  I contacted Ast. Sup. who advised me that a passing motorist had stopped at the Lake Guntersvile Fishing Center located on Town Creek and reported seeing an unoccupied boat and what appeared to be a body floating near it.  

The observation was made while crossing over Town Creek on AL Hwy 227.  Supervisor arrived on the scene at approximately 1250 hrs. and confirmed the observation. Guntersville PD, Guntersville Rescue Squad and Marshall Medical Ambulance Service were notified.  Supervisor and Ranger recovered the body and got it to the shore.  Marshall Medical Ambulance Service arrived on scene 1310 hrs.  Guntersville P. D. Officers arrived on scene at 1310 hrs. and began the investigation.  

The body of the victim was recovered and turned over to the Marshall Co. Coroners Office and transported to Carr Funeral Home in Guntersville.  I arrived on scene 1637 hrs.  The victims family was notified.  The victims truck and boat were towed to the maintenance department at Guntersville State Park by Lake City Towing.  The boat and truck will be stored there until the family can take possession of it.  

The victims brother stated that the victim had a history of heart problems.  According to Chief Deputy Coroner "victim appears to have suffered a sudden cardiac event causing his death, during the cardiac event he fell from his boat."  For this reason no autopsy was ordered.


BARDID: AL-2017-0067
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and owner both advised that they were running eastbound attempting to enter Perdido Pass from a long fishing trip.  All four occupants were on the bridge as lookouts.  A squall line was pushing through from the west producing heavy rain and strong winds.  They were running the beach front attempting to use the north wind to knock down the heavy surf.  Their GPS showed the second sandbar farther north than it actually was, and the vessel got caught between the first and second sandbars.  The wind, waves and shallow water would not allow the vessel to navigate back south.  They shut down the motors and the waves pushed the vessel up on the beach.  No reported injuries.


BARDID: AL-2017-0068
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WOLF BAY
NearestCityorTown: ELBERTA
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of wellcraft advised he was navigating by gps and that is where his gps told him to go. Gps was set at 4 mile scale. He advised he hit the pier and the next thing he remembers is crawling out of his boat onto the pier. Fire and ems were dispatched by homeowner.


BARDID: AL-2017-0069
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Lincoln
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger or Skiier Behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 23. 2017, I received a call about a boating accident.  The caller stated that a 14 year old male had been struck by the prop of the boat that he was being towed by.
Operator stated that he was pulling subject and Victim on the tube at the time of the accident.  His son was acting as the spotter when Victim was thrown from the tube.  
Lookout then let his dad know that Victim fell off.  Operator stated that he then circled back around to pick Victim up.  Operator stated that he stopped at a safe distance away from Victim so he could reboard the boat.  Operator stated that he put the portside of the boat towards Victim because of the ladder is on that side.  Operator stated that he then shut the engine off.  Operator stated that he yelled for Victim to hold on so the prop would have a chance to stop turning before he boarded, but Victim didn''t hear him.  
Operator then heard Lookout yell for him because Victim was struck in the left leg by the prop.  They pulled him from the water and began rendering first aid to try and stop the bleeding.  Operator then called for help and took Victim to Poor House Branch to meet the paramedics.  Victim was then flown to Children''s in Birmingham to be treated for his wounds.


BARDID: AL-2017-0070
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: North Elk River
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/28/17 at approx. 2:55pm I was contacted by the Decatur Trooper Post Dispatch about a vessel on fire near 222 Pine Circle, Rogersville, AL. 35652 in Elk River.  The operator at the scene stated that when leaving the dock, he pushed the throttle forward and the vessel lost all oil pressure on the gauge.  Smoke and fire started coming from the engine compartment.  All 7 people aboard then jumped overboard and made it back to the dock.  The vessel was engulfed in flames.  Rogersville P.D. and fire department responded to contain the fire.  See attached photos for damage.  See attached operator statement and witness statements for details.


BARDID: AL-2017-0071
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bankhead Lake
NearestCityorTown: Adger
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2017 at approximately 8:47 p.m., Vessel 1 was traveling roughly northeast on Bankhead Lake near Smith''s Camp (8763 Smith Camp Rd, Adger,AL). According to the operator, Vessel 1 struck a stump floating in the water. Vessel 1 “ramped” the stump to the port side, ejecting the operator and both passengers. 
At the time of impact, the boat was travelling between 35-40 mph.  According to the operator neither he nor the passengers were injured. They were able to reboard the boat and make it into Clevenger''s Marina, where it was loaded on the trailer. Upon examination of the vessel, I noted a few scratches on the bottom of the hull and the motor trim no longer was functional.Operator reported that the motor skeg was damaged during the impact with the stump. According to the operator, no one on board was wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2017-0072
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neeley Henry
NearestCityorTown: Rainbow City
County: Etowah
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/01/2017 at apx. 5:00p.m., Vessel 1 was traveling upriver heading to Rainbow Landing when it was overtaken on the port side by two larger craft.  The wake from the passing vessels overcame the smaller craft, first swamping the vessel so that it filled with water.  Vessel 1 then capsized putting the five occupants in the water off the starboard side.  The three children were wearing their PFDs and the two adults were able to grab a PFD and put it on in the water.  A passing pontoon boat picked up the persons from the water within a few minutes of the vessel capsizing.  A second passing boat attempted to tow Vessel 1, but was unable to prevent it from sinking.  All persons involved were taken to Rainbow Landing with no reported injuries.  Vessel 1 was not recovered.


BARDID: AL-2017-0074
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/13/2017 at approximately 1547hrs, I Trooper was notified by ALEA dispatch in Montgomery that there was a single vessel accident on Lake Martin. The dispatcher advised that a pontoon boat with a single occupant had ran into an embankment and the driver had head injuries. 
Upon arrival, I observed a pontoon boat partly beached on an embankment with heavy front end damage. The single occupant/driver was sitting on the deck of the boat by the operators station. The driver had a severe laceration to his forehead with a moderate amount of blood loss. When medics arrived at the nearest residence, Trooper and I pulled the boat off the embankment and towed it over to them. The operator was transported to Russell Medical Center by way of Alex. City Fire and Rescue. The initial cause of the accident appears to be some type of medical episode that caused the operator lose control of the vessel. The operator stated that he must have blacked out and does not remember hitting the embankment. The driver stated he has a history of medical issued including seizures.


BARDID: AL-2017-0075
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: PRATTVILLE
County: Autauga
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon trooper arrival at boat ramp the prattville fire dept was leaving and taking all 3 victims to the prattville baptist er so trooper was inable to make contact with victims before they left the scene. So trooper turned his attention to the accident location site. 

The vessel was grounded almost completely onto a high bank and resting at a steep angle. The vessel was checked for all required equipment. Blood, water, shattered glass, and the angle of the vessel made the search extremely slippery so the trooper search was limited. Trooper was unable to locate a fire extinguisher, or type iv pfd in the boat. There was no emergency shut off switch lanyard attached to the switch. This was all photographed. Trooper returned to truck and traveled to prattvile baptist er. 

While talking with the operator trooper detected an odor of alcohol from his breath. Operator admitted to drinking that ay but stated he had his last beer around 8:00pm. He stated that he, his daughter and a friend of the daughter were returning from a residence and heading to swift creek boat landing. He struck a floating log which caused the boat to turn sharply to the right and they ran aground.


BARDID: AL-2017-1001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:41:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile River Delta
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: rough
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Mobile Fire Rescue searched and found two people who fell overboard after their boat capsized in the Mobile River Delta. The group was towing a small aluminum jon boat without a motor with a larger vessel when they encountered rough water at the confluence of the Spanish and Raft rivers in the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta.  The survivor,  had his back turned to the other two men in the boat when they apparently fell overboard. “Two people on the towing boat apparently fell off.  Survivor was able to use the main boat to make it back to shore and contact authorities.  The group may have been out fishing at the time of the incident. The two men who fell off the boat were not wearing life jackets at the time the main boat capsized. http://www.al.com/news/mobile/index.ssf/2017/06/boat_capsizes_in_mobile_river.html BREAKING UPDATE (3:20PM) -- The body of the son  has now been recovered from the river.


BARDID: AL-2017-1002
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ski Lake
County: Tuscaloosa
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Girl drowned in Ski Lake Saturday Tuscaloosa County.  She appeared to have been struck in the head by the boat's propeller when she fell off the boat. She was sitting in the front of the pontoon boat with her feet dangling in the water when she fell off and under the boat around 6:40 p.m. Saturday.  She was on the boat with friends and one a parent. Two people on the boat tried to rescue her.  http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2017/08/lake_view_teen_madison_reed_id.html


BARDID: AL-2017-1003
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Billy Goat Hole
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media and Misle - Coast Guard received a call about a capsized vessel at 11:11 a.m.  that two people were holding onto the hull of a capsized vessel near Billy Goat Hole in Dauphin Island. Coast Guard recovered the two boaters and returned them to Station Dauphin Island.
http://www.fox10tv.com/story/36437600/coast-guard-rescues-mariners-after-boat-capsizes-near-dauphin-island


BARDID: AL-2017-1004
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According News Media and Misle - at 11:40 a.m. a wooden vessel was taking on water, with one adult and one child aboard. Coast Guard Sector Mobile vectored a Good Samaritan to the location of the sinking vessel, who then recovered the two passengers and transferred them onto the Coast Guard vessel.
http://www.fox10tv.com/story/36437600/coast-guard-rescues-mariners-after-boat-capsizes-near-dauphin-island


BARDID: AL-2017-1005
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-04-22 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Guntersville
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to News Media a fire happened near The Pointe  and the Top O' The River restaurants on Lake Guntersville about 20 to 23 boats were lost in an overnight fire at Val Monte Marina. The cause of the fire was investigated and undetermined.  http://whnt.com/2017/04/22/at-least-20-boats-damaged-following-dock-fire-on-lake-guntersville/


BARDID: AL-2017-2000
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi Sound
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media and Coast Guard MISLE report, an 18-ft sailboat took on water and capsized about .5 nm east of the Dauphin Island Bridge.  The four people onboard were wearing life jackets and were rescued. The vessel was left adrift and was considered a total loss, valued at $700.


BARDID: AL-2017-2001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-01-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Fort Morgan
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media and Coast Guard MISLE report, a vessel carrying two people onboard took on water about 7 nm south of Fort Morgan.  The two subjects were picked up from the boat as it was listing to port.  After the subjects were taken onboard, their vessel capsized and began to sink.  It is considered a total loss, valued at approximately $70k.  Seas were noted as 4 ft with 20 knot wind speeds.  One person was hypothermic but declined treatment from EMS.  

The individuals were familiar with their track and journey.  They had filed a float plan and had all safety equipment onboard.  They were reported overdue by family.


BARDID: AL-2018-0001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tuscaloosa
NearestCityorTown: NORTHPORT
County: Tuscaloosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fishing a tournament on lake tuscaloosa. The operator was heading south when he impacted the bank at the foot of tierce patton bridge. The vessel then ramped upward and into the bridge contacting the base of the bridge. The vessel settled in final rest with the bow of the vessel in the water and the stern of the vessel on the east bank. The operator was found on the bow of his boat by a passing boater. The boater called 911 and i arrived with assistance from tuscaloosa police dept. And carrols creek fire department. I notified the medical examiners office and the victim was turned over to them at 8:45am. The vessel was then towed to bob''s marina and was loaded onto a bambarger wrecker at approximately 10:15 am. His personal belongings and property in the boat were turned over to family friend.  No further action was taken by me.


BARDID: AL-2018-0002
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: Gulf Shores
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was eastbound in the intracoastal waterway just east of Saunders Yachtworks when the steering broke.  He advised the vessel was not maneuverable and taking on water, so he pushed it up on the south shore as much as possible to prevent it from sinking. They tried to bail water with a bucket and tied the vessel to pine trees in an attempt to keep it from listing over.  Sea Tow was notified to come recover the vessel.
Witnesses stated the vessel was running fast and near the south shoreline of the ICW.  Two subjects who were fishing jumped out of the way for fear of being run over.  Their fishing poles were taken out of their hands as the vessel propellers ran over them.  
One of the subjects injured her knee as she attempted to get out of the way.  The damage shows the starboard outrigger struck some pine trees and bent the top third backward.  Looking from where the vessel came to rest, the trees that were struck were over 100 yds away.  The starboard prop and shaft were located in the water approximately six feet from shore in two feet of water, also about 100 yds from where the vessel came to rest.  A granite boulder had enough inertia to cause the shaft to dislodge from the transmission, and hold the prop, shaft and strut in place as the vessel continued forward.   The vessel momentum caused the starboard rudder to bend 90 degrees up as it passed over the prop and shaft.  It was at this point the steering ram became dislodged from its fixed position in the aft hull compartment.  The strut has not been located to date.  The resulting holes in the hull where the strut was attached and where the shaft entered allowed water to flood in at a rate unsustainable by bilge pumps. 
The vessel was tied at the bow, midship and stern to pine trees on the south shore in an attempt to keep the it upright.  Salvage crews were able to re-float the vessel the next morning and move to a salvage yard.
No registration or documentation has been located since the vessel was purchased in 2012.


BARDID: AL-2018-0003
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:35:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Vincent
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 9, 2018, at 12:48 pm, Trooper and I received a call from St. Clair County Dispatch about an overturned kayak just below Logan Martin Dam on Lay Lake.  Trooper and I then met with the caller and St. Clair County Deputies at Kelly Creek Boat Ramp.  Responding units began a quick search of the area to look for the missing boater.  The vessel was located .98 miles south of the Logan Martin Dam overturned and hung up on the East side of the river.  
All required safety equipment was in the vessel.  After preliminary investigation it was determined that the missing boater was a 68yo.  He was not immediately recovered and a 9 day search ensued.  His body was recovered on March 18, 2018 at 10:16 AM, approximately 8 miles south of the Logan Martin Dam.  He wasn’t wearing a life jacket at the time of the recovery.  The body was sent to ADFS for an autopsy. ADFS conducted an autopsy and determined the cause of death to be drowning.


BARDID: AL-2018-0004
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Eufaula
NearestCityorTown: Abbeville
County: Henry
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 5th 2018 at approximately 6:00 pm, the Henry County Sheriff''s Office received a call for three missing fisherman who launched from Thomas Mill Creek boat ramp on the evening of April 4th 2018. On April 6th 2018 at approximately 8:00 am, the Marine Patrol Division was notified and assisted in the search. On April 9th 2018 a Bass Tracker boat was recovered in the area where the three missing fisherman were located. The registration was identified as being the owner of one of the missing fisherman. There was no evidence to the boat as being involved in any collision. Investigators on the scene determined that the boat was overloaded and begin to swamp. All three fisherman were determined to have drowned. Their bodies were turned over to Henry County Coroner''s Office.


BARDID: AL-2018-0005
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tensaw River
NearestCityorTown: Mt. Vernon
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements taken from the victims and evidence at the scene the following events occurred on 4-14-18 at approximately 6:15 a.m.: Vessel 1 was traveling north on the Tensaw River. The boat struck an unknown object underwater that was not observed by the operator. Once the operator noticed the boat was taking on water, he turned to starboard bank and steered towards the east bank. He was then able to tie the boat off to a tree before the boat completely sank.  A passing boater then took operator and his passenger to the Mt. Vernon boat launch were they contacted Trooper directly. All legally required safety equipment was present on the boat and both the operator and passenger were wearing personal flotation devices.


BARDID: AL-2018-0006
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Other Waters
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
ON MAY 10, 2018 OPERATOR OF V1 AND OPERATOR OF V2 RENTED PERSONAL WATERCRAFT FROM THE HUDSON MARINA. V1 WAS OPERATING IN A CARELESS MANNER IN THE AREA OF TERRY COVE AND STRUCK THE REAR OF V2. V2 WAS AT DRIFT AND THE OPERATOR WAS EJECTED FROM THE VESSELL. THE OPERATOR OF V2 STATED, "I WAS HIT FROM BEHIND AND I WAS EJECTED INTO THE WATER. I DID NOT SEE WHO HIT ME. I WAS ABLE TO GET BACK ON MY JET SKI AND RIDE INTO THE DOCK". THE OWNER STATED BOTH JET SKI''S SUSTAINED SEVERE DAMAGE.


BARDID: AL-2018-0007
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 16, 2018 a two vessel collision occurred in the Spring Creek area of Lake Guntersville.  According to physical evidence, operator statements, and witness statements vessel 2 struck vessel 1 on its starboard side at about 25 mph.  The operator of vessel 2 stated that he was not paying attention and was looking to his starboard side and talking to his passenger when his vessel struck vessel 1.  Vessel 2 slightly ramped over the starboard stern of vessel 1 and then came to a stop.


BARDID: AL-2018-0008
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jordan
NearestCityorTown: Wetumpka
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This afternoon at approximatley 12:53 P.M. a vessel was towing two occupants in two separate inner tubes. The vessel circled around creating a wake for the occupants being towed.  A male occupant from one tube was ejected from the tube he was riding after crossing the wake. The male occupant  landed on the other occupant, a female ,on a separate tube. The ejection caused injuries to the female occupant and she was tranported back to the dock for medical attention. The victim was then transported by Haynes ambulance to the local hospital for the injuries.


BARDID: AL-2018-0009
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Equality
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 and V-2 were recreational cruising on Lake Martin.  V-2 collided with V-1.  The occupants of V-1 were ejected from V-1.  

the operator of V-1 was seriously injured and transported to Jackson Hospital. The occupant of V-1 was transported to Jackson Hospital for observation. The operator of V-2 was not injured and returned to shore.  All parties involved were in the same group from the same residence on the lake.


BARDID: AL-2018-0010
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was towing victim 1 on a wake board.  Victim 1 was performing a trick on the wake board, lost control, and landed awkwardly in the water.  Victim 1 was complaining of back pain and was taken to Russell Medical Center by Alexander City Fire-medics.


BARDID: AL-2018-0011
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Dadeville
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was cruising on west near Curry Point on Lake Martin.  Vessel 1 collided with an island and was grounded on that island.  No operator or occupant was present upon Marine Patrol arrival.  All three had been drinking alcohol, but stated they were
not operating the vessel at the time of the crash. The owner stated that a guy named "xxxx" was operating the vessel. It is the opinion of Marine Patrol that
the owner was the operator until proven otherwise


BARDID: AL-2018-0013
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6-6-2018 a two-vessel collision occurred on Lake Guntersville near the 365 mile marker.  The commercial tow vessel Edwin L. Kennedy (Vessel 2) was traveling up river on the right side of the river channel. 

At the same time the 30'' sailboat (Vessel 1) was traveling under power down river on the same side of the channel as Vessel 2.  

According to witness statements and physical evidence Vessel 1 turned to its starboard directly in front of Vessel 2 causing a collision.  Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 with the head of the center barge.  Vessel 1 was struck on its port side.

 According to witnesses, after the forward movement had stopped Vessel 1 continued travelling down river and refused assistance.  Alabama Marine Patrol Troopers contacted Vessel 1 after the sailboat ran aground in the Seibold Creek area of Lake Guntersville shortly after the collision. Investigating Troopers are working with the Marshall County DA''s office to determine if the operator of Vessel 1 was operating under the influence of alcoholic beverages. Additional records have been subpoenaed and the criminal case remains under investigation.


Vessel 2 operator holds a USCG Captain''s license.


BARDID: AL-2018-0014
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:39:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling north bound (downriver), just north of Painted Bluff On Wheeler Lake. Occupant of the vessel stated that a pool toy flew out of the vessel. Subject1 says she told the driver to stop and she would get out and get the pool toy. Once the vessel was stopped Subject1 jumped out of the vessel and swam to the toy. Subject1 then says that due to a strong current she had drifted approximately 30 yards away so she motioned for Operator to bring the vessel to her. 

Subject1 says that instead of driving to her, Operator jumped from the vessel and into the water. She says Operator went under water and never re-surfaced. Operator''s body was found by Guntersville Rescue Squad personnel approximately 100 yards north of the incident location floating face down with no P.F.D. 

Operator Had a valid Alabama Drivers license but was unlicensed for vessel operation within the State Of Alabama as required by law. Within the vessel several unopened cans of alcoholic beverages were located in a cooler under the drivers seat and in front of the center console. There was also an opened can of an alcoholic beverage in a cup holder on the left side of the center console.


BARDID: AL-2018-0015
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Decatur
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, July 4th, I was patrolling the impact zone of the permitted "Spirit of America Festival and Fireworks Show" on Lake Wheeler, in Flint Creek, near Point Mallard. Approximately 300 boats were in attendance and parked in the area, making the creek and slew highly congested. The fireworks show was scheduled to begin at 2100 hours. 

At approximately 2050 hours, an unknown boat pulled up to Morgan County Rescue and told them he heard two vessels collide in a slew to the rear of the show, and that people were screaming for a jon boat to stop because he was driving recklessly through the crowd of boats. Morgan County Rescue informed me and we both departed to the scene. While enroute, the Decatur Troopers Post also contacted me about the accident, informing me that a caller had reported it to them. I arrived on the scene at approximately 2100 hours. 

Upon arrival, only two people were at the scene. They were located on the shoreline inside the slew. Subject1 informed me that she saw the accident and that everyone, including other boats and other people on the shoreline, had quickly left the scene, leaving them behind. They reported a jon boat, V1, drove through the slew without stopping and ran into a Phoenix Bass Boat, driven by Operator2. 

They reported no one was currently in the water and there were no injuries. They stated that the area had been a party scene in the hours leading up to the accident. A thorough search of the area was conducted and only one boat, vessel 1, the jon boat, was found. The boat was floating freely in the slew, unoccupied. I instructed the rescue squad to tow the boat back to Ingalls Harbor and asked Decatur PD to transport the two witnesses back to shore. After an inventory and inspection of vessel damage, I had the boat, Vessel 1, impounded by Branums Wrecker Service. Damage was visible on the bow-port side, and the tiller steer arm was broken off from its mount. 

At approximately 2330 hours, the Decatur Troopers post informed me of a call from the home of Operator2, stating he wanted an accident report, that his boat had been hit by another boater, driven by his friend Operator1. I contacted Operator2 and arranged to meet him, with his boat, on Friday 6 July at 1300hrs. On 5 July, around 0900 hours, I received a call from the Troopers Post referencing thefather of Operator1, requesting the keys to the truck and boat trailer that still remained at the Hickory Hills boat ramp. 

I met with him, gave him the keys that I had found from inside Vessel 1. I then arranged to meet Operator1 on 6 July at 1530. On 6 July, at 1300, I met with the operator of boat 2 and inspected the vessel and gathered statements. The vessel hull was damaged on the cap of the port side near the seating area, and the passenger seat was torn. The damage appeared to be from a propeller. After inspecting the damage from both vessels, it appears that Vessel 1 collided port-to-port with Vessel 2. 

Witness Subject1 reported in her statement that the jon boat flipped on its side after impact, knocking subject into the water. Water depth at the scene was 2-3 feet deep. At 1530, I met with Operator1 and gathered a statement from him. Operator1 stated that he did in fact strike vessel 2, being unable to see because of three passengers he had on board were obstructing his view. 

Operator1 stated that he did not know the names of his three passengers. Operator1 also stated he had drank 6-8 beers that night. Witness Subject1 reported in her statement that Operator1 had no occupants in his boat when the collision occurred. Both parties involved in this accident and other witnesses in the slew, left the scene, without reporting it to anyone, until Operator2 reported it from home two and a half hours later. The use of safety equipment, lights, and how many, if any, passengers were on board cannot be verified. It is impossible to determ...


BARDID: AL-2018-0016
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Florence
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, July 25, 2018, at around 1100, I received a report of a sinking vessel at Florence Marina. I arrived at Florence Marina and met with the owner who stated that he had operated the vessel the previous day and tied the vessel back up to the dock that night. He stated he did not notice any mechanical problems. He said that sometime in the night it sank and had found it the morning of July 25. The vessel was pulled out of the water and placed on a trailer.


BARDID: AL-2018-0017
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jackson
NearestCityorTown: Florala
County: Covington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/28/2018 at approximately 11:00 am, the operator launched his boat at the public boat landing at Lake Jackson in Florala. Operator then picked up his sister at the dock. Operator stated, "The boat wasn''t running quite right and it quit on me". He attempted to restart the engine and lifted the cowl up. The engine then flashed over and caught fire. Victim was sitting next to the cowl and was burned severely. Other nearby boaters assisted with their fire extinguisher and putting the flames out. Victim was air lifted by Okaloosa County to USA Burn Center in Mobile. Operator also stated,"I just recently had a new carburetor put on the engine". Trooper arrived at the public boat landing at Lake Jackson and Operator left and went to his parents residence in Samson.


BARDID: AL-2018-0018
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Union Grove
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was down river from the Guntersville Dam with the bow facing the dam. The dam was in operation and pushing water down river. The Vessel Operator stated that he was dragging his anchor on the bottom to slow him down due to a strong current being created by the dam. He says the anchor grabbed and stopped the vessel completely. He  tried to free the anchor but was unsuccessful due to the strong current. He then started the motor and began to ease forward so the anchor line would have some slack. The slack that was created became entangled in the prop of the motor and stalled the engine. 

Once the engine stalled the vessel then whipped around with the stern now facing the dam. The current began to rush water over the stern of the vessel flooding it. The vessel operator stated that it only took a few seconds and the vessel sank. The vessel operator was wearing a P.F.D. at the time of the incident and began to swim toward the shore. Another unknown boater saw him in the water and picked him up and carried him to shore. The witness was standing on shore fishing and saw the whole event. At present the vessel has not been recovered from the water. TVA representatives have been contacted and advised of the presence of the sunken vessel. TVA advisors stated that as long as it does not present a navigational hazard it does not require removal.


BARDID: AL-2018-0019
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Talladega
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Received the call at 4:25 pm from Sgt. . When I arrived on the scene both boats had been removed from the water and were sitting on their trailers. Both operators and their passengers were still on the scene. I was able to speak to each of them and they all advised they did not see the other vessel. At the time of the accident there was heavy rain and wind from a storm passing over. I think with their rain coats with hoods on, neither boat operator was able to keep a good look out for other vessels and this was possibly the contributing factor for the crash. Both operator and passenger in vessel 2 and the passenger in vessel 1 had their PFD''s on at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2018-0021
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Columbiana
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5-18-2018 around 5:37 PM I received a call of a boat exploding at Paradise Point Marina. When ALEA marine patrol arrived on the scene they found a boat adrift near a shoreline on the north side of the inlet. The boat was still on fire, because it had drifted too far away for the fire department to engage. The boat came to rest in some weeds next to the shoreline. The operator had left the scene to take the passenger to the hospital. The passenger was burnt during the explosion and fire.

Operator and his girlfriend had met the owner of the boat at Paradise Point Marina to test drive and possibly purchase the 1991 Malibu ski boat. When they put the boat in the water, it would not start and they then realized it was out of gas. After fueling the boat, Operator asked if the blower was working because he could not hear it. Owner told him it should be on. After several attempts to start the motor and no luck Owner went to get help from the marina. Operator advised that someone from the marina came down and took the cover off the carburetor and sprayed starter fluid into the carburetor. After several more attempts the motor started. Owner let Occupant get in the boat and said that she and Operator could take a ride and he would just wait on them at the marina. As Operator put the motor in reverse, it shut off again and when he attempted to start it there was an explosion in the engine compartment sending flames throughout the boat. Both Occupant and Operator jumped overboard to get away from the flames. The marina owner jumped in the water pushing the burning boat away from his dock. Occupant had burns on the lower part of her back and the back of her legs.


On 5-19-2018 I returned to the scene to make a recovery on the vessel if it had cooled enough to do so. At that time the vessel was nowhere to be seen. I ran side scan in the area to see if had sunk, but could not find it on the graph. I checked the area downstream for over a mile and did not locate the vessel. The empty trailer was still sitting at Paradise Point so I do not believe it was removed from the water.


BARDID: AL-2018-0022
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Jasper
County: Walker
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call from Tow Boat US wrecker company of a boat that had run aground, and they would like for Marine Patrol to respond. I responded from Rock Creek and found the grounded boat located in Duncan Creek. I Investigated the crash and determined the driver. No impairment of driver or illegal violations were found at the time of the crash and initial investigation. The driver of the crashed vessel stated that he was trying to get away from a thunderstorm and ran aground in Duncan Creek. Two passengers were in the vessel, and no injuries were stated.The vessel was taking on water around the middle of the boat. Tow Boat US responded and took both of the passengers home. The owner stated that he would stay with the vessel until Tow Boat US owner would be able to get the vessel safely out of the water and back on the trailer.


BARDID: AL-2018-0024
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28,2018, the operator had been making repairs and was testing Vessel 1 on Lake Guntersville.  Vessel1  was at cruising speed and the operator  stated that he smelled gasoline.  The operator brought Vessel 1 to a stop and opened the cowling. Flames and smoke consumed the engine compartment of  Vessel 1.   The operator donned  a PFD and jumped into the water.  Vessel 1 became fully involved and sank near the edge of the river channel.  Vessel 1 operator was recovered from the water by a passing boater.  Guntersville City Police Dept, Guntersville City Fire Dept and Guntersville Recue Squad all responded to the the scene.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was taken to Alred''s Marina to meet with Marine Patrol Troopers.


BARDID: AL-2018-0025
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Jasper
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2018, at 3:30 am, I was contacted by ALEA Decatur Dispatch of a 2 boat collision in Clear Creek. I called complainant back, and he stated that he had been hit by another vessel, and he got that person''s telephone number. He then traveled to Smith Lake Dam Boat Launch and trailered his vessel. Vessel # 2 operator then traveled to Double Springs before contacting authorities. After gathering some of the facts, I instructed him to travel on home to his residence, and I would be finishing the investigation on Friday due to him already leaving the lake. I called the number twice at 3:45 am that morning and there was no answer. After later investigation, that phone number belonged to Vessel # 1 operator. On July 6, 2018, both vessel  operators were interviewed, photographs were taken of both vessels and statements were received. 

According to the witness statements and evidence gathered, vessel #1 struck vessel #2 on the port side, damaging the side of the hull and taking off the wake board tower that was attached. Vessel #2 was anchored down just inside the left side of Racoon Creek. Vessel #1 was traveling due east out of Racoon Creek when he struck Vessel #2. Significant damage was observed to vessel #1 but the driver was able to continue where he beached the boat at his campsite in the Clear Creek Campground. All parties stated that required lights were operational at the time of collision. No injuries were reported.


BARDID: AL-2018-0026
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: Centre
County: Cherokee County
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling south bound on Weiss Lake in the vicinity of Yellow Creek. There was severe weather in the area at that time and the water conditions choppy.The operator of V-1 stated that the bow of V-1 struck a wave, went airborne and turned sideways. 

Upon landing and now facing north, V-1 was struck on the port side by another wave. V-1 then overturned and ejected both passengers and the operator. 

All occupants of V-1 were wearing Coast Guard approved PFD''s. The safety shutoff lanyard was attached and operational. One of the passengers suffered cuts to the leg and was transported to Gadsden Regional by her mother. She was treated and released.


BARDID: AL-2018-0027
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perdido Pass
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was following Vessel 2 Southbound in Perdido Pass.  Vessel 2 had stopped to do a mock attack on a passing dolphin cruise with water cannons.  Vessel 1 was coming up behind Vessel 2 and did not notice they had stopped.  Vessel 1 had to attempt evasive magnifiers in an attempt to avoid contact with Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 was unable to avoid Vessel 2 and struck the rear starboard of Vessel 2.  The operator of Vessel 1 stated he thought Vessel 2 was backing up at the time.  The operator of Vessel 2 stated he was sitting still at the time of the crash.  None of the occupants on either vessel were injured.


BARDID: AL-2018-0028
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Other Waters
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were traveling Northbound in Perdido Pass.  Vessel 2 was keeping a straight track in the channel when Vessel 2 came up behind Vessel 2.  The operator of Vessel 1 stated he never noticed Vessel 2 in front of him and he heard the crash before he noticed him.

There were 4 passengers on Vessel 1 and no one witnessed the crash just heard it.  The operator of Vessel 2 stated he was traveling Northbound and all of the sudden he was struck from behind.  He stated the boat was swamped with water from Vessel 1''s wake and he was knocked off his feet.  Both vessels traveled to the Orange Beach Marine Patrol office.  No one was injured on either vessel.  The damage to Vessel 2 was consistant with Vessel 1 failing to overtake Vessel 2 in an appropriate maner.  There was damage to the top and the hull of Vessel 2.


BARDID: AL-2018-0029
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: Dauphin Island
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was following Vessel 2 headed south.  The operator on V2 slowed her speed then Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 in the rear.  The impact caused the back two occupants on Vessel 2 to be knocked off Vessel 2.  The operator of Vessel 1 stated he tried to turn when he noticed Vessel 2 slowing.  He stated he let off the throttle and tried to lean to get the jet ski to turn by leaning to the side.  This action would leave Vessel 1 unable to maneuver.  This also showed Vessel 1 was operating too close to Vessel 2.  The two back occupants on Vessel 2 were transported for their injuries.


BARDID: AL-2018-0030
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was in a stationary position fishing when Vessel 1 approached.  The Captain of Vessel 2 stated he could see Vessel 1 getting closer and did not appear to be stopping.  He stated he tried to get out of the way, but it was too late.  

Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 in the motor causing damage that rendered Vessel 2 immobile.  The Captain of Vessel 2 state he spoke briefly with the Captain of Vessel 1.  During the conversation he told the Captain of Vessel 1 to back off and he did.  They never exchanged information, but the Captain of Vessel 2 was able to get a photo of the registration number off Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 had to be towed in by Sea Tow from 30 miles out because of the damage to the motor.


BARDID: AL-2018-0031
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Scottsboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 22,2018 Vessel 1 was following Vessel 2 in Roseberry Creek towards Jackson County Park.   The operator of Vessel 2 stated that he slowed to allow a larger boat to pass and to stop to talk to the operator of Vessel 1.  

The operator of Vessel 1 did not see Vessel 2 slowing down.  The operator of Vessel 1 stated that he did not see Vessel 2 stopping in front of him.  The front of Vessel 1 impacted the rear of Vessel 2.  The operator of Vessel 2 was also struck in the arm by Vessel 1.  Vessel 2 sustained damage to the seats and handle bar.  

The  owner of Vessel 2 contacted the Decatur Highway Patrol post and reported the accident at approximately 19:45 on July 22, 2018.   I was advised that the operator of Vessel 2 was transported to Highland''s Medical Center in Scottsboro, AL by his mother.   He was x-rayed and treated for a bruised arm and released the same day.


BARDID: AL-2018-0032
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: Town Creek
County: Lawrence
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 13, 2018, at around 1410 hours, I received a call from Lt. about a boating accident at Safety Harbor on Wilson Lake in Lawrence County. I responded and arrived at Safety Harbor around 1500 and met with the operator and occupants. The vessel was a tan and brown 1988 Vision Bass Boat. The operator stated that he and two occupants had put the boat in the water and left the boat ramp. They traveled towards Wheeler Dam and noticed that the boat was taking on water.

 operator stated that he forgot to put the plug in the boat. They tried to paddle towards the bank but could not make it. When the boat sank the three occupants were swimming and yelling for help. a witness jumped into the water and pulled the three to shore. None of the occupants were injured, however one subject was evaluated by Lawrence County EMS and determined to be fine. another was also evaluated by Lawrence County EMS.



The vessel was pulled out of the water by a citizen who had just launched his vessel. The vessel was loaded onto its trailer and inspected. There was damage to the motor. The trolling motor had been torn off. The windshield was torn off and several scratches to the vessel. Operator stated that all of his fishing equipment was lost.


BARDID: AL-2018-0033
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tuscaloosa
NearestCityorTown: NORTHPORT
County: Tuscaloosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On monday 8/13/18 at approximately 12:30 p.m. i received a call of a pwc accident on lake tuscaloosa. I arrived at smiths marina to find the occupants of v-1 and spoke with them about the accident. I then recovered both pwc''s, gathered information from both pwc''s and drove to dch hospital in tuscaloosa. I interviewed the operator of v-1 and took a statement from her. I then interviewed the operator of v-2. 

I determined that both operators had rented both pwc''s from redline rentals earlier in the day. Operator of v-2 was cruising close to v-1, at that time v-1 turned toward v-2 and struck v-2 on the starboard side. 

The operator of v-2 was thrown off the pwc into the water. The operator of v-2 was transported via ambulance to dch hospital in tuscaloosa to be treated for a broken leg. The operator of v-1 and her passenger were uninjured.


BARDID: AL-2018-0034
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Warrior River
NearestCityorTown: MOUNDVILLE
County: Hale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
This summary was compiled through interviews of and statements by the operators and passengers of V1 and V2, and other witnesses of the accident. It is a summary of the events of July 4th and is not, nor is it intended to be, an exhaustive volume of every word and action of this event. This accident occurred at approximately 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 4, 2018.
According to statements given by operators and passengers of V1 and V2, at the time of the collision V1 was traveling North on the Black Warrior river returning from visiting with friends near Eutaw. V1 was being operated by Operator1. The 5 passengers on V1 were V1 subject3, V1 subject4, V1 subject5, V1 subject1, and V1 subject2. This group had assembled earlier in the day at a sandbar on the Black Warrior River commonly known as Blue Bar. The group was hanging out with friends on the sandbar and drinking beer throughout the day. The group decided to ride South on the Black Warrior River to visit friends in Eutaw. The group visited with the friends in Eutaw and V1 subject1 and V1 subject3 stayed in the boat while in the others were socializing and continued to drink beer with friends.  After an undetermined amount of time the group decided to head back North toward Blue Bar. The group was riding North with V1 subject3 in the passenger seat, V1 subject4 sitting in the bow of the boat, V1 subject5, V1 subject1, and V1 subject2 sitting in the rear seat. The passengers and witnesses stated that the Driver (Operator1) was swerving back and forth toward an oncoming boat as if to be playing chicken with them. Then Operator of V2 stated he thought the operator may have known him and was swerving toward him in a playing manner.
At the time of the collision, V2 was headed South on the Black Warrior River. V2 was being operated by Operator2. The single passenger on V2 was V2 subject1. These Two were friends and were at the sand bar talking about the Skeeter Bass Boat. Operator2 was interested in buying V2 from V2 subject1. The two men decided to test drive V2. Operator2 left his daughter with a friend and headed South to test drive V2. Operator2 was driving, and V2 subject1 was sitting in the passenger seat of V2. Both men were headed South when they noticed V1 heading North, swerving back and forth toward their boat. Operator2 turned to the right and V1 would turn toward him. He stated every time he would turn away, V1 would turn toward him. Operator2 stated that right before the collision he made a hard turn to the right to avoid being struck by V1, but to no avail. Operator2 stated that V1 struck V2 and he was thrown into the water. The passenger of V2, V2 subject1, was killed on impact and knocked into the floor of V2.
At the time of the collision a passenger of V1, V1 subject4, stated he noticed V2 and stood up to make sure the operator of V1 could see the boat. He stated that the Operator of V1 was swerving back and forth toward V2 and thought he might have known the driver and was playing with him. V1 subject1 stated that the music was playing loudly and that she could not hear what anyone was saying, but she noticed V1 swerving, but didn’t know what was going on. At the moment of impact with V2, all passengers in V1, including the operator, were ejected and landed in the water. 
After initial collision, V1 subject1 stated that the operator was holding V1 subject3 and handed her to V1 subject1 and stated “here I can’t do this”. At that point V1 subject1 and V1 subject2 placed V1 subject3 onto a floating seat bottom and swam her to shore. At that point they began C.P.R. but were unsuccessful in reviving V1 subject3. V1 subject4 was floating in the river and was unable to swim due to having his right lower leg crushed. He was able to float and doggy paddle to the shore where he laid until help arrived. V1 subject5 was helped to the edge of the bank and was unable to be removed from the water due to his injuries. The operator swam to the shore and walked down the bank and sat down. 
After the initial collision, the operator of V2, Operator2, was floating in the River and climbed back on board V2 to find his friend had died from his injuries. Operator2 said he heard the operator of V1 yelling at him and he made out him yelling something about the direction of travel. Operator2 stated that Operator1 said you should have turned left, Operator2 stated no I turned Right because I was headed south. Operator1 then stated no I was headed South. Operator2 then heard a passenger in V1 state No Operator1 we were coming back from Eutaw. Operator2 then swam to shore and assisted with helping the injured.
Once all passengers and operators were accounted for from V1 and V2, V1 subject1 and V1 subject2 noticed a pontoon boat up river towing an inner tube. Both V1 subject1 and V1 subject2 ran up the sand bar and began to swim to the pontoon boat and were able to seek help and have them call 911.
V1 subject5 was transported to a sandbar and then transported to the hospital via ambulance. V1 subject4 and Operator1 was transported on a pontoon boat together and then transported via ambulance to DCH in Tuscaloosa.  V2 operator Operator2, V1 subject1, and V1 subject2 remained at the crash scene. The coroner of Hale County arrived and pronounced V1 subject3 and V2 subject1. Troopers transported the bodies of the deceased to Moundville Boat Ramp. We also towed the crashed vessels with help of Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue to Moundville Boat Ramp.
V1 subject5 was transported to UAB in Birmingham and treated for numerous fractures and lacerations that will leave him paralyzed from the waist down, V1 subject4 was transported to DCH in Tuscaloosa for a crushed lower right leg that will require therapy for 6 months. Operator of V2 was seen the following day by medical personnel for a bruised kidney and other internal organs and a laceration to the right foot.
Numerous Police and Fire and Rescue agencies responded to this accident. I Noticed Moundville P.D., Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue, Hale Co. EMA, Numerous volunteer fire and rescue departments. And several first responders.


BARDID: AL-2018-0035
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: SILAS
County: Choctaw
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was southbound on the tombigbee river in the area of turkey creek . (based on operator statement) while cruising at a speed of approx. 35mph occupant stood up and advised that other occupants that he was hot.  

Victim proceeded to empty his pockets and took his shirt off.  Victim then jumped from the moving vessel making contact with the water first with his head and then upper torso.  Based on occupant statements victim had been drinking all day and was very intoxicated.  The operator maneuvered the vessel to the area that victim jumped from the vessel and recovered him from the river.  

Upon recovery victim was reportedly blue in the face and not breathing.  The operator stated that he immediately started cpr and transported victim to bobby''s fish camp where ems picked victim up and transported him to choctaw general where he was pronounced dead.  

Photographs were taken of the vessel which reveal several empty beer cans that were of the same brand that he was holding five minutes prior to victims passing based on a photo taken by another occupant.


BARDID: AL-2018-0036
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: GULF SHORES
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: air conditioner
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The owner stated that when she turned on the air conditioning unit she started smelling smoke.  After she started smelling smoke she turned off the air conditioning unit got off the vessel and called 911.  Gulf Shores Fire Department sponded to the scene and put out a fire on the starboard side.  The fire department reported that the fire was caused by the condenser to the air condition unit failing.


BARDID: AL-2018-0037
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Delta
NearestCityorTown: SPANISH FORT
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was travelling eastbound in between the I-10 bridge spans in the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta near Chacalootchee Bay. Operator was operating Vessel #1. According to his operator’s statement, occupant1 bumped him while he was attempting to negotiate a turn to port. 

Operator further stated to Trooper that Occupant1 was severely intoxicated and was dancing while the boat was in motion. Operator also stated that once he was bumped, he veered into the west-bound I-10 bridge span pilings. Vessel #1 was on plane and struck the piling at approximately 25-30 miles per hour. 

Upon impact, three occupants of Vessel #1 were ejected from the vessel. Occupant1 was thrown to the starboard side and ended up near the stern of the vessel where she was struck by the outboard motor which was still in forward gear at high speed. Occupant1 suffered multiple cuts and lacerations from the propeller which appears to have torn off her shorts and top. Occupant1 was dead at the scene when Spanish Fort Fire Rescue arrived. 

Occupant2 was sitting in the passenger seat just forward of the operator station when she was thrown overboard, suffering severe body trauma and neck injuries. 

Occupant3 was standing on the front deck next to Occupant2 and was thrown into the bridge piling causing severe trauma to his body and a compound fracture with severe blood loss. Occupant3 died in route to USA Medical Center in Mobile while being transported by ambulance. An off-duty Mobile Fire Fighter and his wife responded to the scene from the Chacalootchee Bay boat ramp. 

He stated Operator was in the water trying to hold Occupant2 upright. None of the people aboard Vessel #1 was wearing a PFD. The Mobile Fire Fighter assisted with getting all the occupants back in Vessel #1 and towing it back to the Chacalootchee Bay boat ramp on the US 90/98 Causeway. Spanish Fort Police Department and Fire Rescue responded to the scene and set up a secure site for first responders including a medical evacuation helicopter. 

The operator was arrested at the scene for Boating Under the Influence and transported to the Daphne Municipal Jail where he submitted to a Draeger breath test which gave a result of %0.15 BAC. Operator was transported to Thomas Hospital in Fairhope where a blood and urine sample was given by consent. Vessel #1 was transported to the DWFF District 5 HQ at the 5 Rivers Complex and secured behind a locked gate on the same date. 

A subsequent forensic examination by Traffic Homicide Investigator Trooper determined the operator by a scratch on his left leg which corresponded to the broken key in the ignition switch. Occupant1 was also determined to be standing behind the operator''s station on the back deck holding on to rod holders on the T-top with both hands.


BARDID: AL-2018-0038
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blakely River
NearestCityorTown: Daphne
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling northbound in Blakely River.  The vessel operator stated that as he was underway his vessel struck an object in the water and began to capsize.  Before the vessel capsized, he and his passenger(wife) were able to quickly locate their personal flotation devices and put them on as the vessel was sinking.  The vessel capsized but remained partially above water.  Shortly thereafter a passerby noticed operator and his wife in the water and were able to load them aboard his vessel.  Subject transported  to Meaher State Park.


BARDID: AL-2018-0039
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jordan
NearestCityorTown: Wetumpka
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Both Vessel 1 and 2 were traveling east in the canal toward the main lake area. Vessel 1 was traveling at a higher speed and struck Vessel 2 on the port side stern area. 

An occupant of Vessel 2 was ejected from the vessel. He was immediately recovered from the water by other occupants of Vessel 2. The operator of Vessel 1 stated he did not see Vessel 2 in the canal. 

Both operators had the odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from their breath. Each operator admitted to drinking alcohol when questioned about it and were administered field sobriety tests at the scene. Both operators performed satisfactory on the tests and were released at the scene. No injuries were reported by any person involved in the collision. An inspection of Vessel 2 revealed all lights were working correctly at the time of the collision. However the stern light of Vessel 2 was not the correct height above the front navigational lights (The stern light was not a minium height of 1 meter above the front navigation lights). I was unable to conduct an inspection of Vessel 1 at the scene due to the vessel being capsized in the water. Vessel 1 was recovered the following day by the operator.


BARDID: AL-2018-0040
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Dadeville
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/25/2018 around 1715hrs. I responded to a boating crash on Lake Martin @ Harbor Pointe Marina.  Once I arrived I spoke with operator of vessel 1.  She stated she was just leaving the dock from fueling.  She stated she thought she had enough room to turn the boat right and not hit anything.  She stated as she was making her turn she struck vessel 2 which was tied to the dock unoccupied.  Both vessel''s had minor damages no injuires were reported at the scene.


BARDID: AL-2018-0041
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: I.C.W
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE BEACH
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The owner of the vessel stated that he left the marina after fueling his vessel.  Shortly after leaving the marina his engine backfired. After the backfire he noticed flames coming from the engine compartment.  At that time he tried to extinguish the fire with his fire extinguisher to no avail.  Unable to extinguish the fire he and his wife went overboard into the water for safty.  They were picked up by two PWC and transported to the Wharf Marina.  Orange Beach Fire Department arrived on scene.  The Orange Beach Fire Department advised that the fire was caused by a faulty fuel line that had a leak and the ventilation system was not ventilating properly.


BARDID: AL-2018-0042
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: CENTRE
County: Cherokee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was overtaking V-2 which was towing an innertube. As V-1 passed V-2 it made a 360 turn. Driver-1 stated that he did not realize that V-2 was as close to him as it was striking the innertube that V-2 was pulling. Both drivers retrieved the 3 children that were riding the innertube and carried them back to shore to their vehicle. The children were then taken to Floyd Medical Center in Centre, AL by their parents. After a thorough investigation it was determined that no alcohol was involved.


BARDID: AL-2018-0043
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 16'' aluminum Lowe boat had just departed Brown''s Creek by going under the ''Warrenton Causeway''. Operator1 and his 3 occupants were going to the Guntersville Boat Mart area to continue bow fishing. 

Vessel 2, a 24'' Stratos SunCruiser pontoon boat, was drifting in the vicinity of ''Warrenton Causeway'' and Alabama Highway 69. The pontoon occupants were bass fishing. Their boat was drifting parallel to Alabama Highway 69, facing The Guntersville Boat Mart Marina. The boat was approximately 40'' from the bank. The time was 12:38 AM. 

As Operator1 brought his boat on plane after departing the no-wake zone, he began traveling west towards the Guntersville Boat Mart. Unable to see Vessel 2, Operator1 struck Vessel 2 in the rear, offset to the right of the motor. Area of impact for Vessel 1 was limited to the front portion of the boat. Operator1 stated he did not see Vessel 2''s stern light. He further stated it seemed Vessel 2 appeared ''out-of-nowhere'', because he didn''t see the rear of Vessel 2 until just before impact. Operator1 stated all he was able to do was pull his vessel''s throttle to neutral, and brace for impact. The occupants in V1 boat stated they did not see a stern light on Vessel 2. 

V2 subject stated his lights were working and produced 2 pictures showing him and the bass he caught earlier (See Attachments).The stern light can be seen in the background, over V2 subject''s right shoulder. However, also in view is a ladder that was placed behind the stern light. The metal ladder can be seen casting a reflection forward, away from the direction in which Vessel 1 was coming. When asked whether the ladder was permanent, V2 subject stated he moved the ladder from the front of the pontoon so he could use his trolling motor. When asked whether he''d moved the ladder after taking the pictures, V2 subject stated he had not. At the time of initial contact, 12:43 AM for Guntersville PD Lieutenant and Officer, and 1:26 AM for the Investigating Trooper, the ladder was in the position as shown in the pictures - behind the anchor light. 

NOTE: V2 subject produced the photos on-scene for the investigating Trooper''s review. During the review he ''highlighted'' the timestamp on the cell phone used to take the photos. The attached photos were taken 42 minutes prior to the crash. Photos were taken at 11:56 PM - crash occurred at 12:38 AM. During initial contact with Operator1, a faint alcoholic odor was detected. When asked, Operator1 stated he drank "a beer" during supper, about 9 PM. He was subsequently administered the Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) 4-Test battery, during which no clues of impairment were detected. After the SFST Operator1 was administered the Portable Breath Test (PBT) by Guntersville Police Officer (Drug Reconition Expert). The results of the PBT were 0.017%. A result consistent with the no clues of impairment discovered during SFST.


BARDID: AL-2018-0044
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 22-foot Four Winns pontoon boat, was anchored near the entrance to Short Creek on Lake Guntersville in the vicinity of the rock ledge located on the right as you access Short Creek from the main channel.

Two of the occupants were in the water behind the pontoon boat floating on foam noodles and holding a line attached to the rear of the vessel. 

When Subject1 returned to the boat, her husband acknowledged the boat had drifted closer to the rock ledge. Because of moderate winds and choppy water, the anchor had not set properly due to the rocking of the boat. Subject1’s husband attempted to loosen the anchor while subject2 started the boat and placed it in gear in an effort to ease the tension on the line. At that point Subject1’s husband heard Victim scream as she was pulled into the propeller. The line Victim was holding had become entangled around her hip and right femur and pulled her into the moving propeller. Subject1’s husband stated he quickly placed the boat''s throttle selector in the neutral position as Subject2 and Subject1 entered the water to assist Victim. 

Victim sustained injuries to the right side of her body, from just below her breast plate region to mid-femur. Subject2 and Subject1 were able to pull Victim from the water within a few minutes of the accident. They then traveled approximately 4-miles to the Lake Guntersville State Park beach boat ramp, where they met Guntersville Fire and Rescue personnel. Victim was stabilized and transported to the Level 1 Trauma Center at Huntsville Hospital.


BARDID: AL-2018-0045
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Pell City
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/26/18 between 11:17 and 11:30p.m., the operator of V2 left a pier located at Powell''s Campground in reverse and backed into V1, which was tied to the neighboring pier on the port side.  The port stern pontoon of V2 made contact with V1 on the starboard side causing a dent to the starboard side pontoon and railing.  From this point of collision, V1 was pushed into the pier it was tied to resulting in damage to the port side pontoon as well.  Once turned around, V2 attempted to leave the slough, but struck one other pier and came to rest on a third pier after running over a wooden post.  The operator of V2 was prevented by witnesses from leaving the scene by boat, but was transported by vehicle to her residence and was not on scene.  The owner of V1 was also not at home. No injuries and no other damage was reported by the secondary property owners.

On 5/27/18, contact was made with the operator of V2 and with the owner of V1 and witness statements taken.  The listed property damage estimate is only to meet the requirement for a report and may not be a true reflection of the damage done to V1 that can be attributed to the collision.


BARDID: AL-2018-0046
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Florence
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 8, 2018at around 1100, I, Trooper, received a call of a vessel accident on Pickwick Lake at Sunset Beach. The accident occurred around 1045. The accident involved one vessel striking a fixed object. The vessel is a 2016 Yamaha Waverunner, red in color. Sitting in front of Operator was his grandson, Victim, age 5. 

Operator stated he was backing out of the dock and looking backwards. Operator stated that Victim shifted the vessel into forward, causing the vessel to go forward and strike the dock. This caused both occupants, who were wearing flotation devices, to be ejected. Both occupants were able to get out of the water onto the dock. 

Operator was evaluated by Shoals Ambulance on scene and it was determined he did not have any injuries. Victim was transferred to Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital and evaluated. Victim had small lacerations to his right eye and right arm. Victim was later released with just those injuries.

The damage to the vessel includes scrapes to the front top and the port side mirror is busted. The estimated damage is $500.00. There was no damage to the dock.

Nothing further to report at this time.


BARDID: AL-2018-0047
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 12 August, 2018 at approximately 1720 hours operator was operating a PWC westbound in the Intracoastal Waterway in the vicinity of Ono Island.  Two people were both on another PWC operated by Subject riding together with Operator on that day.  Subject advised they were racing back to Boggy Point boat launch from Ft McRee (FL) where they had ridden to earlier.  Subject advised he looked back and saw Operator had fallen off of his PWC.  They turned around to respond to his location and found Operator face down in the water.  
Subject advised he got off his PWC and turned Operator face up and wedged his body under Operator to assist in keeping Operator''s face up.  Other boats in the area responded to the scene as well to assist with Operator. A pontoon vessel was reported on scene to assist, but no information was gathered from them.  Two people assisted and were the ones that pulled Operator onto their transom and transported him to OBFD medics.  He was placed on a backboard and transported by ambulance to the Ono Island Community Center where he was transferred to Air Care 1 air ambulance which transported the subject to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola.  The PWC was operated back to Boggy Point ramp and placed onto it''s trailer, so no mechanical faults were noted.

There is no definitive reason why Operator fell off / was ejected from his PWC.  Both watercraft were moving at a high rate of speed, in excess of 50 mph. It took several minutes for the rescuers to get Operator on to a vessel to be transported to the nearest pier.  It also took some time for first responders to locate the incident as they were given vague directions in the beginning until further callers could identify the location.


BARDID: AL-2018-0048
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay La Launch
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On date and time listed I arrived on scene at Barber Marina C Dock slip to find one "White Eagle" with smoke coming from the aft door.  The marina staff had already started firefighting proceedures.  The OBFD fire boat along with the Perdido Beach VFD, Josehine VFD, and Elberta VFD all arrived very soon thereafter and extinguished the fire.  The vessel was hoisted out of the water and placed in the yard for inspection and repair.  Initial inspection shows the fire origionated at the helm and most likely electrical in nature.


BARDID: AL-2018-0049
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Dadeville
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V#2 was traveling above idle speed but below plane speed in Blue Creek around the Still Waters area. V#1 was also in the same area of Blue Creek. Operator of V#1 got up on plane and attempted to spray the occupants of V#2. 

V#2 made a right turn in an attept to avoid a collison but was struck by V#1 on the right side of the personal watercraft. The operator of V#1 struck V#2 and its occupants with the left side of his personal watercraft. 

After the collison, the operator of V#1 left the scene without rendering assistance or providing any personal information. This narrative is based soley off of witness statements.


BARDID: AL-2018-0050
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Demopolis
NearestCityorTown: Demopolis
County: Marengo
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel owner stated that on 10/13/18 at about 2:45 AM, she and subject1 were sleeping, onboard, the listed vessel, (DL 3008 AL, 1977 Marine Traveler), when they were awakened by the sound of the smoke alarm. Owner stated that the vessel was anchored just inside of French Creek, which is just off of the Black Warrior River in Marengo Co. Alabama. Owner stated that she grabbed a handful of items and that she and Subject1 exited the vessel and climbed on board a small dinghy and paddled away. Owner contacted Marengo Co. 911, who in turn contacted Marine Patrol Trooper (Reporting Officer). Trooper responded and found both occupants in the dinghy, holding onto a No Wake Zone Buoy, which was about 40 yards away from the burning vessel. Trooper observed the vessel fully engulfed in flames. Trooper assisted owner and Subject1 in getting into his patrol boat and pulling the small dinghy onboard. Trooper transported both occupants to the Demopolis Yacht Basin (Kingfisher Bay Marina). Trooper returned to the scene of the vessel fire and remained there until the vessel fire was completely extinguished. There was concern about the fire contacting the wooded shoreline, which was about 10 feet away. At approximately 6:00 AM, the fire burned out. The vessel sank in the shallow water, with little of the vessel remaining visible. It was noted that neither Owner nor Subject1 were injured and that Subject1 stated that the fire appeared to have started behind a wall, which contained electrical connections.    Note: Owner and subject1 are both Australian Citizens.


BARDID: AL-2018-0051
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Eclectic
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was travelling westbound in Tallassee Slough. V2 was travelling eastbound in Tallassee Slough. Both vessels were in close proximity heading toward each other. V2 struck V1 while travelling eastbound in Tallassee Slough. Operator of V1 stated that he made a hard right turn in front of V2. Operator of V2 stated he attempted to make a right turn to avoid V1, but was unable to avoid contact with V1. It is this officer''s opinion that V1 failed to yield to V2 turning in front of him and causing the accident.


BARDID: AL-2018-0052
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Raft River
NearestCityorTown: Spanish Fort
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling Northeast in the Raft River.  The operator  was reaching under the center console compartment while the vessel was traveling.  As the operator stood up, the vessel struck a tree on the bank of the river.  The vessel came to a stop after striking the tree.  The operator was ejected off of the port side of the vessel and the passenger was thrown into the center console.  Passenger fell into the water after climbing off of the center console.  The emergency cutoff switch, attached to the operator, killed the engine as the operator was ejected.  The passenger was placed on a back board and transported to Springhill Memorial Hospital in Mobile.


BARDID: AL-2018-0053
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: Selma, AL
County: Dallas
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 13, 2018 at 4:10 pm, I was notified of a boat fire which occurred on the Alabama River approximately 20 miles North of the Selma City Landing in rural Dallas County, AL.  At 5:40 pm I reached the owner of the vessel via telephone.  Subject informed me that at approximately 11:00 am on October 13, 2018 he was jumping off the battery on his Triton 150 bass boat (V1), from his trolling motor battery.  He mentioned he had to jump the battery on his vessel (V1) several times previously that morning.  At this particular instance, he noted after he jumped the battery, he stowed the jumper cables in the rear of the Triton 150 (V1), inside the stern''s storage area.  He then stated he manuevered V1 onto plane and noted smoke coming from under the driver''s console.  He then stated he went back to the stern and opened the compartment where the cables were stowed and noted flames coming from the compartment.  He also stated that subject2 was wearing a PFD during the incident.  He left V1 at the scene where it burned to the water line and sunk.


BARDID: AL-2018-0054
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee / Harris Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 17, 2018,  I received a call from Randolph County 911 about a 2 vessel crash on Lake Wedowee/R.L. Harris.  Randolph County Sheriffs Office took the initial call and I followed up and worked the wreck.  Driver of Vessel 1, was arrested by Randolph County Deputy for BUI.

Operator2 stated that he and subject were heading back to Lakeside Campground from Piney Woods Campground.  He stated that subject asked him did he hear something.  He then stated that subject yelled out that the boat behind them was fixing to hit them. He stated that he then pushed the throttle all the way down in the forward gear, but it was too late.  Vessel 1 then struck his vessel from the stern and drove over the top of his vessel.  

Vessel 1 hit vessel 2 in the stern/starboard side and drove over the vessel to the bow/port.  There weren''t any reported injuries.  Subject sustained several scratches due to her lying on top of the shattered glass. She denied medical attention.


BARDID: AL-2018-0055
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wedowee / Harris Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday August 18, 2018, I received a call from Randolph County 911 about a possible drowning at Crescent Crest Boat Ramp.  Dispatch told me that the person was still underwater and the other occupants of the vessel were searching for him.  Randolph County 911 reported to me that it was a 35 year old white male that was missing in the water.

The witnesses stated that as they were pulling in to dock Victim got up and was going to jump to the dock to help catch the boat.  It was raining and as he attempted to jump he slipped and hit his face on the side of the dock.  One of the witnesses stated that it appeared to have knocked him out.  He then went under the water.  Other people that were on the boat immediately jumped in to try and save him.  

Victim was under water for approximately 10 minutes.  As he was pulled from the water and placed on the dock Randolph County Sheriffs Deputy was arriving on scene.  Deputy quickly started performing chest compressions on victim.  Medics arrived on scene and took over.  Victim was then transported to Tanner of Wedowee.  He was later taken to UAB in Birmingham were he passed away the next morning.


BARDID: AL-2018-0056
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-11-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: Coffeville
County: Choctaw
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
The owner of vessel #2 stated that on 11/29/18, he and his fiance were hunting on the Choctaw Wildlife Refuge on the Tombigbee River. V2 owner stated that he tied his vessel, a J14 Carolina Skiff, to a tree on the West bank. V2 owner stated that as he walked into the woods he heard a boat coming down the river. V2 owner stated that he ran back toward the river to see a large yacht travelling South. He stated that he could make out the word "Rose" on the vessel. V2 owner stated that he walked on into the woods to hunt. V2 owner stated that he returned to his vessel just about dark, approximately 5:15 PM and discovered that it had been swamped. 

V2 owner stated that he called a friend who came and picked him and his fiance up. V2 owner stated that friend transported them back to Bobby''s Fish Camp, where they observed a large yacht bareing the name " Compass Rose" tied up to the dock. V2 owner stated that he met with the owner of the "Compass Rose" (Vessel #1 on report).  V1 owner stated that during his voyage South on the Tombigbee River he did not see V2 owner''s vessel (vessel #2). V1 owner stated that he contacted his insurance company ref. the allegation and they requested a report be made. V2 owner stated that the only other vessel that he noted on the river that evening was a tow boat travelling North. I checked with Coffeeville Lock and Dam to verify about the traffic on the river that evening and verified that there was only one tow boat in the area at the time in Question.V2 owner did tell me that he didn''t actually see his boat get swamped but felt positive it had to have been done by (vessel #1) the Compass Rose.


BARDID: AL-2018-0057
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-12-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bon Secour River
NearestCityorTown: Bon Secour
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1(V1) was traveling North on Bon Secour River.  The vessel operator stated that as they were underway the vessel began to take on water and quickly began to sink before it eventually capsized.  

Two of the three occupants were able to put on a PFD as the vessel sank and capsized.  Occupant1 stated that vessel occupant, Occupant2, removed his own PFD and gave it to him(Occupant1).  Both, Operator and Occupant1 were able to swim to shore where they were assisted by a witness.  Occupant2 was unable to safely swim to shore and ultimately drowned.


Occupant2''s body and the vessel were recovered by Bon Secour Fire Department.  After a thorough inspection of the vessel''s hull, there appeared to be numerous holes in the hull, most of which were sealed with silicone.  The defects in the hull appeared to have contributed to the failure of the hull and the sinking of the vessel.  Occupant1 was extremely distressed after the accident and was unable to communicate effectively for more than a few moments due to the given circumstances.


BARDID: AL-2018-0058
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Pell City
County: Talladega
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I was dispatched to the crash scene on 08/04/2018. I arrived and observed a pier that was deatached from its foundation and the outline of a boat hull on the side of the pier. The owner stated that her neighbors said they heard someone screaming after a loud bang at about 03:45 in the morning. The owner stated later that she saw that the pier had been hit and torn up. The owner stated that she did not know what happened and had not been contacted by anyone at all about them having wrecked their boat on her pier.


BARDID: AL-2018-0059
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Huntsville
County: Madison
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling west bound down river, on Wheeler Lake. Driver 1 stated, he was traveling directly into the sun and was unable to see directly in front of his vessel. Driver 1 says since he was unable to see directly in front he began to look to the side to see if he could locate a channel marker bouy. After he was unable to see because of the blinding sun he then began to look at his navigational display on the dash. During this time that Driver 1 was attempting to regain his course, vessel 1 drifted off course and towards a large boulder at the bottom of a solid rock bluff.

 Vessel 1 struck a large boulder with the starboard (right) front side at area of impact. After impact Driver 1 was uncertain if the hull of the vessel had been compromised and was uncertain if it was taking on enough water to sink. Driver 1 then steered Vessel 1 left toward the south bank and intentionally ran Vessel 1 aground. Both of the uninjured passengers listed were not on scene at the time of State Troopers arrival.  J''s Landing from Muscle Shoals was contacted by the vessel owner (Driver 1). J''s Landing arrived on scene and took charge of the vessel recovery. Driver 1 also stated that he has attended the US Coast Guard Captains course for educational purposes but never received certification.


BARDID: AL-2018-0060
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: TALLADEGA
County: TALLADEGA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Driver was on plane headed southeast into a slew on the Talladega side by Merkl Island. The slew is in the Country Club Estates subdivision. While on plane the driver struck a fixed pier that caused the vessel to lift across the pier, overturn and sink. Both the driver and passengers were ejected from the vessel. 
Operator was traveling too fast for the weather condition (rain & fog). He had very little experience operating this vessel. It belonged to owner and he was borrowing it to fish. There were no reported injuries.


BARDID: AL-2018-0061
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Ohatchee
County: Calhoun
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator was fishing by Neeley Henry Dam. When his boat began getting close to the dam he tried to move away but his engine would not start. 

The water then began coming over the sides of the boat so the complainant jumped to a wall for safety and stayed there until help arrived. The passenger jumped out of the boat and after it overturned he held onto the hull until another boat came and pulled him out of the water. 

Both the operator and passenger were wearing PFD''s at the time of the capsizing and were still wearing them when they were rescued. Bucks Island Marina then recovered the boat and the complainant was brought back to his vehicle.


BARDID: AL-2018-0062
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-11-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: DECATUR
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel # 1 was in the Swan Creek Management area and attempting to enter the main channel of Wheeler Lake. Vessel # 1 encountered high winds and large waves and had stopped to attempt to manually pump the water out of Vessel # 1. Vessel # 1 was unable to pump enough water out and sank due to the low gunnels of the boat and rough weather conditions.


BARDID: AL-2018-0063
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-12-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Florence
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that he was traveling downstream from Wilson Dam just upriver from the Hwy. 157 Bridge.  He was operating at just above an idle speed, lined up to avoid the bridge pylons, when the engine stopped, possibly from lack of fuel.  As he was trying to switch to the other fuel tank, the vessel turned so that the starboard side struck the bridge pylon.  The vessel began taking on water due to the strong current and the vessel capsized. 

 All three persons entered the water wearing their PFD''s and were picked up by 2 other vessels that were in the area.  The vessel was recovered downriver by the Florence Fire Dept. vessel and towed to the McFarland Park Boat Ramp and loaded on its trailer.  The operator and passengers were transported by personal vehicles to the North Alabama Medical Center Hospital.  Statements were collected from the individuals at the hospital prior to them being checked out by medical personnel for exposure concerns.  No injuries were reported at this time.


BARDID: AL-2018-0064
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Delta
NearestCityorTown: SARALAND
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the facts that were presented to me, on 8/26/2018 approximately 1730 Operator was heading North on Bayou Sara returning to the boat launch. He hit a wave causing him to lose control of his boat and sent him into the woods. There were no injuries and the boat was pulled off and he then returned to the launch.


BARDID: AL-2018-0065
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Sara
NearestCityorTown: SATSUMA
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
BASED ON THE FACTS THAT WERE GIVEN TO ME. ON 9-18-2018 operator WAS RUNNING NORTH ON BAYOU SARA CREEK AROUND 6:30 PM. AS HE APPROACHED A CURB IN THE CREEK HE DROPPED HIS PHONE. HE WAS REACHING FOR HIS PHONE AND TOOK HIS EYES OFF OF HIS COURSE. HE THEN STRUCK a BULKHEAD AND RUN HIS BOAT ONTO THE BANK. Operator's ANKLE WAS BROKEN SO HE CALLED 911. A AMBULANCE WAS SENT TO THE SCENE AND TOOK HIM TO USA MEDICAL CENTER.


BARDID: AL-2018-0066
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DAUPHIN ISLAND BAY
NearestCityorTown: DAUPHIN ISLAND
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the facts that were presented to me, on 6-30-2018 subject and some friends went fishing about 20 miles off shore in the Gulf of Mexico. While on the way back to port he noticed the smell of smoke. He then turned off everything that was not needed on the way home. When he got to Dauphin Island Bay the boat caught fire. Everybody on board was given a pfd and was helped off the boat onto other fishing boats assisting with the rescue. He notified Coast Guard and emergency personnel was dispatched.


BARDID: AL-2018-1000
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tensaw
NearestCityorTown: Stockton
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on statements taken from the surviving victims and evidence examined at the scene, the following events occurred on 3/31/18 at approximately 10:45 am.  Vessel1 was traveling north on the Tensaw River.  As Vessel1 approached the mouth of Mifflin Lake, Vessel2 turned hard to port cutting across the bow of Vessel1.  Vessel1 struck Vessel2 on the starboard side near mishap at the operator’s station.  Operator2 was struck on the rid hip and upper thigh of his right leg by the bow section of Vessel1.  All occupants of both vessels were ejected upon impact.  All were wearing PFDs at the time of the collision.  Vessel1’s emergency shut off switch did not work properly when the operator was ejected so Vessel1 continued circling and drifted down river.  Operator1 was assisted back to his vessel by a passing boat where he took control.  Vessel2 drifted downstream until a passing bow towed it back to show.  Operator2 and an occupant were taken ashore by a passing vessel and then transported to Live Oak Landing by local fire/rescue personnel and paramedics.


BARDID: AL-2018-1001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: McIntosh
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 9pm, Vessel1 was traveling north on the Tombigbee River.  Vessel1 then hit a floating log where the operator was ejected from the vessel.  The vessel then turned to starboard until it was heading south.  It then hit the east bank injuring the passenger.  The passenger called 911 and emergency agencies responded.  The operator was recovered deceased and the passenger was taken to the hospital for injuries.


BARDID: AL-2019-0001
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-01-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Jasper
County: Walker
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Received a call from Walker 911 of a boater that was located at the Duskin Point Boat Launch showing signs of hypothermia.  Trooper and Lt. responded to the location. When we arrived on scene the victim was inside of the ambulance being treated.  According to the witness, the victim was leaned up beside his truck trying to get off his wet coveralls and showing signs of hypothermia and incoherent.  The victim''s truck and trailer was backed into the water, like he was trying to retrieve or launch his boat.  The victims vessel had blown against the adjacent dock as shown in the diagram.  The victim was transported to the Walker Baptist Hospital, where he later was pronounced deceased.  Victim''s truck, trailer and boat were turned over to the victims nephew.


BARDID: AL-2019-0002
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-02-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:55:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Decatur
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 2 February 2019, Subject1 and his grandson were boating on Wheeler Lake. Once passing under the Southern Rail Road Bridge, he looked left toward the south bank and saw a boat floating unoccupied. The boat was under the front bow of a moored barge, near the Port of Decatur, at mile marker 304.4. He approached the boat and noticed the trolling motor was in the down position. At 1355 hours, he called 911 Decatur Central Dispatch and reported what he saw. The Morgan County Rescue Squad was paged out with Decatur Fire and Rescue to the scene. As soon as they came out of the boat house and entered the river channel, they spotted a male body floating face down in the water, without a life jacket on, near mile marker 303.6. The body was recovered and identified by the Morgan County Coroner. 

Decatur PD dispatched a unit to Victim''s address and made contact with a neighbor who gave them Victim''s next of kin information. The next of kin, a sister, was then notified by the Morgan County Coroner. The neighbor also reported that Victim was going through cancer treatments and was thought to be weak physically. Both the truck and boat were recovered by Ted''s Towing Service and secured at their lot in Moulton, Alabama. There are no witnesses to the accident. 

There were no transfer marks indicating a collision, only rust "rub" marks from the boat coming to a rest alongside the moored barge. His next of kin stated he was not a good swimmer and most likely would not have been able to re-board the vessel on his own. He was not wearing a life jacket; however, one Type III jacket was found at the drivers station with the kill switch still attached. The water temperature at the time of the accident was 44 degrees and a strong current, 1.3 miles per hour, was also present. An autopsy and toxicology report were requested through the Morgan County DA and was conducted on Monday 4 February. Cause of death was determined to be drowning, with cold water immersion and Victim''s physical weakness as contributors. Strong river currents also contributed. Results of the toxicology report were negative.


BARDID: AL-2019-0003
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-02-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Decatur
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unfamiliar with area
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
In January 2019, operator purchased a boat for the first time in his life. Shortly after making the purchase, he then took an online course to obtain his boating license. On 2 February 2019, he took the boat out with his family and a friend to Wheeler Lake. The trip was his first time boating on Wheeler Lake, a flood control lake that loses five to six foot of water during the winter months.  At approximately 1506hrs, while traveling near Finley Island, the boat struck a submerged object on the river bottom. The boat was traveling at approximately thirty miles per hour when it hit the object, breaking the outdrive apart from the transom. The boat struck the object at a location near Finley Island, a submerged island that has three different channels (primary, secondary, and alternate) for navigating around. A new boater to this area could become quickly confused to the location of the channel and wander into shallow water.  Contributing factors to this accident are operator inexperience and a lack of area lake familiarization. A friend estimated the repair cost near $1900.00 and higher.


BARDID: AL-2019-0004
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Warrior River
NearestCityorTown: Akron
County: Hale
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
The victim stated that at about 5:45 PM on 03/05/2019, he was traveling South on the Black Warrior River just below Martin Slough, when his vessel was struck by several large waves. Subject stated that the waves caused his vessel to swamp, then capsize. Subject stated that he was able to put his personal flotation device on and climb on top of the capsized vessel. He stated that he began to yell for help as he floated down the river. 

After a period of time, subject1 was able to come to his aid. Subject was transported to the Lock 8 boat launch, where he was met by the Hale Co. EMS and transported to the Druid City Hospital in Tuscaloosa, for treatment for hypothermia. Subject was treated and released from Druid City Hospital. Subject''s vessel was recovered 6 days later near Lock 6, approximately 30 miles South of the accident location. Trooper(s) responded to the accident and interviewed Subject as he was being treated at DCH. It was noted that Subject was in a small vessel, in high / swift waters, which possibly contributed to the accident. It was noted that Subject was wearing insulated hunting waders at the time of the accident, which possibly assisted him in staying warm in the cold waters.


BARDID: AL-2019-0005
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Scottsboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 left the main river channel and traveled south towards the Comer Boat Ramp. The driver of Vessel 1 rapidly decelerated the boat.  The rapid deceleration caused a large wake that swamped the rear of Vessel 1.   Vessel 1 capsized near the shore of AL-35.  The driver dove into the water and swam to safety.   Jackson County Rescue Squad, Highland''s Ambulance, Tow Boat US and Scottsboro Fire Dept responded to assit with the rescue if needed. 

He stated that he had been fishing for approximately 5-6 hours and that he had not had any problems prior to the boat capsizing. He stated that he  decelerated to keep from causing wake near the boat ramp and that he was unsure why the boat sank. 

Tow Boat US responded to the scene and coordinated with Precision Wrecker Service to remove the boat from the water and load it on the trailer.


BARDID: AL-2019-0006
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neeley Henry
NearestCityorTown: Ashville
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
This investigation is based on statements given and evidence which was gathered.  On 4/11/2019 at 8:05 pm,  I was contacted by Jacksonville Trooper Post about a missing boater in Greensport (Beaver Creek) on Neely Henry Lake.  I was given the name of the person who called in the complaint.  

     Subject1 stated that there was a boat out in the Greensport Slough (Beaver Creek) and it was unoccupied.  Deputy arrived to speak with Subject1 and also confirmed the boat appeared to be empty.  Dep. got a boat ride out to the unoccupied boat and tied it to the southern shoreline of Beaver Creek.  I spoke with Dep. on the phone and was given all this information from him. I notified Lt. and Sgt. of the missing boater and got enroute to the scene.  While on my way to the State Patrol vessel I had ALEA aviation activated and enroute for a FLIR search. 

     I arrived in the area of Canoe Creek and started shoreline search at approximately 10:30 pm.  I surfaced/shoreline searched from Canoe Creek to Beaver Creek.  I then went to the scene where the unoccupied vessel was tied up.  The following are agencies which were onscene also searching.  They are Rainbow City Fire/Rescue, St. Clair Co Sheriff''s, Etowah Co Sheriff''s, Riverside Rescue, and  Alea Marine Patrol/Aviation.

     I went to the unoccupied vessel and conducted an soft inspection.  I discovered a clean and well kept vessel.  St. Clair Dispatch spoke with Victim''s wife.  She confirmed he was on Neely Henry Lake on a fishing trip.  She also stated he was alone fishing and staying at the Gadsden Motor Inn.   In the center deck compartment I found a bottle of Wild Turkey liquor.  I also found 3 unopened beers.  I also found a plastic flask which was empty.  It also did have the remains of Wild Turkey liquor.  I had St. Clair Deputies move the vessel from the southern shoreline to Greensport Marina.

     We continued the aerial search until the Helicopter had to leave due to low fuel.  We also continued the surface and sonar searches.  St. Clair Co Sheriff''s remained on station all night.  At 8:00 am on 4/12/2019 the recovery crews meet up at Greensport Marina and restarted the recovery operations.  At. 10:30 am Rainbow City Fire/Rescue recovered Victim from the river bottom.  Victim was placed in a body bag and transported to the northern shoreline and handed over to the St. Clair Co. Coroner Office.  

     The details of the accident are not very precise due to no witnesses.  It is believed that Victim fell off his vessel for an unknown reason.  Victim then was unable to recover from this fall and subsequently appears to have drowned.  The State Forensic Lab will conduct an autopsy and also do a Toxicology Analysis on Victim.  The results of that medical examination will be available at a later date.


BARDID: AL-2019-0009
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: North Elk River
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bellow Seal/Gasket failure.
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
O4/3/19 at approx. 3:00pm, operator/vessel owner and passenger/witness were in S1''s vessel(V1) at idle speed in Elk River near the entrance into Wheeler Lake.  They noticed V1 started taking on water around the rubber seal/gasket (Bellow) where the outdrive goes through the back of the boat hull(stern of vessel).  

They called a friend to try and tow the vessel back to the Lehigh boat ramp near Highway 72 in Elk River, but V1 continued to take on water and the back of the vessel eventually sunk to the bottom and left approx. 1 foot of the front of the boat(bow of vessel) sticking out of the water.  S1 called Lauderdale County 911 to report the incident after they got a ride back to Lehigh boat ramp at 5:39 pm. Trooper  contacted S1 at approx. 6:00pm.  No injuries reported by either S1 or S2.  Tow Bow U.S. was contracted to raise the vessel and tow it back to Lehigh ramp to put on the boat trailer. This was done on 04/04/2019 at approx. 630pm.  Damage estimate was made by S1.


BARDID: AL-2019-0010
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Eufaula
NearestCityorTown: Eufaula
County: Barbour
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday March 29, 2019 at approximately 11:00am V1 was travelling on a northerly course in Cowikee Creek toward Lake Point State Park. P1 was the operator of V1 and P2 was the passenger. V1''s steering system is a stick steer style system. P1 took his hand off to wave at a nearby boat. When P1 removed his hand from the steering system it caused the boat to violently jerk to port, causing P1 to lose his balance and fall overboard. The sudden change of direction and static forces that affect stability,P1 falling overboard, caused P2 to also fall overboard. 
When P1 fell overboard, V1 continued to turn to port which caused V1''s propeller to strike P1''s right leg causing major lacerations that required immediate medical care. The thrashing of the waves caused by V1''s maneuvers caused water to breach V1''s gunwale causing it to capsize and sink. P2 was uninjured. The nearby boater that P1 was waving to, saw the incident and assisted by pulling P1 from the water and applying pressure to the wounds while transporting P1 to the dock at Lake Point State Park. There they were met by Eufaula Fire and Rescue and immediately transported to Southeast Health in Dothan Alabama to receive care for P1''s injuries. It is this officer''s opinion that a momentary lapse in judgement of P1 removing his hand from the steering system caused these events.


BARDID: AL-2019-0011
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Rogersville
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he was traveling north from his launch point of the First Creek Boat Ramp at Joe Wheeler State Park bowfishing with two additional passengers.  Water came over the front of the boat, and caused it to swamp and capsize.  All three persons entered the water, and were rescued and taken back to the boat ramp.  Rogersville Fire Dept. Personnel were able to tow the vessel back to the ramp, and we were able to right the vessel and put it on trailer.  The vessel had aftermarket additional lights and a metal platform on the bow area, and this additional weight may have allowed the water to enter the boat.


BARDID: AL-2019-0013
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fish River
NearestCityorTown: Fairhope
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1(V1) was traveling southwest on Fish River.  V1''s operator stated that as he was negotiating a curve to the right, he was attempting to avoid a dock by traveling further to left and did not notice a construction vessel(V2) that was to his left.  

Operator went on to state that as he continued to maneuver to the left, his son, that was tubing behind his vessel, swung too wide and struck the engine of the construction vessel.  Operator went on to state that V2 was in the middle of the river which is why his son struck the vessel and he was unable to avoid the collision.  A witness stated that V2 was well out of the path of any vessel traffic and that V1 had traveled through the area multiple times that day, and was aware of the construction crew''s presence. 

As the result of careless operation and inattention, V1''s tuber struck the engine of V2.  V1''s tuber sustained a broken leg and lacerations as a result of the accident.  V1 was also properly equipped with a mirror to observe the tuber in tow.  V2 did not sustain any damage.  Operator went on to state that he did not initially notify the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency due to emergency circumstances at the time of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2019-0015
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Courtland
County: Lawrence
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/19/19 at approx. 7:15am., operator/owner (S1) and passenger/witness (S2) were in S1''s vessel, a 1984 17'' Lazser bass boat(V1), fishing in a bass tournament on Wheeler Lake.  Approx. 1/4 mile east of the mouth to Spring Creek and near the shoreline, the boat engine stopped running.  

V1 started to take water over the bow(front) and engine due to high waves, wind, and current.  The vessel swamped and eventually sunk near the shoreline(see uploaded photos).  S1 called Lauderdale 911 to report the incident.  S1 and S2 were picked up on the shoreline by the Rogersville Rescue Squad and transported to Barnett''s Landing boat ramp in Rogersville.  Trooper  met S1 and S2 at the boat ramp at approx. 815am.  No injuries were reported by S1 or S2.  Trooper transported S1 and S2 in his patrol boat back to the scene to attempt to recover any gear and to try and tie a line to V1.  Strong waves, wind, current, and debris made the attempt unsafe then and again on 4/20/19.  Vessel was recovered and put on boat trailer at the Spring Creek boat ramp on 4/27/19.  A split in the center of the hull was discovered at this time.  Damage estimate was made by S1.


BARDID: AL-2019-0016
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling north bound on the Tennessee, it was sunny and the weather was clear. V-1 was traveling between an island known as Shell Island and the shore of the Marshall County Camp Ground. It was approximately 500 yards between the Island and the shore. 

V-1 operator stated that he was towing 2 people on an innertube behind his boat. Driver 1 also says that he was making circles and sharp turns to the left and right trying to throw both individuals off the inner tube. 

Driver 1 says he was the only person in the boat at the time and he had no observer on board. It was also observed that V-1 was not equipped with a rearview mirror designed to observe skiers or anything behind V-1. Driver 1 and Driver 2 both stated there were other vessels and swimmers in the area at the time. 
Driver 1 stated that one of the occupants on the innertube fell off of the innertube. Due to not having an observer on the boat Driver 1 did not observe this immediately. Driver 1 says all he saw was Driver 2 jumping in the water to retrieve Tuber1 from the water. V-2 was also traveling north bound on the Tennessee River. Driver 2 state that he was trailing the wake of another vessel that was behind and to the side of V-1. Driver 2 says that he saw Tuber1 fall from the innertube but due to the tumultuous waters caused by the wake of  V-1 and other vessels he was unable to see Tuber1''s location in the water. Driver 2 says at the last moment he realized he was heading directly for Tuber1 and he attempted to reverse V-2 and steer to the right to avoid a collision. 

V-2 struck Tuber1 in the head with the front left side of V-2. Driver 2 says he then jumped in the water and retrieved Tuber1 who was unconscious at the time from the water. It was determined at the crash scene Driver 1 was under the influence at the time of the crash and was placed under arrest for B.U.I. (see arrest report).


BARDID: AL-2019-0017
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessels 1 and 2 were attempting to load onto their trailers at the Guntersville State Park Pavillion Boat Ramp. The weather was clear but there was a moderate breeze blowing in a northerly direction. Vessel 2 was tied to the left pier on the left side of the boat ramp waiting for a trailer. 

Vessel 1 was traveling in a easterly direction entering the ramp area and attempting to load in the center of the ramp. The wind began to blow and blew vessel 1 to the left side of the ramp. Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 in the right Starbord side with left Port side at area of impact.


BARDID: AL-2019-0018
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling east in the Intercoastal Waterway near the 72-mile marker.  Vessel 1 struck the channel marker pole.  The pole split the front of Vessel 1 going approximately 3 feet into the hull.  The operator impacted the center console windshield and support bar.  The impact cracked the base of the center console as well.  Officer with Orange Beach PD was the first on scene and observed the operator in the water holding the side of Vessel 1.  The operator was visible injured and convinced to be transported to South Baldwin Hospital.  During Officer interaction with the operator the operator stated he was looking at his cell phone prior to the crash.  It was stated he was using the GPS and when he looked up the crash occurred.  It was also reviled he was at the Warf before the crash and had consumed alcoholic beverages prior to operating the vessel.  When I arrived on scene the operator was 2 hours removed from the crash.  I observed the crash and took photographs of the scene.  I then pulled the boat to Barbers Marina and tied it up to clear the channel.


BARDID: AL-2019-0021
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Crow Creek
NearestCityorTown: Stevenson
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Starting in gear
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 16, 2019 I was notified by the Jackson County Sheriff''s Office of a boat accident in Stevenson in Jackson County AL (on Crow Creek). I was advised that a boat had capsized and threw three occupants out of the boat. Two were able to swim to shore but one was still missing. As Trooper and I arrived the missing occupant, which turned out to be the driver was located by rescue squad personal. After speaking with the other two occupants it was determined that the boat was in gear at the time the operator tried to start the boat. Due to that, the back of the boat swamped causing it to flip over. The boat was flipped back over up right and pulled back to the boat ramp by the rescue squad prior to my arrival. The boat was towed by Independent Wrecker Service and stored at their impound lot.
The fields shown in the diagram are flooded at this time due to heavy rain the past couple of months.


BARDID: AL-2019-0022
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake- Flint Creek
NearestCityorTown: Decatur
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Electrocution
AccidentEvent3: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24th, 2019, operator and three members of his family traveled from Lake Guntersville to Wheeler Lake on their sail boat. The sailboat was under power, with all sails in the down position. They entered Flint Creek from the main river channel and began traveling upstream to look for a place to anchor for the Alabama Jubilee and Hot Air Balloon Festival/Fireworks Show at Point Mallard. 

Around 1450 hours, they successfully passed under the power lines that stretch across the creek near Point Mallard. Not finding a suitable place to anchor for the weekend, they decided to move back out into the creek and look for another spot to anchor.  At approximately 1500 hours, as they entered the creek channel and traveled back under the power lines for a second time, the mast of the sail boat contacted the lines near the low sag point, bouncing/throwing the boat backwards. 

All passengers on board were electrocuted, and the son was knocked unconscious and thrown to the floor. At the same time, the cabin of the boat exploded into flames. As first aid was being conducted and attempts made to put out the fire, the boat struck the lines a second time, and bounced backwards again and began to lean sideways. 

The passengers wanted to then jump overboard, and Operator prevented them from doing so. Operator then placed the boat in reverse and backed away from the lines. He then beached the vessel near the Point Mallard shoreline and began seeking help. As he was placing his son in a kayak, a passing boater saw them, placed them in his boat, and took them ashore. As they were going ashore, I unknowingly drove up on the scene in a Marine Police Patrol Boat and saw the boat fire. Attempts to put out the fire using onboard fire extinguishers failed. 

The Decatur Fire Department was called, and the sailboat was pushed closer to the shoreline. Fire truck hoses could not reach the vessel and firemen were loaded onto the patrol boat with a water hose and were transported to the boat fire. The fire was then extinguished. All passengers on board were transported to Huntsville Hospital. Other boats in the area at the time of the accident reported feeling the shock of the power lines.  
Army Corps of Engineers map data list the power line elevation at the center of low sag as 594, with a pool stage clearance of 38 foot. The regulated high-water clearance is listed at 31 foot. The mast for the sailboat is listed at 39 foot-11 inches high, from the waterline. TVA recorded the lake elevation water level at the time of the accident at 555.9, leaving a clearance of 38.1 foot, making the mast 1.8 foot higher than the power line, closely matching line impact marks left on the mast.The overall estimated total damage of $26500.00 includes $3500.00 worth of contents that was onboard.


BARDID: AL-2019-0023
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:25:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Eclectic
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
This narrative outlining the sequence of events and above diagram is based solely on multiple officer observations at the scene and accident reconstruction methods. 

     Vessel #1 was traveling southbound on Lake Martin heading towards a bridge called "The Bridge to Nowhere". Vessel #2 was traveling northbound on Lake Martin and is believed to have just gone under and came out from "The Bridge to Nowhere". Vessel #1 and vessel #2 then collided almost head-on in the center of the channel.  As vessel #1''s bow impacted vessel #2''s bow, it caused vessel #2 to become depressed into the water. This depression allowed vessel #1 to start riding on top of vessel #2. Vessel #1''s bow impacted Vessel #2''s front starboard passenger area and its stern exited by the drivers station on the starboard side. After both vessels became completely disengaged, it is believed that vessel # 2 became disabled and stopped in the water. Vessel #1''s driver then drove over to the Ridge Marina and called for help.
     
     The driver of vessel # 2 was killed during the collision and the driver of vessel #1 suffered a severe head injury. The driver of vessel #1 was transported by ambulance to Baptist Medical Center South. The driver of vessel #2 was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was taken into custody by the Elmore County Coroner. Both drivers were the sole occupants of their vessels.
     The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency''s Marine Patrol Division is working with the Elmore County District Attorney on the investigation of this collison. A traffic homicide investigation packet will be completed in addition to this report.


BARDID: AL-2019-0024
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Mitchell
NearestCityorTown: Clanton
County: Chilton
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1745, May 25 2019, three people were traveling in Hatchet Creek.  The group was travelling back to their house located near the Lake Mitchell Marina on the 2008 Sea Doo (PWC).  The operator, hit a wake while travelling approximately 10 mph.  The rear passenger was ejected from the PWC without Operator''s knowledge.  The middle passenger alerted Operator that Victim was ejected. Between the time Operator was alerted of the ejection and able to maneuver the vessel in the opposite direction of travel toward Victim, Victim was struck by another vessel.  No occupant or operator witnessed the other vessel strike Victim.  Operator maneuvered the PWC to Victim and, with other occupant’s help, loaded victim onto the Sea Doo.  Occupant2 remained behind near the scene of the accident while Operator transported Victim to the Higgins Ferry Park Ramp.  At the ramp EMS crews provided aid and transportation to Baptist South, Montgomery, AL.  After conducting an interview with Operator, he believes a dark colored pontoon boat struck Victim.  However, Operator has stated he cannot positively state that for fact.  Occupant2 does not recall the vessel that struck Victim.  Victim is also unable to identify the vessel that struck him.


BARDID: AL-2019-0025
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cullman
County: Cullman
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 26th 2019  at  6:20 p.m. the Decatur Post  Radio Room advised the reporting Trooper of a one vessel crash involving a juvenile near Goat Island on Smith Lake in Cullman County. The reporting Troopers were less than a mile away from Goat Island and proceeded to the area to locate the crash. Shortly after receiving the call both Troopers observed a white ski boat floating in the channel off the east shoreline of Goat Island. Upon arriving on scene the reporting Trooper was able to identify the operator who was in the water with a juvenile who was visibly deceased. The other occupants of the vessel were also identified. The reporting Trooper determined that there were no more victims in the water, began to attempt to recover the operator and victim from the water, and began the investigation.  
Based on witness statements and evidence at the scene the reporting Trooper was able to determine that Vessel 1 was traveling south in the channel off the east shoreline of Goat Island towing a tube with three juveniles. As vessel 1 traveled south two of the three juveniles on the tube fell off in close succession. Vessel 1 made a left turn to go recover the two juveniles that had fallen off. According to statements made by the two juveniles that had fallen off, the victim either fell or jumped off the tube shortly before or as vessel 1 started its left turn. As vessel 1 started back north to recover the first two juveniles vessel 1 struck the victim who unknowingly to the operator or other occupant was in the water causing fatal injury to the victim.


BARDID: AL-2019-0026
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Shelby
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of Vessel 1 was riding too close to and possibly going to jump the wake of Vessel 2. Vessel 1 hit the stern of vessel 2 jumping over to the port side of Vessel 2. There were no personal injuries, only property damage.


BARDID: AL-2019-0027
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Madison
County: Madison
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 25 May 2019, Subject and Operator went to Wheeler Lake to ride Subject''s Personal Watercraft (PWC). Subject1, who was already at the lake, borrowed the PWC and rode it in and around the Talucah Beach area. Once he finished riding, he returned to the landing and gave the PWC to the victim, Operator. Subject1 then offered Operator the life jacket that he had been using while riding the PWC. Operator boarded the PWC and responded by saying “I''m a good swimmer and do not need the life jacket”. 

Around 1830 hours, witnesses reported seeing Operator making sharp turns and turning circles near the Triana shoreline, and then saw him fall off the PWC. 911 was then called. A passing boat spotted the PWC and noticed it was unoccupied and circling a body, without a life jacket on, lying face down in the water. They placed the person in their boat and began CPR, as they transported him to the Triana Boat Ramp, where an ambulance and medics were waiting. 

Operator was pronounced deceased on the way to the hospital. Operator was not wearing the emergency engine shut-off switch and was not licensed to operate a vessel. Medics reported Operator blood sugar level was extremely high. Just prior to arriving at the beach area, Subject1s went through a Higway Patrol Checkpoint, and was cited for "Driving on a Revoked License". No alcohol or other impairment was detected. Victim also reported that Operator had not consumed any alcohol that day. An autopsy and toxicology report were not requested.


BARDID: AL-2019-0028
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling north on Lake Martin past the Bridge to Nowhere. V-2 was disabled and floating north of the Bridge to Nowhere. V-1 struck V-2 in the left rear side of the boat with the right front side of his vessel. Driver of V-1 stated he did not see V-2 until it was too late to avoid collision. Driver stated once he recognized the vessel, he attempted to steer to the left, slow his speed, but could not prevent contact with V-2. Driver stated he turned around and pulled beside V-2. The driver and passengers began to shout "is anyone injured" and did not receive a response. 

A passenger on V-1 discovered a male victim laying in the boat unresponsive. Driver of V-1 stated after speaking to Law Enforcement and asked, he attached a tow line to the vessel and pulled it to The Ridge Marina. It is this officer''s opinion that V-2 was disabled from an earlier crash leaving the victim unresponsive. 

V-1 did not see V-2 as the boat was severely damaged and lights were inoperative. V-1 struck V-2 despite his attempts to avoid contact. This report was amended and changed at the request of Deputy Chief on June 28th 2019. The amended changes included listing the vessel 2 occupant as the operator. It is this officer''s opinion the operator/occupant was fatally injured after the first crash and was not in physical control of the vessel.


BARDID: AL-2019-0029
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was attempting to move a large floating platform from Water Front to Mill Creek.    Vessel 1 capsized shortly after entering into the main river channel from Water Front.   Vessel 1 capsized due to the poor weather conditions, large waves and being tied to the platform.   Vessel 1 became completely submerged but stayed tied to the large platform, which prevented  it from sinking.   The operator was able to exit the bass boat without injury.   

Tow Boat US was called by the owner of the platform to tow it and the bass boat into Mill Creek.


BARDID: AL-2019-0030
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Eclectic
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was a Jet Ski traveling south on Lake Martin towards Little Kowaliga Bay. V-1 struck a dock, exited the water, struck a pontoon boat on the boat lift, and ejected the operator and passenger. V-2 was a Pontoon Boat that was unoccupied. Driver of V-1 stated she was looking back behind her at another boat. Driver stated her passenger yelled at her to look out, she looked back forward, and saw the dock directly in front of her traveled path. Driver stated she attempted to steer away from the dock but could not avoid contact with the dock and boat despite her steering attempts.


BARDID: AL-2019-0031
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his passenger, his wife, were traveling upstream from the Tennessee River bridge (US Highway 431). Just south of estate he struck a navigational buoy. He stated he did not see the buoy because of the lack of visibility, due in large to the lack of moon illumination. He struck the green buoy with the bow of his bass boat; green paint transfer is evidenced on the under portion of the boat extending to the rear of the boat and its engine. After the crash the boat''s engine lost power. They utilized their trolling motor to limp their boat to Siebold boat launch ramp where they met the investigating state trooper.


BARDID: AL-2019-0040
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pickwick Lake
NearestCityorTown: Florence
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 6th, 2019, I, Trooper, received an email stating that operator  had a boating accident on May 24, 2019. He had reported the accident on a U.S. Coast Guard form and had sent that to the Marine Patrol Headquarters.

I called him and he stated that he had the accident on May 24, 2019. He stated he was traveling up river (South) and was turning East towards Lauderdale County at Mile Marker 240. He said he was turning past Koger Island and struck what he believed to be a rock under the water. There was damage to his port pontoon. He was able to make it home and there were no injuries involved in this accident. He had received a quote for the damage and said the damage to the propeller and pontoon totalled $14,000. There is nothing further to report at this time.


BARDID: AL-2019-0041
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cedar Bluff
County: Cherokee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling toward the Cobia Bridge from the old Good Year Campground. The operator of the vessel stated that as him and his family and friends were out on a joy ride that he was trying to stay away from on coming boat traffic and got too far to the right. V-1 struck the old concrete bridge column with the right pontoon of the boat. Victim was sitting in the front of the boat was ejected and struck the column with her head. She was removed out of the water by passengers of the boat and a passing boat. She was taken to the shore where she was transported by POV to Floyd Medical Center in Centre AL. V-1 then made its way back to the campground that it came from.


BARDID: AL-2019-0042
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alabama River
NearestCityorTown: Autaugaville
County: Autauga
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 1, 2019, approximately 7:30pm, ALEA Communications dispatch received an emergency call regarding an injured person on the Alabama River near Swift Creek in Autauga County. Victim was operating his vessel (AL2195PM), when he observed another vessel that appeared stranded/beached. Due to Victim being in an induced coma and unable to make a statement, witnesses provided an account of what transpired on that evening. 

Witnesses claimed Victim was operating the vessel at approximately five miles per hour when he dove head first from the vessel into the river to assist person(s) on another vessel. Witnesses state that the water level was approximately one and a half feet at the time Victim dove in the water. When Victim resurfaced, witnesses recall him stating he couldn’t' feel his legs. 

Subject1 immediately entered the water to assist victim. Subject1 along with other passengers on the vessel assisted Victim back onto the vessel. Subject1 stabilized Victim head to the best on his ability. 
Paramedics later determine Victim needed advance medical care and Lifeflight was notified and activated. Lifeflight was on scene at approximately 10:19pm. Victim was transported via helicopter to the UAB Trauma Center located in Birmingham, Alabama. Due to the severity of Victim injuries and having to be airlifted to the UAB Trauma Center, Trooper could not obtain a blood alcohol sample to determine if alcohol was a contributing factor to the incident. Victim arrived at the Trauma Center at approximately 11:22pm were he was treated and continues to be treated by medical professionals as of June 5, 2019. No further action was taken.


BARDID: AL-2019-0043
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neeley Henry
NearestCityorTown: Ohatchee
County: Calhoun
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call about a crash that occurred on Neeley Henry Lake that had injuries. So I traveled to Stringfellow Hospital in Anniston, AL and made contact with the injured skier. I took the victims statement and got her and the second skiers information. I also received the vessel operators information and then traveled to his residence and received his statement. 

The victim stated that she and her daughter were innertubing behind a vessel operated by her father. She stated that the innertube rope then got stuck in the boats propeller causing the boat to lose power and sling the innertube towards the pier at the residence. She stated as they approached the pier, she was scared her daughter would hit the pier, so she jumped to the side of the innertube in between the innertube and pier and was sandwiched between the two. 

The victim''s husband, who was on the shoreline, then jumped into the water, pulled her and the second innertuber from the water and took her to the hospital. 

The vessel operator, the victims father, stated that when he went to turn while pulling the innertube the ski rope went down in the water and got sucked into the propeller causing the boat to turn sharply and jerk the innertube towards the pier, and then the boat was no longer able to move to pull the innertube out of its path into the pier. There were three occupants of the boat, two were on the innertube and one was the operator. There was not a lookout for the skiers.


BARDID: AL-2019-0044
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: Fairhope
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On the Above listed date and approximate time Operator1 was approaching his slip at the Fairhope Pier. As he neared the dock his passenger walked to the bow to get the boat hook so that he could help in docking the vessel.  When Occupant1 bent over to retrieve the hook he lost his balance and fell overboard off the starboard side and began to tread water.  Operator1 then circled around to try and get Occupant1 out of the water and noticed that he was no longer treading water and was unresponsive.  Operator1 then grabbed a life preserver and jumped into the water in an attempt to save him.  At this time a witness and employee at the marina arrived on scene on a jet ski and towed Occupant1 to Shore.  He was treated by Fairhope Medics and transported to Thomas Hospital in Fairhope where he was pronounced deceased.  The victim had been drinking.


BARDID: AL-2019-0045
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:35:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: Athens
County: Limestone
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/11/19 at approx. 8:35pm. operator and passenger were in S1''s vessel(V1), a 2007 25'' Chaparral(AL-8726-LL) registered to S1''s ex-wife on Wheeler Lake.  S1 and S2 were returning from a weekly trip they took to the Hard Dock restaurant/bar in Decatur.  

S1 and S2 are neighbors and the piers at their residences are approx. 75 yards apart.  S1 approached the pier at S2''s residence at idle speed and bow first to allow S2 to step off onto his pier.  S2 stepped off the bow onto his pier.  When S2 stepped off the bow, S1 put his vessel into reverse to back away.  S2 lost his balance and fell back into the water.  

When S1 noticed, he idled the boat forward to the point he last saw S2.  He went to the bow of the boat and put down the bow ladder for S2 to climb back aboard the vessel.  S1 did not see S2 anywhere in the water.  S1 called Limestone County 911 at 8:42pm for help.  The above scenario was provided by S1 and he is the only witness to the events.  

Rogersville P.D. advised that he smelled an odor of alcohol from S1 when he spoke to him.  I went to interview S1 with Officer while the assisting agencies continued the search for S2 with vessels and divers.

I interviewed S1 at his residence.  He admitted to drinking alcohol along with eating dinner from 5-8pm. at the Hard Dock. At this time, I did not smell an alcohol odor from S1.  During the interview with S1, he repeatedly broke down sobbing about the incident.  I asked S1 to consent to taking the Field Sobriety Tests(FST), and a breathalyzer test.  He consented, but at the beginning of the HGN tests, S1 consulted with his ex-wife who had come out onto the back deck to check on S1.  She advised him not to take the tests and he agreed to stop all testing.  At this time, I decided not to arrest S1 for BUI based on the lack of alcohol odor, a lack of signs of impairment, his mental state of breaking down and sobbing about the events, and my opinion that he did not reach the standards of arrest for a BUI.  

The Search and Rescue efforts continued till approx. 12:10am., then was called off for the night due to safety concerns.  The efforts continued throughout the next day on 6/12/19.  On 6/13/19 at approx. 7:30am., S2 was spotted by a fisherman floating near the bank approx. 350 yards east of his pier, and approx. 50 yards west of Poplar Point slough.  S2''s body was recovered by a rescue boat and transported to a boat ramp at Poplar Point. S2 was turned over to Limestone County Coroner and DFS-Huntsville.

On 6/21/19, I interviewed the waitress who had served S1 and S2 on 6/11/19, as well as the manager on duty at the Hard Dock.  I also obtained a copy of the receipt from S1 and S2''s time at the restaurant/bar. The waitress remembered, and the manager marked on the receipt, the drink breakdown for S1 and S2.  After taking their statements, I called the DFS investigator about a statement from the waitress.  She remembered mentioning to S2 upon his arrival at the Hard Dock that his lips were an unusual bluish/purple color.

Cause of Death is undetermined at this time by DFS-Huntsville.

Autopsy and toxicology results are pending and the DFS Investigator advised 60-90 days is the typical time for results and final reports.

The victim died from trauma.  He hit his head on the vessel.


BARDID: AL-2019-0046
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Scottsboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was a bow fisherman fishing at night.  Vessel 1 was traveling northbound from the South Sauty area near the main Tennessee River channel.  Vessel 1 struck a channel buoy on the edge of a grass bed as he approached the river.  The bow and the bottom of the hull was damaged by the impact with the buoy.  Vessel 1 was returned to the owner''s residence.   The operator stated that he was traveling from the Murphy Hill area to Mink Creek . He stated that he did not see the buoy until he was to close to avoid the collision.  The crash happened on 8/4/2019. It was not reported until 8/6/2019


BARDID: AL-2019-0047
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Pell City
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/25/2019 V1 stopped alongside a pontoon boat to get his cell phone.  V1 then pushed off of the pontoon boat.  V1 then stated that he looked to the right and caught a glimpse of a red vessel coming towards him.  V1 stated that he then jumped off the back of the vessel to avoid getting hit by V2.  V1 then travelled into the path of V2.   V2 attempted to miss V1 by coming off the throttle and turning hard right.  V2 then collided with V1.  

V2 stated that he was leaving a tournament blast off from Town and Country heading out towards the main river channel.  V2 stated that he saw the seadoo parked alongside the pontoon boat sitting out in the middle of the channel.  V2 stated that it was congested waters and he looked to the right to make sure everything was clear.  V2 stated that when he looked back straight,  V1 had pushed off from the pontoon and was in his direct line of path.  V2 stated that he came off the throttle and turned hard right to try and avoid the collision.  V2 then struck V1.


BARDID: AL-2019-0048
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:25:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jordan
NearestCityorTown: Wetumpka
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
This narrative outlining the sequence of events and the diagram above, are based on witness statements, operator statements, officer observations and accident reconstruction methods.

     Vessel#1 was travelling westbound on Lake Jordan from Sears Slough, leaving the residence. Vessel#1 entered the main river channel of Lake Jordan and changed its course to go southwest towards Bonners Point boat ramp. As vessel#1 was going southwest, a high volume of traffic in the main channel was going northbound. Vessel #2 was traveling northbound in the main river channel with the flow of traffic. 
     Vessel#1 was going at a high rate of speed when it struck vessel#2 on the starboard side in front of the driver''s station. Vessel#1 then became airborne and traveled through the driver''s station, hitting four passengers and exited around the port stern of vessel#2. When vessel#1 landed back in the water, it made an abrupt turn and caused the driver to be ejected into the water. Both boats became disabled after impact and started drifting in the channel. This is when multiple people in the area came over to the vessels and rendered assistance. The Operator of V-1 was under the influence of alcohol registering a BAC of .11  
     Two passengers on vessel#2 that were riding to the right side of the driver were killed during the collision.  The operator of vessel#2 suffered a severe head injury and a third passenger riding to the left of the driver suffered minor injuries.  As a result of the collison with vessel#2, the driver of vessel#1 sustained injuries to his head and back.  Operator of V-2 was under the influence of alcohol registering a .14 BAC .     Both vessel operators were transported to Baptist South hospital in Montgomery, AL.  A two-day search was conducted following the collision to locate the missing fatalities from vessel#2. Unknown if the 2 fatalities were wearing PFDs. When they were recovered they did not have lifejackets on According to witness statements, both vessels'' lights were operational at the time of the accident.  After the  investigation of both vessels, it was determined that vessel#2''s stern light did not meet Alabama Code 220-6-09.
  Vessel#2''s stern light was not 1 meter above the bow''s combination red/green navigation lights nor was the stern light visible 360 degrees.  The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency''s Marine Patrol Division is working with the Elmore County District Attorney on the investigation of this collision.  A traffic homicide investigation packet will be completed in addition to this report.


BARDID: AL-2019-0049
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Pell City
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was southbound crossing the main channel of Logan Martin Lake. Vessel #2 was traveling southwest in the main channel of Logan Martin lake. Vessel #1 struck vessel #2 at the area of impact. Operator #1 stated that he saw the green starboard light but never saw the 360 degree light. Operator #1 stated that when he saw the green light he was too close to avoid impact with vessel #2. 

Operator #2 stated that as she was traveling down the channel she was struck by vessel #1. Operator #1 admitted to having been drinking alcohol before operating his vessel. An hour and a half after the crash Operator #1 was a .056 on Trooper portable breathalyzer test.


BARDID: AL-2019-0050
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 was drifting, the occupants were bow fishing in close proximity to the Guntersville State Park. Driver 1 stated that the weather became severe and the water conditions were rough. Driver 1 says Vessel 1 began to rock from side to side rapidly and take on water. Driver 1 says Vessel 1 became flooded and rolled over and capsized. Driver 1 and the other two occupants of Vessel 1 were thrown into the water. All occupants were able to retrieve Type 2 PFD''s that were stored on Vessel 1. All occupants climbed onto the bottom of Vessel 1 and waited for help to arrive.


BARDID: AL-2019-0051
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Alexander City
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel # 2 was docked at a private residential wet slip with no operator or passengers on board. Vessel # 1 came into the slough and struck vessel #2''s outboard engine. the only witness stated that vessel #1 was weaving back and forth when it struck vessel #2. After vessel #1 hit vessel #2, the operator and passenger left the scene of the accident.


BARDID: AL-2019-0052
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Double Springs
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling in the upper-end portion of Clear Creek where it starts to become shallow.  Vessel #1''s destination was the hydraulic dam located at Camp Mcdowell, when the operator struck a submerged rock.  The vessel immediately took on water, and two other boaters on jet skis assisted him in getting his boat to the shoreline where they tied it to rest on the lake bottom. TowBoat US was also notified, and they transported operator and his 2 passengers back to Clear Creek boat launch. No injuries were sustained as a result of the crash. TowBoat US will handle the salvage and removal of the vessel at the owner''s request.


BARDID: AL-2019-0053
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Jackson Gap
County: Tallapoosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Driver of vessel 1 advised he left the dock and began cruising.  He stated as he got in the channel coming around a point he met a boat coming at a good pace.  He stated both of them stayed to the left.  He stated he realized he had gotten to close to the shoreline but hit the side of a concrete boat ramp before he could get back in the channel.  He stated they got the vessel back to the residence and he had a friend drive him to medical attention.


BARDID: AL-2019-0054
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Highland Lake
NearestCityorTown: Highland Lake
County: Blount
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This investigation is based on statements given and evidence which was gathered.  Vessel 1 was being operated on Highland Lake.  Victim was a passenger and was seated behind the operator.  Operator stated he was not going very fast but around 35-40 mph.  Operator passed the Island and turned right.  Victim the passenger stated he was looking off to the left and did not see the turn nor was he ready for the right turn.  Victim stated he was thrown off the Personal Water Craft (PWC) towards the left when the PWC turned to the right.  Victim stated he landed hard on his left side.  Operator turned around and picked up Victim and they both returned to Operator''s lake house.  Victim and Operator reported the accident 2 hours later.  Victim then had his wife transport him to St. Vincent''s East Hospital by POV.


BARDID: AL-2019-0055
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cosby Lake
NearestCityorTown: CLAY
County: St Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
This accident occurred on Lake Cosby off of Old Springville Road in Pinson. This was a one vessel accident. On the evening of July 2, 2019, the victim had been fishing on Lake Cosby from a Kayak that he had just purchased. Victim was very familiar with the lake but was unfamiliar with the kayak. Victim did not have a PFD on board. At some time after 7:45pm Victim''s kayak flipped and he drowned. Victim''s mother had been trying to reach Victim by phone so she traveled to the lake at 9:30 pm to check on him and found his capsized kayak along the southwest edge of the lake. An un-named witness in the parking lot said the last time she saw Victim in the Kayak was around 7:45 pm near the southeast edge of the lake. Jefferson County was dispatched to the scene at 9:53 pm. Victim was not located that evening and the search resumed on the morning of July 3, 2019. First responders from several agencies searched for Victim with sonar units. Victim''s body was located at 3:15 pm in the southern corner of the lake near the dam in about 12 feet of water.


BARDID: AL-2019-0056
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: North Elk River
NearestCityorTown: Athens
County: Limestone
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/3/2019 at approx. 7:45pm, operator/vessel owner and witness/girlfriend were paddling in separate kayaks back to Sportsman''s Park boat ramp from where Sugar Creek meets Elk River.  S1''s kayak was a 2018 Magellan Origin 12(V1).  S2 was in front and heard a sound like "hey" or "help" from S1.  She looked back and the kayak was tipped over and S1 was attempting to tread water.  S2 tried to push the kayak with her paddle to S1.  He went under the water once and resurfaced, then went under again.  S2 paddled in circles around the sight S1 was last seen.  She then paddled to the boat ramp and a passerby called 911.  
Trooper was contacted by the Decatur Trooper post at 8:06pm about a missing kayaker.  I arrived on scene at approx. 8:40pm.  I interviewed S2 about the incident while assisting agencies, Limestone County S.O., Athens Search and Rescue, and Owens Volunteer Fire Department, started the search for S1.  S2 was the only witness and the above account is based on her written statement.  Neither S1 or S2 was wearing a PFD, and neither kayak had a PFD onboard.  
S1 was recovered on 7/5/2019 at approx. 11:45am.  His body was turned over to the Limestone County Coroner''s office.  S1''s mother declined an autopsy for her son.  His body was released to Spry Funeral Home in Athens.


BARDID: AL-2019-0057
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Logan Martin
NearestCityorTown: Pell City
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator #1 was traveling on vessel #1 in Cropwell Creek on Logan Martin lake. Operator #2 was was pulling innertubers behind vessel #2 in Cropwell Creek on Logan Martin Lake. 

Vessel #1 struck vessel #2 at the are of impact. Operator #1 stated that he went to do a U-turn and when he came around vessel #2 was in front of him so he released the throttle to try and slow down but was unable to turn out of the path of vessel #2 to avoid impact. 

Operator #2 stated that he was pulling the innertubers and never even saw vessel #1 until he struck his boat.


BARDID: AL-2019-0058
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At 5:13 PM Trooper received notification from ALEA dispatch of a male being struck by the propeller of a boat. Arriving on-scene at 5:31 PM Trooper determined the victim, 19 year old, was caught in the dual props of a 21'' Sea Ray. Assisted by Guntersville Fire and Rescue, Guntersville Rescue Squad, Guntersville PD Marine Patrol 1, and numerous citizens, the victim was freed from the props. He was administered 1st aid and prepared for movement to Huntsville Hospital, via helicopter ambulance. 

The driver of the Sea Ray explained the victim lives in California, and was in Guntersville visiting friends. According to Operator, he was driving the Sea Ray while Victim was near the stern. Operator further stated he was preparing to dock as Victim attempted to mount the riding tube. Victim stated he was attempting to get on the tube so he could urinate. Unable to stay on the tube Victim fell backwards into the stern area - vicinity the Sea Ray''s lower unit. Operator explained further that as he was preparing to dock he felt a thump. He stated he bumped the boat into reverse, because he thought he was too fast. He surmised that is when Victim entered the prop, scrotum/pelvic area first. Operator stated he heard Victim yell and instantly knew what occurred. Operator further stated he immediately stopped the engine and attempted to free Victim. Victim''s backwards bound into the stern area placed him near the Sea Ray''s lower unit; the precursor to his swim trunks becoming entangled in the dual props. Actions upon arrival were videoed beginning with the time on-scene and ending at completion.


BARDID: AL-2019-0059
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Double Springs
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 5th, 2019 at 1:57 p.m. Winston County dispatch alerted the reporting Trooper of a multi vessel crash on Smith Lake in Winston County near the Corinth Recreational area.  Based on operator statements, witness statements, and evidence at the scene the reporting Trooper was able to determine the following: 

Vessel one was traveling north through a slough on Smith Lake near the Corinth Recreational Area in Winston County approaching a point. Vessel one was towing a tube with two juveniles on it. Vessel one was occupied by the operator, three other adult uninjured occupants and three juvenile victims. All of the victims were seated in the bow of vessel one. While towing the tube at planing speed, the operator left the controls and vessel one veered to the right toward the shoreline at the mouth of the slough. Vessel one partially ran aground in the shallow water and struck a low hanging tree on the shoreline. The 3 juvenile victims seated in the bow of the vessel were struck by the tree causing fatal injuries to the female juvenile victim seated near the center of the bow and serious injuries to the male and female juveniles seated on the port and starboard side of the bow. Immediately after the crash a witness vessel called 911 and then stopped and took the most seriously injured juvenile to the boat ramp. Another vessel towed vessel one and other victims to the Corinth recreational area boat ramp.
Due to the nature of the injuries associated with the crash the reporting Trooper administered Standard Field Sobriety Tests on the operator of vessel one. The Winston County District Attorney also requested a sample of the operator’s blood and urine. The operator did not show any clues of impairment while performing the tests and signed a voluntary consent for blood and urine. Corporal along with a Winston County Deputy transported the operator to Lakeland Hospital in Haleyville, AL for the collection. The reporting Trooper does not suspect that there was any kind of impairment involved.


BARDID: AL-2019-0060
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Guntersville
NearestCityorTown: Scottsboro
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel owner and his 12 year old grandson were fishing at the inlet of Jones'' Creek, near Boy Scout Road - Operator from the bow, his grandson, Occupant, aft. Operator stated that about 5:45 AM Occupant declared his feet were getting wet. Operator stated that when he turned to look he quickly realized the boat was taking-on water - sinking. Because the engine was partially under water he decided to utilize the trolling motor to cross the main channel; it was his intention to tie-off to the closest residential boathouse. Operator further stated that as they got within 40 yards of a boathouse the boat struck bottom and lodged itself to a stop. He subsequently notified the property owner and the property owner agreed to allow him to keep the boat there until he retrieved his boat trailer and a retrieval wrecker. Operator eventually called Precision Wrecker Service; they assisted by towing the vessel onto the trailer.The reason the boat took-on water is unknown. When asked Operator stated, "It was not the plug. That''s the last thing [he] check(s) before putting the boat in the water."


BARDID: AL-2019-0061
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay Minette Creek
NearestCityorTown: Spanish Fort
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling South in the Blakeley River and made a turn into Bay Minette Creek.  Vessel 2 was traveling South in Bay Minette Creek entering the Blakeley River.  Both V1 and V2 made directional changes to avoid a head-on collision.  V1 made a final left turn, in front of V2.  V2 struck V1 on the starboard side causing damage to V1 and V2.  The passenger of V2 was ejected on impact.


BARDID: AL-2019-0062
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Equality
County: Coosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling east on Lake Martin leaving Parker Creek marina. Vessel 1 struck the land on the right side of the channel and run aground. The rear passengers were thrown in the bottom of the boat behind the operator station. 

The front passenger was thrown in the front of the boat striking the operator station and windshield. The front passenger had obvious injuries to her face and head but refused all medical treatment at the boat ramp.

Operator of V-1 stated he was not going very fast, did not know what happened, but thought he beached the vessel by mistake in a shallow area. Operator stated he was following his GPS and not watching the direction of travel.  It is this officer''s opinion that the driver of V-1 was DUI, had poor visibility, turned at the incorrect desired location, and struck the land.


BARDID: AL-2019-0064
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Mitchell
NearestCityorTown: CLANTON
County: Chilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, August 26, 2019, at approximately 1:35AM, Chilton County Sheriff Office dispatch received an emergency call regarding an accident with injuries on Lake Mitchell. The injured person had collided his vessel with a fixed object (boat house with a 23ft pontoon on a lift) on Lake Mitchell. Operator was operating his vessel (AL4476VA) at cruising speed headed back to Higgins Ferry boat ramp. Subject1 observed a green vessel light headed his direction and veered to the left to avoid a collision. Subject1 stated the approaching vessel was not in proximity, but he was being safe. Subject1 stated he was traveling about 28mph when he collided with the boathouse and pontoon boat on a lift. Subject1 stated on initial contact, he fell to the deck of the vessel. Subject1 stated he started yelling for help.

Witness1 observed Operator vessel headed toward Higgins Ferry when Operator struck the boathouse. Witness1 immediately went to assist Operator by calling 911 to report the accident. Witness1 stayed with Operator until first responders arrived on scene. The Chilton County Sheriff Office responded and notified the ALEA Marine Patrol Division of the accident. No further action was taken by Chilton County Sheriff Office deputies. Care Ambulance Services were dispatched to the scene at approximately 2:20AM. Emergency Medical Technicians treated Operator on scene and determine Operator needed advanced medical care. Care Ambulance Services left the scene at approximately 2:40AM, with Operator en route to Baptist South Hospital located in Montgomery, Alabama. Care Ambulance Services arrived at the hospital at approximately 3:31AM, were he was treated and continues to be treated by medical professionals as of August 27, 2019. No further action was taken.

It was cloudy, hazy and raining. Restricted vision was noted as the cause.


BARDID: AL-2019-0065
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wedowee/R.L. Harris
NearestCityorTown: Wedowee
County: Randolph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Received a call about a 2 vessel crash up the Big Tallapoosa River.  The victims were being taken to the 48 boat ramp by two bass boats that were in the area at the time of the crash.  There wasn’t anyone that actually witnessed the crash.  Operator1 was deceased once the fishermen got to him, and Operator2 doesnt recall any of the events that led up to the crash. 

After reviewing the damages on both waverunners,  it appeared to have almost been a head on collision.  The vessels hit at a slight angle.  V1 struck V2 at the front starboard side and continued up the starboard side and over the back of V2.  V1 then went airborne and came down hard in the water.  From the damages to V1''s handle bars and the injuries that Operator1 sustained, made me come to the conclusion that Operator1''s face struck the handle bars as he landed. 

There was significant damage to the starboard side of V2. The back half of V2''s seat was ripped off as well.  V1 had significant damage to the underside of the vessel and to the handle bars.  The front lid and console was also damaged on V1.   

The crash took place near an island up the big river.  Both vessels and victims were found on different sides of the island as displayed in the diagram.  The picture only shows what the scene looked like as the fishermen arrived.


BARDID: AL-2019-0066
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Martin
NearestCityorTown: Eclectic
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
This vessel collision report is based on operator statements and damage pattern analysis. The actual collision happened on 07/04/2019 and wasn't reported until 08/06/2019.

     Vessel#1 and vessel#2 were both in Kowaliga Bay near Cherokee Slough. According to the opertors'' statements, they were both riding and attempting to spray each other. Vessel #1 got too close to vessel #2 and was unable to turn away in time and they impacted. The impact caused damage to the bow of vessel#1 and starboard side damage to vessel#2.


BARDID: AL-2019-0067
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: DAUPHIN ISLAND
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS NORTHBOUND ENTERING MOBILE BAY NEAR SHORE AT FT. GAINES/ DAUPHIN ISLAND ON PLANE.  BASED ON THE OPERATORS STATEMENT HE WAS NAVIGATING AT NIGHT BY USING ONLY THE GPS UNIT ONBOARD. THE VESSEL STRUCK THE EAST END ROCK JETTY AS A RESULT OF OPERATOR INATTENTION.  WHEN AT REST A LARGE AMOUNT OF FUEL WAS SPILLED FROM THE VESSEL.  USCG DAUPHIN ISLAND WAS NOTIFIED IN REFERENCE TO THE SPILL.  THE VESSEL WAS REMOVED FROM THE JETTY BY SEA TOW.  BOTH OPERATOR AND PASSENGER WERE ARRESTED AT THE SCENE FOR PUBLIC INTOXICATION.


BARDID: AL-2019-0068
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coosa River
NearestCityorTown: Wetumpka
County: Elmore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling north on the Coosa River headed toward Gold Star Park. V-1 struck a tree underneath the surface of the water, with large limbs protruding up out of the water, ejecting the passenger. 
Driver of V-1 stated he was above idle speed and traveling north on the river. Driver stated he thought he struck something under the water as this is common on the Coosa River.  Driver stated he did not see or hear anything, only felt the boat slightly rock side to side. Driver stated he looked to his left after the vessel began to rock, he did not see his passenger, and realized she had been ejected. 
Driver stated he called his friends to come and assist him in locating his passenger in the water. Driver then stated he located her using his spot light and dove into the water in attempt to pull her from out of the water. Driver stated his friends arrived and he was holding the passenger up out of the water, resting against a tree, and she was unresponsive. Driver stated both he and the passenger were assisted onto his friends vessel and transported back to the boat ramp. 
It is this officer''s opinion the passenger was fatally struck by one of the large limbs, thrown back against the top of the motor striking her head and ejected from the vessel. The driver is believed to be under the influence of alcohol, and traveling on the wrong side of the channel causing the crash and ejecting the passenger.


BARDID: AL-2019-0069
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou St John
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V1) was traveling northeast on Bayou St John.  Vessel 2 (V2) was traveling east on Bayou St John.  The operator of V2 stated he never saw V1 and he was traveling parallel to the shoreline.  He stated V1 came up beside him and struck the side of his vessel causing it to roll on its side and this caused two of the passengers to be ejected from the boat.  

The operator of V1 stated V2 came out of nowhere and struck his boat.  He stated he had just left Perdido Pass catching bait for a fishing trip the next day.  The location he stated they came is located the southwest of the crash.  None of the occupants were injured.  The operator of V2 was tested for boating under the influance, but did not show signs of impairment.


BARDID: AL-2019-0070
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Langston
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 16''  bow# fishing boat, was traveling north near Little Mountain Marina.  The operator of Vessel 1 steered left and caused water to come over the gunwale.  

The boat became swamped and capsized approximately a half mile south of Little Mountain Marina.  The owner/operator of Vessel 1 stated, when he turned the boat that water came over the side.  He stated that his bilge pump was not working and caused the boat to fill with water and overturn.  

He also stated that all his fishing gear and a generator was lost when the boat overturned.    Guntersville Rescue Squad responded to the scene and rescued the four occupants of Vessel 1.  The boat was recovered by the owner that night.


BARDID: AL-2019-0071
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: Demopolis
County: Marengo
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his wife where fishing below Demopolis Lock and Dam. operator had thrown out his anchor at the base of a rock waterfall on the West side and let the current take him out towards mid-channel and was fishing. The current changed direction and his boat slowly drifted back towards the waterfall, when he saw what was happening it was too late. The boat was sucked into the eddy water at the base of the waterfall. Operator''s wife  fell out of the boat and was picked up by another fishing boat. OPerator was then rescued while his boat still trapped. Corp of Engineer Officers hooked to Operator''s boat and saved it.


BARDID: AL-2019-0072
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Arnica Bay
NearestCityorTown: Perdido Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V1) and Vessel 2 (V2) were traveling in opposite directions approaching each other in Arnica Bay.  V2 was being towed by a bigger boat named HAYMAL.  

The operator of V2 stated he observed V1 coming at him and swerve at the last minute.  He stated the V1 then turned sharp around the back of his boat and struck V2.  

He stated he had a 10-foot line towing the boat and the navigation lights were on.  He stated all he could see of V1 was the bright lights illuminated all around him.  V1 then left the scene.  No one was injured in the crash.  I found the operator of V1 later that day.  He stated he did swerve to miss hitting a boat but did not know there was a small boat behind it.  He stated he knew hit something but did not know what it was, so he left and went to Barbers to store his boat.  He stated he thought his boat was going to sink.  He was not injured.


BARDID: AL-2019-0073
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi Sound
NearestCityorTown: Bayou La Batre
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was shrimping west of the Alabama Port Channel in the Mississippi Sound. Vessel 1 was traveling east in the Mississippi Sound. The operator of Vessel 2 stated he had his outriggers down and was shrimping when Vessel 1 came close to his vessel and hooked the trawl line of his nets. Upon being hooked Vessel 2 proceeded to capsize and then sink. 

Fishermen saw what occurred. Both witness statements were the same as the operator of Vessel 2. The witness also stated Vessel 1 failed to stop and render aid to both crew members that were in the water. He stated he confronted the operator of Vessel 1 and the operator stated he didn''t speak any English and continued to travel east in the Mississippi Sound. It is a steel hull shrimp boat and its home port is in Bayou La Batre Alabama. The owner of Vessel 1 stated he didnt''t know what happened. The owner also stated he was the captain of the vessel and no one was in the wheel house at the time of the crash. The vessel was on auto pilot. The damage assessment of Vessel 2 also includes all nets, trawl boards, equipment on the vessel, and the vessel itself.


BARDID: AL-2019-0074
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wheeler Lake
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: Madison
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel # 2 was docked at Ditto Marina, waiting for passengers to board. Vessel # 1 was attempting to dock and struck Vessel in the stern, causing damage to the fiberglass structure of Unit # 2. Vessel # 1 had paint transfer and scuff marks on the bow.  The operator of Vessel # 1 was arrested by Huntsville Police dept for B.U.I.and carried to the Madison County Jail.


BARDID: AL-2019-0075
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling west in the ICW and V-2 was traveling east in the ICW.  The Captain of V-1 stated that he saw V-2 approaching so he came down off of plane to reduce the amount of wake he was producing.  

The Captain of V-1 further stated that when he realized that he was about to collide with V-2 he shifted his vessel into reverse to try and avoid contact.  

The Captain of V-2  stated that while driving east on the ICW he observed the white bow of V-1 and tried to swerve to avoid contact but was unsuccessful.  V-1 and V-2 collided on the port sides causing the listed damages.  Both Vessels then docked at Wharf and called the Alabama State Troopers Marine Patrol to report the accident.  The Captain of V-2 stated the he did not think V-1 night navigation lights were on.  The Captain of V-1 stated that his night navigation lights were on.  All lights on both vessels were on and working when Troopers arrived on Scene.


BARDID: AL-2019-0076
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Shoal Creek, Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: St. Florian
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 (Vessel #1) was traveling upstream on Shoal Creek toward his Grandfather''s Dock, who is the owner of the vessel, with 3 passengers onboard.  Operator2 (vessel #2) with 3 passengers onboard was not underway and pointing downstream, approximately 30-40 feet off the bank preparing to bow fish.  

Operator1 did not see the other vessel until the passengers in vessel 2 began waving and yelling prior to the collision.  Operator1 stated that he did not see lights on vessel 2 and swerved, trying to avoid the collision, but the vessels impacted.  Operator1 stated Operator2 turned his vessel lights on after the collision.  The bow starboard side of Vessel 1 contacted the bow of Vessel 2.  The collision caused the hull to breach in vessel 1.  

Vessel 1 passenger was sitting on the port side bow seat and jumped out of vessel 1 prior to impact and was not injured. Subject1 was sitting in the port side passenger seat behind the windshield of vessel 1 and was not injured.  Subject2 was sitting on the bow seat starboard side and attempted to jump out of vessel 1 prior to impact.  He did not get clear of the vessel and injured his left leg on the bow cleat.  He was transported to Huntsville Hospital for treatment.  Operator1 was at the helm operating vessel 1, which is also located on the starboard side, and received a head injury and finger injury that required stitches.  He received medical treatment at North Alabama Medical Center in Florence.  Operator1 stated he had the red and green bow navigation lights on, but the stern all around white light was not on in his vessel (#1).

In Vessel 2, Operator2 jumped into the water just prior to the impact and were not injured.  Subject3 was beside Operator2 at the operator station but stayed in vessel 2 and received a minor abrasion on his knee from the impact.  Subject3 choose not to seek medical attention.  

Two people were standing on the bow area of vessel 2 prior to entering the water.  Operator2 said they were using hand held lights looking for fish in the water prior to the impact.  Operator2 said that vessel 1 had the red and green navigation lights on but did not see a white light on the stern.  Operator2 said he had his navigation lights on prior to the collision.  After the collision, Operator2 and his passengers assisted with bringing vessel #1 to shore and stayed with the vessel and injured passengers until told to return to Happy Hollow Boat Ramp where they were interviewed.


BARDID: AL-2019-0077
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little River
NearestCityorTown: Fort Payne
County: De Kalb
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A male victim and his brother were kayaking down Little River Canyon. Subject1 stated that as they came up on some rapids that he went first. Subject1 stated that after he made it through the rapids that he waited on Operator to come down them. He stated that Operator''s kayak and paddle made it to him but there was no sign of Operator. Subject1 got out of the river and walked up river till he located Operator. Operator was trapped in the middle of the river with his foot hung up in some rocks. Subject1 attempted to free Operator for roughly one hour with no success. He told Operator that he was going to go get a paddle and attempt to free his foot. When Subject1 arrived back to Operator''s location Operator had drowned due to the current of the river. Subject1 then hiked out of the canyon and called 911. After an intense two day recovery operation Operator body was recovered from the canyon. The agencies that assisted in the recovery were, National Park Service, ALEA MP, ALEA Aviation Unit, DeKalb Sheriff''s Office, Fischer Rescue Squad, Fort Payne Fire Department, DeKalb Ambluance Service, Dog Town Fire Department, Tuckers Chapel Fire Department, Adamsburg Fire Department, DeKalb EMA, DeSoto Rescue Squad and DeKalb County Corner''s Office.


BARDID: AL-2019-0078
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Driver 1 stated that he had been having mechanical trouble with Unit 1. He says that he had docked Unit 1 inside his boat house and raised the rear engine cowling to do some repairs. Driver 1 says when he raised the engine cowling flames erupted from inside.  

Driver then 1 exited the vessel and onto the dock. Driver 1 then pushed Unit 1 outside of the boat house and into the open water. Due to wind and current Unit 1 drifted in a northerly direction and floated into 2 boat house''s north of Driver 1''s location. 

Unit 1 was in flames and burning and caused burn damage to both boat house''s and docks. Unit 1 was later removed from the water by Whitaker towing.


BARDID: AL-2019-0079
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: Malcolm
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated he had been fishing in Three Rivers Lake with his two sons and was headed back to Bates Lake boat launch. He was southbound at 60 mph just right of mid-channel and was approaching a bend in the Tombigbee River just North of Jim Burr Lake when all of a sudden his boat jumped to the right ejecting his two boys. The boat then jumped left then back right violently causing Operator to be thrown into the port side of vessel then was ejected. He also stated that all three were wearing life jackets and he was wearing his engine shut off lanyard. His two boys were not injured and they all were able to get back in the boat by a ladder that was built into the boat. He then called 911 and got an ambulance to meet him at the landing and was transported to the hospital. He stated he never saw anything before the accident and assumed it was a submerged log. I did find wood in his water intake on the foot of the motor and his motor was slightly cocked to the side.


BARDID: AL-2019-0080
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mobile Bay
NearestCityorTown: Mobile
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was traveling West in Mobile Bay, near Galliard Island.  The operator stated that he was headed back to the launch in Deer River when he lost steering.  The boat made a sharp turn and threw all passengers into the water.  Operator1 stated that his passengers and himself surfaced and was able to stay afloat for a short time while they communicated back and forth. No one on the vessel was wearing a PFD.  Operator1 started swimming to Galliard Island while the other two passengers attempted to grab the circling vessel. The vessel was circling because of the steering cable breaking and Operator1 was not wearing his kill switch when he was ejected from the vessel.   Operator1 observed the two passengers submerge and not resurface.  Operator1 made it to Galliard Island and started yelling at a nearby boat for help.

   A nearby vessel observed the vessel circling and approached the scene to investigate.  They discovered that the vessel was unoccupied and heard Operator1 yelling for help.  The operator and passenger assisted Operator1 into their vessel and back to the Deer River Launch.  EMS responded and transported Operator1 to USA Medical Center for non-life threatening injuries. Both victims were recovered by Daphne Search and Rescue.  Trooper checked the steering system of the vessel the following day. The steering cable was not visible but when turning the steering wheel the motor stayed in one position. In order to change the position of the motor Trooper had to grab the motor head and manually turn the motor.


BARDID: AL-2019-0082
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neeley Henry
NearestCityorTown: SOUTHSIDE
County: Etowah
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling east on Neely Henry Lake. The operator stated that as they were making their way back to his lake lot that he did not see the Causeway. V-1 struck the Causeway head on causing the boat to overturn. All four occupants were ejected from the boat. None of the occupants received any injuries in the accident to where they need medical treatment. During my investigation it was determined that the operator was under the influence of alcohol. After administering him Field Sobrity Test he was placed under arrest and transported to the Etowah County Jail. The boat was recovered by a Taylor Automotive Wrecker Service.


BARDID: AL-2019-0083
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: LEESBURG
County: Cherokee County
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30th, 2019 around 4:00 pm Subject1 and Subject2 were riding Subject1''s 2005 Yamaha PWC. They had stopped in the canal close to Leesburg Landing. When they started going again Subject2 fell off the back. Subject1 turned around to get her. Subject2 told Subject1 that she was hurt in her private area. Subject1 got Subject2 back on the PWC and took her to Leesburg Landing camping area. Subject2 was carried by POV to Floyd Hospital in Centre. After being seen by the E.R. Doctor she was sent by ambulance to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga Tn. No alcohol was involved. All the necessary safety equipment was used and present.


BARDID: AL-2019-0084
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Scottsboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 is a Canoe. Driver 1 and passenger were in Unit 1 paddling in an Easterly direction to shore. There were no PFD''s on board and neither Driver 1 or passenger were wearing a PFD. Driver 1 was in the rear of the canoe and passenger in the front. 

The passenger says she and Driver 1 had departed from a 58 foot vessel that had ran aground off shore. The passenger then stated that half of the way to the shore Driver 1 began to have a seizure and capsized the canoe. 

The Passenger  says the canoe rolled over and Driver 1 went under water and disappeared from sight. The passenger then swam to shore and to a residence near the shore to get help. Driver 1 was later recovered from the water by first responders from Scottsboro Police Department and Highlands ambulance service. Identification of Driver 1 was made by the Jackson County Coroner. Deputy Coroner took possession of Driver 1 body for autopsy and pronounced Driver 1 deceased . 


BARDID: AL-2019-0085
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Steele Creek
NearestCityorTown: Satsuma
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the facts that were presented to me, Operator1 was coming back to the launch from a day of cruising on the river. He was traveling north on bayou sara returning to the launch. He and his occupants could not tell where the banks of the creek were due to it being so dark. The boat hit a log on the west bank of bayou sara. All of the occupants in the boat were thrown in the floor and the boat settled in the middle of the creek. Operator1 then drove the boat back to the launch were medical was waiting. Three people were transported to usa hospital.


BARDID: AL-2019-0086
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little Lagoon
NearestCityorTown: Gulf Shores
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were working on their residence located on a canal off of Little Lagoon.  Their pontoon boat was moored at their residence, pulled up onshore next to their pier.  Another vessel occupied by a white male and his son were outbound toward Little Lagoon and ran into the port stern quarter of the moored pontoon boat.  The witness advised that the operator backed away and sped into Little Lagoon without stopping to exchange information.  A registration of NC5451ES was passed on, but upon checking NCIC, that registration does not come back valid.


BARDID: AL-2019-0087
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Crane Hill
County: Cullman
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: bilge
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Due to the evidence gathered from the operator and witness statements, vessel one was traveling South in Ryan''s Creek. It was taking on excessive water during its travel.The bilge pump stopped working, resulting in vessel one sinking in 6 feet of water. The subjects swam to the shoreline. All cell phones and communtcation equipment sank with vessel one. I was dispatched out by Quad City Trooper Post at 10:00 PM. I conducted a search and found the subjects on the shore of Ryan''s Creek at 11:47 PM. I transported the two subjects to Harbor Lights Boat Lauch were their vehicles were staged. The following day owner retrieved the vessel out of the lake. I was on scene to assist and view vessel one. He was able to get the boat back to Harbor Lights and out of Smith Lake for repairs.


BARDID: AL-2019-0088
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou St John
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject vessel AL1119AE entered into Caribe Marina with strong outgoing tide and struck two moored vessels.  It exited without stopping and notifying the impacted vessel owners.

I located the operator on 07/07/2019 and he advised that he had dual engine failure which caused the vessel to collide with the moored vessels due to the strong current created by the tide change.  He advised that he had left his business card and a note on the vessels involved.  The owner of the second vessel that was struck advised that video of the incident does not show anyone leaving a note.  No passenger information is known.


BARDID: AL-2019-0089
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 and his passengervwere riding a jet ski in the intracoastal water near Bear Point.  They were struck by V-2.  Operator2 stated that as he approached V-1 he tried to turn to the right but lost control of V-2.  V-2 struck V-1 knocking both occupants into the water.  Both occupants of V-1 received the listed injuries and were treated at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola Fl.


BARDID: AL-2019-0090
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smith Lake
NearestCityorTown: Arley
County: Winston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
OtherAccidentEvent: Collision with recreational ve
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling north on Smith Lake. Vessel #1 veered to the right and struck a two-story boat pier at the first area of impact. 

Vessel #1 came out of the water and traveled across the deck of the pier and then struck the supports and went into the first boat slip which was empty. Vessel #1 continued forward and again left the water while striking the center walkway between the first and second boat slip. 

Vessel #1''s bow lifted straight into the air striking the roof of the pier and then fell down onto vessel #2 which was docked in the second boat slip. 

Vessel #1 then slid backwards into the first boat slip and floated out from underneath the pier and into the channel. The operator then got his paddle and paddled to shore and tied his boat to a tree. The operator and his passenger then stayed there for over an hour trying to flag down someone to help. They finally flagged down a passerby who towed them to Duncan Bridge Marina. The operator of the vessel that towed vessel #1 to the marina, then went back to look at the damage done to the pier. At that time the property owner walked down and saw what had happened. 

The property owner was then informed of where vessel and operator #1 had been taken and drove his personal vehicle to the marina and made contact with them, at which time they notified AST and the crash began to be investigated. 

Operator #1 stated that as he was traveling up the channel, he hit something in the water with his boat, at which time he looked over his left shoulder to see what it was he hit. Operator #1 stated that as he was looking over his left shoulder his boat veered sharply to the right striking the pier. Operator and passenger #1 stated that they were thrown into the floorboard after the initial impact and saw something white that they were going towards and then the next thing they remember is their boat floating in the channel and it would no longer work. Photographs have been attached in the ReportBeam server and I am currently waiting to receive written statements in the mail to attach them also.


BARDID: AL-2019-0091
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 is a Pontoon Boat. Driver 1 stated that he was attempting to load his boat onto it''s trailer at the boat ramp at Alred Marina. Driver 1 says there was a light wind current blowing making it difficult to load his boat. Driver 1 accelerated Unit 1 in a attempt to compensate for the wind current and lost control of Unit 1. Unit 1 traveled in a northern direction and struck a pier with front at area of impact damaging the pier. Driver 1 made contact with the Marina the date of the crash. State Troopers Marine Patrol were not contacted until the following date by Marina owner.


BARDID: AL-2019-0092
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dog River
NearestCityorTown: Mobile
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 7:00pm, a vessel was traveling south in Dog River pulling three persons on a tube.  The vessel crossed a boat wake from another vessel traveling north in Dog River causing the tube to pull to the side of the river.  

As the tube approached the side of the river it struck a pier.  The three persons on the tube attempted to get off of the tube prior to impact, one male and female was successful but the other male struck the pier with the tube.  

All three were transported to University Hospital.  One male suffered a dislocated shoulder, the female suffered a back injury, and the other male suffered life-threatening injuries.  The male with life-threatening injuries was pronounced deceased upon arrival to the hospital.  PFDs were used.  The vessel was occupied by six other people.


BARDID: AL-2019-0093
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tennessee River
NearestCityorTown: Decatur
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/27/19 at approx. 11:40am, operator/vessel owner (S1) and passenger (S2) were in S1''s vessel, a 1989 17'' Stratos bass boat(TN0073YE) (V1), that had been purchased 4 days before the accident.  They were cruising west on the Tennessee River in the Decatur area and were approx. 100 yards west of the I-65 bridge when the accident occurred.  

S1 and witness (S3), who was in another nearby vessel heard an explosion.  Both turned and saw the cowling had been blown off the engine of V1 and it was engulfed in flames.  S1 discharged his fire extinguisher until it was empty without putting out the fire.  

By this time S3 had pulled his vessel alongside and handed over his fire extinguisher to S1.  It was discharged until empty without putting out the fire.  S1 and S2 abandoned V1 and boarded S3''s vessel.  S3 called 911 to report the incident.  Trooper was contacted at12:00pm by the Decatur Trooper Post Dispatcher.  I arrived on scene at approx. 1:05pm.  The Morgan County Rescue Squad was already in the process of towing V1 back to the old Decatur city boat ramp located beside the rescue squad building.  When they slowed to approach the ramp, the stern of V1 sunk to the bottom.  A pickup truck was used to drag V1 out of the water onto the boat ramp.  S3 had taken S1 and S2 to a boat ramp on Flint River to get their trucks and the boat trailer.  During interviews later in the day, no injuries were reported.  Damage estimate was made by S1.


BARDID: AL-2019-0094
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gantt Lake
NearestCityorTown: Gantt
County: Covington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 7, 2019 at approximately 3:35 pm, Vessel 1 was traveling south on Gantt Lake near Dunn''s Bridge. Vessel 2 was traveling at idle speed also near Dunn''s Bridge on Gantt Lake. Vessel 1 was operating in reckless manner and struck the rear starboard side of Vessel 2. The driver of Vessel 1 stated " I was trying to splash them with my jet ski and lost control of it".


BARDID: AL-2019-0095
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Shoal Creek
NearestCityorTown: Killen
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating the Personal Watercraft (Vessel #1) with one person as a passenger.  They were northbound on Shoal Creek close to the boat house where a pontoon boat (AL6890 MV - Vessel #2) was stored on a lift.  She throttled up the PWC, with the steering to the left which caused the stern of the vessel to swing close to the pontoon boat.  The passenger''s lower right leg hit the propeller of the pontoon boat in the lift.  Operator1 called 911.  Killen V.F.D. and Shoals Ambulance responded and Victim was transported to North Alabama Medical Center Hospital for treatment. 

Operator1 stated she was wearing a PFD and the engine cut off lanyard at the time of the incident.  Victim stated she was wearing a PFD at the time of the incident.  

The Pontoon Boat and the Yamaha PWC were not damaged during the incident.  The damage in the photographs to the rub rail and the scratches on the PWC occurred prior to the incident while tied alongside the dock and not in use.


BARDID: AL-2019-0096
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fowl River
NearestCityorTown: THEODORE
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the facts that were presented to me. (operator) and two others went fishing on Fowl River on 1-1-2019. When returning back to the launch operator lost control of the vessel due to operator inattention and hit a pier. When the vessel hit the pier subject1 was ejected from his seat. He received several cuts to the back of his right leg. After retrieving him from the water, 911 was called and he was taken to the hospital for treatment.


BARDID: AL-2019-0097
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: Orange Beach
County: Baldwin
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Received a notification of a vessel fire four miles south of Perdido Pass.  Upon arrival located vessel fully engulfed in flames.  All eight passengers and crew had been removed by a good samaritan vessel.  All statements from captain, crew and guests indicate there was a fire that started in the engine room which quickly spread throughout the vessel.  The captain indicated the port engine started throwing black smoke, and from there the vessel was quickly consumed with flames.  


BARDID: AL-2019-0099
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Harding
NearestCityorTown: Opelika
County: Lee
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V#1 stated he put his boat in Lake Harding to hang out with some friends.  Operator stated he drove the boat to an island.  Operator stated he was getting ready to tow a tube for a couple of kids that bevictimed to his friend.  Operator stated he was the operator and subject was behind him at the back of the boat.  Operator stated his dog was also on board.  

Operator stated he idled out from the island and began tightening the line for the tube as Victim was letting the line out.  Operator stated when the line was tight he asked if they were ready.  Operator stated after the kids replied yes he began slowly and got to about quarter throttle.  Operator stated he heard a loud pop.  Operator stated he heard Victim scream and the engine''s lid hit him in the back of his legs.  Operator stated he then realized the engine compartment was on fire.  Operator stated he threw Victim, his dog, and two life jackets into the water.  Operator stated he went to get his fire extinguisher to try to put out the fire.  Operator stated by this time the fire had made it to the driver''s seat.  Operator stated he could not fight the fire so he had to jump into the water.  Operator stated he along with some other help got Victim and others back to shore.  Operator stated the fire just spread so quickly he did not have time to try to put out the fire.  Operator stated the only injury was to Victim.


  Operator stated he did have a lot of work done to this boat back when he bought it.  Operator stated the boat hasn''t been used much approximately 2 hours since the worked had been done.  Operator stated a lot of the work that was done was dealing with fuel components of the boat.  Operator also advised his wallet with all forms of I.D. and other personal property also burnt on the boat.


BARDID: AL-2019-0100
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Shoal Creek
NearestCityorTown: Killen Al
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating his vessel (#1) northwest on Shoal Creek with passenger Subject1 and Operator1 both stated they had left the Lock 6 Boat Ramp and were traveling toward a point to fish near Marina Mar on plane.  

Operator2 and his passenger had launched their vessel (#2) from the boat ramp at Shoal Creek and were heading on plane southeast toward the mouth of Shoal Creek.  Operator2 stated that he saw Operator1''s vessel and was blinded by his white light mounted in the front.  He tried to move toward his right as navigation rules require, but Operator1 was moving toward his left traveling in the opposite direction, which caused him to be traveling toward Vessel #2 on a collision occurred.  Operator2 swerved sharply to his left just before contact was made to avoid the collision, but the vessels still made contact.  The impact caused damage to the starboard side, with the most severe damage near the operator station of Vessel #1.  Vessel #2 had damage to the forward section of the starboard side near the location of the registration numbers displayed on the vessel.  There was also evidence of contact was made with the lower unit of the outboard motor and the propeller of Vessel #2.  

Operator2 circled back to Vessel #1 after the collision and offered aid until Killen Volunteer Fire Department arrived at the scene.  Operator1 was transported to the Shoal Creek Boat Ramp and was evaluated by Shoals Ambulance Service Personnel.  He was then flown to Huntsville Hospital to receive treatment.  Operator1 was showing signs of confusion and possible impairment, and there were 4 unopened bud light 12-ounce beer cans onboard his vessel in a built-in cooler.  Operator1 received trauma to his head in the collision, and that may have been the cause of the impairment.  Subject1 stated that neither he nor Operator1 had consumed alcoholic beverages that day.  

To assist in determining the cause of the impairment, a search warrant was obtained from the Madison County Magistrate to collect blood and urine collected by Huntsville Hospital.  The blood and urine were collected on September 30, 2019 and taken to Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences Hoover Laboratory for analysis that same day.  The ADFS toxicology report for Operator1 is included as an attachment to this report.  No other injuries were reported.  Operator1 was released from Huntsville Hospital on 10/29/2019 and was interviewed on 10/30/2019 at his residence.  He had no memory of the events just prior to the collision, or the events after the collision at the time he was interviewed.  He stated that he had not consumed any alcoholic beverages prior to the collision on 09/28/2019.


BARDID: AL-2019-0102
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tombigbee River
NearestCityorTown: MT. Vernon
County: Mobile
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was southbound in the tombigbee river, when it met a northbound towboat pushing an unloaded barge. Upon meeting the barge the operator stated that he was cruising at approximately  45mph when he jumped a large wake from the barge.  Upon jumping the first wake the operator stated that his vessel then struck a second wake bow down causing the vessel to flood and cause his passenger and himself to be thrown from the vessel. No contact was made between the barge and vessel.  Both the operator and passenger were wearing pfd''s.  The passenger made contact with the vessel upon being ejected and had to be transported to university hospital due to his injuries.  The operator stated that all contents as well  as electronics were lost from the vessel upon impact.


BARDID: AL-2019-0103
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-12-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lay Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wilsonville
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
There was only 1 vessel involved in this crash. Operator advised he was the boat captain for a high school fishing team and had 2 anglers on board with him. While traveling up river he realized he was not in the marked channel. He turned to his right while still up on plain and impacted something under water. 

It caused 1 of the passengers to be ejected from the vessel. Another vessel that was close by came over to assist in getting the kid in the boat. The passenger that was ejected was put on another boat and taken to meet medical personnel at Beeswax boat luanch. The operator and the other passenger stayed with the boat and tried to get it back to the launch. While going back they realized they were taking on water. At this time a second boat stopped to help and both the operator and passenger both got off the boat and it sank in shallow water just off the main channel. Vessel was removed later the same day by ALEA Marine Patrol and the owner.


BARDID: AL-2019-0104
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-12-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Guntersville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Guntersville
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Driver 1 was test driving Unit 1. The listed occupant, also on Unit 1 was a licensed sales representative for Erwin Marine. Driver 1 says Subject drove Unit 1 from a slip at Alred Marina southbound and into the main channel near the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Driver 1 then says he and Subject changed positions and Driver 1 took over operation of Unit 1. Subject says he instructed Driver 1 to travel through the secondary channel back to Alred Marina. Driver 1 stated that he had never driven a vessel as large as Unit 1 and was unfamiliar with it''s operation. Subject says Driver 1 was not giving Unit 1 enough power to plain off and instructed Driver 1 to apply more power to the engines of Unit 1. Driver 1 says as Unit 1 was planing off it was heading north directly towards a Red secondary channel marker buoy. Unit 1 struck the buoy and the collision shut the starboard engine down. Subject then took control of Unit 1 and drove it back to a slip at Alred Marina.


BARDID: AL-2019-0106
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weiss Lake
NearestCityorTown: CEDAR BLUFF
County: Cherokee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was pulling an inner tube. Driver-1 stated he stopped to let the rider of the tube swap out with another passenger on the boat. He stated that as VICTIM was swimming to the boat he thought he had put the boat in neutral. As he was climbing the ladder to get into the boat his left leg got caught in the prop severely cutting it open. The driver of the boat jumped in and picked VICTIM up and put him in the boat. A boat passing by stopped and pulled V-1 to the closest boat launch and called 911. Floyd Ambulance arrived on scene and treated the patient until a medical helicopter arrived and air lifted him to Erlanger Medical Center. All safety equipment was in check and no alcohol or drugs were involved.


BARDID: AL-2019-0107
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Lake
NearestCityorTown: Florence
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator stated that he had entered the slough to see the Darby House from the water.  They had turned south to leave the slough and were at idle speed.  Victim was coming from below deck climbing, onto the bow of the vessel and slipped off the port side of the deck and fell into the water.  Operator moved the boat back toward the location he went in the water, dove in the water to try to save him. He reached the body but was unable to bring him back to the boat.  Operator then drove the boat toward the Darby house and pulled the vessel up against the sea wall, and his passengers got off the boat.  Chief of Killen Volunteer Fire Dept. was on scene and got onboard to start searching with Operator.  The vessel was slightly damaged on the starboard side bow from the sea wall.  Victim''s body was recovered by Florence P.D. on the morning of Tuesday Aug. 13.  Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences took possession of the body and an autopsy is being conducted.


BARDID: AL-2019-0109
State: AL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:34:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Shoal Creek
NearestCityorTown: Killen
County: Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At about 10:34 pm, Vessel 1 was traveling south when he collided with Vessel 2. Vessel 2 was heading north toward Marina Mar on Shoal Creek.  The port side bow area of vessel 1 impacted with the anchor that was stored in the rack on the bow of vessel 2.  

Vessel 1 had pieces that became lodged into the hull of vessel 2.  Vessel 1 left marks on the hull of vessel 2 as its momentum caused it to continue forward.  The port side of vessel 1 received heavy damage and the passengers in the port seat were fatally injured.  They were pushed into the port side of the engine compartment during the impact.  

Operator1, sitting in the operator''s seat, received injuries from impacting the steering wheel and his son received a minor injury to his hand.  He was in front of his dad, between the seat and the steering wheel and went under the operator station during the impact.  The navigation light switch for vessel 1 was in the anchor position and the rear pole mounted white light was in the engine compartment.  The light pole would have to be inserted into the mounting socket to be powered.  The black rubber cover was covering the mounting socket.
  
There were no reported injuries on Vessel 2.  I talked to Operator2 by phone in route to the scene, and he stated that there was damage to his vessel and there was a fisherman assisting the other vessel.  I advised him to wait for me at Marina Mar, as I did not want his vessel to sink or endanger his passengers.  When I arrived, I checked to ensure there were no injuries on vessel 2.  

I traveled by patrol boat to vessel 2.  Operator1 was being removed from the vessel on a backboard by Killen V.F.D. and Florence / Lauderdale EMA members on boats.  After he was transported for medical treatment, I towed vessel 1 to the boat ramp where it was taken by Simpson''s Wrecker Service.  Florence P.D. assisted in taking photos of the persons on Vessel 1 and the vessels.  Operator1 was initially taken to North Alabama Medical Center (NAMC), then moved to Huntsville Hospital.  

A blood sample was collected at NAMC, and a search warrant was obtained to collect the sample.  It was analyzed at the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences.  Medical records for Operator1 from Huntsville Hospital were subpoenaed per the request of the Lauderdale District Attorney.  After securing vessel 1, I returned to Marina Mar to interview Operator2 and his passengers.  Operator2 said that Operator1 had navigation lights on.  Vessel 2 had operational navigation lights while the vessel was docked at the marina, and Operator2 stated his lights were on at the time of the incident.  Operator2 was asked about consumption of alcohol during the interview, and he said that he had been drinking earlier that day. He did not consent to a portable breath testing device, and there was no evidence of impairment to arrest him at the time of interview.   

Operator2 sent information gathered from his Navionics App on his cell phone, and that .gpx file is included as an attachment to this report.  The .gpx file data was overlaid on a google map image on the above diagram, showing the path of vessel 2.  The path indicates he was traveling toward Marina Mar.  He advised that the point where his vessel shifted left was the point of impact.  This is the location of the collision noted on page 1 of this report.  His vessel was traveling between 6-8 mph prior to this point, and at that location his speed reduced to 2.5 mph then 0 mph.  This is consistent with Operator2 saying he throttled down just prior to the collision.  Vessel 2 was later trailered by Operator2 and stored at Shoals Marine.  Operator1 was interviewed on June 20th ...

Operator1 had a BAC of .12


