# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: MD-2015-0118
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/05/15 at approximately 1830 hours subject was waterskiing in the Green Glade cove of Deep Creek Lake.  The tow boat was operated and owned by another person.  Victim struck a large wake wrong and hyperextended his right leg.  He was transported to Garrett Memorial Hospital by friends where he was diagnose with a torn hamstring in his right leg.  Victim was treated and released..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0119
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 6, 2015, I, Corporal was dispatched to respond to Garrett Memorial Hospital for an injury that had occurred as a result of a boat accident.  Upon arrival to the hospital, I met with Victim in the Emergency Room.  Victim stated that he was being towed on a tube in the area of McHenry Cove, when he fell from the tube and injured his right pinky finger as it became entangled in the handle of the tube.  Victim's finger was x-rayed, and bandaged by hospital personnel, after finding that he had suffered a hair line fracture as a result of the incident.
 I also met with Victim's mother who stated that she was the operator of the vessel at the time of the incident.  Operator stated that on September 5 at approximately 1600 hours, she was operating her 2008, 22' Four Winns bearing Maryland registration MD 1831 BT, at no more than 10 miles per hour while turning to port.  Victim stated that waters were calm and failry clear of traffic in the immediate area fo the incident when her son fell from the tube.  Operator immediately took her son back to their dock in McHenry Cove after the incident, and eventually took him to the Emergency Room the next day for the injury.    No charges were filed as a result of my investigation.
 All these events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland...
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0120
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK DRIVE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 6, 2015 at approximately 1515 hours I, Cpl, responded to Deep Creek Dr, Mchenry for a reported skiing related boat accident.   I arrived onscene along with Sgt. Met with the operator of the vessel, and the owner/occupant.  Operator advised they were pulling three juveniles on a tube in Marsh Run Cove of Deep Creek Lake.  The boat traffic was heavy and the wakes/waves were rough at the time of the accident.  Operator advised they hit some rough water which caused the three tubers to fall from the tube.  Two were uninjured.  One complained of pain in his neck.  He was transported to shore where EMS was called.  Northern Garrett Rescue transported him to Garrett Memorial Hospital in Oakland MD.  He was treated and released for a strained neck.  I request this case closed..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0121
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09-06-15 at 1300hrs I was contacted by DNR Communications Center and advised of a female subject being treated for injuries at Urgent Care in McHenry Maryland. I arrived a Urgent Care at 1330hrs and spoke with the staff who advised that Victim had received three stitches to right leg to close a laceration on her knee. The Urgent Care staff also provided me with contact information for Victim.
 
I next contacted Victim and (the operator of the vessel). Operator stated that on 09-05-15 at 1820hrs he was operating the vessel near the Glendale bridge when the vessel struck a wake at approximately thirty miles per hour. The vessel became airborne causing Victim to leave her seat. Operator stated that he was able to stay aboard the vessel but that Victim landed at the port stern edge of the vessel striking her right knee on a loose section of rub rail as she entered the water. 
 
Victim also indicated that her injury occurred when her right knee struck the loose rub rail section on the port stern of the vessel. Victim indicated that she waited until the following day to seek medical treatment due to her insurance coverage and the cost involved with hospital emergency room visits.
 
I next contacted the staff at Fun Time Water Sports for the vessel information. The vessel (MD-2780-LB) was identified as the vessel operated by Operator at the time of the incident. I observed the vessel had a loose hard plastic section of rub rail protruding approximately seven inches from the port stern corner of the vessel. It is consistent with what was described to me by Victim and Operator. I also spoke with the owner of Fun Time Water Sports who provided me with the company insurance information. I cleared the incident at approximately 1600hrs, all events occurred in Garrett County Maryland..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0122
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSATEAGUE ISLAND STATE PARK
NearestCityorTown: PUBLIC LANDING
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 6, 2015 at approximately 2:15 I (Cpl.) heard Ofc. contact DNR dispatch in reference to a vessel that had sunk at the Assateague State Park Boat ramp. The vessel had been involved in a boating accident in the Chincoteague Bay near marker 39. I responded to the scene by vessel along with Cpl.. Upon arrival, I observed a 25ft Grady White bearing a MD registration of 1958 BF sitting on the bottom of the ramp listing to it's starboard side. I made contact with the operator/owner. 
 
Operator advised that he was underway in the Chincoteague Bay when he struck a hard submerged object in the channel near marker 39. He advised that the vessel started taking on water so he quickly tried to make it to Sunset Marina. He advised as he was going he was taking on so much water that he would not be able to make it to Sunset. He elected to bring the boat in to Assateague State Park where the boat sunk on the ramp. While inspecting the vessel I noted a strong odor of gasoline and observed a sheen in the water. I contacted Worcester Central to have the Berlin Fire Department respond for the gas leak. Operator advised that he had filled the tank up earlier in the day and estimated that the tanks had over 100 gallons of unleaded gasoline. Berlin Fire and Worcester County Emergency Services Personnel responded to the scene. They placed booms around the vessel to trap any fuel that was leaking. Racetrack Auto was contacted by the owners who responded to the scene with a rollback and an additional tow truck. Once the vessel was removed from the water I was able to observe heavy damage to the hull of the vessel consistent with a collision with a hard object. Cpl. transported Operator back to the scene of the collision to get a better location and attempt to locate the submerged object. Cpl. advised that there were dredge pipes in the area but no visible markers or pipe in the channel where the collision occurred. The vessel was removed from the scene by Racetrack Auto. On September 7 I was contacted by Cpl.. He advised that Marine Diver Services had been hired by Operator to scan the area. 
 
He advised that Diver had located a large section of unmarked dredge pipe in the channel where the collision occurred using side scan sonar. I contacted the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Station Ocean City as well as USCG sector Baltimore to request that they mark the area as well as put out a notice to mariners. I was told that the crew that marks hazards would not be available until Tuesday. I also requested that this information be forwarded to their commercial enforcement division since the dredging operation is a commercial operation contracted by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
 
On September 8 I spoke with Diver. He confirmed that there was several hundred yards of unmarked dredge pipe in the area that was within the navigational channel at marker 39. He sent me an email with the coordinates with the locations marked on a chart as well a pictures of the side scan images (ATTACHED). I am also a member of our agencies under water operations unit and have been trained on the use and how to read images of a side scan sonar. I am also familiar with the dredging operation that have been occurring in the area. After viewing the side scan images I can conclude that the images do show dredge pipes. I again contacted the USCG station Ocean City and spoke with Duty Officer. He advised that they had also received the report and that they had forwarded the information to USCG sector Baltimore and the USACE. I made contact with Operator by telephone. He advised me that he was still waiting on estimates of the damage to the vessel but was guessing that the damage would be around $18,000. He also confirmed that he had hired Diver and had been briefed on the report. The severity and location of the damage is consistent with a hard impact with a solid object that was partially submerged. The only items on the side scan imagery taken


BARDID: MD-2015-0124
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chesapeake Bay
NearestCityorTown: Betterton
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/19/15 at approximately 0730hrs, I was notified by Sgt. the SOD Duty Officer, to respond to the Craft Haven Campground, located at 900 Carpenter Point Rd, Perryville, for a missing person from a vessel.   The campground is located upon the Northeast River and has a marina. Sgt. was notified by DNR Communications. While en route, I was briefed by Cpl., who was already on the scene per Duty Officer Sgt..  

 Upon my arrival, I conducted several interviews and learned the following:
   
  On 09/18/15 around 1900hrs, the missing person, who was later found deceased was at his camper, located at campsite #F24, consuming alcoholic beverages with his neighboring camp site friends when he stepped away to take a work-related phone call from a co-worker at Lanchester Landfill.  The phone call angered Victim, who told friends that he needed to “get away” for a few minutes.  Victim immediately took off on his golf cart.  Victim had not been seen or heard from since.

 Friends found Victim's blue golf cart parked by the dock and found that his boat, a 23' Pro-Line center console, gone from its assigned slip at Craft Haven Campground.  Friends were interviewed separately; they both indicated they assumed Victim went out on the water and would return later in the evening.
  
 Then, at approximately 0300hrs on 09/19/15, the Coast Guard received a call reference a center console vessel, later found to belong to Victim, running in circles unoccupied in the area described above.  The Coast Guard and NRP units responded and stopped the vessel, which was indeed unoccupied.   A search for Victim ensued at that time.
   
   After being briefed on the incident, I called co-worker to obtain further information.  Co-worker told me that she called Victim at 1909hrs on his cell phone, and told him that his employees at the landfill failed to repair a track loader.  Co-worker was very emotional and told me to call her if I needed any more information.

 I then responded to Victim's campsite, where his vehicle was parked.  Friends had indicated to Sgt. that there was probably a handgun, which they knew Victim to carry, in the center console.  Victim's vehicle was searched and a Ruger 9mm was located in a black nylon holster.  A stolen check on the handgun was negative.  The handgun was secured at that time.  I photographed Victim's vehicle, a Chevrolet truck bearing Pennsylvania tag WR90761.
   
   I then entered Victim's camper and photographed the inside.  Nothing out of the ordinary was noted.  Victim had several prescription bottles in plain view on the kitchen table for high blood pressure.  None appeared to be controlled dangerous substances.  I noted several bottles of liquor, which I also photographed.  It appeared as if Victim was a heavy smoker.  This was later confirmed by Friends.

 I then responded back to Victim's vessel, a 23' Pro Line bearing Maryland registration 4257 BU (registered to him), which was docked in his slip.  I photographed the vessel and found nothing out of the ordinary.  I photographed the track line from the vessel's GPS, and noted that at 1929hrs the vessel was heading south when it turned abruptly towards the northeast.  The vessel then began going in circles as shown on the GPS.  I searched all storage areas of the vessel with nothing abnormal noted.  The vessel was kept at it's assigned dock at the Craft Haven Campground.
     
   I then conducted several checks and found that Victim's cell phone was serviced by AT&T.  I called AT&T and requested his phone number be pinged due to exigency; the resultant location and time of last cell tower communication is consistent with where Victim's vessel was found unoccupied, and the time he went out on the water.  The last communication between Victim's cell phone and the tower was at 1930hrs, the same time the vessel began going in circles.
     
   I then learned that Victim's wife is out of the country after speaking with his step-son.   According to


BARDID: MD-2015-0125
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Frog Mortar Creek
NearestCityorTown: Middle River
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday,6-14-15 at 1138 Hrs. This officer was dispatched to the Chesapeake Yachting Center for a report of a boat explosion. The marina is located at 114 Carroll Island Rd., Middle River, MD. 21220. Upon arrival, the fire had already been extinguished by the boat owner and employees of the marina. 
 
Investigation revealed that during the week, fuel sending units from both fuel tanks had been replaced. When the owner arrived at the boat earlier on this date, he wanted to check the fuel gauges to see if they were working. To do this he had to start the engines. After operating the blower for a period of time, he started both engines without accident. He then wanted to top off his fuel tanks. His boat is docked in the slip directly being the fuel dock. For this reason he did not have to move his boat. The fuel line was pulled to the boat. Owner attempted to leave the blower on, but the fuel person stated that marina policy prohibited this, and it was shut off. Both fuel tanks were topped off, taking just over 44 gallons of gas. Owner turned the blower back on, but had other things to do the boat before he started the engines. He estimated that the blower was on for about 10 minutes before starting the engines. He can't recall if the port engine was running, but when he attempted to start the starboard engine the explosion occurred. 
 
The deck over the engines was blown overboard. His wife occupant was standing midship when the explosion took place. She fell toward the starboard engine which owner states was on fire. As a result of this wife suffered 2nd degree burns on her arms, legs and hips and was transported to Hopkins Bayview Burn Unit by Medic, where she was admitted. 
 
A marine surveyor, for Owner's insurance company inspected the boat. He estimates the damage to be $200,000. He also stated that during his inspection, he noticed that where the fuel sending units attach to the fuel tanks, he observed what appeared to be a liquid or moisture, possibly being gas. Surveroy spoke with the company that did the repairs to the boat. Premier Marine, which is located on the property of the marina. He was informed that the mechanic that did the work on the sending units, dropped two of the screws that attach the sending units to the gas tank, in the bilge and could not retrieve them. He went up to the shop and got two other screws to use. It is possible that this gas leaked out the top of the fuel tank. 
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0126
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hart Miller Island
NearestCityorTown: Essex
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored just off of Hart Miller Island with the two people onboard. After being there for about 45 minutes, the owner realized that the boat was sitting lower in the water and sinking. He and the other occupant got into a zodiac and went ashore on to Hart Miller Island. After the boat was raised out of the water it was discovered that the boat had struck an object in the water, ripping off the starboard outdrive, allowing water to enter the boat No injuries were suffered by either of the two occupants of the boat. The boat was raised and towed by  Decklemans Bay Assist to their facility.


BARDID: MD-2015-0127
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Middle River at Normans Creek
NearestCityorTown: Essex
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The owner was onboard his vessel with his wife and came to a stop and turned his engines off for a few minutes. Once he started the engine again there was an explosion in the engine compartment. He put the fire out with his fire extinguisher. No one was hurt and the vessel was towed back to shore.


BARDID: MD-2015-0128
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SMITHS ARENA
NearestCityorTown: CROWNSVILLE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5 September 2015 at approximately 4PM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was contacted by Department of Natural Resources Communications, in regards to a possible amputation that occurred on a vessel in Little Round Bay, Severn River. The call came into Anne Arundel County 911. A medical unit had been dispatched to Smith’s Marina, where the caller had reported they were heading with the patient.

Once on scene, I observed a 17’ Boston Whaler, bearing MD registration 1972CF, tied to the pump out dock. I was advised by the owner, operator, and complainant that his friend was kneeling at the bow of his Boston Whaler, with his right hand over the bow rail, attempting to hold two vessels together while people transferred from vessel to vessel. During this action, a large wake hit the larger vessel Victim was attempting to stabilize, causing the bow to rise and fall, pinching Victim’s right thumb between the bow rail of the Whaler and the bow of the other vessel. The top half of Victim’s right thumb was de-gloved from his wrist to the first joint, exposing the bone. Victim was transported by AACO Medic 6 (run # 201554296) to Union Memorial Hospital’s hand center in Baltimore City.

ALL OBSERVATIONS ARE BASED ON MY TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE. ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MARYLAND. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0129
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1008 ROLPHS WHARF ROAD
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/6/2015 I was dispatched to Chestertown Medical Center for a head injury on a vessel.  Upon arrival I spoke to subject.  She stated that their vessel was docked in their slip at Rolphs Wharf.  She said she went to get up from the table and slipped and fell against the cabin of the vessel due to the vessel being tossed back and forth by a wake.  Victim hit the top of her head and ended up with 10 staples and a slight concussion.  I spoke to another person and he stated that the vessel was being rocked back and forth roughly because of the wake that boaters were causing by the marina.  Rolphs Wharf Marina is located in a Sat, Sun, and Holiday speed zone on the Chester River.
 
On 9/7/2015 I spoke to two others.  They have a vessel docked at Rolphs Wharf at slip.  They stated that they were there when the incident occured and believe it was due to the wake caused by vessels that were passing through.
 
No one was able to identify a specific vessel that caused the wake but there have been a couple times where their vessels had been tossed roughly due to vessels speeding through the speed zone.

All events occured in Queen Anne's County, Maryland. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0130
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NEWBURG
NearestCityorTown: NEWBURG
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, August 6, 2015 at approximately 7:30pm, Operator was operating a personal watercraft (PWC) in the area of Swan Point on the Potomac River.  Operator was thrown from the PWC due to a wake from another vessel passing by.  Operator was able to return to shore with minimal pain to her upper body at the time.  On Monday, August 7, 2015, Operator drove herself to the University of Maryland Regional Medical Center located in Laplata, MD.  At 8:45, I (OFC.) was notified by dispatch that a nurse from the hospital called to report the incident and that Operator was still at the hospital.  I arrived at the hospital at approximately 9:45 to meet with Operator.  At the time of my arrival Operator was getting a CT scan for the injury sustained during her PWC accident.  I asked Operator if the PWC that she was operating was hers and she said "no".  She was not certain who the PWC belonged to but mentioned that it belonged to a deputy with the Charles County Sheriff's Office.  She believed his name to be deputy.  Operator was not a direct friend of "him".  After running a browse with the Charles County Sheriff's Office they were unable to locate any officer with that name.  I was unable to obtain any vessel information due to the lack of knowledge of the owner.
 
Operator was issued a warning for negligent operation and remained at the hospital as I departed.
 
    There is nothing further to report this case is closed since the vessel and owner of the vessel could not be identified.  A follow up with victim will take place to see if she gave the right information or can remember the name of the vessel's owner.  She may have been on medication at the time of the initial interview.  If new information is obtained a supplement will be added to this report/incident.  All actions took place in the Potomac River, Charles County, MD..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0131
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 341 EAGLE HILL ROAD
NearestCityorTown: PASADENA
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel struck Daymarker On Magothy River at entrance to Broad Creek. Operator received non-life threatening injuries . On September 6, 2015 at 6:28 AM, I (Officer) was dispatched to Pasadena for a suspicious situation, The caller was reporting he found a Sea Ray boat tied to his pier with blood splattered on the boat and blood on his pier. The caller was identified. 

Upon arrival, I contacted Caller. He drove me to the pier area to view the vessel. I observe the vessel to be tied to the east side of his pier. Blood was obvious on the boat and pier area. The blood on the boat appears to be splattered and the blood on the pier was drops. I observed fresh damage on the port-bow side of the vessel, specifically just to the left of center. Black transfer mark was observed on the white hull. Old damage of similiar nature was observed on the starboard-bow area. The vessel was a 26 foot cabin cruiser pleasure boat. I entered the vessel and confirmed no one was still inside. Once on the vessel I observed what appeared to be two teeth on the console in front of the steering wheel. Blood was splattered over the dash and helm area. The windshield frame was slightly dented and appeared to have some skin transfer on the top metal frame. The wheel was also bent as if the body had made blunt force contact. I observed an opened "Corolla" alcoholic beverage adjacent to the operators seat in an open shelf cubby area. There was no key in the ignition. One other opened alcoholic beverage "Samual Adams" was observed on a seat area. While looking for the vessel registration, I located a wallet in the cabin area. The wallet had a MD drivers license. The vessel registration was also found showing Subject as the registered owner.

I would observe pieces of the hull on the bow section of the vessel. The damage appeared consistent with striking an object similiar to a piling or day-marker. The vessel was covered in dew which indicated that it had happened overnight sometime. The pieces of the hull on the bow had blown off so the collision probably occurred nearby. Photos were taken of the vessel.

While at the location, a female called the residence stating that her son's boat was tied to the pier and they would have someone remove it later. I spoke with the female who identified herself. She stated her son Subject had a medical emergency around 11:15 PM the evening before and tied his boat to the pier. She further indicated that her son was at North Arundel Hospital and was being transferred to Shock Trauma for referrel.. She also indicated that Subject's girlfriend (unknown name) was with him. I called the number but received no answer. A message was left to contact me.

I then traveled to North Arundel Hospital, now named Baltimore Washington Medical Center. The security guard indicated that no one by that name had been entered into the hospital data base as being seen. She called several hospitals in the area and learned that Subject was being seen at the University of Maryland in Balitmore City.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0132
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HART MILLER ISLAND STATE PARK
NearestCityorTown: ESSEX
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 7, 2015 at approximately 6:00 am, I Off. was dispatched to investigate an incident that occurred around 12:15 am that morning. It was reported to DNR by Baltimore County Police that a female had fallen off of an anchored boat and almost drowned. Victim was rescued by other occupants of the boat and transported by Baltimore County Fire Boat to an awaiting ambulance on shore. Victim was transported by Baltimore County  Fire Department Ambulance to Johns Hopkins Bayview Hospital.

At approximately 8:00 am, I contacted Bayview Hospital and confirmed Victim had been admitted and was in the Medical Intensive Care Unit.  At approximately 12:00pm, I arrived at the Bayview Hospital ICU and interviewed Victim.  Victim provided me with a statement of the accident as well as the other occupants of the vessels.  During my interview with Victim, Victim's sister-in-law called the hospital room.  Victim agreed to allow me to speak with Sister-in-law over the phone.

Sister-in-law told me the names of the other occupants of the vessels and contact phone numbers.  She also provided a statement about the accident. There were four (4) adults on vessel #1 prior to the accident. There were also four (4) children asleep on vessel #2.

After interviewing the four adults involved, I concluded the following:

Two vessels, Seacritt, v1, owned by operator1 and Sister-in-law, and Carrbouy were anchored and rafted up together in the area of Pleasure Island. Vessel #1, Seacritt, was on the starboard side and Carrbouy, vessel #2, was on the port side.  All of the adults were sitting in the cockpit of vessel #1 and the children were in the cabin of vessel #2. Around midnight, Victim got up and was walking from the swim platform of vessel #1 to the swim platform of vessel #2 when she stumbled and fell into the water. After several minutes, the remaining three adults realized Victim was missing and started looking for her. They found her floating face down in the water behind the vessels. Two people jumped into the water and pushed Victim back onto the swim platform. V1 opeartor then started providing first aid, while Sister-in-law contacted 911. Victim was unresponsive, but was breathing and had a pulse. 

A Baltimore County fire boat arrived and transported Victim to shore.

All events occurred in Baltimore County..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0133
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MAGOTHY RIVER - SILLERY BAY
NearestCityorTown: PASADENA
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 18, 2015 at approximately 1100 hrs I, OFC., was on boat patrol on the Magothy River when I was dispatched to a call for a person in the water in the area of Sillery Bay and Grays Creek.  I had an approximately 5 minute ETA.  Near the mouth of Grays Creek I observed a Tow Boat U.S. vessel next to a capsized small vessel.  By the time I was on scene, persons on board the vessel had been taken to shore at Atlantic Marina- Grays Creek.  Captain of Tow Boat U.S. was on scene and had a line attached to the capsized vessel.  He told me that there was structural damage to the vessel's hull on the starboard side.  It was suspected that the vessel struck the #2 navigational marker located at the mouth of Grays Creek.  The vessel was a Cobia Sunskiff 180 bearing registration MD 6028 AN.  Captain stayed with the vessel as I proceeded to go to Atlantic Marina to meet with the victims. 

At Atlantic Marina I met with the good Samaritan, who rescued the persons from the water and brought them to Atlantic Marina.  Good Sam told me that he was outside at his waterfront house nearby and heard persons yelling in the water.  He then went out on his vessel and rescued three persons from the water.

I then met with the vessel owner/operator and passenger.  Operator did not show any signs of intoxication nor did I smell an odor of alcoholic beverage on his breath or person.  Both Operator and Occupant told me that they had not been drinking alcohol prior to the accident.  Prior to my arrival, passenger Occupant2 was transported by MSP Aviation to U. of MD Shock Trauma for treatment of severe head injuries.

I asked Operator about the events the occurred prior to the accident.  He told me that they launched the boat at the Magothy Beach community boat ramp and then went crabbing behind Gibson Island.  During their return to Magothy Beach the vessel, operated by Operator, struck the #2 navigational marker at the mouth of Grays Creek.  Operator told me that the navigational marker "appeared out of nowhere" prior to the collision.  He said he was very familiar with the waterway as he has been boating in the area for 30 years.  I asked Operator if he was distracted by a cell phone or by anything else prior to the collision and he told me "no".  Operator sustained no injury that required treatment.

Occupant corroborated the events that Operator told me.  Occupant was transported to Baltimore Washington Medical Center for evaluation and treatment of minor injuries sustained to his head and torso.

Off.  and I then went back out on the patrol boat to the scene of the accident. We took photos of the capsized vessel and of the #2 navigational marker (see attached).  The #2 navigational marker did not sustain any structural damage.  There was white fiberglass transfer onto the pole of the marker.  Captain of Tow Boat U.S. then towed the vessel to Atlantic Marina to be salvaged.  Captain provided a written statement that is attached to this report.

My investigation concludes that the vessel struck the #2 navigational marker with the initial point of contact being the starboard bow of the vessel.  As the vessel continued forward, the marker rubbed down the starboard side causing severe fiberglass damage down the length of the vessel.  The punctures in the hull caused the vessel to flood and then capsize.  The coordinates of the #2 navigational marker are N 39 05.200'  W 076 27.636'.
 
The primary causes of the accident were operator inattention and failure to maintain a proper lookout.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland...
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0134
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 98 SOUTH SHORE RD
NearestCityorTown: ELKTON
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/6/15 at 1818 hours, I, Cpl. was dispatched to a boat accident on Back Creek, Elk river. Back Creek is the C&D canal.  
    Upon arrival to that address on the canal by patrol boat, I observed EMS personnel working on an unconscious female in the back of a Key Largo center console, MD6560BT, that was raised up on the dock's boat lift.  Two bloody male subjects were standing on the dock watching the EMS personnel.  I asked out loud, "Who was the operator of the vessel?"  An older gentleman, father of the two subjects looked at me, then turned around and looked at his sons.   I stated "This isn't a hard question, who is the operator?"  Occupant1 and father pointed and stated Operator was.  I stated I needed ID's from everyone.  I asked Operator, who had an obvious broken nose, face and head lacerations, if he was the operator, and he started crying and stated "I wish this didnt happen" as he handed me his drivers license.  
    I got driver's licenses for all 3 victims.  EMS took each victim to a separate ambulance.  Occupant1 who had a laceration to his head, could walk and talk well compared to other victims.  I asked him where everyone was in the boat and what happened.  Occupant1 stated that he was seated in front of the center console, Operator was operating, and Occupant2 was standing to the left of Operator.  They just left from being on the beach just outside of the canal, later identified as Welchs point on the Elk river (location code 5303), and were headed back to their dock of their summer home (98 South Shore Rd).  Occupant1 said "I don't know what happened, I don't know if my brother wasn't paying attention, sun was in his eyes, if he was distracted, I don't know."  EMS then took all the victims away.
   friend of the victims, stated he was following them in a PWC.  Friend stated that they were all hanging out at Welch's Point and then decided to head back.  I asked if they all had been drinking alcohol and he stated, " Only a couple beers each, we didn't bring that much alcohol."  He stated he doesn't know what happened, if Operator was distracted or the sun got in his eyes.  He stated that he was 100-200 yards back when the accident happened.  He thought that Occupant1 was thrown into the day marker and then fell back into the boat.  Operator and Occupant2 were laying on the floor when he got up to them.  Friend gave a written statement which was given to Cpl..
    The direction of travel the victims were headed in the C&D canal from Welch's point is due east.  The day marker the victim's struck was the green number 29, the first marker on the left coming into the canal from Welch's point.  Sun set's in the west, which would of been to their back.  Boat traffic was very busy in the canal around 6pm.  Water temperature was 76 degrees.  Sunny and clear weather, approximately 88 degree air temperature.
    I took some pictures at the scene, see attached. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0136
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER - MAIN STEM OF
NearestCityorTown: SECRETARY
County: CO - Caroline
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 29, 2015 at approximately 1600 hrs I was notified by DNR Communications of a reportable watercraft accident from the night prior (8/28/15).  Initially the report was of personal injury.   After investigating, the accident was property damage only.  I made contact with the complainant and arranged to meet him at his residence where he and his vessel were located.  

Upon arriving it was clear there was extensive damage to the vessel as shown in the attached photographs.  I made contact with Operator who began to explain the incident from the night before.  Operator advised he was headed back to Choptank Marina from Snapper's in Cambridge with two other persons aboard his 25' Maycraft center console.   Operator stated that his bow mounted spot light was inoperable, his GPS screen was dim, and he turned around to look at one of his passengers at about 0000 hrs.  Operator turned back around to see a green #39 un-lit channel marker straight ahead.  He explained that he pulled the throttles back and turned hard to starboard to try to avoid the channel marker.  This attempt was too late and the vessel initially struck the channel marker on the port bow.  The secondary damage shows a cracked hull down the entire length of the port side to the stern.  This could be from a secondary impact or from the hull flexing and distributing the initial force of impact.  The operator's chair was ripped from the deck while the occupants were thrown about inside the vessel.  Occupant1 suffered a bruised knee while Occupant2 had a bruise on her hip.  After impact the vessel was taking on water.  Operator described that he was able to make it back to Choptank Marina while the bilge pump ran the entire time (even while on the trailer when he arrived at his residence).  When asked Operator stated that he had two beers while at Snapper's.  

I made contact by phone with both of the other occupants to check on their welfare.  They both advised they were ok and did not seek any medical attention after the accident.  Both individuals explained what they remembered and all of the information corroborated with Operator's recollection.  Operator recorded his account of the night prior on a witness/victim statement which can be found attached to this report.  I issued Operator the following citation and warnings:

6Y66196010 NR 8-704 08.18.01.04 Failure to obey navigational rules (Rules of the road) - Did fail to maintain a proper lookout $85.00
Warnings - Improper display of vessel registration numbers and decal

All events on 8/28/15 occurred in Talbot County, MD. The interview on 8/29/15 occurred in Caroline County, MD. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0137
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: North East River
NearestCityorTown: North East
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 12, 2015 I was on patrol in Cecil County, MD. At approximately 1230hrs I heard over the radio that Corporal was enroute to the North East river for a boat fire.  I began to make my way toward that area.  I received information that the occupant of the boat was being transported to land by the Coast Guard to Hances Point Marina.  Once at Hances Point Marina, I found out that the boater was taken to Jackson Marina.

 At approximately 1320hrs I arrived at Jackson Marina to meet the vessel owner. EMS was on scene, from North East Fire Company #492. I spoke to EMT, she informed me Operator was ok and he refused to be checked out.  She provided Operator with some water.   I spoke to Operator and asked if he was ok, he stated he was ok.  He appears to be shaken up and upset. 

 I asked Operator what had happened today on the boat. Operator stated he was down at Jackson Marina working on his boat.  He had begun to winterize the boat because with his schedule he wouldn't be able to work on the boat until sometime in November. He had treated approximately 100 gallons of diesel fuel with fuel additive and flushed the heat exchanger on the generator and added coolant. Generator was new within the past month and had no problems. 
 He decided to take the boat on a short run to mix the fuel additive through the engines. He left the marina with his dog Pippa sometime after 1100hrs.  On the way down the North East River heading towards Turkey Point, Doug went into the cabin to grab a rain coat because of the light intermittent rain.  He did not notice anything at that time.  He did state he had his generator running but the air conditioner was not on.

 As he was heading back to the Marina, just before buoy #2 on the North East river, Operator began to smell smoke.  He left the bridge and headed down to the cabin.  He opened the door to the saloon and smoke began to pour out.  He did not notice smoke coming from the floor boards.  He closed the door and headed back to the bridge.  Operator then called for help over his VHF Radio.  After calling out for help, Operator came down from the bridge grabbed his dog and a life vest and headed to the bow. Grabbing a line from the bow of the boat he then lowered himself and the dog into the water. A Good Samaritan stopped and took Operator and his dog aboard their boat.
 
 Operator didn't remember doing anything different then what he normally does when winterizing.  The engine access panels were closed and the carpet stayed pulled back.  I asked when the boat was used last.  Operator stated it was used last weekend over Labor Day.  Operator has owned the vessel "Good Time Girl" for the past 11 years. After talking to Operator, I was informed by the Coast Guard that the vessel had sunk just outside of buoy #4 on the North East River. 

 Sea Tow contacted me at approximately 1420hrs to talk to Operator about getting his insurance policy number so they can begin the paperwork to salvage the vessel from the bottom of the North East River.

 At approximately 1545hrs I cleared Jackson Marina and headed over to Charlestown's Community boat ramp to meet Cpl..  Cpl. was following Sea Tow by boat, back to the ramp in Charlestown.  Sea Tow was towing back the fuel tank that had floated to the surface once the vessel sunk.  Once the fuel tank was on land, Sea Tow began to empty the remaining diesel fuel from the tank.  Sea Tow was going to take the fuel tank and would be salvaging the vessel from the river. At approximately 1700hrs I cleared from Charlestown Community boat ramp. 

 All events occured in Cecil County, Maryland.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0138
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT
NearestCityorTown: BERLIN
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 9th, 2015 at approximately 1940 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a report of a jet ski accident with injury from DNR communications. DNR advised the victim was currently at Atlantic General Hospital (AGH), getting treatment for her injuries, and that the vessels were currently out of the water. Officer spoke with a hospital staff member who advised the victim was currently being treated, but would be released soon. I then made contact with the operator of the suspect vessel and advised that we needed to get more information on the incident. Subject agreed to meet with us at his residence in Ocean Pines at 2100 hours. I then attempted to make contact with the rental company-Paradise Watersports-but could not reach an employee via telephone. 

At approximately 2010 hours, Officer arrived at Paradise watersports and made contact with the business owner who advised that he had no knowledge of any injured victims on any of his parties taken out that day. Owner also advised that he did not have a record as to which ski they may have been on. Owner told Wood that he would like to be contacted once more information became available. 

At 2100 hours, we arrived to speak with the victim who was wearing her left arm in a sling. According to witness statements, Victim and Subject rented a jet ski (unknown registration) from Paradise watersports around 1845 hours. Subject was operating the PWC, and Victim was positioned on the back of the ski. There were 2 guides in their group, as well as 7 other rental skis. Subject said all the other renters were very cognizant of the 100 foot rule and were abiding by it. They were traveling West in Herring Creek and approached a wake on a 45 degree angle towards its starboard side. Subject stated that they were going approximately 30 knots when they hit the wake on their bow/starboard side. Subject stated that he suddenly felt Victim fall off the ski on the port side. Victim stated that she believes she may have either hit her arm on the ski, or else just landed awkwardly in the water and hurt her left arm. She also stated that she believes her body may have twisted in the air as she was falling off the ski. 

After Victim fell of the ski, she immediately felt pain and held her head in her right hand-as if to wince in pain. Subject jumped off the ski to render aid to Victim. Subject stated that the jet ski guides then arrived to offer aid the Victim. Victim then climbed back onto the jet ski, and was escorted back to Paradise. 

Victim and Subject stated that they advised the guides that they would be seeking medical attention at AGH; however, Paradise never reported any of these activities to DNR. 

Victim sustained a fractured left humerus in the fall and was treated at AGH. 


All above events occurred in Worcester County, MD. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0139
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/07/15 at approximately 1515 hours, I, OFC was called to respond to a vessel accident involving serious property damage. The vessel had been removed from Deep Creek Lake at Deep Creek Marina, it was part of their rental fleet. The vessel was a 2009 21' Sea Ray ski boat with a 2009 Mercury 260hp motor, it bore MD registration: MD 2396 LB. I responded to Deep Creek Marina and found the vessel on shore and the vessel operator/family waiting. The vessel operator said he had been boating for over twenty years and was familiar with navigational buoys/warnings and areas to avoid that could hold potential danger. Operator advised that the rental staff at Deep Creek Marina told the Operator family to navigate their vessel towards the dam area in northern Deep Creek Lake. This area holds quiet coves and lesser vessel traffic conducive to tubing and water skiing activities. The rental staff gave the Operator's a black and white map of Deep Creek Lake, this map was cut off before identifying the thoroughfare leading to the dam and the danger areas in that location. The accident occurred as the family was towing a water skiier (tuber) around "Stump Point", not identified on Deep Creek Marina's map as it is on other rental agencies around the lake. However, Deep Creek Lake Management places five danger buoys around Stump Point warning boaters to stay clear and not cross between the buoys and the shoreline at the point. There are many submerged stumps and suspended trees in the area and the subjects were advised that the previous day another renter from Deep Creek Marina struck a submerged stump.
 
 At the time of the accident the Operator's were filming the passenger that was water skiing. In the video you can see the family navigating to the outside of the danger buoys around Stump Point in the middle of the thoroughfare. As the family rounds the turn heading north, you can hear an audible explosion/loud bang, see the stern quickly rise up and see the entire vessel shudder to a stop. The vessel was immediately dead in the water. Based on my knowledge, training and experience as a marine officer, I recognize these events as a typical reaction when a vessel strikes a submerged object, be it a rock, stump, tree, etc. 
 
  No one was hurt onboard and the skiier was okay as well. The vessel immediately began leaking gasoline as the gas line was severed; the vessel also began taking on water in the inboard engine compartment. Nearby people on shore offered to assist the family but the Operator's had called Deep Creek Marina for rescue/assistance. They were told a technician was on the way. (wife of Operator), timed the technician's arrival and has documentation of a fifty minute arrival time; normally an eight minute ride from the Marina to Stump Point. The family was transported back to Deep Creek Marina in an able pontoon boat and the damaged vessel was towed back to the marina thereafter. The vessel sustained severe damage to the outdrive, the aluminum housing of the outdrive was shattered, along with some severed tubing (gas line).
 
  As I interviewed Operator on the conditions of the accident, he remained very confused as to how they could have had such a significant accident in an area that was legal and safe to operate/navigate. I informed him that water levels were down about two feet from the beginning of the season and there may be errant stumps or even a suspended felled tree leftover from the winter hovering outside the danger buoys. With that significant water level drop, many different hazards may suddenly lurk, even if not seen on the surface. This was an unavoidable accident as the video shows the vessel was traveling in the main thoroughfare outside of the danger buoys. Deep Creek Lake Marina asked the Operator family to pay for the damages before they left the scene pursuant to their rental contract. The damage was estimated by Deep Creek Marina at $9,882.15. They also offered to sell the vessel for $25,000. The mar


BARDID: MD-2015-0141
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 8600 CARIBBEAN DRIVE
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Two people were launching subject’s vessel, a 1987 22' Wellcraft center console boat into the water at the public boat ramp just off Caribbean Dr. in Ocean City, MD. After the vessel was launched, Subject2 attempted to start the engine. When he turn the ignition key, a loud "pop" was heard under the center console. Almost immediately, smoke and flames appeared from under the console. The flames spread so rapidly, that there was no attempt to put the fire out with the onboard fire extinguisher. The vessel was abandoned. Fearing the possibility of an explosion, the vessel was unsecured and pushed away from the dock. 

Ocean City Fire Company was dispatched. Upon their arrival, the vessel was fully involved in flames and was floating in the middle of the creek. The fire trucks had a hard time putting out the fire because it was almost out of range of the fire hoses. The Ocean City Fire boat arrived on scene and eventually put the fire out but not before the fire burnt the boat to the water line. The vessel was a total loss.

Subject advises that there was no insurance on the vessel. He has no explanation for what may have started the fire but feels it was some type of an electrical short. The Ocean City Fire Marshall had responded to the scene. At the writer's request they went out to where the vessel was now sitting on the bottom in about 10 inches of water and examined the vessel. They felt that the fire started in the area of the center console and was probably electrical in origin.

There is no foul play suspected in this case. The owner contacted commercial towing who responded and pulled the vessel to the ramp where it was placed on the boat trailer and taken to the local landfill. There is no known environmental damage.  .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0142
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOLOMONS HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: LUSBY
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday September 19, 2015 I (Cpl of the Natural Resources Police) was on routine patrol.  At approximately 11:39 a.m., DNR dispatched a complaint for a boat explosion that occurred on Mill Creek, Calvert County near the Lusby area.  I responded.  At this address I was met by Trooper of the Maryland State Police.  Trooper advised me that a boat with 5 persons (2 adults, 3 children) on board had exploded and caught fire. The passengers abandoned the vessel and swam to shore.  Upon reaching the shore they were assisted by individuals who were working at a nearby residence.  The children and the mother were transported to Children's Hospital and the father left to go to the hospital to be with his family.  

Each Witness gave a written statement.  All 3 Witnesses were working on the residence at the time of the accident.  All the Witnesses advised they were working when they heard a loud boom.  When sought out the source of the noise they observed a boat on the water on fire.  Witnesses #1&2 observed the Father throwing the children into the water.  Witness #3 observed the father attempting to extinguish the fire.  All the Witnesses advised that they called to the passengers to swim to their direction where they helped them out of the water and up to the house where 911 was contacted.  An EMT showed up in a jeep and began lending assistance.  An additional Witness statement was received. The Witness was not on scene at this time. See the attached Witness statements.

At this time I observed the vessel in question.  It was located on the far shore.  The only thing that appeared to be left was the lower portion of the hull and it was covered in a foam chemical used by the fire department to suppress the fire.  
 
In an attempt to locate the trailer for the vessel in question I met and interviewed the following individual:

I interviewed Witness # 4 who advised that the Father has launched the vessel at the marina several times in the past.  He was in the shop when he heard a loud pop.  He ran out of the shop and smoke was coming from the engine compartment of the boat that had just launched and people jumping overboard.  He attempted to assist them with his vessel but the passengers were already on shore.  He advised that when he saw the vessel it was approximately 15 yards past the end of the pier.  He attempted to keep the vessel from drifting back into the pier and vessels tied to it.  He also advised that his marina does not sell fuel.  See the attached Written statement.  

The vessel displayed Maryland registration 9216-E. The Hull Identification Number is WELJ0240M04F-210. A computer check of the vessels registration revealed the following.  The vessel is a 1984 Wellcraft, 20 feet in length, inboard/ outboard propulsion, fiberglass in construction and Blue and White in color.  The registered Owner is:

From this point forward I was requested to keep the vessel secure until a decision was made about its disposition.  At approximately 5:25 p.m., I was advised to secure from the scene.
 
Witnesses #5 and 6 were interviewed over the phone.  Witness #5 added the following to her written statement.  When she first saw the vessel in question it was approximately 15 feet past the end of the pier and close to the shoreline.  She responded to the address to assist with her husband (Witness #6).  While attempting to comfort the oldest Daughter she could smell the odor of gasoline in subject’s hair. See the attached Written Statement.

I next interviewed Witness #6 over the phone.  He advised that he was in the house when his wife (Witness #5) began yelling for him.  He saw the vessel on fire and people being pulled out of the water.  He returned to the house and grabbed a bag and drove to the address.  Upon his arrival he began assessing the condition of the victims and forwarding the information to 911.  He was the first on the scene and rendered basic first aid.  He also advised that he did not see any PFD's.

M


BARDID: MD-2015-0144
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09-18-15 at 2200hrs I was contacted by DNR Communications Center and advised of a boat accident victim being treated at Garrett Memorial Hospital. I placed a phone call to Garrett Memorial Hospital and was advised that the victim Victim had just been released from the hospital. The Hospital provided me with a cell phone number for Victim. I called Victim by phone and arranged to meet him. 
    I contacted victim and his wife. Victim stated that he was water skiing on Deep Creek Lake in the Skippers Point area when he lost his balance and fell while crossing the wake on the Starboard side of the vessel. Victim advised that he injured the left side of his rib cage when he struck the water. 
Wife  advised that she was the observer at the time of the incident and saw Victim fall as he was crossing the wake. Wife then informed operator who was operating the vessel at the time. Operator then circled back and assisted in retrieving Victim from the water. Victim drove the vessel back to the private dock, and then drove himself to Garrett Memorial Hospital accompanied by his wife. Victim was treated at Garrett Memorial Hospital for a contusion to his left rib cage, and released from the Hospital.
    I inspected the vessel (MD-3021-BS) and observed that all required safety equipment was aboard, and that the vessel appeared to be in good operating condition. All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland, I cleared the incident on 09-18-15 at 1159hrs.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0145
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Middle River
NearestCityorTown: Baltimore
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 8, 2015 at approximately 6:30 pm, I Off. was dispatched to a water rescue with four people in the water due to a Jet Ski accident in the area of 203 Nanticoke Rd, Essex, MD 21221. Once on scene I was approached by three Baltimore County Officers that advised me that three out of the four that were involved were transported to Bay View Hospital due to their injuries. The fourth individual refused treatment. They were unable to locate anyone that witnessed the accident. I was given the names of the individuals that were involved in the accident. 

 On scene in the area of the accident, a restaurant by name of the Crazy tuna was having a party for their co-workers. I met with a manager from Crazy Tuna who advised he did not see the accident but random people showed up and gave permission for others to use the Jet Ski's. When asked where the Jet Ski's were located one was at a dock nearby pier C slot 19 and the other a male that is unknown of, got on the jet ski from the boat ramp and drove off. The Jet Ski that left the scene was a black and yellow in color. After locating the Jet Ski that was left at the pier displaying registration numbers through Maryland 7626CR, I observed damage to the rear of the ski and a handle broken off of the back of the seat.   

 After observing the damage to the Jet Ski located behind River Watch Restaurant located next door to the Crazy Tuna I met with a manger who said she was outside and observed a jet ski run right over the back of another jet ski that was sitting still. She then quickly ran inside to call for help. The time she came back outside a boater helped transport the people back to shore. No one had information on the boat or operator that helped assist getting the individual's to shore.  

 I then responded to Bay View Hospital to attempt to locate the individuals that were involved in the accident. I met with two people who were unable to give me a statement due to their injuries. The third individual was later found to be taken to Shock Trauma with injuries and unable to give a statement at this time. The forth individual was unable to contact by phone or home address. 
     
 All events occurred in Baltimore County.

 At this time Cpl. will be taking over the investigation.
 
As the operator of jet ski #1 approached the rear of jet ski #2, he failed to yield the right of way and stay clear as specified in Rule #13 and crashed into the left rear of jet ski #2, which ejected the operator of jet ski #2 into the water and caused him serious injuries.  Jet ski #1 overturned.  The operator of jet ski #1 and the passenger were transported to Bayview Hospital.  the operator of jet ski #2, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to UMD Shock Trauma where he remained for several days.  The passenger on board jet ski #2 refused EMS treatment.


BARDID: MD-2015-0146
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LA PLATA
NearestCityorTown: BEL ALTON
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday September 10, 2015, at approximately 2030 hours, I received a text message from OFC regarding a person in the Charles County hospital who may have been involved in a boat accident on September 6th, 2015.  I responded to OFC stating that I was giving a lecture in a hunter safety class and would contact him when I was available.  OFC told me to disregard and that he would give the information to CPL.  
 
    When I finished the hunter safety class I made contact with our communication center regarding the individual who is in the hospital.  Communication center contacted the hospital and stated that the subject has already been released.  
 
    I spoke with CPL and he stated that he would handle the incident on the morning of Friday September 11, 2015.   
 
    As of Saturday September 12, 2015 the information that I have gathered after speaking with CPL is that Subject was suffering shortness of breath due to pneumonia.
   All events occured in Charles County. .

Subject was tubing (while attached by line to a) Polaris personal watercraft, bearing Maryland registration 1033 BP. The PWC was being operated by her son-in-law. The PWC was traveling in a northbound direction toward Port Tobacco marina, when Subject fell off the tube after hitting a wake. They Launched at Chapel Point State Park, Port Tobacco River. The victims sister was the observer. All required safety equipment was on board the PWC and all three P.O.B were wearing lifejackets. The victims husband is the registered owner of the PWC. The event happened at approximately 1600 hours, Sunday, September 6, 2015. As the week went on Subject experienced a shortness of a shortness of breath that progressively got worse during the week. By Thursday she decided to go to the emergency room to get an evaluation. She was diagnosed with pneumonia and a contusion on the right side of her rib cage. 
 
All events occurred in Charles County, MD.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0147
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/7/15 at approximately 2:40 PM ,I responded with Off. to Sinepuxent Bay off of Castaways Campground for a vessel taking on water. Upon arrival we observed a vessel aground on the shoal North of red marker#10.We removed two adult passengers and one child from the vessel and transported them to land. The owner stayed with the vessel and commercial Tow Boat responded to the scene and transported the vessel and owner to the commercial harbor Ocean City and the vessel was removed from the water.

Operator stated that she was operating her vessel North bound in the channel North of the Verrazano bridge West 
of the dredge equipment opposite red marker#16 when she struck an unknown submerged object which stopped her vessel.The passengers were thrown forward when the impact occurred but were not injured.The vessel immediately began taking on water and Operator continued North until the vessel was off of Castaways campground when the vessel ran aground.She then called for assistance.The Coast Guard and NRP responded.

Investigation revealed that the vessel had struck a submerged dredge pipe that was unmarked.

There were no injuries.

I inspected the vessel after it was removed from the water and found that the hull had cracked fiberglass on the port side of the hull below the waterline,which was consistent with striking a submerged object.

There were no charges filed.
Investigation is complete.
All events occurred in Worcester County,Maryland..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0148
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHINCOTEAGUE BAY
NearestCityorTown: SNOW HILL
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
It should be noted that writer is unable to verify any events surrounding this reported accident. It is reported to have occurred on 08/06/2015 and was reported to this agency on 09/17/2015. Complainant/ owner/operator states that the reason for the delay in reporting the accident is because he reported it to Virginia authorities since he is a Virginia resident. After reporting it he left the area for a couple of weeks. Upon returning, Virginia authorities contacted him and advised him that it had to be reported in Maryland.

Complainant stated that on 08/06/2015 he and his family had gone a boat ride from Chincoteague Virginia to Ocean City MD. On the return to Chincoteague he used the track on his GPS that he had used going to Ocean City. They were cruising at approximately 25 knots. In the Chincoteague Bay approximately 3 miles north of Greenbackville, VA the vessel struck a submerged solid object with enough force the vessel stopped abruptly dead in the water. Fearing the impact may have caused catastrophic damage he continued on as quickly as possible and monitored the condition of the vessel. They made it back to their destination at which time he noticed that the vessel had taken on quite a bit of water. He removed the vessel from the water and observed the damage.

From the complainant's description of the impact and damage it's possible the vessel may had struck the remains of a day marked piling that may be left over from last years damage from ice. There has also been dredging in the Chincoteague Bay during this past summer. It is not known if there was any dredging in the area of this incident.

There were no injuries in this accident. From the description of the location given by the complainant, this accident would occurred in Maryland waters.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0149
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/26/2015 at 1530 hours, the Maryland Natural Resources Police was asked to respond to a vessel accident resulting in personal injury on Deep Creek Lake. Sgt. and Officer responded to the scene and assisted Bill's Marine with removing the vessel from the water while the operator was transported to Garrett Memorial Hospital. The additional six occupants of the vessel were unharmed and safely off the vessel. I, OFC., responded to Garrett Memorial Hospital to check on the welfare and status of the vessel operator. The operator was alert and responsive when I met him in the Emergency ward. Operator said he struck the left side of his face against the vessel windshield above the control station when the accident occurred. Operator was subsequently treated and released with a facial abrasion later that same evening.

When questioned on the accident, Operator provided the following timeline of events and his explanation of the accident. Operator is a part-time resident of Garrett County, owning a home on the northern end of Deep Creek Lake with water access. He purchased a Ski Nautique ski boat for waterskiing and wakesurfing activities. Operator said he is an experienced boater and very familiar with Deep Creek Lake. In the early afternoon of 09/26/15, Operator was operating his vessel with five other persons on board and one person wakesurfing behind the boat. Operator rounded stump point and continued in a northerly direction towards the open water in front of the dam. As he progressed through the channel he came to an area off Skippers Point on the lake. This particular point is heavily laden with large tree stumps and has very shallow water, going from 42 feet to 2.5 feet in a matter of 15 feet across the water surface. The lake was also lowered for preparation of oncoming winter ice/snowfall, with the water level about two feet lower than normal. At this level, the stumps were very visible off the point. Because of these dangers, Skipper's point is marked with three "Danger" buoys, set by the Deep Creek Lake Management office. They are set parallel to the shoreline, following the curve of stump point to include as many hazards as possible. Operator said he was towing a wakesurfer behind his vessel, approximately 30 feet to the outside of these Danger buoys. At this distance, Operator would have been towing his wakesurfer 218 feet off the shoreline, but only 76 feet from the nearest visible stump. When towing a skier/tuber/surfer, the vessel operator must stay 100 feet away from any fixed or floating object, including the stump, a dock, another vessel, a swimmer, etc. Operator had passed the first Danger buoy on his port side, rounding the point towards the second Danger buoy when the vessel abruptly came to a stop with a loud bang and abrupt forward momentum. Operator said they were traveling approximately 11 knots, keeping their speed low to assist the trailing wakesurfer; traveling at these lower speeds would force Operator's bow further in the air and his stern lower into the water, drafting deeper than the vessel would normally on a level plane. This deeper stern draft would also put the propeller and outdrive in a lower position to more easily strike any submerged object around Skipper's Point. 
 
Operator said the vessel immediately went dead in the water and two passengers got into the water to look for what the vessel hit. The two passengers were able to stand on stumps with their bodies out of the water in the immediate area outside of the vessel. When the vessel was removed from the water there was also wood shavings and chips stuck into the engine housing and outdrive. Operator called Bill's Marine for assistance, and the vessel and occupants were safety transported to shore where the vessel was removed and Operator was taken to the hospital.

In meeting with Bill's marine, they advised the ski boat had suffered major structural damage due to the force of impact at which the propeller shaft hit the submerge


BARDID: MD-2015-0150
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATAPSCO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: DUNDALK
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1515 hours on Saturday, September 26, 2015, I, Off. was on routine patrol on the Patapsco River on NRP vessel 140 in the area of the Key Boperator when I hear a call for a vessel in distress. The hailing vessel, identified as Sailing Vessel Mangas, was located about 100 yards off of my starboard bow. The operator of Mangas reported that they had rescued a person from a sunken boat in the area of the Key Boperator. I came alongside SV Mangas and confirmed they had rescued the sole occupant of the sunken boat.

I transferred Operator from the sailing vessel to my patrol boat and started evaluating his condition. Operator stated he did not need medical attention several times. I observed no injuries and Operator showed no signs of hypothermia. I advised USCG and other responding agencies of the sunken boat’s approximate location. Operator described his boat as a 14’ Jon boat with a 9.9 HP motor.

I transported Operator to Merritt Beach Park where Operator had launched his boat and left his truck. When we arrived at the launch ramp, I interviewed Operator and took a written statement. Operator told me that he was traveling North under the Key Bridge towards Bear Creek when the waves started coming over his bow and swamped his boat. As Operator’s boat sank, he grabbed a life jacket and held on to it and floated until he was picked up. Operator also told me that several power boats passed him while he was floating under the Key Bridge.

I walked with Operator to his truck and made sure he was able to start the truck before I returned to my patrol boat.

I returned Baltimore Inner Harbor and located the Sailing Vessel Mangas at Anchorage Marina and spoke to the owner of Mangas. Also, there were three passengers on Mangas. Subject told me they were under sail when they heard someone yelling in the area of the Key Bridge. Subject said he saw Operator floating in the water holding onto an orange lifejacket. The Subject and his passengers assisted Operator onto Mangas. Subject then called the US Coast Guard for assistance on the VHF marine radio.

Incident occurred in Baltimore County..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0151
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 7310 EDGEWOOD ROAD
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6 October 2015 at approximately 0600 AM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was contacted by Department of Natural Resources Communications in regards to a person missing from a vessel in Back Creek, Severn River. I and Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded be vessel to the area of Bert Jabin Yacht Yard to conduct a search for the individual.

As we approached the area, we observed a dark green object floating on the surface at GPS coordinate N38 57.835’, W076 28.834’. The object was confirmed as body in the water; I had communications contact the Duty Officer, Special Operations Division, and Anne Arundel County Fire/Rescue, to respond to 6th street landing, in Annapolis. Officer and I attached a line under the arms of the subject, and pulled him to the bulkhead at 6th street. He was pronounced at the scene by AACO fire/rescue at 0740 AM. Deceased was placed into a body bag and was turned over to Special Operations Division and the State Medical Examiner.

I was able to locate Deceased’s vessel in Back Creek, a 26’ Pearson sailboat bearing Maryland registration MD 7742 CF; there were no signs of foul play, injury, or forced entry. Statements made by other vessels anchored in the area did not suggest there had been an altercation or that anything out of the ordinary had occurred over the previous week. The kayak that Deceased used to transit from his vessel to shore was found at Bert Jabin Yacht Yard C dock, floating like a top, with its stern submerged and bow in the air. The kayak was collected as evidence, along with the 26’ Pearson vessel.

I was able to conduct an interview and obtain a written statement from the individual who had last seen Deceased before he was reported missing. He appeared concerned for his friend’s wellbeing, and at no time during my interview did he appear nervous, dishonest, or attempt to hide any details. His written statement also matched his verbal recollection of what occurred that evening.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0152
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, October 10, 2015 at approximately 1540 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was contacted by Officer in reference to a boat accident that had occurred at approximately 1420 hours.  

    Upon speaking with Officer, I learned that a 37 foot Four Winds, "Joint Venture" had been travelling north on the Sinepuxent Bay in the area of the number 10 marker.  At that time it struck a sand bar, while travelling approximately 30 miles per hour.  The male passenger was thrown forward and suffered a minor laceration to his head.  He requested transport to the hospital to be checked for further injuries.

    All of the above occurred in Worcester County, Maryland..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0153
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - COBB ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: FAIRVIEW BEACH
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 11, 2015 at approximately 1445 hours I, OFC, received a call from the communications center regarding a possible boat accident with injuries.  

    The accident occurred on the Potomac River near Fairview Beach and Buoy 26.  Operator was operating a 26' Baja outlaw vessel. At approximately 1300 hours his vessel hit a rouge wake and the vessel was thrown up and sideways.  Another vessel had witnessed the accident and rendered aid.  Witness called 911 and stated that he was bringing the boat and victim into Quantico Marina located at 3215 Potomac Ave, Quantico VA 22134.  There Witness was met by Quantico Medic Unit 531 and Victim was transported to Mary Washington Hospital, located at 1001 Sam Perry Blvd in Fredericksburg VA. 

   Victim suffered a severe laceration to his head which required 20 staples and was diagnosed with a brain bleed a possible broken femur and a broken pelvis.  Victim was air lifted to Inova Fairfax Shock Trauma Hospital, at approximately 1735, due to his injuries. The initial blood test from the hospital indicated that Victim had a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of 0.14.

    I spoke with CAPT of Quantico Medic Unit 531 via telephone at approximately 2000 hrs.  CAPT stated that he spoke with Witness regarding the incident.  Witness stated that Victim was operating his vessel in excess of 50 mph and was intentionally attempting to jump wakes when Victim's vessel struck a large wake and was thrown straight up and crashed down sideways onto the water.  

    I also spoke with Witness via phone at approximately 2030 hrs on October 11, 2015.  Witness stated that he and two other boats had gone to Fairview Beach earlier in the day to watch the Radar Run.  They were leaving Fairview Beach and  leisurely heading North towards Tyme-Tyde Marina when a  rouge wave struck Victim's vessel throwing it straight up and crashing down sideways onto the water.  Witness stated that Victim's vessel was still running and he maneuvered his vessel next to Victim's vessel and Witness's brother boarded Victim's vessel to gain control of the vessel and render medical aid.  Subject2 also boarded Victim's vessel to assist in transporting the vessel to the Quantico Marina.  They arrived at Quantico Marina at approximately 1430 and were met by Quantico Medic Unit 531. 

    At this time I have not had the opportunity to interview Victim.

    Investigation is on-going. 

    All events occurred in Charles County.
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0154
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EASTERN BAY-BENNETTS POINT ARE
NearestCityorTown: CLAIBORNE
County: TA - Talbot
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/29/2015 at approximately 10AM, I was dispatched to a boat fire on Eastern Bay near Bennett Point.  As I made my way to the Kent Narrows boats, Cpl. stated that he and Ofc. were on location and asked that I go by land to Claiborne, MD.  Deputy stated that the subject has a concealed carry permit from TX and he had subject’s gun.  It was taken from Subject by Sgt. of the sherriffs dept around 10:36 and handed to Deputy around 11:04.  I took possession of a Kel-Tec P3AT .380 Auto at 11:22AM.  I then spoke to Subject.  Subject stated he had purchased the vessel from a Stanley a couple days ago. He stated he had left Miles River Yacht Club around 8:30AM.  He was making his way around to another marina when the boat caught fire.  He stated that he had been having engine trouble prior to taking it out.  He was taking it to a different marina to have the vessel removed from the water.  Subject stated he put a lifejacket on when he noticed the fire.  He ended up going over board and used a coller to help him swim to shore.  Talbot County Fire and EMS were dispatched and tried to put the fire out.  The vessel burned down to the waterline.  Subject stated he was supposed to be heading back to Texas around 3:30 that day.  He also stated that he had another gun on board the vessel, a Taurus 9MM, along with the bill of sale and title of the vessel.  Per my Lt., I returned the Kel-Tec P3AT to Subject and made him aware that Maryland does not recognize any other states Concealed Carry Permit.  Subject was told that he will be responsible for getting the rest of the vessel out of the water.  He was released to Talbot Dept of EMS.  He was going to be taken to the pick-up location for the airport shuttle.  


All Events Occured in Talbot County, Maryland. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0155
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK
NearestCityorTown: BALTIMORE
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 3rd 2015 at approximately 1:30 PM I responded to a boating accident call at an un-named pond in the Hanover area of Patapsco Valley State Park. Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County Fire Departments were already on scene when I arrived. I was informed by firemen that 2 boaters had fell into the water while canoeing and one did not resurface. The first boater was transported to Baltimore Washington Medical Center. The second boater never resurfaced and is missing. 

While on scene I obtained a witness statement from subject1 who was fishing in the same pond at the time of the accident. Subject1 stated that he witnessed the 2 boaters put the canoe into the pond, then paddle a short distance close to the shoreline. He then witnessed one boater bailing water out of the canoe while the other boater drank a beverage out of a tall can; the two boaters were talking to each other casually at this time. A short time later, Subject1 looked up from his activities and saw both boaters in the water. Survivor was holding onto the canoe and with his head above water. At this time Deceased was struggling to stay above water and appeared not to be able to swim. Subject1 then ran to the bank closest to the men and was able to pull Survivor out of the water with a long stick. When Subject1 arrived at the bank, Deceased was already under the water and did not resurface.

The canoe, 3 paddles and 2 life jackets were recovered and are being held as evidence.

Anne Arundel and Baltimore County Fire and Rescue used divers and side scan sonar to search for Deceased’ body. Search attempts were unsuccessful due to large amounts of debris and branches in the water which also posed a safety hazard to divers. At approximately 4:30 recovery efforts were suspended for the day due to impending sunset.

Cpl. of the Special Operations Division will handle the remainder of this investigation.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County..


On the morning of November 10, 2015, the body was recovered from the pond where the accident occurred in Patapsco Valley State Park. The following personal effects were retrieved with Deceased’ body: a fishing pole with fishing line, a set of keys, a copper bracelet, a necklace with a cross, and a cell phone with its case. I delivered Deceased’ personal effects to his wife. 

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County. The case is now closed. .
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0156
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-11-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 132 BAY DRIVE STEVENSVILLE, MD
NearestCityorTown: STEVENSVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 13, 2015, I, OFC  responded for the report of a sailboater in distress. Investigation revealed that a sail boat lost power while underway in the Chesapeake Bay and the vessel operator was injured as he attempted to secure the vessel to a private pier. The operator was later taken to Queen Anne's Emergency Center. The vessel broke free from the pier, became grounded and heavily damaged along the shore line. 

Initial Observations

    On November 13, 2015 at about 1439 hours, I, OFC, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from dispatch in regards to a person reporting a sailboat in distress on the Chesapeake Bay. I subsequently called the reporting party asked about the situation. Reporting party advised that a sailboater was having difficulty docking to a neighbors pier as it was tied to a pier with a small line. I advised that I was enroute to the area to assist. 

    I arrived several minutes later and walked towards the Chesapeake Bay. As I got to the backyard, I saw a white male, who was wearing an inflatable PFD, walking with Queen Anne's County EMS Staff, towards the ambulance parked in the driveway. Victim had blood on his face and a heavily bandaged right hand. As Victim walked towards the ambulance I spoke with him about what happened. Victim advised that he was sailing up the Chesapeake Bay when his sailboat lost power. He advised that his boat drifted into the pier (at the house we were at), were he was able to tie the "main sail line" around a pier piling and then to an aft cleat. Victim advised that he cut his right hand on the pier's piling while he was trying to secure the vessel. I told him that I was going to look at the boat and then I would make contact with him in the ambulance. Victim begged me to help him secure the vessel but I told him to go with the EMS personnel as I was not going to let him get on the boat, as it was a risk to his well being. Victim advised that he wanted to walk to the boat with me. I told him that he could walk with me if he wanted to, but I urged him to go to the ambulance. Victim walked with me as I looked at the sailboat. The vessel was a 20"+ white colored sailboat, bearing registration "DC 3411 C" that was accompanied by a 2010 registration sticker. The sailboat had the name "Sugar Bear" posted on both sides of the vessel, to the rear of the mid-ship. The vessel had an attached older white colored Johnson outboard attached to the transom. The westward wind was blowing about 40 knots and the seas were about 4 to 5 feet in height. I walked over to the vessel to assess the situation and it became apparent that any attempt to board and/or secure the vessel would be impossible, as the boat violently rode the incoming waves. The temperature was in the 60's F. Victim advised that boat still belonged to his friend, as he was supposed to buy the boat but never completed the transaction. I told Victim that I would walk with him to the ambulance.

    At the ambulance, Victim provided me with his Arkansas Identification Card. Victim entered the ambulance to be treated. I spoke briefly to Victim about the vessel. He advised that the boat was his and explained that he bought the vessel from a friend about two days ago. Victim advised that he had a bill of sale for the vessel but did not properly transfer the title yet. EMS personnel advised that Victim was going to be transported to Queen Anne's County Emergency Center. 

   I walked back down to the boat to assess the situation. As I looked at the vessel, the line that secured the vessel to the pier snapped and the vessel began to drift in a easterly direction. As the vessel rode a wave, the boat's transom drifted slightly under the pier's, extended crab sluff box base. The aforementioned section of pier decking lifted from the supporting joists, and then settled back down after the boat drifted westward. The vessel then drifted into the rip-rapped shore line belonging to 130 Bay Drive, and came t


BARDID: MD-2015-0157
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-11-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - RAGGED AND PIN
NearestCityorTown: TALL TIMBERS
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, November 14, 2015, Cpl explained that a vessel had been submerged and the 4 occupants were in the water.  

the owner and operator at the time of the incident told us that waves were crashing over the bow of the boat and then settled in the stern. He further explained that the bilge could not keep up with the amount of water coming into the boat causing the boat to swamp. He instructed everyone to put on their PFDs.

The weather report for the Potomac River was strong winds, 20-25k with waves of 2' - 5'

All 4 occupants were picked up by a nearby charter boat and taken to Tall Timbers Marina.

EMS transported all 4 victims to St Mary's Hospital and treated for hypothermia and one with a minor head contusion. All 4 victims were examined by a medical doctor and released without further incident.

The boat was not completely submerged and continued to float in the surrounding waters making it a navigational hazard. .

All events occurred in St. Mary's county on the Potomac River. 

This case is closed. .


BARDID: MD-2015-0158
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-11-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 85 CHARLES STREET
NearestCityorTown: SOLOMONS ISLAND
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, November 29, 2015 at approximately 1521 hours, CPLwere called to a marina fire in the area of 85 Charles Street, Solomon’s Island, MD. Upon arrival, the fire was confined to a vessel with MD registration number 1900 P. The owner of the vessel was later identified. Fire personnel had extinguished the fire, and no one was onboard at the time of the fire. 

The damage was concentrated to inside and cabin portion of the vessel and resulted in a total loss. The total value of the vessel was estimated by the owner to be approximately, $6,500.00. The cause of the fire was unknown but the shore power cords and plug leading to the vessel were badly melted and burned (view attached photos).

The Fire Marshall’s office was notified and did not respond. Chief 3 was on scene and determined that it was an electrical fire.

The vessel was towed by Tow Boat US to Harbor Marina, Solomon’s Island and removed from the water.

All events occurred in Calvert County, Maryland.

This case is closed..
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0160
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-12-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL STATION
NearestCityorTown: BEACHVILLE
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday December 12, 2015 I (Probationary Officer) was on routine patrol in St. Marys County Maryland. I received a call about a boat accident involving two individuals on the Patuxent (PAX) River Naval Air Base at approximately 2040 hours. I traveled to the location and when I arrived both individuals were being transported by ambulance to the Trooper 7 helicopter to be flown to shock trauma at Prince Georges (PG) County hospital. Officer of the Department of Defense Police was the translator on scene and gave me both individuals information. 
 
     Officer led me to the vessel which had run onto the rocks along the shoreline of Hog Point on base. The vessel had not been moved since the accident and was sitting on top of the rocks approximately 100 yards west of Hog Point. Upon inspection of the boat I saw two gaping holes in the fiberglass hull, one directly under the bow, and another mid boat on the starboard side. There was another hole, not quite as large, on the stern of the boat, starboard side. There was also damage to the propeller, where the blades had been bent out of shape and some chipping had occurred. (Refer to attached images for pictures of vessel damage.)
 
When I entered the inside of the boat I found a plastic bag with approximately 5 unopened cans of Coors Light, one unopened can outside of the bag, an empty Four Loco can, and four Striped Bass in the live well of the boat. There were also multiple articles of clothing and other personal belongings strewn about the boat. I found four additional Striped Bass throughout the grass, along the shoreline close to the boat. 
Officer reported what he saw upon arrival on scene and what he had been told by Operator and Occupant that night. Operator was found at the back of the boat and complained of his right leg bleeding and back being injured. He had been thrown from the operator’s seat on the starboard side to the back of the boat upon collision. Occupant was complaining of not being able to move his neck. When Officer asked the gentlemen if they had been drinking that night they admitted that they had, Operator also admitted to be travelling at approximately 30 to 40 miles per hour when the collision occurred. After Officer finished I continued to inspect the boat, and with the help of Cpl. and Off. the vessel was secured with the anchor around a large rock so it could not be moved when the tide came in. 
 
     I then traveled to PG County hospital in order to interview Operator and Occupant. Upon arrival I went to Operator’s room and was informed by his nursing staff that he was able to talk and was not on any pain medication. Operator was however laying on the hospital bed with a neck brace and nasal cannula.  I observed that Operator's eyes were glassy and bloodshot and there was a faint odor of alcoholic beverages on his breath. I asked Operator to describe what happened and he reported that he had been out fishing for Striped Bass on the bay most of the day, they had returned to the boat ramp to go out for food and the collision occurred when they had gotten back on the boat and were heading back to the bay to continue fishing. He said he was familiar with the area but did mention that he was following the way point on his GPS closely. When asked if he had been drinking alcohol he answered that he had consumed two shots of tequila earlier in the day, he said that he was travelling at 30 miles per hour when the accident happened. I asked how many fish he had caught that day and he said three. It was at this point that I presented Operator with the NRP-482, advice of rights, form. I read the entire form to Operator paragraph by paragraph asking if he understood after every paragraph. He agreed to submit to an alcohol concentration test. Using a blood testing kit provided by Maryland State Police Crime Lab his blood was drawn by Registered Nurse at 01:31am. The blood was then labeled and packaged in accordance with the guidelines laid out by MSP C


BARDID: MD-2015-0161
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Marshall Hall Boat ramp.
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 14th, I of MD Natural Resources Police dept was dispatched to Atlantic Cycle for a report of a boating accident that had occurred at the Marshall Hall Boat ramp. Upon arrival I met with the operator. Per Subject he tests drives customers PWCs after repairs have been done. During the events leading up to the accident Subject stated that he had just tied up the PWC the end of the pier and was coming back down towards the pier from parking his vehicle. He stated that he saw a bass boat take away quickly from the pier. Once down at the pier where the PWC was he stated it was then that he noticed the damage. 

Upon inspecting the damage, it does not appear that the vessel came in contact with another vessel due to the specific damage to the vessel. It appears the vessels damage was made from the pier that the PWC was tied to. Atlantic Cycle stated that they would be making contact with the owner. The estimate of damage to the vessel for determined by Atlantic Cycle Service Dept. 

A report number and contact information was given to the service dept to be given to the owner of the vessel. 

All events occurred in Charles County, MD..


BARDID: MD-2015-0163
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-12-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - RAGGED AND PIN
NearestCityorTown: COLES POINT
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On December 20, 2015 at approximately 1803 hours, I, Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Tall Timbers Marina for a report of a boat accident. I met Lexington Park Rescue Squad Ambulance 67 and Second District Rescue Squad Ambulance 398. Rescue Squad personnel advised that they were en-route to Saint Mary’s Medstar Hospital with the two occupants of a capsized vessel.

I responded to Saint Mary’s Medstar Hospital, where I made contact with the operator of the vessel, and his passenger. Both subjects were being treated for hypothermia. Operator stated that he had launched his 15 foot Glasstream, displaying District of Columbia registration number 9598 E, from the Piney Point Recreation Area ramp at approximately noon that day. He and Occupant spent the day trolling for rockfish on the Potomac. Sea conditions were calm.

As the sun began to set, sea conditions increased to one to two feet. Operator said that they navigated from Ragged Point Light southeast towards the ramp with their bow into the waves. They began taking water over the bow. At some point Operator noticed that the stern of his vessel was beginning to take on water. He sped up slightly to try to make more headway, eventually reaching approximately four to five knots. The stern of the vessel continued to sink and Operator saw that the bilge pump light was illuminated. Shortly thereafter, the vessel sank from the stern and capsized.


Operator stated that they entered the water at approximately 1700 hours. Their automatic inflatable life jackets activated. Operator stated that they would not have had time to don a stowed life jacket. They swam near the boat for approximately an hour. Operator called repeatedly for help on both handheld VHF radio and cellphone. A fire boat from Second District Volunteer Fire Department rescued the two men and transported them to Tall Timbers Marina, where they were met by the ambulances.

I contacted Coast Guard Station Saint Inigoes at approximately 1909.  The watchstander stated that Coast Guard personnel had made contact with the vessel after Operator and Occupant had been transported.  Coast Guard personnel were unable to tow or recover the vessel since only a foot of the bow remained above the waterline.  They did not indicate any coordinates.  A notice to mariners was issued for the possible navigation hazard.  Operator was advised to recover the vessel once located.

All events occurred in Saint Mary’s County, Maryland…


BARDID: MD-2015-0164
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-12-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 6047 HERRING BAY ROAD
NearestCityorTown: DEALE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On December 17, 2015, CPL was dispatched to meet Subject1 at his vessel located at the Shipwright Harbor Marina on Rockhold Creek in Deale.

Subject1, owner of the sailing vessel "confidence", reported that on December 6, 2015  the vessel "Chesapeake Daze" while under way collided with the bowsprit of the "confidence" that was docked at slip.  Subject1 stated that he was below deck of the Confidence and felt two impacts to the bow of his vessel.  He went above deck to discover Operator2 pushing the Chesapeake Daze away from the bow of the Confidence at which time the Chesapeake Daze continued underway without explanation or to offer assistance.   The Chesapeake Daze moors at slip Shipwright's Harbor Marina and Subject1 contacted the operator, later identified as Operator2 for his information related to the boating collision later that day.  Subject1 stated that operator2 did provide his name and phone contact number only when he returned later that day and has not been cooperative in resolving the issue.  Subject1 did collect a note from Operator2 on December 7 ( see attachments) that was left on the "confidence" stating "if you find  a scratch I will be happy to take care of it".  Since that occasion, operator2 has not been in contact.

Subject1 stated receiving a verbal estimate of repair to the bowsprit and bobstay of the "Confidence" that assessed damages of $2000.00 to $2500.00.   Subject1 is awaiting a written estimate and will forward when received.  He also provided a written statement of the events to this point (see attachments).

CPL has made attempts to contact Operator2 reference the events to no success.

CPL requests the incident remain open pending further investigation.

On December 25, 2015 CPL McNamara received a message through the DNR Communication Center that Operator2 called reference my call back information left onboard his vessel later on December 22, 2015.  I met Operator2 onboard the vessel "Chesapeake Daze" at Shipwright Marina slip. 
 
Operator2 stated that he attempted to operate the vessel Chesapeake Daze out of the marina downstream on Rockhold Creek and experienced engine difficulties with his vessel.  Operator2 stated that his vessel drifted to starboard and his bow impacted the bow of the docked vessel "Confidence".
 


BARDID: MD-2015-0165
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-12-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BAY
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 9:00 PM on Thursday December 31st, 2015, I, Officer was on routine patrol in Sandy Point State Park when I was dispatched to a vessel in distress with a person in the water.  The vessel was reported to be in the area of Sandy Point Light House.  I immediately got underway on NRP vessel 873 and responded to the area. While enroute to the scene, I requested a helicopter from MSP to assist with the search. Conditions were rough with waves breaking over the bow of the 24’ patrol boat I was on. There was no moon visible and a steady wind out of the North-North West. 

As I neared Sandy Point light house, the Annapolis City fire boat also arrived on scene. The fire boat advised me that the sail boat was to the west of me near the Sandy Point small boat launch. I located the sail boat and observed a horseshoe shaped flotation device floating in the water behind the sail boat with a rope connecting the flotation device to the sail boat. The sail boat was approximately 34 feet long.  The forward sail (jib) on the sail boat was whipping in the wind, the main sail was furled on the boom and covered, due to the noise of the wind and waves, I could not tell if there was a motor running on the sail boat.  

There was a woman in the cockpit of the sail boat yelling hysterically, that there was a man in the water between the green and the light house. I relayed that info to the fire boat and they started searching the area.  After I relayed the info to the fire boat, I turned back to the sail boat and observed the woman had disappeared from the cockpit and after a moment she reappeared through a bow hatch and started anchoring the sail boat. I asked the woman if the man had a life jacket and she told me “no”. I asked what the man was wearing and she said a dark jacket and jeans. I asked how old the man was and she said “48”. 

I relayed the description of the person in the water to the DNR dispatcher and to the United States Coast Guard (USCG) on channel 16 on the marine radio and started searching the area North of the Sandy Point Light House and South of Green marker “1C”. I marked the location of the anchored sail boat on the GPS on NRP-873, GPS Waypoint 0023, N 39 00.767’ W 076 23.306’. I also noted the water temperature was about 48.3 degrees Fahrenheit and the sail boat was anchored in about 11 feet of water.

After more search vessels arrived on scene, returned to the sail boat to pick up the remaining person from the sail boat and transport her to Sandy Point State Park. Upon my arrival at the sail boat, I found it empty. I called out over the VHF marine radio to determine if the occupant had been picked up. I was advised by Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 2 that the woman had been transported to Sandy Point by an Anne Arundel County fire boat.

After searching until approximately midnight, NRP vessel 147 were instructed by NRP command staff to tow the sail boat to the dock at Sandy Point State Park. I met up with Cpl. at the anchored sailboat and assisted them by boarding the sail boat and securing the jib that was blowing in the wind. I observed that one of the blue ropes from the jib appeared to go over the port side of the sail boat, under the boat and was tied to the starboard side of the boat. 

Due to the wind and waves, Cpl. were unable to haul up the anchor for the sail boat. I maneuvered the patrol boat that I was on up to the anchor line and cut the line so the boat could be towed in to shore. I attempted to recover the anchor and line, however the line sank before I could reach it.

I followed the sail boat under tow back to Sandy Point and assisted securing the boat to the pier at the marina. The boat was then turned over to NRP Investigator Corporal.
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.  THe victim was under the influence of alcohol; victim had consumed 3-4 beers in the three hours preceding the incident


BARDID: MD-2015-1000
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chesapeake Bay
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28, 2015, the Grand National Class Hydroplane (GNH) THIS IS HEAVEN - GNH-12 was participating in a hydroplane boat race with three other GNH participants.  The Thunder on the Narrows power boat race is sanctioned by the American Power Boat Association (APBA) held at Prospect Bay near Kent Island, MD. The annual power boat race is permitted by USCG and sponsored by the Kent Narrows Racing Association. While rounding turn one during the 5 minute period prior to the official start of heat 1, GNH-12 slowed down and veered to the right towards the outside of the race course.  This movement allowed three qualified drivers to pass on his inside to obtain inside position for the official start of the race. 

As GNH-12 slowed down, the operators vision was obstructed when water began to spray over the port sponson and onto the windshield of the canopy. Unable to locate the hydroplanes passing on his inside, the operator maintained a starboard course to stay clear of the other racers and in the direction of recreational vessels. The GNH-12 struck three spectators who were on rafts, and allided with recreational vessel A SHORE THING (MD2223D) stern. Additionally, the impact caused significant damage to A SHORE THING and other recreational vessels. Through a chain reaction, the force of the impact caused A SHORE THING to allide with spectator vessels moored or anchored alongside. Two victims sustained serious injuries and were medevac'd to the University of Maryland Hospital in Baltimore, MD. The third victim was transported to Anne Arundel County hospital by ambulance and was released later that night after sustaining only minor injuries. The fourth victim was transported by ambulance to Queen Anne Emergency Center where she was pronounced dead.

The driver of the hydroplane was a sub; he joined the boat after his own boat became disabled and was unable to operate.  The owner of the involved hydroplane did not inform the driver of oil pressure issues and visibility due to water spray.  The operator was inexperienced with the particular type of boat; he had not been in an enclosed cockpit before.

The hydroplane operator completed one lap and slowed down.  The three other operators caught up to him.  The spray onto his cockpit affected his ability to see.  He maintained speed and veered towards the spectators to stay out of the way of the racers

The deceased and one person had been on an orange inflatable tied to the back of one of the vessels.  They were ejected from the lake.  The injured victim was recovered floating and unconscious; she had head trauma, broken vertebrae and a broken collar bone.  The deceased had been struck by the boat.

An individual on another raft suffered a broken collar bone, multiple broken ribs and lacerations to the eye.

The hydroplane then crashed into A Shore Thing, causing a 5.5 x 2 ft opening in the starboard sponson of the hydroplane and rips the outboard off A Shore Thing.  Debris from this event causes cuts to an occupant of a vessel.


BARDID: MD-2016-0001
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-01-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1713 DOELLER ROAD-FISHING CREE
NearestCityorTown: HOOPERSVILLE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/1/15 at 1534 Officers responded to a boat accident that occurred on Hooper’s Island, MD.  The boat involved had been secured at Riverside Lodge on Hooper’s Island upon our arrival.  The victims were being transported to PRMC Trauma Unit and Dorchester General Hospital.  This officer interviewed two witnesses from a second vessel that was at the scene of the accident.  Other NRP officers were dispatched to the medical facilities listed to collect witness statements from the injured parties.

It appears that two boats departed the dock at the Riverside Lodge on Hooper’s Island at 1445 hours.  The vessel involved in the accident, Vessel #1 had three passengers onboard sitting together on one bench seat facing backwards.  

Vessel #2 had two passengers onboard.  

Both vessels were heading Northerly towards Bentleys to go duck hunting.  Approximately ¼ mile from the dock there are two aids to navigation, marking a channel that runs East to West.  The leading vessel, Vessel #2, passed close to portside of the channel markers.  The second vessel, Vessel #1 was following in the first vessels wake and struck the second of two channel markers.  

The operator and two of the passenger were ejected into the water, and one person remained in the vessel due to his right ankle being trapped by the bench seat resulting in his right leg being broken in two places.  

Victim2 was reportedly unconscious and face down in the water.  Victim1 sustained a broken right leg.  The operator did not sustain any injuries.  Vessel #2 witnessed vessel #1 striking the piling, turned around and assisted in pulling two of the persons in the water into their vessel.  A third vessel that was in the area removed the third person from the water.  All persons were transported back to the dock at the Riverside Lodge on Hooper’s Island.  EMS was contacted at approximately 1500 hours.

The operator of Vessel #1 reported that the outboard motor started acting up and he looked back to adjust the trim.  The next thing he remembers is he was in the water.  Based on this officers training, knowledge and experience the operator did not have a look out and when he looked back to adjust the motor the vessel drifted to starboard and struck the channel marker.

Vessel #1 sustained damage to the starboard bow and the bench seat was broken on the starboard side.  The bench seat had been torn away from the starboard gunwale and is consistent with the report of victim3’s leg being trapped in the vessel.   All firearms were reportedly recovered and are accounted for.

Ambulance #500, Run # 16000035. Dispatch 1520, Arrival on scene1548. Ambulance #100, Run # 16000003, Dispatch 1527, Arrival on scene 1559.  Ambulance #101, Run # 16000003, Dispatch 1545, Arrival on Scene 1626.  MSP Trooper 7 Helicopter Run # 16-00013, 16-00015, Dispatch 1544, Arrival on scene 1609.
  
  A watercraft Accident Report has been submitted.

All events occurred in Dorchester County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0003
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-01-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:56:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROUND BAY - SEVERN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CROWNSVILLE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1146 hours on January 19, 2016, I became aware of an ongoing search for a person in distress in the Severn River, Anne Arundel County. I contacted Cpl. (acting Sgt. District 3) by cellphone. He confirmed that a witness on shore spotted a person in the River waving his arms and yelling for help before eventually going under water. Maryland State Police Aviation, a US Coast Guard vessel, Anne Arundel County Fire Boat, Anne Arundel County Dive Rescue, two NRP vessels and NRP Divers assisted with search the Severn River in front of the Sherwood Forest Community. 
 
   Responding Area 3 officers had already obtained a written statement from the witness. Officers located decoy ducks that were floating in one spot and discovered it was attached to a jonboat that was submerged underwater. It was unclear in the beginning how many persons were on the vessel before it went underwater.
 
   I arrived at the Sherwood Forest Community at approximately 1245 hours. Shortly after arriving I received a call from Sgt. regarding a subject who saw a story on a local news station reporting two waterfowl hunters were missing in the Severn River. Subject contacted 911 and advised that he possibly knew the subjects involved. I spoke with Subject by phone and he responded to the scene to meet with me. He advised that he had been hunting with two friends earlier that morning in the marshy area just to the south of Smith Marina. He identified his friends. 
 
   Subject stated that Victim1 and Victim2 launched their jonboat at Truxton Park in Annapolis, then traveled up the river to Smith Marina where he was picked up. Subject stated that at 1030 hours he was dropped back off at Smith Marina so he could get to work. Camouflage chest waders were recovered in the water along the shoreline, a camouflage jacket with a fleece liner and nylon hood were recovered from the water by the Fire Department boat. The camouflage jacket contained a Samsung cellular phone, a set of vehicle keys and a wallet containing a Maryland driver’s license belonging to Victim1. 
 
   Side scan sonar was conducted by the AA County Fire Boat in the area where the subject was last seen (day one and day three). Divers were in the water searching on for the subjects (day two and three).
 
Mother of Victim2 came to the scene, as did wife and mother of Victim1.
 
The cause of the accident and the operator are unknown.


BARDID: MD-2016-0004
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-02-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: RILEYS LOCK
NearestCityorTown: DARNESTOWN
County: MO - Montgomery
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 7th, 2016 I received information from Sergeant of a boat accident which occurred the previous day on February 6th. I received the following information. 3 subjects were waterfowl hunting when their 16ft aluminum vessel capsized at 1810 hours. All 3 subjects were able to swim to land and no one was injured. The boat, 3 shotguns, goose decoys, and personal items were lost. The boat was identified as a 16ft Carolina Duck boat with MD registration 8452CG.

Subject led me to the incident location. At that point I observed a partially submerged vessel with the bow extending out of the water. I was able to secure the vessel with a line to trees on the shoreline. I then lifted the bow and recovered decoys, a gun in a case, a empty gun case, and a backpack which were floating underneath the vessel. At that time Sgt. arrived on scene. With help from Subject, Sgt. and I were able to recover the vessel from the water. Subject2 arrived on scene with the trailer for the vessel. We loaded the vessel onto the trailer and turned the vessel over to its owner at that time. All personal items were returned.

Sergant and I cleared from the scene at approximately 1630 hours. At this time the only property loss were 2 guns, personal items, and a few goose decoys. The engine was also damaged and had been submerged in water for 12+ hours.

All events occurred in Montgomery County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0006
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SHOALS - OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: vessel destruction
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the morning of April 8, 2016 around 0830 hrs I, Officer #1 of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on duty in the area of the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor when I witnessed a light blued hulled recreational fishing vessel to be coming into the boat ramp with some difficulty. I exited my vehicle to lend a hand to the operator who was the only person on board. After a line was tossed to me and the vessel was secured to the dock I noticed small amounts of blood on the rail of the boat and then glass inside the vessel. I radioed to Sgt. #1 of the same agency and asked if he could meet me back at the ramp to assess damage. He met me there within a minute.  The captain, later identified as Operator1 from Middletown, DE, advised me that he had attempted to exit the Ocean City Inlet about a half hour ago but was met with heavy seas on the south side of the inlet. He told me that once he was out of the inlet and passed the jetties, he turned his vessel towards the right (south) and continued to travel for a brief period of time. He then said he was met with a large wave that came crashing over the bow of his vessel and blew out his windshield as well as the cabin hatch and cut him on the hand. In a panic to get out of the danger area he turned the vessel north just before another two waves hit him hard on the starboard side which continued to soak the inside portion of the hull and cabin. Operator1 was able to operate the vessel back into shore without further issue when I met hit at the dock to assess the damage. That is when Operator1 noticed that he had wrapped a dock line around his port motor and lost 5 rod and reel combinations that were Tiagra 50W.

      We looked over the vessel and noticed the windshield was blown out, the hard top was partially ripped off, water had spread into the cabin area over the microwave and radio equipment, and various equipment to be scattered around the boat. Pictures were taken of all the damage and are attached to this report. Operator1 gave a rough estimate of the damages to be $15,000. 

      Operator1 then backed his trailer into the water while Sgt. #1 and I helped him load the vessel safety onto the trailer. Once the boat was hauled out of the water, an assessment of the hull was taken and found that there was no damage to the hull. Both I and Sgt. #1 cleared the scene around 1000 hours. 

      All events occurred in Worcester County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0007
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 601 CONCORD STREET
NearestCityorTown: HAVRE DE GRACE
County: HA - Harford
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/7/16 this officer responded to a report of a boat fire at Beacon Light Marina.  On arrival the fire on the vessel had been extinguished by the Havre de Grace Fire Department and Perry Point Fire Department Marine II Unit.  The 41ft sail boat had been docked in slip E-19 for the winter and was not in use at the time of the fire.  There were no persons on board.  The fire was extensive and completely burned the stern of the vessel, aft portion of the cabin area and main sail. There was no damage to the dock or other vessels.  The 911 caller reported seeing a small orange glow from the aft starboard corner of the vessel that quickly spread and by the time the fire departments responded the flames were approximately 200ft in the air, according to the Assist. Chief of the Havre de Grace Fire Department.

 The State Fire Marshal arrived on scene at approximately 0745 hours.  He confirmed that the vessel was not plugged into shore power.  Upon further investigation it was determined that the fire originated in the aft starboard corner.  There did not appear to be anything combustible in this area of the vessel except for a 12 volt battery.  The fuel tank for the vessel is located on the port side.  The State Fire Marshal determined that the fire is still under investigation but did not appear to be suspicious at this time.

 This officer contacted the owner of the vessel at 1300 hours.  Owner purchased the vessel 18 months prior and had a marine survey of the vessel at that time.  Owner stated that he had last been at the vessel three weeks prior and had started and run the engine at that time.  When he departed everything was turned off on the vessel.  He confirmed that there was a 12 volt gel cell battery located on either side in the stern of the vessel and they were about three years old.  He said his flares were new last year and he had also upgraded the electronics last year.  Owner could think of no reason why the vessel would catch on fire.

 Owner estimates the value of the vessel to be approximately $180,000 and it is this officers opinion that the vessel is a complete loss.
   
 The vessel has being towed to Tide Water Marina, 100 Bourbon Street, Havre de Grace, MD 21078 and is in no danger of sinking at this time.

 All events occurred in Harford County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0008
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 14636 SOLOMONS ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: SOLOMONS
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29th 2016 I (Officer of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) was on patrol when I received a call in reference to a boat fire at the Lighthouse Inn on Solomons Island.  Upon arrival I met with Sgt. who was interviewing the boat owner about what had occurred.  

        Owner had fueled his boat that morning from tanks that he stores in his basement.  After filling up he opened the engine cover, started the port engine, closed the engine cover and went to the front of the boat.  A few moments later he went back to the engine cover, opened it, started the starboard engine and heard what he described as a "pop", and then there was an explosion.  Owner attempted to put out the fire with an extinguisher he kept on board as well as one in his house.  Solomons Island Volunteer Fire Company responded and were able to extinguish the fire.  Owner sustained no injuries and will be in contact with his insurance company in reference to removal of the boat.  Until then the boat will remain on a lift on his property. The vessel is a complete loss, due to the fire. 

 All events occurred in Calvert County, this case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0009
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of April 30, 2016 I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was in the area of the Ocean City Inlet around 1700 hours. It was at this time that I noticed a united States Coast Guard vessel run by me with emergency lights on in the direction of their station. After several attempts to make contact with them on channel 16 of my vessels VHF with negative results, I noticed a few PWC beached on the bayside beach of Assateague Island National Seashore and decided to take a look into that. 

Up on the ocean side of the beach, commonly referred to as the "Wedge" I saw 5-8 people standing around with a few more PWC's and two people who looked like Coast Guard officers. The water on the bayside is very shallow and the ocean was too rough to approach so I again tried to make contact with USCG on channel 16. 

This time I was able to talk to someone although they were not helpful in advising what was going on on the island. I then saw the same USCG vessel coming back out of its station and intercepted it on it way to the island. They then told me that there was a subject on the island who had broken his leg while riding in the surf on his PWC and they were bringing him a stretcher to get him to EMS down at the Assateague Island State Park entrance. 

I asked if they needed any assistance carrying the subject off the beach and they advised there was plenty of people already on the island who could help. I also asked why they were not loading the subject onto one of our vessels and transporting him to the nearby mainland to be transported by EMS instead of down the 8 miles of bumpy beach and the officer stated that had not been thought of. 

Just a few minutes later, USCG said they were now going to transport the victim on their vessel back to the station for EMS. The subject was brought over to the vessel and transported back to the station. 

      I made arrangement with the victim’s friend to push the victims PWC out to me in deeper water so that I could tow the vessel back to the Ocean City Commercial harbor boat ramp where they launched from. The victims ski had already been run around the inlet prior to me arriving and was on the bayside beach. It was a red and white Yamaha ski with Maryland registration of 7626 BD (pictures are attached to report). The ski was safely towed back to the boat ramp and recovered by the victim’s friends.  

      None of the friends that were riding with the victim saw the accident take place but advised me that they were staged on the beach on the ocean side for a period of rest. The victim left the beach and soon after the other riders noticed him away from his ski in the water back pedaling towards the beach. Subject1 and friends went into the surf and pulled Victim onto the beach and noticed his leg to be broken above the ankle but below the knee. They proceeded to call 911 and waited for help to arrive. 

      Victim was taken to Atlantic General Hospital around 1750 hours. At 1850 hours, myself and Officer of the same agency, responded to AGH to meet with Victim. He seemed in good spirits and advised us that the doctor said it was broken and he would be getting a cast put on. He also told us that after leaving the beach with his ski, he hit a wave and launched into the air. His legs slid off the back of the ski and went underneath it on the way back down into the water. He then landed in shallow water and his legs were caught between the sand and the ski. 

      All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0010
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 400 PIER ONE ROAD BAY BRIDGE M
NearestCityorTown: STEVENSVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/24/16 at approximately 12:50 p.m., I, Ofc. with the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to a vessel fire at the Bay Bridge Marina in Stevensville, Maryland.  I arrived at the Bay Bridge Marina at approximately 1:45 p.m..  Cpl., also with the Maryland Natural Resources Police, arrived at the Bay Bridge Marina prior to my arrival.  Cpl. report can be found as attached Supp #1 to this report.  Following is the information that (co-owner of the vessel) provided on a Witness/Victim Statement concerning the vessel fire.
   
 Subjects were returning from a weekend trip to St. Michaels, Maryland.  Operator was operating the vessel, a 2004 Sea Ray 480 Sedan Bridge, and Occupant was seated forward of Operator on the bridge.  As they entered the channel to the Bay Bridge Marina, Operator noticed a heavy blue smoke coming from the starboard engine exhaust, with a heavy un-burnt fuel smell.  There was an increased amount of brown smoke coming from the engine room vents.  Operator stopped the boat at the Bay Bridge Marina fuel dock to check the engine room.  There was no fire present in the engine room at that time, just a haze.  Operator moved the vessel from the fuel dock down the fairway to the well area where the smoke became heavy dark brown to black in intensity.  Operator pulled the manual fire alarm pull station for the engine room, which discharged the Halon System.  They tied the boat to the dock and the dock mate's called 911.  When the Queen Anne's County Fire Department arrived, they did not find any active fire, but did find burnt insulation above the starboard engine area.  

 The vessel was removed from the water by the Bay Bridge Marina and placed near the well area.  Other than them, there were no other passengers on board the vessel.  Neither were injured.  The cause of the fire is believed to have been the result of the malfunction of the turbo on the starboard engine.  However, the actual cause of the fire will not be determined until repairs have begun.  There was some fire damage to the engine room and the starboard engine.  The smell of burnt rubber can be found throughout the entire vessel.  The value of damage could not be determined at this time.

 All events occurred in Queen Anne's county, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0011
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATUXENT RIVER NORTH OF BROOME
NearestCityorTown: DRUM POINT
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 14, 2016 at approximately 1700 hours I, Off received a call for service concerning an overturned vessel with two people overboard in the area of Drum Point on the Patuxent River. While in route to the scene I was advised that the victims were out of the water and were being taken to Solomans Harbor. 

 When I arrived on scene I observed a white inboard vessel displaying Maryland Registration 5668 BL with the victims of the overturned vessel onboard. Once the vessel was secured to the dock the victims went EMS to address any injuries. I was notified by EMS that no injuries were sustained to either individual.

 I was notified that vessel would be towed to Solomons Harbor by Fire/ Recure Boat. When the vessel arrived it was overturned and appeared to have damage done to the mast. The vessel displayed Maryland registration 3246 CF.

 Subject stated that he and his son went underway at approximately 1100 hours from Solomons boat ramp under the Thomas Johnson Bridge to go fishing. Subject was operating his Boston Whaler 15' Sailboat under sail. Subject was in the area of Drum Point on the Patuxent River when he realized a storm was coming. He attempted to head back to the boat ramp but due to the strong winds his vessel overturned. Subject and his son stayed with the vessel and were able to use a cellular phone to call 911. They both were wearing life jackets. Subject says that he was in the water between 5-10 minutes.

 A Good Samaritan was passing the over turned vessel and was able to help Subject and his son out the water and brought them to shore. 

 Subject estimated the damages of his vessel at $4,000 due to the mast damage and some interior damage. 

 All event occurred in Calvert County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0012
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WICOMICO RIVER MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: SALISBURY
County: WI - Wicomico
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday May 27, 2016 around 9:00 a.m. I, OFC. was at the Port of Salisbury when I noticed a vessel be launched at the Riverside boat ramp on the Wicomico River. The Boat ramp is directly across from the Port of Salisbury. I watched as two adults and two children launched a vessel into the Wicomico River. 


Once the vessel was launched I saw the vessel just off the docks north of the ramp. I then heard the engine, a loud crash and the children scream. As I looked back towards the vessel it was tilted on a boat lift and leaning toward its port side. I then saw the operator free the vessel from the boat lift and start making his way back to the boat ramp located about one hundred feet from the dock. 

I then drove over to the boat ramp to check on the situation. Once on scene I made contact with the vessel operator's wife. She informed me that her husband had just hit the boat lift pilings and was coming back to load his boat up. I helped Wife get the boat trailer into the water and helped load the vessel onto its trailer. 

Once on land I made contact with the vessel owner/operator. After looking at the boat I noticed the extent of the damage was located on the ski mount system for towing water skiers or tubes (see attached photos). I asked Operator what happened and he replied " I was trying to enter the slip and the throttle got stuck". I asked Operator what was the amount of experience he had operating boats. He replied " this was his first boat he just purchased a couple days ago, and he had rented a couple boats back home in Pennsylvania". I asked Operator if everybody was ok or if they needed any medical attention, He advised "everybody is ok just a little shook up".  The vessel registration is PA 4443 DN on a 19 foot Stingray open bow inboard/outboard vessel. 

            No Citations were issued as I cannot prove whether it was operator error or faulty throttle equipment. 

   All events occurred in Wicomico County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0014
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SMALLWOOD STATE PARK
NearestCityorTown: MARBURY
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 29, 2016 at approximately 1630 hours I, OFC, received a call from SGT regarding a boat accident that just occurred at Smallwood State Park boat ramp.  

      Upon arrival I meet with CPL, of Special Operations Division (SOD), who was already on scene, and had already gathered information regarding the accident and stated that the victim was enroute to Charles Regional Medical Center (CRMC) via Tenth District Ambulance #89. 

      Upon arrival at CRMC I spoke with Victim and she stated that she was on the boat with her husband and they were motoring into Smallwood State Park to dock the boat.  Operator was operating the vessel and he had maneuvered the boat into ramp #3 when Victim attempted to step from the boat onto the pier.   Victim stated that her pants got caught on something on the boat, which twisted her to the right, and she landed with her right leg, hard and abruptly, onto the pier and fell down.  Victim attempted to stand up and her right knee twisted and gave way which caused her to fall onto the pier again.  It was then, at approximately 1542 hours, that Operator called 911 and requested an ambulance.   The Tenth District Ambulance #89 arrived at approximately 1600 hours and transported Victim to CRMC.

      Victim was diagnosed with a possible fracture of the lateral tibial plateau (broken leg).


BARDID: MD-2016-0015
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/30/2016, I was asked by DNR Communications to respond to Garrett Regional Medical Center at Oakland, MD for a victim of a tubing accident on Deep Creek Lake. Once there, I located the victim. Victim said she was a passenger on a tube being towed behind a vessel. The tube hit a wake from another vessel and she fell off the tube. She felt some pain in her neck later in the day, and went to the hospital to have it checked. Victim was treated and released. All events happened in Garrett county, MD. This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0018
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MILES RIVER - ST. MICHAEL HARB
NearestCityorTown: ST. MICHAELS
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/27/2016 Ofc. and I received a call for a medical emergency from a vessel located in St. Michaels. We immediately advised dispatch to notify St. Michaels Fire and EMS. After we arrived to St. Michaels we made contact with a few St. Michaels Fire department men. They advised us that the lady had already been transported to the hospital. I then received the victim information from a Paramedic that transported Victim to Dorchester County Hospital. The Paramedic advised that Victim had a possible dislocated arm and a small laceration on her head from slipping and falling while transferring from big boat to the dingy. I then contacted Dorchester Hospital and got in contact with the vessel owner and witness to the incident. 

     Owner stated that at approximately 1830hrs Victim was transitioning from the anchored sail boat, a 38' Erickson MD registration 5320 BU that was anchored in St. Michaels Harbor on the right side of the Harbor when leaving St. Michaels. Victim was exiting the sail boat from the stern to the dingy MD Registration 3231 CA, that was secured to the sailboat when she lost her footing and fell into the dingy, landing on her arm and her head hitting his knee. He tried calling 911 a few times but his cell phone kept saying "dialed incorrect number". Owner then stated that he used the VHF to report the medical Emergency. Then Owner took her to shore meeting Fire and EMS in St. Michaels. Owner advised me that Victim was getting X-Rays but appears to have some type of arm injury possible dislocation and cut on forehead. 

 All events occurred in Talbot County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0019
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER - KENT NARROWS
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/27/16 at approximately 1930 hours I received a call for a vessel that had struck multiple safety pilings south of the Kent Narrows bridge.  I was on a priority call on Eastern Bay at the time and was unable to respond immediately.  Once I cleared the other call I decided to return to Cove Creek Marina located south of Romancoke public pier where the patrol boat was stationed due to the choppy water conditions.  I responded to Kent Narrows by land and arrived at approximately 2100 hours.  I spoke with the bridge tender by phone who was the original complainant and he told me the vessel traveled north of the bridge and toward Piney Narrows Yacht Haven.  He told me the vessel sustained serious damage to the port stern and the name of the vessel was "SYNAPTIC".  

      I drove through Piney Narrows Yacht Haven but was unable to locate vessel due to darkness.  The next morning I spoke with one of the managers at Piney Narrows Yacht Haven and he told me the vessel in question was renting a slip at his marina.  I located the vessel and spoke with the owner. 

 Operator told me that his boat was launched the day before and he was trying to navigate through the Kent Narrows draw bridge when the accident occurred.  Operator told me that he underestimated the speed of the current and he collided with a bundle of safety pilings bow first.  Operator told me he panicked and put the transmission in reverse at which time he collided with another bundle of safety pilings on the port stern.  This caused extensive damage to the swim platform and trim tab.  The bow damage was minimal and located on the port side of the vessel.  Operator told me the vessel was traveling at five or six knots at the point of impact.  I took photographs of his boat and Operator completed a victim statement.  I also spoke with Operators wife.  I asked Operator if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages while operating the vessel and he told me he had not.  He was very adamant that he never consumes alcoholic beverages while operating his boat.  

      There were no injuries and no damage to the bridge or the pilings.  There were no other vessels involved.  The vessel is documented through the Coast Guard.

      There were no charges filed and this case is closed.

      All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0020
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:29:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/31/16 at approximately 6:30 p.m., I responded to Inlet Sea Doo in reference to a PWC rental accident with injury. I met with the parties involved who were operating the following jet skis:     

 I interviewed all parties involved, operator of vehicle #1 stated that he was operating his PWC in the designated riding area of the Sinepuxent Bay when he observed that he was approaching the red float lined boundary. In order to stay in the riding area he executed an abrupt right turn striking vessel 2 in the process. 

 Upon speaking with the operator of vessel #2, he stated that he was traveling eastbound across the riding area when his vessel was struck on the starboard side by vessel #1. 

 I also interviewed the PWC guide who stated that he did not observe the accident. 

 Operator2 was transported to Atlantic General Hospital for injuries and admitted. Operator2 sustained a laceration to the scalp that required staples and a sprained left forearm. He was treated and released. No other injuries were reported.

 I examined both vessels and found the following: Vessel #1 had no apparent damage, and vessel #2 had cracked fiberglass on the starboard side gunwale. I found the damage observed was consistent with the reported events.

 I issued the operator of vessel #1 Operator1 a written warning for PWC distance violation.

 I request this case be closed. All events occurred in Worcester County MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0022
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BODKIN CREEK - MAIN STEM
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 8, 2016 at approximately 1335 hours, I OFC was dispatched to Worton Creek for a boat accident. 
   
 Upon my arrival at Worton Creek Marina I met with Kent County emergency services. They were there to transport the patient.  At that time all and any injuries were unknown.  The marina had dispatched a tow vessel out to retrieve the sailboat and bring it pier side.

 Once pier side, I spoke with operator.  I asked him to tell me what had happened, he stated that his wife and himself were traveling south past North Point in Baltimore County waters heading for Bodkin Creek, Anne Arundel County where his boat is kept.  As they were traveling a huge string of thunderstorms passed through the area with high winds and seas. The vessel that was operated was a Hunter 37.5 Sailboat documented with the name of "Octavia" with a hailing port of Columbia Maryland. 
   
 As they were at the mouth of the Patapsco River the boat was being pitched around due to the seas and winds.  Occupant went below to use the head.  The boat was still being thrown around violently and Occupant was thrown from the port side to the starboard side of the boat hitting her head on something and was knocked unconscious.  Operator began to call for help and ended up at Worton Creek Marina.

 Occupant was evaluated by EMS and transported to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown where she was seen for non-life threatening injuries. 

 It remains unclear why the couple traveled across the Chesapeake Bay for emergency services.  Alcohol was not a factor in the incident or injuries.

 The accident occurred in Anne Arundel County and medical treatment was conducted in Kent County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0023
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:11:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH RIVER AT SELBY BAY
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 3, 2016 at approximately 7:15 pm, I, Ofc. was dispatched to a vessel in distress with a person reported in the water on the South River in the area of Selby Bay.  The vessel was reported to be a 26’ Sea Ray with a white hull and blue top with Maryland Registration number 3145 BZ. I responded to Liberty Marina where Ofc. was already on NRP patrol vessel 836. Ofc. and I then responded by patrol vessel to the area of Selby Bay arriving on scene in about 6 minutes after dispatch. While en route to the scene, I observed a Maryland State Police helicopter circling the area. 

Weather Conditions when we arrived on scene were over cast, with an air temperature about 75 degrees, steady winds from South South West at about 10 mph, water temperature was about 76.6 degrees with waves about 1-2 feet.

When we arrived on scene, I observed the Sea Ray drifting in the area of the Red “8” marker. Ofc. navigated our patrol vessel to the stern of the Sea Ray where I transferred onto the Sea Ray. Once onboard, I identified 2 adult females, 1 juvenile male and 1 juvenile female and confirmed that no one on the boat was injured. I also obtained a description of the missing person. Deceased victim was described to be 5’9”, about 175 lbs, bald, wearing red white and blue, stars and stripes shorts.  I relayed the description of Deceased victim and his approximate last known position to responding units on the NRP radio.

The occupants of the boat were identified.

Occupant1 and the two children were sitting on the port side of the cockpit and Subject2 was at the aft end of the cockpit. I was contacted by Sgt. and he advised me to have the occupants anchor the vessel and keep everyone in place until the investigator arrived. Subject2 set the anchor while I checked the condition of the helm controls. I observed the engine was off, the throttle was in neutral and the GPS was in the on position.

Once Subject2 returned to the cockpit, I started getting additional details about the incident. Occupant1 told me that they were on their way back to Oak Grove marina where they had rented the boat from Carefree Boats. They were coming from Kent Moore marina on Kent Island. Occupant1 told me that deceased victim was driving the boat when a hat blew off the boat. Deceased victim stopped the boat and jumped into the water to swim after the hat. Occupant1 also told me Deceased victim tried to swim back to the boat, but the current was to strong and couldn’t make it back to the boat and they saw him go under the water.  I asked about what time Deceased victim went off the boat. Occupant1 estimated the time to be between 6:30 and 6:45pm.

I asked Occupant1 if Deceased victim was taking any prescription medications or had any medical conditions. Occupant1 told me that Deceased victim didn’t take any drugs, but he had been drinking. I asked how much Deceased victim had to drink. Occupant1 told me that Deceased victim had about 5 drinks over the course of the day, and his last one was when they left Kent Moore Marina.

I asked Subject2 to tell me what she saw. Subject2 told me that she was crossing the river with her boyfriend on his boat. Subject2 told me that she saw Occupant1 standing on the back of the Sea Ray waving her arms for help. Subject2 got onto the Sea Ray while boyfriend started looking for Deceased victim. Subject2 told me that when she got on the Sea Ray, it was still in forward gear at idle speed. Subject2 said she put the boat in neutral and called 911 for help. 

I asked Subject2 and Occupant1 to each write a statement of their account of what happened. 

While we were waiting for instructions from the investigator, boyfriend returned to the Sea Ray on his boat and asked if we needed anything. I asked boyfriend to go to one of the fire boats and get some blankets for the family because they were getting cold.

Once the NRP Investigator Cpl. arrived at Selby Yacht Club, where the incident command was set up, an NRP patrol boat came over to the Sea Ray and picked up all of the occupants off of the Sea Ray including me. Ofc. transferred to the Sea Ray and took custody of the vessel. 

Once ashore, boyfriend met us and I asked him to complete a witness statement. 

I handed off all of the witnesses to Cpl.. I then contacted Carefree Boat Club and advised him that he could retrieve the Sea Ray and return it to Oak Grove marina.
 
I went to Oak Grove Marina and took photos of the Sea Ray and spoke to employees of Carefree Boat Club about the condition of the vessel. The boat club was going to have the vessel hauled and inspected per company policy whenever a club boat is involved in an accident. I asked Club not to erase any data from the GPS incase the investigators need it.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.

Witness statements are attached.
 


BARDID: MD-2016-0024
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:19:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: POINT OF ROCKS
NearestCityorTown: POINT OF ROCKS
County: FR - Frederick
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday June 5th, 2016 around 1120 hours I (Officer of the Natural Resources Police) received a call from the DNR communications center about a possible boating accident/missing persons on the Potomac River. DNR communications center advised me the incident occurred along the C&O canal at the Nolands Ferry boat ramp. I arrived on scene at Nolands Ferry around 1145 hours. 
 
When I arrived on scene, I observed Brunswick volunteer fire and rescue department vehicles and vessels as well as one of the National Park Service Rangers. I had also observed a small aluminum boat at the top of the boat ramp with low horsepower, blue engine attached to back of the boat. 
 
I approached the National Park Service Ranger.  The aluminum boat is a 14 foot, Lowe’s outboard boat from 1972. Ranger also advised that he and the Brunswick volunteer fire department had been on scene for approximately an hour on vessels conducting hasty searches for any possible stranded persons. I was advised the initial call was received at 0958 hours. 
Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services boat 14 was the first to make contact with the capsized boat. They reported to finding the capsized boat on the Maryland side of Heaters Island just before the southern tip of the island. They were able to tow the boat to Nolands Ferry Boat Ramp and bring the aluminum boat to shore. 
 
I was also advised that a Ford truck was found on the Virginia Loudon Boat Ramp that was registered to Victim with a boat trailer attached to the truck.  
 
After gathering initial information about the incident, Corporal (Natural Resources Police) arrived at Nolands Ferry with NRP Rockproof boat 864. We were both advised that the command post was already set up at Point of Rocks State Park. I took photos of the aluminum boat, the motor and whatever contents were found inside.
 
Shortly after the photos were taken, Cpl. and I headed to Point of Rocks Boat Ramp. We arrived around 1230 hours. Once I arrived to Point of Rocks I was able to get an ID on one of the individuals that had been in the aluminum boat. He is a 6 foot tall, about 195 pounds, 62 year old, black male. I was able to make contact with Victim’s stepdaughter, at which time she advised me Victim went fishing with a friend around 0500 hours that day. Victim2 is a 5 foot 7 inches tall, 165 pounds, 51 years old black male. 
 
The information came from three eyewitness callers, given to me by Ranger. The first caller explained to rescue personnel, they saw one male treading water near the Rt. 15 Bridge over the Potomac River and another caller advised they saw the capsized boat in the water. 
 
Around 1400 hours, Western Maryland K-9 Search & Rescue Inc and I took Rockproof boat NRP 862 to Heaters Island. We conducted a ground search using an air-scent tracking dog on Heaters Island starting at the north end of the island. The search was conducted from 1433 hours to 1513 hours. Due to approaching thunderstorms the ground search was cut short and only half the island was able to be searched. At 1530 hours we all retreated from the water to wait for the storms to pass.
 
Around 1530 hours I met with Detective Corporal (Natural Resources Police) who took over as lead investigator. Cpl. completed the boat accident form (NRP412). 
 
The Natural Resources Police dive team arrived on scene around 1730 hours and began assisting in our search efforts for victims.
 
From 1730 hours to 1945 hours Natural Resources Police dive team, Officers continued the search on the Potomac. Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services, Carroll Manor Fire Company, Woodsboro Fire Company and Loudon County Fire and Rescue Services also continued their search efforts from 1730 hours to 1945 hours. 
The searches conducted produced negative results for locating the two men identified above. 
All events occurred in Frederick County, Maryland.
 


BARDID: MD-2016-0025
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 12, 2016 at approximately 5:24PM I was contacted by our dispatch center. Our dispatcher advised that they had received a call from a person employed by Atlantic General Hospital. They advised that the hospital was discharging a patient involved in a boating accident. They provided a name and a contact number. They advised that they had no further information since the patient was being discharged. 

      I contacted Victim by phone. Victim advised that he had rented a personal watercraft from Top Gun watersports earlier in the day. He advised that he was traveling south in the riding area which is located in Assawoman Bay. He estimated his speed to be approximately 30 knots when he hit a large wake causing him to be ejected from the ski. He advised that he hit the water hard but was able to continue and complete the rental. Later on that evening he advised that he started to have some pain in his head and decided to go to Atlantic General Hospital. He was treated and released with a minor concussion. 

      I contacted Top Gun watersports which was closed and left a message. I was contacted later by an employee who provided me the rental information. The rental guide confirmed the series of events as explained by Victim. I request the case be closed without charges. All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0026
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 245 C STREET
NearestCityorTown: LUSBY
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/12/13 at approximately 2:26pm, I, OFC. received a call for a jet ski accident near Solomons Island, with all persons involved located at Zanhiser's Yachting Center, awaiting medical treatment. Cpls responded to Zanhiser's to obtain witness information while I responded to Calvert Memorial Hospital, in Prince Frederick, MD.    
 
      Ambulance 38, from Solomons VFD transported the passenger of the jet ski to Calvert Memorial Hospital. Victim had a laceration to the inside of her right arm, near her elbow, approximately 3" long and 2" wide. Victim was treated for her injury and later released.

      While at the hospital, I obtained a statement from Victim regarding the accident. I was then met by the operator of the jet ski, who provided a written statement. I then proceeded to Solomons, to make contact with Bunky's Charter Boats Inc., the owner of the vessel.

      Based on the statements obtained and the rental contract, at 1:15pm Operator1 rented a 2011 Yamaha PWC, bearing a registration of MD 2754 LB, from Bunky's Charter Boats Inc located in Solomons, MD. Operator1 was accompanied by Victim, and the two proceeded out of Solomons Harbor into the Patuxent River. Operator1 operated the PWC just outside the Solomons Harbor for a short period of time before heading to the area near Drum Point, at the mouth of the Patuxent. Operator1 indicated that sea conditions in that area were choppy, but stated that the waves were less than 2'. At approximately 1:50pm, Operator1 jumped several smaller waves and attempted to slow down upon approaching a larger wave. The PWC became airborne and landed on the other side of the wave, at an off angle causing the vessel to roll to the left and eject the operator and passenger. 

Neither individual remembered seeing any obstructions in the immediate area of the accident, but did notice that Victim had a significant laceration to her right arm. The laceration may have been the result of her arm contacting a sharp edge on the PWC when she was ejected. Operator1 provided Victim with a t-shirt to wrap her arm with. Both individuals climbed back aboard the PWC and attempted to start it. Operator1 was unable to start the PWC due damage incurred to the safety lanyard during the accident. Operator1 then used his cell phone to call 911. While speaking to a dispatcher the two individuals were able to signal a passing vessel for help. 

     
      Subject was enroute to Solomons from St. Michael's, as he was approaching the mouth of the Patuxent River he noticed Operator1 and Victim seated on the PWC waiving their arms and blowing whisltes, so he made his way to them to provide assistance. Good samaritan brought both individuals onboard his vessel and provided Victim with a towel to wrap around her arm. Good samaritan and Operator1 then attached a line to the handle bars of the PWC and attempted to tow it back to Solomons Harbor. The wake from Good samaritan's vessel and the manner in which the PWC was being towed, caused it to become "swamped". In the interest of transporting Victim back to shore as soon as possible, the PWC was cut free of the vessel. Good samaritan transported the individuals to Zanhiser's Yachting Center in Solomons Harbor, where they were met by EMS. 
      All accounts indicate that Operator1 and Victim were wearing PFD's. Operator1 was in possession of a boater's safety certificate (# BE10520) issued through the state of Kentucky. Operator1 indicated that he checked the weather forecast prior to renting the PWC. Operator1 said that his boat operating experience was limited, approximately 1 year.     
      Excessive speed, wave force, and operator inexperience are believed to be contributing factors to this accident. As of this time, no charges have been filed against the operator, Operator1. Law enforcement action may be taken, based upon the outcome of the investigation.

 As of 6/13/16, the PWC has not been located and is believed to still be adrift in the Chesapeake Bay.

 All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0027
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ACROSS FROM ST THOMAS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: BROOMES ISLAND
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Overloading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/12/16 at approximately 7:49pm, I , OFC. received a call for a capsized vessel on the Patuxent River, near Broomes Island. I was advised that all individuals from the vessel had been transported to Len's Marina in Broomes Island by a good Samaritan. The communications center advised that one subject was listed as near drowned, and would be flown to Prince Georges Hospital Center.  I responded by land to Len's Marina to make contact with the rest of the occupants of the vessel. Cpls responded by boat to the general area where the vessel capsized in an attempt to locate it, or any other items from the vessel.

      I arrived on scene at approximately 8:15pm. I made contact with EMS units from St. Leonard VFD, who were prepping the victim for med evac. They indicated that he was near drowned and unconscious, but CPR was not being performed. The victim was later identified. EMS units provided contact information for the good Samaritan. I then made contact with the other occupants of the vessel.     

      The owner and operator of the vessel was identified. The owner indicated that the vessel was a small open vessel, white in color, with a 35 hp Johnson outboard. The vessel was later verified as a 1978 14' Starcraft, aluminum boat bearing a registration of MD 1730 DA. The other passengers were identified. There was a language barrier between the occupants and I, but I was able to obtain a statement from subject. 

      Cpls were unsuccessful in locating the vessel, but did locate several items, including two coolers, a 5 gallon gas can, and two type II PFDs. These items were located closer to the western shore of the Patuxent, just south of Broomes Island. Assistance from MSP aviation was requested. Trooper 7 scanned the immediate area around Broomes Island and St. Thomas Creek, but was forced to terminate their search due to low fuel. 

     At approximately 10:10pm,  I was notified that the victim was listed in stable condition and was going to held overnight for observation. On 6/13/16 at approximately 8:40 am, I made contact with Victim at Prince Georges Hospital Center in Cheverly, MD. With the help of an interpreter, on staff, I was able to obtain a statement from Victim. Victim was later cleared by a physician and released.

      Based on the statements obtained, it is evident that the incident occurred as follows. At approximately 5:00 pm three people arrived at Len's Marina in Broomes Island, MD and began consuming beer. At approximately 5:35pm two arrived with the vessel, MD 1730 DA, in tow. The boat was launched, all five individuals donned PFDs, and then boarded the vessel before departing the marina at approximately 6:00pm. 

Subject1 was operating the vessel in the area just north of Broomes Island for a short period of time and the party possibly engaged in fishing activity. At approximately 6:30pm Subject1 began heading towards the area of Greenwell State Park, as he neared marker number "16" at the tip of Broomes Island, wind and sea conditions began to worsen. Subject1 was navigating through waves of approximately three to five feet when a wave came over the bow of the boat causing it to flood and subsequently capsize. All five occupants were in the water for approximately 30 minutes to an hour before being spotted by a good Samaritan. 

Victim indicated that while he was wearing a PFD when the vessel capsized, it was not properly secured and he lost it while in the water. Also while in the water, Victim made several attempts to recover personal belongings from inside the capsized vessel. Victim was able to secure an orange type IV throw ring and two orange PFDs to the bow of the capsized vessel. At some point Victim became temporarily entangled in a line attached to vessel, causing him to be pulled under water several times before he was able to free himself. 

All five individuals were pulled onto good sam vessel, where Victim became unconscious before being transported back to Len's Marina. At Len's Marina, all five occupants were assessed by emergency medical personnel. Victim was air lifted to Prince George's Hospital Center by Trooper 7 and the other four occupants refused treatment at the scene.

      At this time it appears that weather/sea conditions, operator inexperience, and possibly overloading were contributing factors to this accident. 

      Charges may be filed pending the outcome of the investigation. 

      The investigation is still ongoing. 


BARDID: MD-2016-0028
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 20282 GARRETT HIGHWAY
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 12th, 2016 at 1812 hours, I was on boat patrol of Deep Creek Lake aboard NRP vessel 881 when I was dispatched to the docks at Lakeside Creamery at 20282 Garrett Highway, Oakland MD for a property damage vessel accident.  I arrived and observed a 2012 Yamaha Wave Runner VX Sport personal watercraft displaying MD registration 2768 LB resting at an angle inside of a 1999 Correct Craft Air Nautique ski boat displaying MD registration 7444 BF and tied in a slip of the docks.  Corporal responded to the scene from land to assist and took photographs on the scene (attached).

 I made contact with the operator of the ski boat.  Subject informed me he was inside the creamery at the time of the accident and did not witness the incident.  Subject advised the vessel belonged to his father.

 I made contact with the operator of the PWC.  Operator1 informed me he rented the PWC from Fun Time Water Sports at 1745 hours.  Operator1 stated prior to the accident he was traveling southwest on the lake in the direction of the creamery docks.  Operator1 said he let off of the throttle and turned the handlebars to steer away from the dock, but the PWC would not turn.  

The PWC struck the end of the last dock finger on the north end of the dock head-on, landed on top of the dock finger, traveled down the finger and across the main walkway, struck the starboard gunwale and traveled through the windshield and ski tower of the ski boat before striking the ski pole in the center of the passenger area and coming to rest inside of the ski boat.  

Operator1 stated he was traveling approximately 20 mph when he first struck the dock and at no time was he thrown from the PWC.  At my request, Operator1 drew a diagram (attached) showing his direction of travel and course across the dock during the accident.  The diagram indicated he was traveling parallel to the shoreline on a direct course for the end of the dock, which he confirmed.

 I asked Operator1 if he was injured and he stated his left wrist hurt and he struck his left calf, but he denied my offer for medical attention.

 I asked Operator1 if he had consumed any alcohol during the day of the accident and he responded that he had not.  I did not detect from Operator1 any indications of alcohol consumption.  I asked Operator1 how much boating experience he had and he replied that he had only rented a PWC a couple times before.  I asked Operator1 if he had any boating safety education and he stated only the training that Fun Time Water Sports provided at the time of the rental.  Operator1 acknowledged that he was wearing his personal flotation device and engine cutoff lanyard at the time of the accident.

 Corporal explained to Operator1 that personal watercraft do not have rudders and steering them requires activating the throttle to power the water jet nozzle controlled by the handle bars.  Corporal turned the handlebars of the PWC without difficulty and confirmed the water jet nozzle operated properly with the movement of the handlebars.

 Fun Time Water Sports provided me with the paperwork from Operator1's rental (attached), which included a rental agreement, damage liability waiver, personal watercraft rental test, and PWC renter orientation check list.  The following three statements were highlighted on the check list:

 "STOPPING THE ENGINE WILL NOT STOP FORWARD MOTION BUT WILL RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING"

 "This PWC does not have a brake or reverse"

 "Stay at least 100 feet away from other boats, PWC and people.  It is the full length of our dock."

 Fun Time Water Sports also provided me with a written witness statement from employee stating the staff demonstrated for Operator1 how to properly operate the PWC.  The statement indicated Operator1 was operating his rented PWC at a high rate of speed near (less than 100 feet from) the docks to create waves.  The statement indicated the staff twice reminded Operator1 of the regulation against operating a PWC at a speed of greater than six (6) knots within 100 feet of any other vessel, PWC, person, structure, or dock before his accident occurred.  

 Fun Time Water Sports provided an additional written witness statement from an individual indicating Operator1 was operating his PWC too close to the docks when he "jumped the dock on to the boat."

 Corporal interviewed Operator1's friend who was operating a pontoon boat in the vicinity.  Friend told Corporal that she saw the operator strike the dock, slide down the dock and onto the ski boat.  Friend said that he was travelling at approximately 20 miles per hour when he struck the dock and that he appeared to be trying to steer away prior to the collision.

 All written statements are attached to this report.

 The ski boat was removed to Bill's Marine and the PWC was removed to Fun Time Water Sports.  Damage estimates on both vessels are pending evaluation.

 I issued Operator1 the following:

 Citation 4Y66182246 NR 8-704 COMAR 08.18.02.05K Operate PWC > 6 knots w/in 100' shore, piling, etc. $85.00 or trial July 21st, 2016
 Warning NR 8-704 COMAR 08.18.01.05B Negligent operation of a vessel

Operator1 provided me with an automobile insurance policy through AAA Insurance Inc. but advised the policy would not cover vessel damages.

 At my request, the owner of the ski boat, contacted me on June 13th at 1042 hours to confirm his knowledge of the accident and his vessel and insurance information.

 All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0029
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MILL POINT SHORES
NearestCityorTown: MADDOX
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/15/16, I Ofc. was called by Officer to a boat accident on the Wicomico River/ Mill Point area. Ofc. and I responded to the location to find Ofc. and the vessel who retrieved the waterman from the water, along with the waterman's vessel at a high rate of speed going in circles. The owner/ waterman stated that he slipped on his vessel causing the throttle to be pushed full forward and while trying to grasp something to hold on he forced the vessel into a circle motion and fell off. While in the water the waterman was trapped in the middle of the vessel doing circles around him. Upon trying to swim out he was hit three times by the vessel. Once out of the way of the vessel, another waterman noticed the vessel doing circle's and realized there was no one on the vessel. He quickly went to the vessel and noticed the waterman in the water and helped him on his vessel. Victim was then placed on the vessel with Ofc..

 Once the scene was cleared and safe from any persons or vessels, there were several attempts made by NRP to foul the boats prop to try and get it to shut down. Ofc. called Ofcs on the Zodiac to attempt to come along side the vessel. Because of the speed and sharp turns, coming along the vessel was unsuccessful and not safe. After about 2-3 hours of attempting to slow the vessel, we were finally successful to foul the prop and get a officer on the vessel to shut the engine off. Victim was cleared by EMS with no life threatening injuries, and the victim’s son met us on shore with the ambulance and took possession of the vessel. 


 All events occurred in St. Mary's County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0030
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 12940 INLET ISLE LANE
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 20, 2016 at approximately 2120 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to the Ocean City Fishing Center, located at 12940 Inlet Isle Lane, Worcester County, Maryland in reference to a boat accident.

      Upon my arrival, I met with the Captain of the "Moore Bills" who advised that a recreational vessel had struck his vessel causing damage.  I also met with operator2 the owner of the striking vessel, a 24 foot Bayliner bearing Maryland registration 9545BK.  Operator2 advised that he had been attempting to dock his vessel across from the "Moore Bills."  He advised that his throttle control had gotten stuck in forward and that he had impacted the "Moore Bills" on it's starboard side, causing damage.  

      I examined both vessels and noted damage to each that matched the events above.  V1 subject advised that his vessel had three cracked structural ribs as well as some cracked sheathing material, which I was able to observe myself.  He estimated that damage to the "Moore Bills" to be in excess of $10,000 and stated that he would be missing several days of business to make repairs.  There was also damage to Operator2's vessel, which he estimated between $2000 and $4000.  

      All parties were provided with our agency information, my information, and a report number.  They exchanged personal information, including an All State Insurance Policy number that Operator2 provided, and advised that he had coverage on his vessel.  All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0031
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1700 BOWLEYS QUARTERS
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLE RIVER
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time the listed boat was at the fuel pier of Bowleys Marina, filling its fuel tanks with gasoline.  Witness/Victim was the attendant of the fuel pier and advised that the owner of the boat had just filled the boat’s tanks with 114 gallons of gas.  Attendant advised that the owner, along with the other two victims were trying to start the boat unsuccessfully.  Attendant said they were trying for several minutes but the boat wouldn’t start.  Attendant said it sounded like one engine may have started but the other one would not when it suddenly burst into flames.

I spoke to Operator.  He advised that while at the fuel pier and after filling the vessel’s tanks with gasoline, he attempted to start the engines.  He began with the starboard engine but the battery was weak so he decided to try the port-side engine.  Subject had the port-side hatch open and was on his knees looking in the engine compartment, while the engine was being cranked.  Subject said the engine cranked for about one or two seconds and suddenly burst into a ball of fire and flames, burning his father severely as he knelt there over the engine.  Subjects were able to get Operator off of the boat but not without suffering burns themselves.  Operator advised that he did in fact have the bilge ventilation running as they got gas and as they attempted to start the motors. 

Subject2 was standing at the rear of the boat looking in on his friends when the explosion occurred.  He suffered burns to his right arm, left ear and face. 

Operator and Subject2 were taken to Bayview hospital by Baltimore County Fire Dept Medics while Fire Personnel extinguished the fire.  Operator refused treatment and described his injuries as superficial.  

Several fire departments responded, both volunteer and paid and also Martin State Airport responded to deliver foam to extinguish the flames.  

Detective, of the Baltimore County Police Arson Unit, responded to conduct an investigation also.  

Manager of Bowley’s Marina was able to provide information about the above listed vessel and said that he would advise me if any other boat owners reported damage to their vessels as a result of the fire.  The damage to the fuel pier was extensive, both from the fire and from the damage incurred from the fire department as the fire was being extinguished.  

Maryland Department of the Environment responded to offer assistance.


BARDID: MD-2016-0032
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENT NARROWS - SOUTH OF BRIDGE
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 18 June 2016 at approximately 1230PM, Officers all of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, were on patrol in the area of the Kent Narrows Drawbridge. While passing under the bridge, we were contacted by the Kent Narrows drawbridge operator, who advised us that the 57’ President Marine Yacht that had just passed us, headed north, had made contact with the wooden dolphin on the south side of the bridge, as well as had made contact with the bridge structure as he passed underneath.  There was no damage to the bridge or dolphin, other than slight paint transfers.

      We observed the vessel, a 57’ President Marine yacht, refueling at Piney Narrows Marina; there was visible damage to the rub and safety rails on the port side.  There was also visible damage to the starboard rub and safety rails, including wood splinters which matched the wooden dolphins that protect the south entrance of the bridge. 

      I made contact with the owner and operator of the vessel, who advised he had just purchased the vessel from the Chesapeake Maritime Museum, and was in the process of transiting to his slip at Maryland Yacht Club. Operator had documentation of the purchase, and was in the process of having the title and registration put into his name. 

      Operator stated that as he attempted to transit the Kent Narrows bridge, a smaller vessel had overtaken his vessel. He continued that his vessel was pulled by the current as he avoided the smaller vessel, but he believed he was still in enough control and position to continue transiting. As he attempted to transit, the current pushed his vessel into the wooden dolphin on the south east of the bridge, where his starboard side made contact. Operator then applied forward throttle, which shot him across the channel and into the eastern side of the bridge structure, striking it with his port side. He then cleared the bridge, and put his vessel against the Piney Narrows Marina fuel dock to refuel and assess damage. Operator did not possess a boater’s safety certificate, and was issued three warnings for missing safety equipment and documentation. Photographs are attached of the damage.


 ALL OBSERVATIONS ARE BASED ON MY TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE. ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY, MARYLAND.


BARDID: MD-2016-0033
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BALTIMORE LIGHT
NearestCityorTown: ARNOLD
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25, 2016 at approximately 1740 hrs, Off. and I were on boat patrol on the Magothy River when we responded to an injured person on a vessel that was located approximately half a mile south of Baltimore Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay.  We located the 22' Glacier catamaran motor vessel bearing registration MD 4403 BL off of Podickery Point near the Magothy River.  There were 4 persons on board, 2 adult males and 2 adult females.  The injured occupant was suffering from head trauma with visible blood coming from her head.  She was conscious when we arrived on scene.  

Off. boarded the vessel and I instructed the owner/operator to follow my vessel to nearby Podickery Point Marina where EMS would meet us.  Anne Arundel County Fire Department Fireboat 19 arrived on scene and followed us.  At Podickery Point Marina fireboat personnel and EMS evaluated injuries, found her head trauma to be severe, and requested Maryland State Police Aviation to transport her to University of Maryland Shock Trauma.  

 The owner/operator told me that they were traveling from his residence to Hemingway's Restaurant on Kent Island when they encountered large boat wakes in the vicinity of the shipping channel between Baltimore Light and Sandy Point Light.  He told me their vessel was traveling at approximately 15 knots when they impacted the wakes.  The force of the impact threw out of her seat located in front of the center console and she struck her head on the starboard side gunwale and deck.  

 The other occupants of the vessel were uninjured.  There was no damage to the vessel.  There was no evidence to suggest that alcohol was a contributing factor.

 All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0034
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CONGRESSIONAL DRIVE
NearestCityorTown: STEVENSVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 15 June 2016 at approximately 130PM, I, Officer First Class, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was contacted by Department of Natural Resources Communications regarding a vessel that had received fire damage while docked at Queen Anne’s Marina, Stevensville, MD. The complainant advised the fire damage had occurred between the 11th and 12th of June, and that he had taken the vessel out on Monday (13 June) on a fishing trip. I contacted Subject and advised he should contact the State Fire Marshall as well to help in the investigation.

      The vessel is a 2004 2520XL (25’) Parker, bearing Delaware registration 6670AB. There was approximately 4 feet of melted and peeling fiberglass, which had left base fiberglass layer and wood visible. This damaged was observed on the port side of the vessel, midship, and appeared to have originated from below the waterline and extended up the side of the vessel to the fuel vent. There was soot and smoke residue that extended from the fuel vent to the stern of the vessel; this smoke residue was also observed on the side of the vessel (workboat) docked adjacent to Subject’s. The Robin Lynn did not have any heat damage on its hull, nor any damage to the vessel. The captain of the Robin Lynn, reported that he did not observe any damage to Subject’s vessel on Saturday when he returned from crabbing, but did notice it on Monday, and alerted Subject to the damage. Subject reported that he had taken the vessel out on Monday after inspecting the damage, but contacted Natural Resources Police on Wednesday.

      Investigator from the State Fire Marshall’s office aided in the investigation, and was able to conclude that the damage from the fire appeared to have been caused from an internal source, which caused the paint, gelcoat, and fiberglass to bubble and peel. It was concluded that there must have been a small fuel leak within the filler neck or fuel vent cap, which was triggered by an open ground or a spark from a normal function, such as the bilge kicking on. Further evidence of this was observed when the two deck hatches that access the fuel tanks were removed, both of which had charred plastic on their below deck portions. There were also open ground wires observed on the top of the fuel tank, which was assumed to be from the fuel sender unit.

      The investigation concluded that the fire had been a quick and intense burn, which originated from within the hull of the vessel and climbed the fuel filler hose space within the bulkhead. This was based on any factors, including: that there was no heat damage observed on neighboring vessel, which would have been expected if the heat sources was outside of Subject’s vessel, the fact that the fire source appeared to originate below the waterline of Subject’s vessel (based on heat damage observed), and that there was observed charring within the hull space surrounding the fuel tanks. 

      Subject will be pulling his vessel to have it appraised by a marine mechanic, and will be filing with his insurance company, Charter Lakes Insurance. The Office of the State Fire Marshall will be filing a report as well. 


ALL OBSERVATIONS ARE BASED ON MY TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE. ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY, MARYLAND.


BARDID: MD-2016-0035
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 200 GULF CART DRIVE
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While on routine boat patrol on 06/18/16 at approximately 2110 hours, I received a call for a female subject who had suffered a head injury on a vessel.  The operator of the vessel  proceeded to the Prospect Bay community pier to meet with emergency medical personnel.  The victim was transported to the Queen Anne's Emergency Center in Queenstown, MD. 

      The victim was later identified.  I met with the victim and her husband at the hospital and had them fill out victim/witness statements.  Husband told me that his wife slipped while boarding the vessel and hit her head on the starboard side of the boat.  Husband advised that he had just untied the stern line and the boat began to make a 180 degree turn south toward Eastern Bay. Husband told me the water conditions were choppy and this caused the boat to rock back and forth. The vessel registration is MD 3889 BF.   

The vessel owner and his wife were also onboard.  The owner was operating.

Victim was diagnosed with a concussion and received three staples in her scalp.  

      There are no charges pending.  All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0036
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BAY COVE POINT
NearestCityorTown: STEVENSVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 19 June 2016 at approximately 715PM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was contacted by Department of Natural Resources Communications regarding a vessel that was on fire near Matapeake, Kent Island. Communications advised there were at least four people in the water, and had been forwarded the report from Queen Anne’s County Fireboard.

      I advised communications I had an extended response time, and advised them to contact Area 3 for support, as well as to notify USCG Station Annapolis. While I was in transit from Cox Creek, units from Area 3 and USCG were able to arrive on scene. They both reported there were six persons aboard the vessel, all of who were accounted for an uninjured. The vessel, a 25’ Wahoo bearing MD registration 7541CA, was reported to be fully engulfed in flames. The duty officer was notified and kept up to date on events as they were reported through multiple channels of communication.

      When I arrived on scene, the vessel was inside of Matapeake Harbor, against the north jetty. Fireboard from Anne Arundel County and Queen Anne’s County were on scene, and advised they were going to let the vessel burn off the fuel and oil contents, so they would not spread and create a larger fire hazard. The fire itself was contained to within the hull of the vessel, and minimal oil or fuel seepage was observed by fire units. Officer’s First Class had responded from Area 3, and were on scene as well in two 24’ patrol vessels.

      The vessel was recently purchased and was being operated at the time of the accident by his fiancé. Operator does possess as valid boaters safety certificate, stated she did not have any drugs or alcohol in her system, and showed no signs of inebriation. Operator stated that as they were returning to Matapeake from the visiting her parents, who live on the Magothy River, the port engine stalled while entering the harbor at idle. 

Operator attempted to start the port engine, which reported a loud backfire, then the starboard engine cut off as well. When she attempted to start the starboard engine, it also reported a loud backfire, but also blew open all three deck hatches and produced flash flames through the openings. At this time, Operator headed for a fire extinguisher, but subject handed life jackets to all aboard and began throwing the other five occupants from the boat. The vessel was fully engulfed as all POB’s entered the water. The vessel drifted, while engulfed, to the north rock jetty, where it came to rest on the rocks in the low tide. Queen Anne’s County fireboat 1 attempted to spray the vessel with water, but was unable to continue due to the amount of debris there were clogging the hose strainer.

      The vessel was not equipped with automatic or electronic blowers, a haleon/fire suppression system, nor backfire flame arresters. This is believed to have been the cause of the fire. In speaking with USCG, Queen Anne’s fireboard, and the vessel owner, I determined the vessel was to be secured to the rock jetty once it had burned itself out, and that I would contact hydrographics and Maryland Department of the Environment in the morning to facilitate removal and cleanup of any spills that may have presented overnight.

      I made contact with MST3 from USCG sector NCR, per direction from Station Annapolis, in regards to the environmental impact of the accident. He was updated as events occurred overnight, as well as through the follow days attempt at recovery.

 All fire, assisting Natural Resources Police, and USCG units cleared by 900PM; I remained on scene until the fire was no longer burning, at which time I inspected the vessel to ensure there was no further fluid leaks, and attempted to secure it to the rock jetty by attaching an anchor to the trim tab and placing the anchor within the rocks of the jetty. I was clear the scene at approximately 1230AM.

      I returned on the morning of 20 June 2016 at approximately 900AM, and found the vessel was mostly submerged, but attached to the rock jetty. There was a small oil/gasoline sheen observed in the immediate area of the vessel, but Maryland Department of the Environment advised there was no need to attempt to control it unless it continued to spread or show signs of heavy buildup. A team from Maryland Department of Natural Resources Hydrographics division was contacted and assessed the vessel for recovery. They attempted to hoist and drag the vessel from the rock jetty and transfer it to the trailer of the vessel owner for disposal, but were unable to complete the task due to the lack of structural rigidity from the fire damage. Subject was on scene as the crew informed him of the situation, and was advised by hydrographics and I that he would need to contact a private salvage contractor to remove the vessel. He was further advised that the vessel needed to be removed in a timely manner, since it was leaking some fuel, and also would in time constitute abandonment of a vessel on the waters of the state, as well as littering/dumping on the waters of the state. Subject advised us he would be attempting to get a contractor lined up today, and was able to advise that he had one in line who would be able to remove the vessel by Thursday, 23 June 2016. 

ALL OBSERVATIONS ARE BASED ON MY TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE. ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY, MARYLAND.

On 30 June 2016, I was notified by Operator that the vessel wreckage had been removed by a marine salvage company.  The remaining fluid from the engines was drained prior to the vessel being lifted, and the hull and engines were disposed of at a local scrapyard.  United States Coast Guard had also been notified of the vessel being properly removed and disposed of.  This case is now closed.

ALL OBSERVATOINS ARE BASED ON MY TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE.  ALL EVENTS OCCURED IN QUEEN ANNES COUNTY, MARYLAND.


BARDID: MD-2016-0037
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: UPPER POTOMAC RIVER 4 LOCKS ST
NearestCityorTown: CLEAR SPRING
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 20, 2016 at approximately 1415hrs I OFC, received a call from the communication center in regards to a boating accident on the Potomac River with injury.  I arrived on scene to find a young woman being treated by EMS for a laceration to the back of the head.  I identified the operator, who was the boat owner and did have a Boaters Safety Certificate through the State of Maryland.  Operator stated he was operating the boat in the area of Dam # 5 down river from the boat ramp when the incident took place.  The observer was identified, who stated Victim was wakeboarding and was coming across the wake of the boat when her toe side of the board caught and face planted her into the water.  Upon hitting the water Victim's board struck her in the back of the head causing the laceration.  

 I was able to speak to Victim before she was transported to the hospital.  Victim's story matched up with the story given by observer.  There was no alcohol related to the incident, nor error of the boat operator.  Clear Spring Ambulance Company treated victim and transported her to Meritus Medical Center for evaluation.  All events occured in Washington County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0039
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HAVRE DE GRACE
NearestCityorTown: HAVRE DE GRACE
County: HA - Harford
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 24, 2016 at approximately 8:52 PM, I Officer with the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) was on routine Boat Patrol on the Susquehanna River in the area of Port Deposit, Maryland. 

      At the aforementioned date and time, I received a report of a vessel taking on water. I was advised by DNR Communications that the vessel was located at GPS Coordinates 39.354627 -76.090834, in the area of Swan Creek, south of Havre de Grace. At this time I advised DNR Communications I would be responding by vessel. 

      I arrived on location at approximately 9:01PM and made contact with the operator of the vessel. Operator advised that the vessel struck something large, allowing water to enter the hull in an unknown location. I was able to identify the vessel’s Pennsylvania Registration to be PA 8453 DH. 

      The vessel was occupied by an additional four individuals. All five individuals advised that they were uninjured and all five were wearing PFDs. I positioned my patrol vessel alongside the disabled vessel and was able to observe that the water had risen approximately two feet in depth in the engine compartment. It was observed that the vessel’s bilge pump was keeping up with the flow entering the vessel allowing the water level to remain stable. I then determined that I would attempt to tow the vessel back to the nearest boat ramp, which was located at City Dock in Havre de Grace. 

      At approximately 9:13 PM, after securing a tow line, I began towing the disabled vessel back to Havre de Grace City Dock. I arrived at the boat ramp at 9:43PM and was met by Sgt.. The disabled vessel was secured to the dock and all five passengers were escorted to land. 

      The Havre de Grace Fire Department was notified and asked to respond with a submersible pump to assist with the removal of water from the vessel. Havre de Grace Fire Department arrived at approximately 9:55 PM and began pumping water from the vessel. The vessel was loaded on a trailer and removed from the water at approximately 10:47 PM.

      Once the vessel was on the trailer, I observed that the lower unit of the motor was sheared off from the stern of the vessel, causing a large hole below the water line, allowing water to enter the hull. 

      I then conducted a full Boat Safety Inspection with no violations observed. At this time, the vessel was secured and stored in the parking lot to be removed at a later date. All personnel and individuals involved cleared from the location. 

 This incident occurred in Harford County, Maryland. 

 Please find all detailed information in a boat accident report attached in RMS.


BARDID: MD-2016-0040
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH RIVER AT LARRIMORE PT
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWATER
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday June 25, 2016 at approximately 1140 am, CPL responded to a report of a personal watercraft and vessel collision with injuries on the South River near Warehouse Creek.  Information indicated that an injured party and a white and red vessel involved in the collision were enroute to the Pier Seven Marina near the Route 2 Bridge.  Upon arrival at Pier Seven CPL observed Anne Arundel EMS and learned that the injured party was being treated by EMS for transport.  Officer arrived by vessel, and located the injured party and obtained his information.  Also located by officer was a possible witness. Officer gathered information from the witnesses to the collision and located the injured parties personal watercraft.    Preliminary information indicated that Victim was operating a personal watercraft and collided with a white and red vessel.

 CPL contacted the operator and occupant of the white and red vessel bearing MD registration 7965AL at the Pier Seven dock. Both persons appeared to be shaken and upset.  The operator stated that he was operating the 30 Ft Formula vessel on the South River with one person onboard with a destination of Harrison's Crab House.  

Operator1 stated that he was operating the vessel eastward or outbound on the South River.  Operator1 proceeded out of the Route 2 Bridge speed zone and began to accelerate to what he believed to be 20 or 25 Miles per hour.  Operator1 stated that he observed two personal watercraft pass the bow of his vessel from the port side at a high rate of speed.  Operator1 stated that a third personal watercraft operated very close and suddenly crossed  the port side of his vessel ahead of his bow.  Operator1 stated that there was a loud bang and vibration as the Personal watercraft colliding with his bow.  Operator1 stated that he throttled to neutral to stop and render aid.  CPL observed visible rub marks and surface fiberglass damage to the bow area of the formula vessel while at the dock.  Occupant who was located in the formula vessels central seating area reported not seeing the collision but felt and heard the collision.  

 Operator1 stated that he would be returning the vessel to Oak Grove Marina in the South River for evaluation of damages.  The vessel was later removed from the water and placed into land storage where it is normally stored.  CPL obtained photographs of the vessel and observed black and red paint transfer to the hull of the formula starting at the bow and at locations on the port half of the hull underside to the stern.  Also observed and photographed were several locations of surface fiberglass damage to the formula's hull.
   
 CPL proceeded to the Baltimore Washington Hospital Center to interview the injured personal watercraft operator.  Operator2 stated that he was operating the PWC on the South River with two other persons on Personal watercrafts. He reported that one of the other operators was his son.  Victim stated that they were jumping waves and racing each other across the South River or generally southward where Operator2 indicates that a large wave hit him in the face and "everything went black".  He then found himself floating in the water with pain and bleeding to his head.  When asked if he saw any vessels prior to everything going black, Operator2 stated seeing vessels way off to his left.  Operator2 stated that he believed that his vessel was in the lead as the three personal watercrafts raced across the river.  He also added that his engine cut off deactivator was connected and he was wearing personal floatation.
   
   All persons were given voluntary witness statements to complete.  Statements were later submitted by Operator1 and occupant.   Statement information has not been obtained from Victim at this point despite repeated efforts to contact.  The incident is under investigation


BARDID: MD-2016-0041
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MOUTH OF MONOCACY ROAD
NearestCityorTown: DICKERSON
County: FR - Frederick
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 26, 2016 at approximately 1400 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, arrived on scene at the Mouth of Monocacy boat ramp in response to a boating accident. When I arrived on scene, Frederick and Montgomery County fire departments had just towed a flooded jet ski to the boat ramp. The owner of the jet ski was on scene. Operator explained to me that he was riding his jet ski, VA 9883 BV, from Point of Rocks to White's Ferry. When Operator was riding South, passed the Mouth of Monocacy at approximately 1334 hours, he hit a submerged rock with the bottom of his jet ski. Operator said he then got off of his jet ski to check the damage and felt a scratch on the bottom. He did not know at this time that there was a hole in the hull. Operator continued down to White's Ferry when he noticed his engine compartment filling with water. He then went back up to the Mouth of Monocacy. He was near the aqueduct when his jet ski sank. Nearby kayakers called 911 for help. Montgomery and Frederick County Fire and Rescue arrived on scene and towed Operator and his jet ski to the Mouth of Monocacy boat ramp. See attached photographs and Watercraft Accident Report.

 All events occurred in Frederick County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0042
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:29:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2016 at approximately 1630 hours I was dispatched to a boat accident that later turned out to be an injured water-skier.  The patient had been taken in the ER in Chestertown, Maryland.

 I arrived at the ER and spoke with a 15 year old black female. She is staying at the YMCA youth camp, Camp Tockwogh in Still Pond, Kent County , Maryland.

 The sequence of events are as follows:

 Waterskiing in Still Pond
 Jumping wake and traversing from port to starboard side of the vessel 
 The toe's of the waterskies become submerged and forced underwater and  propelling victim forward smacking her head on the water.
 She was wearing a helmet and PFD
 Complained of head and neck pain, taken to ER.
 Released from ER cleared of all injuries and returned to camp.

 All parties involved are experienced boat operators and observes


BARDID: MD-2016-0043
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SLAUGHTER CREEK
NearestCityorTown: TAYLOR ISLAND
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/29/2016 around 0600 I received a call for a boat accident at Slaughter Creek in Dorchester County. Upon arrival I talked to the operator of the workboat Tanya Lynn, Operator2 stated that he was on his way to go crabbing for the day headed north out of Slaughter Creek. Operator2 turned his spotlight on and noticed the anchor line for a sailboat. Operator2 did not have enough time to move away from the anchor line. Once Operator2 struck the anchor line it pulled the workboat into the sailboat, causing damage to the bow of each vessel. Operator2 stated that the sailboat did not have an anchor light on. Operator2 had another watermen witness what had happened. 
   
   Operator2 then took me out to the sailboat that was involved.  The owner of the sailboat and his two passengers where anchored in slaughter creek at the time of the accident. All three were asleep at the time of the collision, subject stated that he did have his anchor light on but noticed that Operator2 did not have his running lights on unless they were damaged by collision. 

 It appears that Operator2 was at fault for not maintaining a proper lookout; however this would have been difficult to do if the sailboat’s anchor light was not on. I could not verify by my investigation weather the anchor light was on or not. 

 All events occurred in Dorchester County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0044
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAMP TOCKWOGH
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29, 2016 I responded to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center located in Chestertown Maryland. At the hospital I met with victim. Victim advised me that at approximately 1030hrs she was slalom water skiing in Still Pond when her ski got caught in the wake of the boat and she fell and hit the water on her left side. Victim then advised she took a break for awhile then tried water skiing again but with 2 skis. At approximately 1100hrs she fell again this time hitting her head landing on the water face forward. Victim advised after falling the second time she became nauseous and her head hurt and she could feel pressure. So she was taken to the hospital. 

     After talking to her Victim I left the hospital and proceeded to Camp Tockwogh, At the Camp I met with the boat operator. Operator showed the 17' Boston Whaler bearing MD registration 9638CD. Operator advised that there were two other passengers on the boat while with her while Victim was water skiing. Operator also stated that everyone was wearing their PFD's while they were on the boat. Operator also advised me that they were water skiing in Still Pond when Victim fell both times. Operator advised that Victim was heading out of the wake of the boat on the port (left) side when she leaned too far over and landed on her left side and complained that the  top of her head hurt and she felt pressure. Operator had Victim take a break and asked if her neck or back hurt. Victim advised her no. Operator had Victim rest for a while on the boat, a few minutes later Victim complained of feeling nauseous. So Operator called the Camp Office to get the wellness people down to the dock. Operator advised when they reached the dock and met wellness Victim said her head no longer hurt but she still felt sick. So they transported her to the hospital. Operator also advised me that Victim had fallen earlier in the day but had just complained about her ear hurting.  

      All events occurred in Kent County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0045
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SKIPJACK MARINA
NearestCityorTown: EARLEVILLE
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
I responded to 150 Skipjack Road Earleville MD, for a reported wakeboarding accident  that occurred on the Sassafras  River between Old Field Point and Daffodil Island in the channel. The victim had already been transported to Baltimore Shock Trauma for head and neck injuries. The victim's parents had transported with their son. Interviewing the listed witnesses who were passengers all stated subject was operating the 22ft Tidewater vessel (MD 8283 CR), as his son was wakeboarding. I was advised the victim was wearing a life jacket and he attempted to  perform a trick when he fell striking his head on the water. The witnesses stated the vessel was travelling east in the channel between Old Field Point and Daffodi Island, approximately 39.361691 -75.920232 . Officer responded and confirmed the witnesses account of the incident. I made contact with operator at 2030hrs who advised his son tests came back negative for any injuries, except for a slight concussion and he had been released


BARDID: MD-2016-0046
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SASSAFRAS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GEORGETOWN
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2nd, 2016 at approximately 1710 hours operator was operating his 23ft Wellcraft "Nova" speed boat on the Sassafras River.  He estimated his speed at 45-50mph.  As he approached the 6 knot speed limit zone, from the west, his vessel struck a wave.  Possibly caused by a boat leaving the speed zone.  The passenger on the vessel was propelled forward and her head struck the dashboard area of the vessel, which caused a long gash on the right side of her forehead.  operator contacted 911 and then proceeded to Duffy Creek Marina where an ambulance was waiting. victim was transported to Christiana Hospital.  She was released later that evening at approximately 2230.  She remained conscious during the entire accident.

All events occurred in Cecil County.
 


BARDID: MD-2016-0047
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EASTERN BAY - GREENWOOD CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
  On 2 July 2016 at approximately 845PM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was contacted by Department of Natural Resources communications regarding a personal injury PWC accident on Greenwood Creek, Eastern Bay. Communications advised there was one female subject with a suspected broken leg; QACO EMS and fire were in route, and all subjects were out of the water and accounted for.

     I met QACO EMS and fire at 311 Whistling Swan Lane, Queenstown, and found the female subject, was in the back of the ambulance with QACO Paramedics. Grasonville VFD informed me that QAEMS had called for Maryland State Police medivac flight to University of Maryland Shock Trauma. QAEMS stated she had closed injuries to her lower extremities caused by impact.

     At this point I made contact with the operator of the striking jet ski, who was uninjured. He was alert and coherent and there was no odor of alcohol on his person; he scored 0 points of Standardized Field Sobriety Testing. Operator stated that the two ski boats had collided perpendicular (side to side); Victim was in the water attempting to board the ski and was between the two skis when they collided. Operator advised he was attempting to spray the ski that Victim was boarding, when he lost control and slid into side to side contact. 

Operator2 was not on scene at the time of my arrival, he had already left for UMD Shock Trauma to be with Victim, who is his girlfriend. A statement was obtained from him and Victim by Officer First Class, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, at UMD Shock Trauma. 

     The skis were owned by the same person, who was hosting a party at which all three involved were attending. All three occupants had permission to use the vessels, and he confirmed they had not been drinking before they used the skis. Owner stated all occupants had been wearing life jackets when they left. His residence is across the creek from where EMS picked up the injured individuals.

In conclusion of the initial investigation, Operator2 was charged with;
NR 8-704/08.18.01.05.B – Negligent operation of a vessel
NR 8-704/08.18.02.05L – Operating a PWC at speeds greater than 6knots less than 100 feet from another vessel
NR 8-704/08.18.01.04 – Rules of the road, Failure to maintain proper lookout to avoid collision 

ALL OBSERVATIONS ARE BASED ON MY TRAINING, KNOWELDGE, AND EXPERIENCE. ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN QUEEN ANNES COUNTY, MARYLAND.


BARDID: MD-2016-0048
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2016 around 2211hrs., writer was dispatched to the Atlantic General Hospital located in Berlin, MD, in reference to a PWC accident which had occurred earlier in the day around 1330hrs. It had not been reported prior to this time.

Upon arrival at the hospital, writer was directed to a patient. At the time Victim was sedated and unable to answer questions. Writer learned that Victim was suffering from serious injuries (internal bleeding) suffered in a PWC accident. Victim's close friend was with him. None of Victim's family were in the Ocean City area. Friend related the following:

Earlier in the day around 1300hrs, he, Victim and several friends rented PWCs from Odyssea Watersports in Ocean City. While riding them, Victim had a PWC come a little close to him and he turned sharply away from that PWC. When he did this, his PWC caught into some waves and caused his PWC to suddenly slow dramatically. This sudden slowing caused Victim's body to propel forward to the point that his body, namely his lower abdomen, to impact with the handle bar of the PWC. 

Friend did not witness these events. He reported what Victim told him after the ride.


BARDID: MD-2016-0049
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/16 while on routine boat patrol I received a call for a female subject that had suffered a possible head injury related to a boat accident on the Chester River.  The subject was later identified.  She was taken to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Chestertown, MD.  I responded by land from Kent Narrows in Queen Anne's County.  
 
      I arrived at the hospital at approximately 1530 hours and met with Victim.  She had suffered a contusion on her left cheek and it was very swollen.  I spoke with her and she told me what little information she could remember.  She told me that her husband was the operator and a friend was on board also.  Her husband arrived at the hospital at approximately 1610 hours along with the other passenger.  Operator completed a witness statement and told me he was the operator at the time of the incident.  Operator told me he was in route to Rolph's Wharf landing located on the Chester River near Chestertown, MD.  He told me another boat heading in the opposite direction produced a large wake and when his boat hit the wake it caused Victim to fall down.  He told me she was standing in front of the console between the split windshield and she possibly hit her head on the side of the windshield.  He told me that Victim lost consciousness for a minute or two and her left cheek began to swell instantly.  He told me that the other passenger called 911 and he proceeded to Rolph's Wharf to meet EMS.
 
      Operator told me once Victim was in route to the hospital he returned to Centreville public landing to load the boat on a trailer.  He then proceeded to the hospital along with occupant where I met them.  I took several photos of the boat and collected personal information from all subjects.
 
      This case is closed and there will be no charges filed.  All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0050
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 11 CEDAR POINT RD
NearestCityorTown: SEVERNA PARK
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/16 at approximately 12:17 P.M. I, Officer along with Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a PWC explosion that occurred at a dock off of the Severn River. Upon arriving on scene, Ofc. and I observed black smoke billowing up into the sky and further observed flames engulfing the entire PWC and part of the dock that it was secured against. We observed several pieces of the debris from the PWC scattered throughout the water as well as several EMS responders. 

Within a few minutes of arriving on scene, Firefighters arrived on scene and extinguished the fire from the PWC and the dock. We then observed the victim being helped from the water and up the dock. I then met with a neighbor, later identified, who had observed the explosion from his residence. Neighbor stated that he was in his yard around 12:12 P.M. when he heard a loud explosion. Neighbor observed a large cloud of black smoke billowing up from the PWC and saw Victim lying face down in the water approximately 20' from where the PWC was docked. Neighbor immediately called 911. Neighbor stated that by the time he got to Victim, a neighbor had already rendered assistance to Victim. Neighbor provided Victim with his paddleboard so he could get himself out of the water. Once the scene was secured, Officer and I gathered up various pieces of debris that were floating in the water. We then towed the PWC to a community pier where it was placed on a trailer and towed to Matapeake.
 
 
I then went and interviewed Victim at his residence. Victim stated that he had gotten on the PWC and lowered the lift into the water. He then stated he attempted to start the PWC once and it failed to start. Victim stated that on the second attempt there was an explosion and he was tossed approximately 20 ' from the PWC into the water. Victim stated that he was lying face down in the water when a neighbor came and assisted him out of the water. Victim was transported to Baltimore Washington Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries. Victim stated that his right ankle was broken, his left pinky toe was broken, he had a laceration above his left knee, a burn on his right ankle, and a severe burn on his right hip. I asked Victim if there had been a prior issues with the PWC and he stated that his sister had been on it the day before and noticed that it wouldn't go above 35 knots but it had never had any issues starting before. I told Victim that when we were gathering up all the debris we found, what appeared to be, a burnt cigar in the stern of the PWC. Victim stated that he had not smoked the cigar, but rather he was just chewing on it and had placed it on one of the pylons of the pier prior to getting on the PWC. I also inquired as to whether or not the PWC had recently been fueled up with gas. Victim stated "no." Victim stated that they had filled up two 5 gallon gas cans but had never put that fuel into the PWC. 
 
 
 I also spoke to Victim' father to see how much damage was done to the dock from the explosion. Victim' father stated that the boat lift was scorched, the fresh water system on the pier was damaged, the electrical breaker box was destroyed, and part of the pier sustained significant fire damage. The total damage was estimated to be around $5,800. This does not include the PWC, which was estimated to be worth around $8,000.

 The investigation will be ongoing but at this time the most likely cause of the explosion appears to be a mechanical malfunction. The operator, Victim is in stable condition and has been released from the hospital. I will be contacting the Fire Marshal's Office to see if they would want to pursue and investigation. No charges have been filed and all events occurred in Anne Arundel  County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0051
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 8:00 PM on July 3rd 2016 Officer received a call from the DNR comms center regarding a boat accident, (property damage only) PWC collision with a pontoon boat that occurred on the bayside behind seacrets bar and grill in Ocean City MD. OFC first met with the operator of the Pontoon Boat at Bayside Boat Rentals. OFC asked Operator1 for a statement of what occurred. Operator1 explained to OFC that he was operating the pontoon boat bearing MD registration MD 3581LB back to Bayside Boat rentals from seacrets. The pontoon boat was heading North-East when it was struck on the right side (starboard) by a jetski. The pontoon boat was going approximately 10Kts when it was hit. 
 
 OFC then left Bayside Boat Rentals and arrived at Odyssea Rentals to interview Operator2. Operator2 explained that he was up on plane going over 6 knots when the rental guide from Odyssea was telling him to turn. Operator2 was operating a Kawaski PWC rented from Odyssea Rentals bearing vessel registration MD 3452LB. When Operator2 saw the Pontoon Boat he attempted to stop the jetski. Operator2 told OFC that was his first time on a jetski and the directions given by the Odyssea instructor before operating the PWC was good. The owner of Bayside Boat rentals estimated the damage to the Pontoon Boat to be $3500. The jetski did not have any damage as a result of the collision, OFC completed a Field Sobreity Testing on Operator2 with negative results and blew a .000. 

OFC believes that Operator2's inexperience with operating a jetski in a congested area contributed to the accident. The disposition was 1 citation for;
 

OPERATE A PWC>6 KNOTS WITHIN 100' OF A VESSEL 
8-704 08.18.02.05L 

 
OFC completed a Watercraft Accident report for this case number NRP-16-00969
 
ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY


BARDID: MD-2016-0052
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARRIS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCDANIEL
County: TA - Talbot
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/2016 at approximately 4:00 pm, I, Officer received a call from communications advising of a boat accident which had occurred prior in the day in Harris Creek, located in Talbot County, Maryland.  A juvenile Male subject was located at Easton Memorial Hospital with possible head injuries.  No other information was provided.
   
      At approximately 4:30 pm, I arrived at Easton Memorial Hospital.  I made contact with subject who advised that the victim was his nephew. Subject stated that Victim had a broken right toe, (6) stitches to his right eye brow area, and had right hip pain.  The CAAT scan was negative, although Victim did have a concussion from the impact.  

I also made contact with a witness.  Witness stated that at approximately 1:45 pm, a group of individuals had been operating (2) PWC’s (Personal Water Craft) and (1) recreational vessel in Harris Creek.  These vessels were owned by Subject, who has a residence located on Harris Creek. The PWC operated by Victim collided with the Chris Craft, causing Victim to be ejected after the contact.  Witness said that Victim was unconscious and face down in the water, at which time a rescue was conducted and the group extracted Victim from the water.  He was taken on board the Chris Craft and transported.  During the trip to the dock, Victim regained consciousness, although he had an open cut to his right brow area on his head, and was complaining of right toe and hip pain.  

Subject stated that he received a call at approximately 1:54 pm, in regards to the accident.  He made contact with Victim (who was walking down the dock at that time), and decided to transport to Easton Memorial Hospital. On 07/03/2016 at approximately 4:00 pm, I, Officer, received a call from communications advising of a boat accident which had occurred prior in the day in Harris Creek, located in Talbot County, Maryland.  A juvenile Male subject was located at Easton Memorial Hospital with possible head injuries.  No other information was provided.


BARDID: MD-2016-0053
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 03, 2016, I was on boat patrol of Deep Creek Lake, MD. I was contacted by DNR Communications to contact a subject about a vessel striking his vessel while docked at the Lakeside Creamery. I responded to the Creamery, and met Operator2, operator of the struck vessel (vessel 2), and operator of the striking vessel (vessel 1). Operator2's vessel was tied to the Creamery dock, and two occupants remained aboard. Operator1 attempted to dock his vessel near Operator2's, when wake pushed the V1 vessel away from the dock. While maneuvering, the right rear quarter of the V1 vessel struck the right rear quarter of vessel2.

   No one was injured on either vessel. Both vessels suffered minor damage, and were driveable from the scene. Further information is on the attached Watercraft Accident report, plus an attached witness statement. This case is closed. All events happened in Garrett county, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0054
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN PINES
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN PINES
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 7th at approximately 1100 hours Officer received a call from the DNR comms center in reference to a boating accident that occurred on July 5th.  Officer made contact with the complainant who stated that he was calling on behalf of his friend. Friend had experienced an injury while being pulled from a tube he was on from a boat being operated by caller’s wife. Caller said that Friend went to a pay out of pocket emergency room in West Ocean City. Friend had dislocated his shoulder and it was put back into place. Friend received beyond first aid care for his injury.


BARDID: MD-2016-0055
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BAY
NearestCityorTown: GIBSON ISLAND
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6, 2016 at approximately 1952 hrs I, Officer First Class, was on boat patrol on the Patapsco River when I heard a distress call made by a Good Samaritan vessel over VHF Channel 16 for a person injured and unconscious due to a PWC accident near Baltimore Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay.  I notified DNR Communications of the incident and began my response by vessel. Off. was on boat patrol near the Severn River and he also responded.  It took Off. and I approximately 15 minutes to arrive on scene.
 
 
When I arrived in the vicinity of Baltimore Light, Good Samaritans who were with the victim guided me over VHF Channel 16 to their vessels.  I located a large white fishing vessel and an aluminum jon boat side by side with a blue PWC adrift nearby.  The victim was laying face down and unresponsive on the bow of the jon boat and a Good Samaritan was actively rubbing Victim's back.  Victim was moaning but was not responding to stimuli.  Good Samaritans assisted me in moving Victim onto my patrol vessel for transport to Podickory Point Marina where EMS would meet us.  Subject1 stayed with Victim on the bow of my patrol vessel during transport.  Off. secured Victim's PWC and began towing it to Sandy Point State Park for investigation.
 
 
 
While en route to Podickory Point Marina, Anne Arundel County Fireboat #19 transferred two medics onto my vessel.  EMS called for Maryland State Police aviation and Trooper 1 landed at Sandy Point State Park.  Victim was flown to University of Maryland Shock Trauma.
 
Two subjects were fishing together on a boat near Baltimore Light when they saw victim operating a PWC.  Victim was jumping large wakes produced by a passing cargo ship. Subjects saw Victim fall off his PWC after launching off a wake and Victim did not climb back onto the PWC. Subjects motored over to Victim and found him floating unconscious in the water, they pulled Victim onto their boat approximately 10 minutes after he fell into the water. Victim was not breathing so one subject administered CPR which restored Victim's breathing. He began coughing up water and moaning.Subject called 911.Another vessel pulled up and hailed Coast Guard on Channel 16 for assistance, which is the distress call I responded to. Another subject arrived and began hitting Victim on the back which forced more water out of Victim's airway.


BARDID: MD-2016-0056
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MOUTH OF BEAR CREEK
NearestCityorTown: DUNDALK
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, this officer was patrolling the waters of baltimore county in marked police boat # 1 when over the vhf marine radio and communication with coast guard national capital region a distressed vessel was fully engulfed.  Additional comments advised persons were abandoning ship and jumping into the water. 

Myself and officer headed toward the incident.  Once on scene it was advised by coast guard and maryland transportation authority police marine unit that there were two persons on board (listed above).  The two persons on board were picked up by the above listed witnesses in their personal boats and were taken to anchor bat marina where medic 15 was standing by.  The above listed owner was treated for minor burns then taken to bayview for follow up.  

Prior to the victim leaving for the hospital, they advised that their vessel was underway and headed to anchor bat marina for a bottom cleaning.  They advised while cruising the temp gauge on the port engine stopped reading, shortly after white and black smoke began to escape from the engine room which then yielded to large flames which resulted in both persons jumping overboard. Both witness' advised the same.  


BARDID: MD-2016-0057
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 805 142ND STREET OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday July, 8, 2016 at approximately 2000 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to Island Watersports, located at 142nd Street at the Fenwick Ditch, Ocean City, Worcster County, Maryland in reference to a property damage boat accident.

 Upon my arrival I met with a representative from the business who advised that a rental boat had been grounded in an area where the bottom was comprised of rocks.  He advised that there was damage to the pontoon and propeller of the boat, and estimated the damage to be $7000.  I met with the operator, who advised that he and his wife hand rented the boat, had been fishing, and didn't realize they were drifting into shallow water.  He stated that he noticed that the boat was hitting bottom, made an attempt to get it off the bottom, and feared that he would cause more damage, so he called the rental company to come and get him. 

  All parties were supplied with a report number, and all of the above events occurred in Worceseter County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0058
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 90 RED OAK WAY
NearestCityorTown: THAYERVILLE
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 8th, 2016 at 1953 hours, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police were onboard NRP vessel 881 patrolling Deep Creek Lake in the area of Harvey's Peninsula when we received a call regarding an injured boater at dock 30694.  Cpl. and I arrived at the dock at 2001 hours and observed an individual sitting in the front passenger area of a 2005 25' Malibu Sunscape blue in color.  The owner and operator of the vessel informed me an ambulance was already en route.  
 
 
Cpl. confirmed Victim' right shoulder was dislocated.  Cpl. and several other passengers assisted Victim from the boat where a Garrett County Southern Rescue ambulance arrived at 2030 hours and transported Victim to Garrett Regional Medical Center.
 
 
 
I interviewed operator who told me he was operating the vessel on the main body of the lake traveling east towards Harvey's Peninsula at approximately 10 mph.  Victim was sitting in the front passenger area of the vessel and holding the handrail with his right arm.  operator said the boat crossed a wake and Victim' right shoulder became dislocated.  operator informed me Victim had suffered two previous dislocations of the same shoulder.
 

Cpl. and I cleared the scene at 2030 hours.


BARDID: MD-2016-0059
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 24370 STILL POND RD
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 8, 2016 at approximately 8:20 p.m., I, Ofc. with the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to a call regarding an injured wake boarder at Camp Tockwogh, located at 24370 Still Pond Neck Rd, Worton, MD 21678.  Ofc. went to Chester River Hospital at first and met with the injured wake boarder.  Victim was attending Camp Tockwogh for the week and was injured when she fell face first into the water while wake boarding.  The accident occurred around 2:40 p.m. on July 8, 2016.  Victim was checked out by the camp nurse and instructed not to participate in any of the waterfront activities the rest of the day.  Later in the evening, Victim started having headaches and feeling dizzy.  Victim was transported via camp personnel to Chester River Hospital at approximately 8:20 p.m..  Victim was diagnosed with a mild concussion and released from the hospital.
 
After leaving Chester River Hospital, Ofc. went to Camp Tockwogh and met with waterfront manager to obtain information pertaining to the accident, the vessel involved and all persons on board the vessel at the time of the accident.
 

All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0060
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WICOMICO RIVER MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: SALISBURY
County: WI - Wicomico
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 9, 2016 around 1200hrs I, OFC was on patrol in a marked patrol vessel on the Wicomico River. I was flagged down by a vessel with Maryland registration MD 6066 CR. The adult female onboard informed me that the other female occupant onboard, had an injury as a result of the vessel going across rough water. I told the vessel operator to report to the riverside boat ramp located on Riverside Dr. in Salisbury. As I followed behind I had dispatch start EMS out of Salisbury. 
 
 While at the Ramp I made contact with the vessel owner. Owner told me that while pulling a tube behind the vessel he made a turn and came across his wake. As he came across the wake he noticed the female suddenly lean forward and seem to be in excessive amounts of pain. He then loaded up the tubers and made his way back to the boat ramp. This is when they waved me down just prior to the speed zone coming into Salisbury. 
 
The vessel had four children and four adults onboard including the victim. EMS arrived on scene and was able to remove the victim from the bow of the vessel. EMS unit 16-2 with paramedic B-2 transported Carolyn Downs to PRMC hospital in Salisbury for evaluation.
 
 The Owner/operator was not cited for any charges as a result of this incident. 
 
 All events occurred in Wicomico County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0061
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MAGOTHY RIVER-MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Exhaust
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 10, 2016 at 3:55 PM, I responded to a boat fire on the Magothy River main stem, near the river’s entrance channel. When I arrived flames were coming from the rear of vessel and it was still afloat. At that time the 8 occupants of the boat had been taken safely aboard 2 nearby vessels. Shortly after my arrival the USCG, Tow Boat U.S. and 2 other NRP boats arrived at the incident. The other NRP officers and I formed a perimeter around the burning boat, keeping onlookers a safe distance away. 

When the Anne Arundel County Fire Boat arrived, the fire was quickly extinguished. 

The owner the boat stated that as he they were boating down the river he noticed smoke billowing from the rear of the boat. He then stopped the boat and shortly after flames began coming from the rear of the boat. He noted that the boat was equipped with a built in fire suppression system, however the system did not activate. 

There were no injuries. When I left the scene the boat was being towed to Ferry Point Marina by Tow Boat US.   The boat is a blue 2009, 28ft Chris Craft, Maryland registration MD 5994 CG.

I spoke to the vessel owner on the morning of 07/15/16. Owner stated that the vessel was inspected by a marine surveyor hired by his insurance company.  Owner advised that the surveyor could not determine the exact cause of the fire, but suspects that the exhaust system overheated, causing the engine to ignite. Owner has not recieved a repair estimate for the boat, as the insurance company, Charter Lakes has determined the boat to be total loss. The boat is a 2009 Chris Craft, Launch 28 and cost $110,000.00.
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County


BARDID: MD-2016-0062
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEPRIEST DRIVE, SHADY DRIVE
NearestCityorTown: COLUMBIA BEACH
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 16th operator was operating a 1999 Kawasaki Jetski, District of Columbia registration DC0479E, in the area of the boat ramp at Columbia Beach.  Columbia Beach is located in Shady Side Maryland along the coast of the Chesapeake Bay.  While operating and heading toward the dock and boat ramp Operator failed to reduce his speed sufficiently and struck a support pylon of the dock adjacent to the boat ramp.  The impact caused him to impact his head on the pylon and he was thrown from the Jetski.  He was assisted from the water and was unconscious, but regained consciousness and was able to respond to those on scene.  While waiting for medical assistance he suffered a seizure and lost consciousness again.  Due to his injuries he was transported to Prince Georges Hospital and treated in the Trauma Unit.  He sustained a closed head injury and was admitted to the Trauma Unit.  

The Jetski is owned an individual who gave permission for operator to operate it.  Operator had been operating the Jetski for approximately 2 hours before this incident occurred.  I interviewed subject at Prince Georges Hospital and he indicated he was not sure if Operator had a boater's safety education card, and had not been with Operator when this incident occurred.  
A citation will be issued to owner under Natural Resources Law 8-712.2 for allowing the operation of the PWC by a 16 year old without Boaters Safety Education.  Due to his injury Operator will be issued a warning for his operation of the PWC at speed  within 100 feet of the dock and boat ramp under Code of Maryland Regulations 08.18.02.05.  The issuance of the citation and warning are pending, and will be documented in a supplement report.  All events occurred in the tidal water of the Chesapeake Bay in Anne Arundel County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0063
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July, 16 2016 around 1530 hours I (Ofc.) was informed of a call from Ocean City Beach Patrol involving an incident in the Atlantic Ocean. I called First Lieutenant who informed me there was a swim race that was wrapping up in the area of Dorcester Street but a swimmer was injured before completing the race. 

I met him at the Ocean City Coast Guard Station to gather more information. Once on scene, he told me that victim was in the area of 9th street in the Atlantic Ocean competing in the annual Ocean Games swim race when she was injured and transported to shore by one of his life guards on a wave runner. The operator of the wave runner was also on scene at the Coast Guard Station. 

Subject is an Ocean City Surf Technician who was operating the wave runner and tasked with keeping swimmers in the swim area of the race. Subject told me that he last saw Victim 15-20 minutes before transporting her to EMS, swimming normally in a southerly direction. He had told her several times throughout the race to change direction when she was going outside the boundaries and noticed her to be visibly tired. He even mentioned in a voluntary statement that she was swimming due east at some times. He also said throughout the day he had redirected several boats east around her. At one point he went south to assist other swimmers and upon returning back to Victim he noticed her to be 100 yards or more offshore holding her left hand in the air and covered by her swim cap. He went over to her and noticed blood to be running down her arm. He pulled her on his sled and took her to shore in the area of 9th street where EMS met her and transported her to Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.


BARDID: MD-2016-0064
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAMBRIDGE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 18th 2016 around 9 am I received a call for a boat accident in the Choptank River near the Choptank River Yacht basin. The caller stated that as he was running his trot line across the channel in front of the yacht basin. Operator2 said he noticed a sailboat coming out of the yacht club but didn’t think anything of it. Close to the red can number 6, Operator2 looked up and noticed a sailboat coming towards his vessel a 37.7 ft workboat, HIN MDZ48820J473. Operator2 put his vessel in reverse in an attempt to avoid the collision but was not successful. The bow/starboard side of the sailboat struck the portside of the bow on Operator2’s boat. Operator2 then stated that the owner of the sailboat said that they had the right of way in the channel, also saying that their vessel was not that bad and kept going. Operator2 estimated the damage to be between five and ten thousand dollars. 

 I set out on vessel 880 in order to try and catch the sailboat, I was able to find the sailboat a 41.8 ft sailboat out of Ocracoke NC named the best of times. I asked the operator onboard if he had struck another boat around Cambridge to which he said yes. The operator stated that they did hit the workboat as he was running his line. Operator1 said that he thought the workboat would have to yield the right of way to the sailboat so he did not stop. Operator1 estimated the damage to his sailboat around $2000.00. I issued Operator1 a citation for failure to maintain a proper lookout.
 
 
All events occurred in Dorchester County


BARDID: MD-2016-0065
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ELK RIVER - C AND D CANAL
NearestCityorTown: CHESAPEAKE CITY
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/19/16 at 1330 hours, I, Cpl. #1 was dispatched to a boat accident on C&D Canal, Chesapeake City, Maryland.  Once on scene, fireboard was bringing the vessel occupants to shore at the Army Corp Boat ramp. 
     Operator1, and his passenger, Passenger1, were riding in a 19' Regal, DL xxxx xx, east bound in the canal at approximately 21 mph.  Operator1 stated he dropped a water bottle on to the floor and was trying to retrieve it when all of the sudden they hit the rocks along the canal.  Operator1 stated "I apparently took too long trying to get the water bottle." Passenger1 was sitting in the left front passenger seat and was launched forward into the cuddy cabin.  She struck her head on something, cutting it. 
     Passenger1 was taken to Union hospital.  She got 6 staples on her head.  She had a concussion and a bruised knee.  Operator1 refused treatment and said he just had a bruised shoulder.  Vessel was recovered by Tow boat US and put back on the owner's trailer, who is Operator1's son in law, and trailered back home.
     Operator1 was issued a citation for a Rules of the Road violation, "Failure to maintain a proper lookout".  All events occurred in Cecil County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0066
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLUE WATER MARINA
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWATER
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/20/16 at approximately 9:20 P.M. I, Officer, responded to Blue Water Marina on the Rhode River in Edgewater, MD for a report of a man in a dinghy with a large cut on his arm. Upon arrival Anne Arundel EMS and Fire Department were already on scene treating Victim for his injury. Anne Arundel EMS called in Maryland State Police to fly Victim to Shock Trauma in Baltimore. While Victim was being treated I was able to meet with his girlfriend who was on the vessel when the incident occurred but was uninjured. Girlfriend stated she was going to need a ride to get to Shock Trauma to be with Victim and I was given permission by the Duty Officer to transport her. Before going there we stopped on Victim's other vessel to retrieve some of Girlfriend's possessions. I transported Girlfriend to Shock Trauma and met Officer there who assisted me with the investigation. 

OFC and I were able to meet with Victim and interview him. He stated that he and his girlfriend were out for an evening ride on his dinghy on the Rhode River when they ran aground on one of the shoals located in the river. Victim stated he was doing approximately 15 knots and was sitting on the starboard side inflatable section of his vessel when he ran aground. Victim fell into the water and his right arm and hand hit the propeller while the motor was running. The propeller caused three separate cuts, one across his right forearm and two on his right hand. Victim had no other injuries. Victim told OFC and I that he had one glass of wine and a mixed drink before going out on the dinghy.

OFC and I interviewed Girlfriend next. She stated she was sitting on the inside of the vessel, port side towards the bow, facing forward when the vessel ran aground. She then turned around and saw Victim in the water holding his arm with blood coming out of it. She then took a jacket she had with her and wrapped it around his arm to stop the bleeding. Girlfriend said she never saw Victim fall into the water. She stated that they headed toward Camp Letts to get help but no one was there. They then headed towards Carrs Wharf where she got off the dinghy and went and knocked on doors of homes until someone answered and got them to call 911. She then went to Blue Waters Marina where she was able to get more help and Anne Arundel Fire and EMS arrived. Girlfriend informed OFC and I that they both had two mixed drinks each before going out on the dinghy.

At this time there are no charges that will be filed for the incident. All events occured in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0067
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:29:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TURNERS CREEK LANDING
NearestCityorTown: KENNEDYVILLE
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, July 23, 2016 at approximately 12:30 p.m., I, Ofc. responded to a call concerning a vessel accident at Turner's Creek Landing.  Upon arrival, I spoke with the complainant, and asked that he complete a Witness/Victim Statement regarding the accident.  I also spoke with a witness to the accident, and asked that she also complete a Witness/Victim Statement.
 
 Operator1 stated the following:
     I was loading my boat onto my trailer.  Once the boat was loaded, as I went to turn off the motor, I noticed a canoe approaching the boat on the starboard side.  I tried to reach out to stop the canoe but couldn't.  The canoe impacted the right side creating a deep gouge in the gel coat.  The canoe proceeded forward and impacted the truck on the right rear fender resulting in some scratches
 
Subject stated the following:
     Our paddle group was returning to the boat ramp at Turner's Creek Park.  A boat was being loaded onto the east side of the ramp, and I directed one of our canoes to pull in along side to get out.  As they paddled into the boat ramp, they were unable to turn sharply and drifted forward into the boat loading at the ramp.  The front of the canoe (aluminum) scraped along the side of the vessel.  The boat owner stated that the canoe also hit the back of the truck (I did not witness that part).  
 
At approximately 5:00 p.m., I, Ofc. went to operator’s residence to obtain information about the accident and the individuals that were on the canoe at the time of the accident.  Operator2 provided the following information:

Operator2 provided the following information:
  
       As we were paddling into the landing, the motor of the boat being removed from the water was in gear and creating a circling effect of the water, which pulled our canoe towards the boat.  The front left corner of the canoe struck the boat and scraped the side of the boat.  Operator2 nor the other individuals on the canoe remember the canoe striking the vehicle.  Subject2 pushed the canoe away from the boat after the bow of the canoe struck the boat.
  There was no intent by Operator2 to damage Operator1's vessel.  After speaking with the witnesses, it is believed that inexperience on how to handle/steer a canoe was the major factor in the accident.  

All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0068
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SASSAFRAS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EARLEVILLE
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/23/16 at 1823 hours, I, Cpl. and Ofc. responded to a call for an overturn vessel at Grove Point, Mouth of Sassafras River.  Once on scene, I located a blue hull just sticking out of the water with no one around.  A registration number of DL 7433 AE was located.  

     Dispatch sent an Administrative message to Delaware to retrieve registration and ownership information.  While waiting to find out who the owner was, Harford County Fire divers responded to the scene and dove on the vessel.  They checked it to make sure no one was trapped and also tried to get a HIN number.  No bodies were found and HIN number was unreadable.  

     Finally, Dispatch got a response back from Delaware.  Owner advised them that the vessel had mechanical issues and sunk and that Tow Boat US would get the boat out of the water.  I advised Dispatch that this was a boating accident and that I needed to speak to and meet up with him.  I asked them to call him back and get a location of where he was so I could meet up with him.  Dispatch never accomplished this.

     Tow boat US assisted us by helping tow the sunken vessel closer to shore to get it out of the channel.  Ofc. and I managed to tie the sunken vessel to a nearby mooring ball that was close to shore.  

 On 7/24/16, Tow boat US called me and advised that they would remove the sunken vessel on Monday morning, 7/25/16, and put it back on the trailer.  Vessel was removed on that day and cost the owner $3000.00 since he didn't have insurance on the vessel.

     On 7/27/16, I finally spoke with Owner.  He advised that the vessel was a 19' Chaparral.  On the day it sunk, he was having engine problems.  He stated the 115 hp Mercury outboard wouldn't stay running.  As he was trying to change to a spare fuel tank, the vessel started taking on water.  A storm was coming and the wind and waves kicked up.  Owner stated his vessel sank and then overturned.  Owner stated he got on a good Samaritan's vessel and left.  His uncle then picked him up and took him back to Indian Acres in Earleville Md.  He stated he talk to so many people that night, Tow boat US, our dispatch, etc., that he thought the report was taken over the phone.

     All events occurred in Cecil County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0069
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BODKIN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: PASADENA
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 23, 2016 at approximately 6:40 PM I responded to a single boat accident with personal injury that occurred on the Chesapeake Bay off of Pinehurst and Pasadena, MD.  The victim suffered from a laceration on his right leg caused by a boat propeller strike.  The boat that Victim was on transported him to meet Anne Arundel County EMS. 
 
After I arrived on scene I met the operator of the vessel and he told me that they were motoring from Dobbins Island-Magothy River to Pleasure Cove Marina-Bodkin Creek when Victim fell overboard off of the bow of the pontoon boat, went underneath the boat, and made contact with the spinning propeller.  Operator told me that Victim was laying on a towable tube that was on the bow of the pontoon boat prior to falling overboard.  The boat was in gear and moving forward at the time of the accident.  Based on my observations, Operator was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.  The contributing factor was Victim sitting on the bow of the vessel and outside of the safety rail.

The vessel was a rental that was leased by Operator on the morning of July 23, 2016.  The rental company was Suntex Boat Club, LLC located at Pleasure Cove Marina - Bodkin Creek - 1701 Poplar Ridge Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122.  The Rental Agreement between Operator and Suntex is attached to this report.  

The victim was transported by Anne Arundel County Ambulance to Baltimore Washington Medical Center.  

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0070
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-01-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 20789 DOVER BRIDGE ROAD
NearestCityorTown: PRESTON
County: CO - Caroline
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1-26-16, at 0822 hours, I, Cpl. #1 heard a call go out for an overturned canoe with a subject in the water in the area of Dover Bridge.  I responded to the area, as did Sgt. #1.  Prior to my arrival, I was advised that the subject, later identified as Subject1, was out of the water and being tended to by Talbot County EMS personnel. Upon arrival on scene, I met with Sgt. #1, who was already on scene.  Sgt. #1 advised that Subject1 was being transported to Easton Hospital by Talbot County EMS. 
The witnesses advised that they, along with Subject1 were duck hunting from shore at that address on the Choptank River.  The subjects advised that they had injured a duck and Subject1 went after the duck in a canoe.  The subjects advised that Subject1 attempted to grab the duck and turned the canoe over as he reached for it.  Witness#1 advised that he called 911.  The subjects advised that Subject1 attempted to re-enter the canoe, but was unsuccessful.  The witnesses further advised that Subject1 was not wearing a life jacket, nor was there one in the canoe.  They advised that Subject1 then used the overturned canoe as floatation and began swimming towards shore.  The witnesses stated that approximately 10 minutes later Subject1 made it to shore and they transported him to the house on the property to meet EMS personnel

Shortly after my arrival, Subject1 was transported to Easton Hospital.  Cpl. #2 and OFC #1 were advised and responded to the hospital to obtain Subject1's information.


BARDID: MD-2016-0071
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH OF GILLIGANS PIER
NearestCityorTown: NEWBURG
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/12/2016 at approximately 16:00 hrs. I, Cpl., was dispatched to the Potomac River in the area of Gilligan's Pier, located in Newburg, Charles County, Maryland, for a reported single vessel watercraft accident. Information was received that a single vessel had sunk and that there were 4 POBs, all of whom were not injured. 

The 4 POBs were taken to shore at Gilligan's Pier (Restaurant/Bar) and were awaiting a response by NRP. Due to my location from the scene and an extended ETA, I requested Sgt. be asked to respond to the scene by DNR communications upon Sgt. coming on duty at any minute. Sgt. arrived on scene at Gilligan's Pier and made contact with the operator/occupants while I was enroute. 

I immediately went to the Aqualand duty station for NRP where I took a patrol vessel out in search for the victim vessel. The victim vessel was eventually located upriver towards the Maryland shoreline from Gilligan's. The vessel's stern was sunk in the river with about 6 feet of her bow protruding above the water's surface. The vessel was located in approximately 9.5 feet of water. The water/weather conditions that day were hazardous with a strong wind and choppy waters with 2'+ waves. 

I then responded over to Gilligan's where contact was made with Sgt. and the operator/occupants of the victim vessel. Sgt. gave this officer a brief briefing on what was gather from the vessel's occupants. The operator advised that he and his passengers had left Gilligan's Pier prior to the incident and were heading upriver along the Maryland shoreline. 

When Operator attempted to throttle his vessel up onto plane, as the stern was low, water from the excessive waves had entered into the vessel and caused the engine to stop. The vessel, which had limited freeboard due to its type, had begun taking on more water and had eventually begun to sink to its ultimate demise. 

Both the operator and his occupants were observed to be drinking alcohol upon Sgt. interaction with them so it could not be determined if alcohol was a factor in the incident prior to. Operator had attempted contact with a salvage company in an effort to raise his vessel from the surface. Operator indicated that he had just purchased the vessel 5 days prior from a private party, to which whom the vessel was still registered to. 

Operator also indicated that the vessel had all of the required safety equipment on-board, and more specifically, that PFDs for everyone on board were present but not in use. This could not be confirmed by this officer due to the vessel being partially sunk.


BARDID: MD-2016-0072
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at 2055 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to make contact with Garrett Regional Medical Center regarding a patient in their care following a tubing accident on Deep Creek lake.  At 2100 hours, I contacted Garrett Regional Medical Center staff who informed me the patient had already been treated and released.


Garrett Regional Medical Center staff advised the patient flipped a water tube he was being towed upon on Deep Creek Lake at approximately 1830 hours.  At 1900 hours, Victim was treated by Garrett Regional Medical Center for an unspecified injury to one of his feet and Victim complained of a headache.  Garrett Regional Medical Center staff advised Victim was released at 2100 hours.  The vessel used to tow Victim is registered to the family and the only contact information Garrett Regional Medical Staff could provide was a cell phone number for Victim's father who was not present and could not be reached.  A full report will follow contact with the family to acquire the necessary information.

On Thursday, June 23, 2016 at 2024 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, contacted the vessel owner and operator.  

Operator advised on June 22 around 1830 hours he was towing Victim on a water tube in the area of Shingle Camp Cove on Deep Creek Lake with three other passengers and observers onboard his 1985 Ebbtide 18 Riviera.  Operator stated they were traveling south on the lake at approximately 20 knots and he was executing a turn to a northernly course when Victim fell off of the water tube.  Two others were taking videos and pictures from the back bench of the boat and one was observing from the rear-facing passenger seat of the vessel.  Victim was wearing a personal flotation device and was immediately retrieved and brought onboard the vessel.  Victim made no complaints and his condition appeared normal.  Operator stated that no persons present had used or were currently using any alcohol or drugs.

Operator stated that Victim later complained of a headache and nausea, so Operator transported him to Garrett Regional Medical Center where Victim was treated for his conditions and released by 2100 hours.  Victim suffered no other injuries.


All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0073
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST FORK - LANGFORD CREEK
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 27, 2016 at approximately 10:00 a.m., Officer1 met with Operator1 of Chestertown, MD 21620.  Operator1 is the owner of the Eclipse (vessel that was struck from behind), and was also operating the vessel at the time of the accident.  Operator1 provided the insurance information for his vessel to Officer1.  Operator1 informed Officer1 that he had observed Operator2's vessel approaching his vessel from behind.  Operator1 thought that Operator2's vessel was going to swerve, but it never did, striking the stern of Operator1’s vessel.
 
 

 


BARDID: MD-2016-0074
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday July 1, 2016 at 0115 hours I, Cpl, received a call from DNR communications to respond to Deep Creek Lake, the Deep Creek Marina Club to assist Sgt with a hit and run boat accident.  I arrived at the Marina Club at approximately 0140 hours and Sgt advised me to locate and photograph the vessel which had been struck.  I located the vessel, MD 2924 BS, a Harris pontoon boat.  The boat, which was located in the last slip south, had extensive damage from the accident.  I contacted the communications center with the vessel registration.  Myself and Sgt conducted a shoreline search of all the vessels docked north of the Deep Creek Marina docks for possible damage.  The last known direction of travel from the strioperator1 vessel was in a northerly direction.   We were unable to locate the vessel and secured from the area at  approximately 0300 hours.  Sgt contacted the damaged vessels owner by phone and left a message that his vessel was involved in a hit  and run accident.
 
On Friday July 1, 2016 at 0830 hours I returned to Deep Creek Marina to take additional photos and meet with Deep Creek Marina personnel.  I took photos and spoke with someone from Deep Creek Marina.  The subject contacted the owner of the damaged vessel and I advised Subject2 of the accident.  

As I was leaving the marina dock, approximately 0900,  I noticed a vessel with five males pull along side the damaged vessel and dock.  I pulled along side asked the individuals if they knew anything about the accident which they advised yes.  I identified the operator of the strioperator1 vessel.  Operator1 advised there were three other people in the boat when the accident occurred.  I separated the operator and occupants of the vessel and interviewed them.  

The operator advised the four of them arrived at Unos Restaurant for dinner.  After dinner they went to the Honi Honi bar until it  closed at approximately 1200am.  While at the Honi Honi three  consumed alcoholic beverages, Operator1 advised he did not have any he drank root beer, it was free.  From the Honi they went to the Boardwalk bar located in Marsh Run Cove.  Operator1 advised they stayed at the Boardwalk till closing having a couple drinks.   Again Operator1 advised he did not have any alcoholic beverages.  After the Boardwalk closed,  sometime around 0030  to 0100,  they left the dock and headed north up Marsh Run Cove towards their dock.  

Operator1 advised he was operating at half throttle traveling 15 to 20 mph when they struck the dock and pontoon boat.  He advised at first they didn't know what had happened.  Then they realized they had been in an accident and were able to get their boat free from the dock and then decided to go to their dock.   I asked Operator1 after he realized they had been in an accident why he didn't call and report the accident.   Operator1 advised he didn't know who to call.  I asked what about 911 to which Operator1 shrugged his shoulders.  

Operator1 advised that the only injury he had was a cut to his forehead which he had a bandit on.  I again asked Operator1 if he had been drinoperator1 any alcoholic beverages and again he said no.  Operator1 advised he has less than ten hours of boating experience and this was his first time operating a vessel on the lake.  Operator1 did produce a boating education card issued by the Pennsylvania Boat and Fish Commission.   

I interviewed the occupants of the vessel and took a written statement from each.  Occupant1 was seated in the bow of the vessel facing towards the stern, Occupant2 was seated in the starboard rear, and Occupant3 was seated port side middle beside Operator1.  All three occupants advised the same.  They arrived at Unos had dinner, went to Honi Honi for drinks until it closed.  From there they went to the Boardwalk for a couple drinks until it closed.  I asked the occupants if at  any time did Operator1 have any alcoholic beverages to which they all advised  no.  

All three advised they were going about half throttle about 20 MPH when they collided with the dock.  They did advise it was dark and hard to see.  I asked them why they didn't report the accident and they said they didn't know who to call.  The vessel was MD 2901 LB, was rented from Deep Creek Marina.  The collision caused damage to a third vessel docked beside MD 2924 BS.  Operator1 was charged by Natural Resources  citation for operating a vessel in a negligent manner, and operating a vessel at unsafe speed for conditions.   A court date is set for August 17, 2016 in District Court for Garrett County.  I request this case closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0076
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:16:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEEMS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/21/16 at approximately 6:00 P.M. Officers responded to a drowning on Weems Creek off of the Severn River. Upon arriving on scene, I observed fire personnel deployed on multiple small zodiak vessels performing search patterns. Fire personnel stated that an individual had gone under the water approximately 10-12' from a large sailboat that was anchored in the middle of the creek. 

While searching for the victim, Officer and I observed a Jon boat approximately 14' in length, green in color, floating towards a pier heading out of the creek. As I maneuvered the patrol vessel towards the Jon boat, I observed what appeared to be part of a 55 gallon drum that was just under the surface of the water, several feet away from the Jon boat. 

The only item Officer and I observed in the Jon boat was an empty Gatorade bottle. I then observed three individuals onboard a small dingy who were aiding in the search efforts and made contact with them. 

The individuals stated that they were performing work around a house when they heard the victim call out for help. As they made their way down the dock towards the water, they heard a call for help again and observed the victim flailing in the water struggling to stay afloat. They then observed the victim struggling to hold onto, what appeared to be part of a 55 gallon drum. The victim was able to grab the drum but it then sank under his weight and he went under the water momentarily but then resurfaced where he was struggling to stay afloat.  

During this whole process, they made their way onto the sailboat and deployed the dingy that was attached to the sailboat. As they attempted to get to the victim they observed him struggling and then observed him go under the water where he never resurfaced. 

Good sam1 went into the water where he attempted to retrieve the victim but had negative results. They all stated that during the event they observed an individual, later identified as a Subject2, on board his sailboat who made no effort to aide in the rescue of the victim. 

The three gentleman stated that the victim was approximately 12' off of the port side of the sailboat when he was struggling and ultimately went under the surface of the water and never came back up. Good samaritans stated that when they first observed the victim struggling, Subject2 was facing the victim and made no effort to render aide or assistance in any way. As all three individuals made their way out to the victim, they observed Subject2 make his way onto the opposite side of the boat with his back facing the victim and again made no attempt to render assistance to the victim. 

I then picked up Cpl. up at the dock and we made our way out to Subject2's sailboat. Subject2 appeared to be intoxicated and was incoherent in his speech. Cpl. attempted to obtain a written statement from Subject2 but Subject2's statement was illegible and his story was incoherent. As we were talking to Subject2, Anne Arundel County Fire Department was utilizing their side sonar unit and were able to pick up an image that they believed was the body of the victim. The Fire Department then deployed a diver and at 8:51 P.M. they were able to retrieve the victim's body. I then assisted Sgt. with processing the victim's Jon boat into evidence. Cpl. stayed on scene and waited for the Medical Examiner.


BARDID: MD-2016-0077
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 23 July 2016, at 1742 hours, Maryland State Police (MSP), advised me by radio that a boat accident victim had been admitted to Garret Regional Medical Center (GRMC) in Oakland, MD. MSP requested that I respond. 

 I arrived at the GRMC at 2000 hours. I contacted the victim in room 2 of the Emergency Department. Victim had lacerations and bleeding from the head, a bruised right eye, laceration on the chin, and loose teeth. She had been diagnosed with a concussion. Victim's father was also in the room. I began to ask Victim questions about the incident. She stated that she did not remember anything about the accident. She believes that she was unconscious at one point. Victim did remember the lake being busy with traffic and lots of wake. Victim was operating her parents’ personal watercraft (PWC), MD 4385 BK. 

She has many years of experience operating a PWC. Victim could not remember where on Deep Creek Lake the accident occurred. 

 Father stated that he believed that the accident occurred near the mouth of Green Glade Cove. Victim was operating their Yamaha PWC, Gray and White in color. She was wearing a vest when he saw her leave their dock. Other members of the family were following behind her in a Pontoon boat. 

I obtained her information. Both Father and Victim stated that victim had no alcohol or drug use prior to operating the PWC. Father stated that Victim was well ahead of the pontoon boat. When they came upon her the accident had already occurred and Victim was found laying in the water. Her head was bleeding. 

 Father stated that the pontoon boat and PWC was at the lake. I responded to this location. I found both vessels and Pontoon boat operator at the residence. Pontoon boat operator stated that Victim was on the PWC. She had a vest on. She was well ahead of the pontoon boat. As the pontoon boat came around a bend Pontoon boat operator and another witness both saw a water "jet pack" being operated near the mouth of Green Glade Cove. 

The sight distracted Pontoon boat operator for a moment. She noticed that the operator and the two PWC's with the jet pack operator were moving across the water. Pontoon boat operator stated that she noticed they were headed for an unmanned PWC. Pontoon boat operator then realized that it was the PWC that Victim was operating. Pontoon boat operator then noticed that Victim was lying in the water and not moving. The jet pack operator and the two PWC's with him and the pontoon boat all arrived alongside Victim at the same time. The group with the jet pack assisted the family in helping Victim get aboard the Pontoon boat. Occupant attempted to call 911 twice with a cell phone. No answer. 

The group collected the PWC and returned to the dock.  Victims mother and father transported her to GRMC in Oakland, MD. Victim's mother returned to gather some personal belongings for Victim. 

 Additional witnesses were on board. No other witness could provide anything additional. No one on the pontoon actually saw the accident. The people with the jet pack stated to the group that they did not see the accident. The jet pack operator noticed the empty PWC and Victim lying in the water while in the air. No one in the pontoon boat knew any of the people with the jet pack. 
 I conducted an inspection of the PWC. I could not discover any damage to the PWC indicating that it may have struck something. I believe that the injuries sustained by Victim could have been caused by striking her head / face on the handle bars of the PWC. 

Pontoon boat operator stated to me that there were not so many boats in the area but the boats were all tubing. This activity caused large wake in the water. Pontoon boat operator believes that Victim was probably distracted by the jet pack activity and struck a wave in such a way that it threw her off. The PWC cut off switch had been activated and it was resting on the water, upright and about 15 to 20 feet away from Victim. They were located in the middle of the cove. 
 Victim's mother stated to me that Victim had a concussion. They were doing additional tests. If the tests found blood in the concussion Victim would probably be taken to Morgantown, WV for treatment. I asked the group to keep me informed on her condition and provided my cell number to them. 
 
 

* All statements from these four witnesses were similar to that given above.


BARDID: MD-2016-0079
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - BIG SLACK WATE
NearestCityorTown: WILLIAMSPORT
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 24, 2016, at approximately 12:30PM, I received a call from OFC. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police.  Ofc advised his cadet received information of a personal injury boat accident on the Washington County MD Fire Calls Facebook page.  The location of the accident was on the Potomac River at Dam 4.  Ofc, who had an extended ETA asked if I would respond.  I agreed. 

I responded to the area of Dam 4 road.  As I neared the boat ramp, I observed the Maryland State Trooper medivac helicopter landed in a field off of Dam 4 Road.  The road was closed at this time to all traffic except emergency personnel.   I observed an ambulance ahead of me.  I exited my vehicle by the ambulance and asked a flight medic what was going on.  The flight medic advised they were getting ready to transport the boat accident victim to Meritus hospital in Hagerstown.  The flight medic then handed me the victim's Maryland driver's license and loaded him in the helicopter. 
 
I then made contact with the operator of the vessel.  Operator advised he was pulling a tube out on the river at approximately 30mph when he noticed a submerged log in the river.  Operator advised he tried maneuver the boat so the tube would not strike the log.  Operator advised one of the occupants on the tube rolled off before the collision.  Operator advised the other occupant on the tube remained on the tube and sustained injuries to his genitals from the collision.  Operator stated the accident occurred by the rope swing near the rock wall.   Operator stated they called 911 and brought victim back to the boat ramp.  Operator advised the accident occurred at approximately 12:00PM.  Operator had already trailered his vessel and was heading to Meritus hospital.  
 
I took the names and date of birth of all the witnesses on board at the time of the accident and advised them I would get statements from them at the hospital.  I also recorded the registration number and the HIN number from vessel. 
 
On my way to Meritus hospital, I received a call for an assault in progress at the Dam 4 boat ramp.  I turned around and responded to that call.  Investigator Cpl., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Meritus hospital to take statements from the victim and witnesses.
 
All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland. 
 
 


BARDID: MD-2016-0080
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26th at approximatley 1415 hours Officer received a call from the DNR comms center of a report of a PWC accident located in the vicinity of Hoopers Crabhouse near the sandbar coming from the thoroughfare.  Ofc1 got underway on vessel 845.  DNR comms center informed Ofc1 that two injured individuals involved were picked up by a Pontoon boat from Hoopers Crabhouse and also Coast Guard was enroute to the scene.  Once in the area the pontoon boat "Flounder Pounder" told Ofc1 that EMS was on scene.  

 Ofc1 notified DNR comms center that he and Ofc2 were on scene.  The PWC's involved in the accident were rentals from Paradise Watersports out of Hoopers Crabhouse in West Ocean City.  EMS informed Ofc1 that they had one injured operator of a PWC involved in the accident.  Victim was in the ambulance receiving care from EMS.  Victim's injuries including being unconscious for a short period of time and injured arm and ribs.  Ofc1 gathered Victim's information first because EMS needed to transport him to Peninsula Regional Medical Center.  While Ofc1 was gathering Victim's information Ofc2 looked for the other individuals involved in the accident.  Ofc2 identified the operator and violator of the accident as operator3.


Ofc1 met with Operator3 and got her statement of the events that occurred from the PWC accident.  Operator3 explained that she was on her PWC cruising back with the group.  She looked back for a moment then looked forward and realized she was not going to stop quick enough to avoid hitting the PWC in front of her.  She said she clipped the PWC in front of her and launched herself into the air resulting in her falling off.  Before she struck the PWC in front of her she said she attempted to use more throttle and tried to turn more to avoid a collision.  After the collision other boats in the area stopped to help.  She said her PWC hit a total of 2 other PWC's.  The Paradise Watersports guide was in front of the PWC that her PWC landed on after it was launched into the air.  After the statement was taken Ofc1 asked Operator3 if she had been drinking that day to which she replied yes hours earlier.  Ofc1 had Operator3 complete a series of Field Sobriety Testing which resulted in negative results.  Ofc1 then instructed Operator3 to wait with Ofc2 while he got the last statement from the other injured operator from the PWC accident.  

 Ofc1 met with Operator2 and received his statement of what happened.  Operator2 explained to Ofc1 that he was slowing down with the group just outside the no wake zone.  He stated that he saw Operator3 kept up her speed and did not slow down like the rest of the group.  Operator3 then struck the PWC that was being operated by Victim.  Operator3's PWC went airborne about 4 feet and then Operator3's PWC came down on Operator2's PWC. Operator2 was clipped by Operator3's PWC which hit his arm but he declined EMS.  

 Officer met with Victim, the injured operator1 who was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center, to get his statement of what occurred.

Ofc1 issued a citation to Operator3 for Operating a PWC greater than 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel.  


NR 8- 704 08.18.02.05L (Operate PWC> 6 knots within 100' of a vessel) 


ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY


BARDID: MD-2016-0081
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/28/2016, I, OFC received a call from DNR Communications in reference to a boat accident that had occurred the day before. The victim waited to receive treatment from Garrett Memorial Hospital until today, 07/28/16. Nursing staff at the hospital contacted DNR Communications when the victim advised the injury was the result of a boat accident. I made contact with Victim using the cell phone number he left with the hospital. Victim had just been discharged but agreed to meet me at the McHenry Public Safety Building after insisting that he didn't want me to interview him at his vacation residence. 
 
 
 Victim arrived at the Public Safety Building for our interview, he was in a shoulder sling and said they'd be leaving shortly for the return home. Victim also insisted that he did not want to file a report and had he known that NRP would become involved, he would have not sought treatment for his injury. When asked the details about the vessel accident, Victim was very evasive in his answers with many unknown details and strange explanations. Victim said that he did not know anyone else on the vessel except for his wife who was his ski observer. Victim said he could not provide vessel details for me and did not know the operator's name, address or any identifying information. The ski vessel was maneuvering around in Turkey Neck Cove when Victim noticed the ski group taking turns wakeboarding. Victim motioned for the ski vessel to motor over to a six slip dock he was standing on in the cove that the ski boat also seemed to frequently return to. When the ski boat came into the slip, Victim asked if he and his wife could take a ride and try wakeboarding. Victim insisted that he grew up on Deep Creek Lake and "that's how everyone does it, you don't have to know people."

Around 1430 hours, as Victim was in the role of the skiier/wakeboarder, with his wife observing, Victim noticed too late that the tow rope was coiled underneath the water surface and his arm was entangled in the rope. As the operator accelerated the vessel, the rope grew taught and the motion yanked Victim's right arm and shoulder behind his back and began dragging him down the lake backwards. The operator noticed and immediately stopped and brought Victim inside the vessel. Victim insisted he felt fine and was dropped off at the dock, but later in the evening started feeling discomfort. On 07/28/16, Victim visited Garrett Memorial Hospital where it was determined that he had separated tendons in his shoulder, they supplied him with a soft brace and painkillers. 
 

     All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0082
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE BOAT RAMP WATE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07-29-16 I was patrolling Deep Cr. Lake Marsh Hill Cove in a marked patrol boat when I was flagged down by a passing boat. They advised that there was a man on the stern of a black boat that CPR was being performed on. I headed North in the cove and was directed by another boat to a dock on Deep Cr Lake. I pulled into the dock and was met by a subject that advised the person had been hit by a prop. There was an Orange and Black Moomba ski boat pulled broadside up on shore. There was a subject on the back of the boat being attended to by a group of people. 

I had advised Tawes of the incident and had requested an ambulance and emergency services. A woman came up to my boat who I later found was the victim’s wife. She wanted to know where the ambulance was and if the Helicopter was coming. I was informed that the victim had been struck by a prop. He had received lacerations to his left back, abdomen, and chest. He had an evisceration and his right leg had a deep laceration. I was advised that there was a physician attending to the subject. I called Garrett Central and requested Trooper 5 and advised of the injuries to the victim. 

Medical personnel from Deep Cr. Vol. Fire Department and Northern Garrett Rescue Squad had arrived, at this time and took over treatment of the patient. I assisted with carrying equipment up to the ambulance. The victim was transported to the Garrett Co. airport and placed aboard Trooper 5. They transported him to Ruby Memorial Hospital.

 At this time, I gathered the operator of the vessel and all the other persons that had been in the boat at the time of the accident. I had the subjects stay in a shaded area under a tent while I spoke with the operator. The operator was also the owner of the boat. I asked Operator what had happened.

Operator advised that they had been waterskiing in Marsh Hill Cove in the area of the old S and H boat dealer. They had stopped skiing and everyone was in the boat at this time. They were instructing one of the kids on how to ski and Operator's attention was focused on him. The victim Victim was the only one sitting in the front of the boat. Victim apparently slipped over the side of the boat without anyone noticing. He apparently was going to take a swim. Operator went to move the boat as boat traffic had picked up in the area. He placed the boat in gear and heard and felt the thump of something hitting the prop. When he looked up Victim was floating behind the boat. 
 
Operator and another subject went into the water and rescued the victim. They got him onto the swim platform and then the back deck of the boat. They wrapped towels around him to hold his intestines and stop the bleeding. Operator operated the boat to shore where medical help was summoned. 

I interviewed Subject and he explained the incident the same as Operator. There were five other subjects on the boat and they all had the same description of the incident
 
 MO arrived and took written statements from Subject and Operator. Sgt. arrived and assisted with the incident and notifications. At this time, I took pictures and inspected the vessel. I found all safety equipment to be on board and in good condition. The vessel was seized for inspection and towed to the New Germany State Park where it was stored inside. It was inventoried also. 

When I spoke with Operator I did not smell any alcohol. I had him perform an HGN and gave him a PBT. He blew a .00 on the PBT. He had advised that he had not been drinking. When asked if Victim had been drinking I was advised by Operator that he had at least three beers that day. Subject also advised that Victim had been drinking.

The on scene investigation is done.


BARDID: MD-2016-0083
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK - HOLY CROSS
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 30, 2016 at approximately 1200 hours I, Cpl, responded to Garrett Regional Medical Center for a subject being treated for a skiing related boat accident.  I met with injured subject.  Victim advised he was wakeboarding on Friday July 29, 2016 on Deep Creek Lake in the area of Holy Cross.  Victim advised he jumped the wake and landed awkwardly on his ankle.  Victim advised he woke up this morning with bruising to his right ankle and decided to have it treated.  He was treated and released for a sprained ankle.  I request this case closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0085
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY - MACKYS
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30, 2016 at approximately 6:00PM, I (Cpl.) was on patrol in the Isle of Wight Bay, Worcester County, Maryland. I was dispatched to Bayside Boat Rentals for a report of a personal injury boat accident. Upon arrival I observed a subject being treated by Ocean City EMS. I gathered all subjects who had been onboard the vessel and had them stage in an area separate from each other. I met with Ocean City Paramedics who advised the victim had suffered a broken jaw and had a severe laceration to her right thigh caused by a propeller strike. They advised that they would be transporting her to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC). 
 
  Operator advised at first that he was the operator of the vessel and then stated that he was the responsible party for the vessel but was not operating at the time of the incident. He advised that they were underway on the rented pontoon boat (MD 2702 LB) when Victim moved to the bow of the vessel. He stated that she wanted her picture taken posing like they did in the movie "Titanic". I am familiar with the movie and noted that there is a scene in the movie where a character stands on the extreme bow of the vessel with their arms spread out. He advised that as she was posing for the picture the vessel hit a boat wake causing Victim to fall overboard off the bow. He advised that he immediately shut the engine off. He advised that the vessel ran over Victim and that she emerged from the stern of the vessel in obvious distress. At that time he dove into the water to retrieve Victim. Once onboard they called 911 and started to apply pressure to her wounds. Operator advised that he and subject had been the responsible operators for the group. He stated they were both were driving at times but that Subject had been behind the controls when Victim fell overboard. I detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage on Operator. I ran Operator through a battery of field sobriety tests. Operator completed the tasks to my satisfaction that he was not impaired. I asked Operator to submit to a preliminary breath test to which he consented to. The results indicated a blood alcohol content of .03. 
  Officers arrived on scene and I asked them to collect written statements from everyone who had been present on the vessel. I then met with subject2 who was in the ambulance with Victim. She gave a similar set of facts as to Operator. She stated that Operator had been operating the vessel at the time of the occurrence though.
 
   I met with Subject. She advised me of the same set of facts as the previous two subjects but stated that she was operating the vessel at the time. I asked her if she had consumed any alcoholic beverages during the day. She stated that she was the only person who had not been drinking alcohol. I did not detect an odor of an alcoholic beverage on her breath or person. I did not note any signs of impairment. 

I also met with and reviewed the statements of three others. They all gave similar accounts except for who the operator was at the time of the incident. They did all state that Operator and Subject were the only two who had permission to operate and that Operator was the responsible party for the rental. I also viewed a cell phone from one of the subjects who was taking the picture of Victim when she fell overboard. The last image on the cell phone showed Victim posing at the bow of the boat with her arms spread out holding a red plastic cup. The boat appeared to be in motion while this was occurring. All subjects also confirmed that Victim had been consuming alcohol throughout the day. 

   I met with an agent from Bayside Boat Rentals. They advised that there was no damage to their vessel as a result of the collision. I issued Operator a citation for Negligent operation of a vessel. Even with the discrepancy as to who was actually at the controls it was clear after speaking with all occupants that Operator was in charge of the vessel. As the "Captain" of the vessel he should have insured the vessel was not in motion before having someone stand on the bow of the vessel. 

Cpl. responded to PRMC to check on Victim's condition and to obtain a statement. Cpl. advised me that Victim was going to be transferred to Penn Hospital in Philadelphia due to the severity of her injuries. He also obtained a written statement. In that statement she advised that subject was operating the vessel at the time of the occurrence. 

 All of the above events occurred in Worcester County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0086
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 31, 2016 at approximately 1500 hours, I Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was monitoring Ocean City Fire Dispatch when I heard Ocean City Paramedic 2-1 dispatched to a broken leg, resulting from a PWC accident at Inlet SeaDoo, located at 710 South Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland.  I advised DNR dispatch that I would be enroute and responded to that location.

Upon my arrival, I met with operator, who advised (through an interpreter) that he and his wife had been riding a PWC in a group, returning from the designated riding area.  He further advised that a boat had crossed between him and the PWC in front of him, causing a wake.  He advised that his PWC entered the wake and rolled from side to side, causing his wife to lose her balance and begin to fall to the starboard side of the ski.  As she did, her right leg became lodged in the foot track area of the PWC, causing injury to her right knee.  

   Ocean City Paramedic 2-1 was on scene and removed victim from the PWC and placed her in the ambulance.  They advised that her injuries were consistent with the above sequence of events.  They transported her to Atlantic General Hospital for treatment.  I observed the PWC that victim had been a passenger on to be designated #4 by Inlet SeaDoo, and displayed Maryland registration 3517 LB.  There was no damage to the PWC.

All of the above occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0087
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN PINES
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening on July 30, 2016, I (Ofc.), received a call from dispatch for a boat accident that occurred three hours ago at Paradise Watersports. I met the operator1 who was currently at Atlantic General Hospital. While speaking with the operator1, he advised me that he did not know he was hurt until just about an hour ago and that he thought it was a good idea to go to the hospital. He was accompanied by his operator2 who was also involved in the accident. 
  
     Operator1 and Operator2 recollected the sequence of events from earlier that evening. They said that they were riding along beside each other on separate jet skis when Operator1 came to stop. Operator2 was looking the other way and turned into Operator1 right side of his jet ski and hit his leg and also caused both of them to fall off the jet skis. The guide came over and advised them to ride on Operator2' ski together while they towed Operator1 ski back to port. Upon getting back to port, damage was not found to be significant for a report. 

 It was not until about three hours later that Operator1 felt his leg hurting and drove himself to the hospital. At the time I responded to the hospital, he had not had any X-Rays done yet. I did notice his right leg to have a scratch on it. 
 
 I tried to find information on the jet skis involved but none could be found. All events occurred in Worcester County, Md


BARDID: MD-2016-0088
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATAPSCO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BALTIMORE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 8, 2016 at approximately 6:45 PM Officer and I arrived at a capsized boat near the Brewerton Channel at the mouth of the Patapsco River. We had received a report of a capsized vessel in the same area. We were met on scene by the USCG and a Chesapeake Marine Towboat. There was no operator, passengers or property found in the vicinity of the boat. The boat registration number (MD1506 CJ) was obtained and the registered operator was identified. 

After a short search of the area we were notified by the USCG that Operator had been rescued by a good samaritan and taken safely back to shore. The tow boat operator contacted Operator and agreed to tow his boat to Fort Smallwood, where it would be trailered. The tow service agreed to salvage to vessel for $3,000.00.

I interviewed the vessel operator at Fort Smallwood Park while he waited for his boat to arrive. Operator stated that the boat capsized late that afternoon due to high winds. He went on to explain that he was attempting to set the anchor when high winds pushed the boat into the shipping channel. Noticing a ship was approaching, he attempted to reverse the boat out of the channel and back into shallower water. At that time water began flooding over the stern of the boat, eventually causing it to capsize. Operator and his only passenger fell into the water. operator was able to retrieve PFD's for himself and for occupant. The two men held onto the hull of the boat until rescued by a passing boater. After arriving home, Operator contacted the USCG to report the accident. 

Operator reported losing his wallet and cell phone when the boat capsized. There were no injuries. Operator denied that he had been drinking alcohol and did not appear to be intoxicated at the time of my interview. The boat is owned by Operator's father, whom I also contacted regarding the accident.
 
The tow boat operator was unable to right the boat while on scene. The boat was being towed to Deckleman's Boat Yard in Essex, MD as of 10:00 PM on the evening of July 8, 2016. The boat is a white 2012, 20' Mako center console
 
 All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0089
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BUTTONWOOD BEACH
NearestCityorTown: EARLEVILLE
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 10, 2016 this Officer#1, responded to a boat accident that occurred at the Buttonwood Beach R.V. Resort boat ramp.  At approximately 1515 hours a 23ft Crownline motor boat named “xxxxx”, operated by the owner Operator1, collided with the end of the dock that runs adjacent to the boat ramp.  Operator1 stated that the vessel was having mechanical difficulty and would not shift in or out of gear.  The problem started when the vessel was out by the Elk River channel. The boat could move forward at slow idle speed of approximately 6 knots. Since the vessel was moving forward Operator1 decided to bring the vessel back to the boat ramp.  Their plan was to approach the dock and then turn off the motor and drift up to the dock.
There were five persons on board the vessel.  Operator1’s wife, Passenger1, their daughter, Passenger2, and husband, Passenger3 and their 20 month old son, Passenger4.  
As they approached the dock Operator1 stated he told the passengers to put on their life vests.  Passenger2 put on her life vest and the baby already had his life vest on.  Operator1, Passenger1 and Passenger3 did not put on life vests.  Passenger3 climbed onto the bow of the vessel and had a line in his hand, ready to jump onto the dock.  When the vessel was approximately 10 feet from the dock Operator1 turned off the motor.  Instead of slowing down the vessel quickly accelerated to approximately 20 knots and collided with the dock.  The bow of the vessel went up in the air and rolled towards the port side.  Passenger1, Passenger2 and Passenger4 were all ejected from the vessel.  The vessel came back down and stopped.  Passenger3 was still on the bow of the vessel and then he jumped into the water and swam the line to the dock.  He passed the line to a person on the dock and then swam over to the three persons in the water.  He assisted swimming the other occupants to the dock where they were all removed from the water.  

When this officer arrived on scene at 1536 hours, Passenger1 was lying on a bench and appeared to be in shock and had an abrasion to her left leg.  Her shoulder was also sore but there were no open wounds that I could observe.  She also apparently suffers from Panic Attacks.  A few minutes later an EMT arrived and after checking her vitals he advised her that she appeared fine but as a precaution she should go to the hospital.  Passenger1 refused to be transported to the hospital and signed a waiver to this effect.  The medical personnel also evaluated the baby and his vitals were normal.  There were no other injuries that required anything more than first aid.  
The boat had been removed from the water by security personnel at Buttonwood Beach R.V Resort and placed on a trailer.  This officer inspected the vessel and found it to have all the required safety equipment.  There was a 6” fiberglass crack at the bow on the port side just above the waterline.  The gelcoat was damaged and some cracking of the outer layers of fiberglass.  Upon inspection of the shift control the handle had no resistance and would not engage forward or reverse.  It appears the cable could be broken.  The dock sustained some minor damage.  There were some scuff marks on a piling and a board that had minor damage.  The damage to the bow and repairs to the shift cable and dock should be less than $2000.


BARDID: MD-2016-0090
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT - RT 50 BRIDGE
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 6, 2016 at approximately 4:00PM, myself (Cpl.) and Officers were dispatched to the Isle of Wight Bay, Worcester County Maryland for a report of a boat grounding with 1 subject injured. Upon arrival I noted 7 people in the water with a pontoon boat displaying a Maryland registration of 2857 LB attempting to maneuver in between the people in the water. I noted several different people grab at the controls of the vessel none of which appeared to be in any condition to operate the vessel.

I ordered the subjects onboard the vessel to shut off the engine to which they complied. I noted a subject in the water who appeared to be injured. I could see blood on his body and another subject who was later identified as Operator holding a towel on Victim's arm and hand area which was also covered in blood.  

Officers attempted to assist Victim onboard our patrol boat. As they did Operator let go of the towel on Victim's hand. At that time blood started to spray out in large volumes from the wound. At that time Officer applied a tourniquet to Victim which controlled the bleeding. We got Victim and Operator onboard our vessel. A good Samaritan helped us gather all the other subjects in the water and get them back onboard the pontoon boat. I noted that the pontoon boat was covered with numerous empty alcoholic beverage containers as well as blood. I also observed that all the subjects onboard the pontoon boat appeared to be intoxicated and not in a condition to operate the vessel. 

At that time Ofc. took over the helm of the pontoon vessel. As he did we observed a female who we had not initially seen emerge from underneath the pontoons at the engine block. Ofc. had to immediately shut the engine off and assist this person onboard the vessel. Had the vessel been put in gear this person would have likely suffered very serious injuries. Once all subjects were accounted for myself and Ofc. transported Victim and Operator into shore at Bahia Marina.

Ocean City EMS was on scene awaiting our arrival and immediately took over patient care as we docked. While speaking with both Victim and Operator I noted a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on both of their breath and persons. I spoke with both subjects to inquire what had happened. Both subjects advised that they had rented the pontoon boat and had anchored on spot near 20th Street to swim. While anchored Victim jumped into the water striking his hand on some piece of metal from the vessel. Operator realizing Victim had been seriously injured jumped in the water to assist him. Neither subject could recall how the vessel came unanchored. I had noted on arrival that there appeared to be no sign that the vessel had been previously anchored. There was no line with an anchor overboard and the vessel was drifting and under power during our encounter with it. I also noted that the original report to emergency serviced was that the vessel had run aground. I also thought it unusual to find the amount of blood present inside the vessel with the patient having apparently received the injury outside of the passenger area and then located in the water on our arrival. Ocean City EMS transported Victim to Atlantic General Hospital for further treatment.

 Ofc. met with and interviewed the other passengers. He also advised that all the subjects he spoke with appeared to have been consuming alcoholic beverages. They advised that Operator had been the responsible party for the vessel and the one authorized to operate the vessel per the rental agreement with the company. They also advised the Operator had been operating the vessel just prior to the incident. They did state the vessel was anchored at the time of the incident. 

 I spoke with Operator again. He stated that he had been the primary operator of the vessel. He stated that they stopped and had anchored the vessel. At that time he consumed 3 beers.  He said they planned to stay anchored for a while before the injury took place. While talking with Operator I noted that his speech was slurred and that his eyes had a watery and glassy appearance. I asked Operator how they had planned on getting back since they all had been consuming alcohol. Operator advised that they were going to stay anchored long enough that the effects of the alcohol would have worn off. 

 I asked Operator how far he had gone in school and if he was familiar with the English Alphabet. Operator advised that he had completed high school and was familiar with the English Alphabet. I asked Operator to recite the English Alphabet starting at the letter "C" as in Charlie and ending at the letter "X" as in X-ray without singing. Operator recited C-Z pausing at times and then singing at times the alphabet failing to stop at X. 

I offered Operator a preliminary breath test to which he consented to take. The results of the test showed an blood alcohol concentration of .13. At that time I placed Operator under arrest for operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol. I read Operator a NRP 482 advise of rights form. Operator verbally stated and signed the form refusing any further testing. I issued Operator citations for operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol as well as a copy of his NRP 482. Operator, the rented vessel and all its passengers were picked up by agents of the rental company. All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0091
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:51:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: BERLIN
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 17, 2016 at approximately 1452 hrs., writer was dispatched to the Sinepuxent Bay in area of marker 4 in reference to a subject being hit by a boat and was currently unconscious with CPR being administered. Writer and Cpl. arrived the same time as the local USCG. 

The subject/victim was lying on the deck of a pontoon boat and CPR was being administered. After a couple of moments, the victim was loaded on to the USCG vessel. USCG transported the victim to the Coast Guard station where they were met by Ocean City EMS. Writer asked what had happened. Several of the subjects on board stated that the pontoon boat had run over the victim. 

Writer asked who the operator of the vessel had been. Writer asked who the operator was, a subject who was later identified stated he was. Writer had Operator get onto our boat. We then escorted the vessel back to the MNRP boathouse. Once at the boathouse, Cpl. started getting information on all of the passengers. Writer took Operator into the boathouse. 

Once inside, writer advised him that he was not under arrest but that I wanted to advise him of his Miranda rights which I did. Operator said that he would answer questions. He stated that he had been operating the pontoon boat northbound at about 3/4 speed. The victim along with 3 other subjects were seated on the deck of the boat in the front. Suddenly, the victim disappeared off of the front of the boat. Everyone started screaming to stop the boat. He stopped the boat and turned the engine off. 

he and several other subjects jumped to the water and recovered the victim and put him onto the boat. They started trying to wave down help from other vessels. A local tour boat was in the area, the Explorer, responded. On board was a Registered Nurse, she got on board and started CPR. 

Writer asked Operator if he had drank any alcoholic beverages today. He said he had not. There was no indication that he had been drinking.

After taking the statement, writer advised Operator that in serious cases such as this he is required by law to submit to a blood test to determine his blood alcohol. He stated that that was not problem. Writer then took Operator to Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin where blood was drawn which is being submitted to Maryland State Police for analysis.

After the blood was drawn, Ofc. contacted me and advised that the victim had died. Writer then informed Operator that the victim was dead.


BARDID: MD-2016-0092
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARRIS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: WITTMAN
County: TA - Talbot
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/23/2016 at approximately 10:38 pm, I, Officer received a call from communications advising that a boat accident had occurred on Harris Creek and a female victim was located at Easton Memorial Hospital.  The victim had been in the Emergency Room for approximately 4 hours at the time communications was advised.  

 I arrived at the Easton Memorial Hospital at 11:10 pm.  I made contact with Victim, who was located in room #14.  I also made contact with (2) witnesses who were located in the room.  Victim was being prepped for flight to Shock Trauma Medical Center.  She stated that she was seated in the back of a “deck boat”, when she was thrown forward into the deck of the vessel from an abrupt stop, caused by the vessel striking a channel marker.  Victim did not have any other information and did not observe the channel marker prior to impact.  Victim’ injuries included a right clavicle fracture, multiple rib fractures on the right side of her body, a broken left thumb and partially collapsed right lung.

 I spoke to occupant1 at that time.  He stated that the group was on a vessel operated by his father.  There was (9) total occupants on the vessel.  At approximately 5:00 pm, Occupant1 stated that the vessel was exiting Cummings Creek and entering Harris Creek heading south.  Operator had turned to Occupant1 to go over a fuel location for the vessel.  Occupant1 stated that it was at this time when the vessel impacted the green day marker (#13).  

He stated that Victim was on the floor of the vessel after impact, and that a young male occupant was thrown into the water.  The young male was then retrieved from the water without any obvious injuries.  Another vessel picked up Victim and Occupant1 and returned them to the boat ramp located in Wittman.  Occupant1 stated that he then drove Victim, accompanied by to the Easton Hospital.  Occupant1 said that the bow of the vessel had a U shape impression in the center from the impact.  He estimated that the speed of the vessel at the time of impact was approximately 22-25 mph.  He reiterated that he did not see the marker prior to impact, due to his discussion with the operator.  A written statement was obtained.

 At approximately 11:50 pm, Victim was flown to Shock Trauma Medical Center
 At approximately 1:00 am, I arrived to interview the operator Operator, and take photographs of the vessel which was on a trailer at the location.  The vessel was identified as a 1997 23’ Monterey with MD registration “7397CH”.  I observed the center of the bow to have damage consistent with the impact of the channel marker.  Photographs were taken of the vessel.  The vessel is owned the girlfriend of the operator.  Damages were estimated at $1500.00.

 Operator was interviewed.  He stated that at approximately 5:00 pm, he was operating the vessel out of cummings creek, heading south in Harris Creek.  The vessel contained (9) persons on board.  Operator stated that the vessel was low on fuel and admitted that he asked his son Occupant1, who was seated on the port side of the vessel, which location the group should fuel up at.  

Operator stated that after the conversation he turned his attention back in the direction of the front of the vessel.  It was at this time that the vessel impacted the green channel marker # 13.  Operator stated that he did not see the marker prior to the impact and estimated the vessels speed to be at approximately 17 knots.  After impact, Operator stated that he assisted the young male occupant whom was seated on the front of the vessel and was ejected into the water.  He said that the juvenile was wearing a life jacket and was pulled back into the vessel, without any obvious signs of injury.  

Operator then turned his attention to Victim who was located in the floor of the vessel.  Operator called a friend to transport the subjects back to shore.  subject then returned to tow the damaged vessel to the boat ramp area.   Operator stated that he was not under the influence of any type of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident.  He admitted to consuming (1) beer around 12:00 pm. 

 All events occurred in Talbot County, Maryland.  Nothing further to report at this time


BARDID: MD-2016-0093
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 23, 2016 at approximately 9:00 p.m., I, Ofc. with the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call from the NRP CommCenter regarding a boating accident that occurred in the Chester River north of the RT 213 Chester River bridge.  Ofc. contacted the Chester River Hospital and spoke with a hospital employee.  Employee informed Ofc. that a 13 year old boy was tubing on the Chester River and fell off the tube, striking his head on the bottom of the river.  The boy was brought in by his parents at approximately 8:00 p.m. with a closed head injury.  Employee informed Ofc. that the CT Scanner at the hospital was down and that they were transporting the 13 year old boy to Dupont Children's Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware via ambulance
 
Subject said that the accident occurred at approximately 5:00 p.m.  She said that they were getting ready to head back to Duck Neck Park, located in Queen Anne's county.  As they were pulling the tube with Victim aboard, they made a turn and Victim fell off.  Victim did not complain of any injuries at that time.  After they arrived back at Duck Neck Park, they ate dinner and at approximately 7:30 p.m., Victim began complaining that his head hurt and he threw-up a couple of times.  They took Victim to Chester River Hospital at approximately 8:00 p.m.
 
Dad arrived at Dupont Hospital at approximately 12:00 a.m. on July 24th, at which time, Ofc. spoke to Dad and obtained information about the accident and the vessel.  Dad said that they were tubing just north of Buckingham Landing in the middle of the Chester River.  There was not a lot of boating activity in the area.  Dad began to make a turn and Victim fell off the tube.  Dad believes that Victim did not strike his head on the bottom of the river, but it was whiplash that caused the injury.  Dad also provided information pertaining to his vessel (2004 Regal 1800).
 
After Victim was examined, doctor's determined that Victim had a mild concussion and was slightly dehydrated.  Ofc departed the hospital at approximately 1:00 a.m. on July 24th.
The boat accident occurred in Kent County and the interview occurred in Wilmington, Delaware.


BARDID: MD-2016-0094
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAMBRIDGE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/25/16 at approximately 1730 hrs., I was dispatched to a boating accident near Sail Winds Ramp in Dorchester County. Upon arrival at Sail Winds Ramp, I received information from Capt. concerning the subject and vessel involved in the incident. The subject was taken to Dorchester General Hospital. The subject's vessel was retrieved by on scene fire fighters, and tied to the floating dock at Sail Winds Ramp. The subject's truck and trailer were left in the parking lot by the subject's wife as she went to the hospital with him. I secured all belongings left in the vessel and locked the truck. I left the scene and went to the hospital to make contact with the subject.

I made contact with the subject and his wife. While Victim went in to get x-rays and cat scan, I spoke with the wife. Wife stated that they had just finished washing the vessel, and took it to the ramp at Sail Winds to launch it to take it back to the home dock. Victim left in the vessel, while she drove the truck and trailer back home. When she was crossing Cambridge bridge, she looked in the river to see the vessel going around in circles. She immediately realized something was wrong. She called 911, and returned to the boat ramp. She could still see the vessel going around in circles. Another vessel was launching at the ramp with the following witnesses on board. Wife asked if they would take her out to the vessel to look for her husband. They went to the vessel and found Victim swimming near the vessel. They pulled him into their vessel and noticed the cuts from the propeller to his legs. They applied shirts to the wounds to stop the bleeding and transported him to the ramp. Dorchester 100was there waiting to provide medical assistance and transport Victim to Dorchester General. 

I then was able to speak with Victim. He stated the he left the ramp to take the vessel back to his house dock. He was going close to full throttle, speed unknown, when the vessel hit a wave that he did not see. He tried to stand to gain control of the vessel, and it hit another wave which threw him out of the vessel. The vessel began to go around in circles, around him. He stated that he thought he could get back on board and gain control of the vessel. Instead he was hit by the propeller of the outboard engine. This resulted in lacerations on his upper right leg. The witnesses and his wife came to his rescue and got him to the medics at the ramp. The doctor stated that he had some fractured ribs and he was going to stitch up the lacerations. I had found a Yeti cooler with 5 beers in it in the vessel, so I asked Victim how much he had to drink. He stated that he only had a few sips out of one beer just before the accident. There was no evidence of alcohol odor, or any signs of impairment while I conducted the interview. All safety equipment was onboard the vessel, and no damage was done to the vessel.
 
   All events occurred in Dorchester County, Md.


BARDID: MD-2016-0095
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KENT NARROWS
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3rd, 2016 I, Cpl., received a report from DNR communications of a vessel at Mear's Point Marina that had struck another vessel.  I responded to the scene to investigate.   I spoke with Operator1 onboard the vessel Out of Control.

Operator1 is employed by Alliance Marine which manages the maintenance of Out of Control.   At around 1100 hrs Operator1 was at the flying bridge helm of Out of Control returning from the travel lift and putting it back into the vessel's slip on "D" dock.  He entered the slip bow first because he wanted a previously damaged section of the rub rail along the finger pier.  The vessel was mostly into the slip when Operator1 wanted to slow down so he put both engines into reverse.  He was then unable to get the engines out of reverse.  The gear indicator lights flashed and beeped repeatedly.  Operator1 went down to the back up controls in the cockpit but they did not have any affect.  Out of Control continued in reverse out of the slip across to "C" dock.  The vessel Legacy was secured in it's slip on C dock with nobody onboard.  Out of Control struck Legacy in the bow.  Legacy rode up Out of Control's swim platform and then pushed through the transom door breaking it off in the process.  Legacy was pushed backed into the dock damaging its swim platform.  During the collision the piling off the Legacy's port bow broke off a couple feet below the waterline.  It seems likely the piling broke from the force of the Legacy pulling back on the dock line attached to it 
 
After the collision Operator1 was able to shut the engines down.  Out of Control drifted through the marina and until a captain and crew from another boat was able to help pull it alongside the fuel dock.  Later in the afternoon, the owner of Out of Control was able to manuveur the vessel back into it's slip with no issues
 
The main helm engine controls were manufactured by Glenndinning Marine Products.  They have an electronic linkage to the engines.  Operator1 inspected the cockpit engine controls.  He stated they should have been mechanically connected to the engines when originally installed but when he inspected them they were not.  They may have been upgraded to electronic linkage.
 
Subject1 was onboard Out of Control assisting Operator1 during the incident.  He was originally on the port side of the vessel getting ready to secure a line.  When the vessel stayed in reverse he went to the cockpit  at which point Operator1 came down and was attempting to use the cockpit controls.  When it was obvious a collision was imminent subject1 took shelter in the cabin.
 
Operator1's and subject1’s statement are consistent with the damage on all of the vessels and the piers. I have not been able to locate any witnesses to the actual collision.  Subject2 was on a nearby vessel and responded when she heard the collision and then assisted getting Out of Control along the fuel pier.  Her statement is attached.
 
All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, MD.  No further law enforcement action is required at this time.  The incident is closed


BARDID: MD-2016-0096
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATUXENT RIVER-BROOMES ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: SOLOMONS HARBOR
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Monday August 1, 2016 at 8:30 PM we were on boat patrol in the Solomon's harbor.  We had responding to the Solomon's Yacht club to assist Calvert Sheriff's department with a disorderly on the property.  Once on scene, I learned that there was no disorderly person but a sailboat, being operated by operator1, had just struck a docked vessel. Visible damage was done to the docked vessel in the pulpit area.

  Upon investigation, Operator1 was attempting to dock a 25' Catalina sailboat (displaying MD 5789 AC registration) under power in moderate winds and slight chop.  The outboard motor was not lowered all the way down on the bracket and the propeller was coming out of the water with the swells of the waves.  Operator1 did not have full control of the sailboat and the bow of the sail boat struck the underside of the pulpit and anchor of the docked vessel (displaying MD 7710 AD registration) .  As a result of the collision visible stress fractures could be seen in the gel coat on the pulpit.

  Operator1 was borrowing the sailboat and did not have the sailboat's registration with him. When I ran the Maryland registration numbers through DNR they came back expired as of 2003  I was able to speak with the Sailboat's owner on the phone.  I asked Owner about the registration and she said that the sailboat was recently purchased in Maryland but registered in Virginia she just wasn't able to return to Maryland and put the new registration numbers on the sailboat yet. When asked what the Virginia registration numbers are she was unable to tell me.  She was however able to give me the H.I.N. number of the vessel (CTYK0354M78B). The H.I.N. number given did match the sailboat and what was listed through DNR for the registration numbers displayed on the sailboat. With the assistance of the licensing and registration department I was able to check with Virginia's licensing department and there is no vessel registered in the state with the H.I.N. given to me by Owner.
 At this time Operator1 has been charged with operating a vessel on the waters of the state with expired certificate of numbers.  Trial has been set for October 17th, 2016 at 1:00 Pm. All events occurred in Calvert County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0097
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHINCOTEAGUE BAY
NearestCityorTown: SNOW HILL
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3, 2016 I Master Officer received a complaint call of a subject that wanted to report a boating accident that occurred Sunday July 31, 2016.  I made contact with the complainant.  Operator advised me that on July 31, 2016 his wife and he were  in the left hand side of the channel  traveling south in Chincoteague Bay near the green can buoy number 39, when his vessel struck a submerged object.  Operator was not sure of the exact time, but he did advise that it was during the late evening
 
Operator has a 34 foot Pursuit, white in color, with twin 250 hp engines on it.  The vessel has a valid Maryland registration of MD 9753 CR.  Operator advised me that the entire lower unit is gone from the impact, and he estimates the cost of the engine alone to be $30,000 to $35,000 dollars.  Operator says that there is some damage to the bottom, but he is not sure if that would cost a lot to repair the damage.  Operator advised me that while in the area the even when the accident took place he scouted the area to see if he could locate anything floating in the water, but he did not have any luck.
 
  According to Operator  no one was injured or needed medical assistance from this incident.  There will be no further enforcement actions from the Maryland Natural Resources Police, and I request that this case be closed.   


BARDID: MD-2016-0098
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 03 August 2016, at approximately 1900 hours, I was on boat patrol on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, MD.  I heard Garrett County Emergency Services dispatch an ambulance for injuries sustained in a boat accident.  I responded to the scene by vessel. Cpl. was also enroute by vehicle.  As I arrived to the community dock for the Sky Valley Community I was waived over by a group of individuals.  I noticed that a member of the Southern Garrett Rescue Squad was bandaging the lower calf of each leg on a male individual.  I later identified this individual.  The accident occurred at the very back end of North Glade Cove and the beginning of the Sky Valley area.  The Sky Valley Community docks were in sight. 

       Victim's mother was also on scene.  She advised me that the family was on their pontoon boat, MD 6414 CR.  Victim was wakeboarding off the back of the pontoon boat.  The operator stopped the vessel in order to allow Victim to board the vessel.  Victim began to board the vessel from the rear near the vessel's prop.  The tow rope became entangled in the vessel's prop.  Operator stated that he then noticed that the vessel was also in reverse.  Victim's left foot / lower leg became entangled in the tow rope as well.  Victim was now being pulled toward the prop.  Victim's right lower leg was struck by the prop causing a laceration to the lower part of the leg above the right ankle.  Operator shut the motor off as soon as he saw the vessel was in reverse gear.  I interviewed the operator of the vessel, Victim's father, separately.  His statement was similar to mother’s account of the incident. 
 
I observed on Victim's left lower leg just above the ankle a bruising / burn which appeared to be caused by circular constriction.  It appeared to have the print of rope in the burn.  The right leg just above the ankle was already bandaged upon my arrival.  I was advised that the leg had a deep laceration just above the ankle.  Victim was transported by Ambulance 932 to Garrett Regional Medical Center.  

   On 04 August 2016 I made contact with Operator to check on Victim's condition.  He advised that he received stitches to close the laceration to the right leg.  Victim was feeling much better and everything else was well.  I conducted an inspection of the vessel and found two violations that I documented by Notice of Violation.  The violations were related to registration and had no bearing on the accident.  


BARDID: MD-2016-0099
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY BOAT WORKS INC
NearestCityorTown: NORTH EAST
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 11, 2016 I OFC. meet with the owner of a 23’ Beneteau sailboat that was involved in an accident on the North East River on August 05, 2016.

V1 owner stated on August 05, 2016 at approximately 1600hrs, Operator1 and himself left their boat slip aboard Tana Mari a 23’ Beneteau sailboat. The sailboat is docked at Bay Boat Works. They headed south on the North East River. They entered into a Sippy Cup overnight regatta that started at red #2 buoy on the North East River and would end south of the Bay Bridge at green #91 buoy. This race is an annual event and was the third year they would be participating in the race
 
Between 1903hrs and 1908hrs Operator1 was at the helm and noticed another sailboat on a port tact heading their direction. Operator1 maintained course as the stand on vessel and still kept a visual on the other vessel. The other sailboat continued on the same port tact, Operator1 did not observe the sailboat try to alter their direction or speed. Concerned for his safety and V1 owner’s safety, Operator1 changed his starboard tact to a port tact to avoid a collision on the port side of the sailboat. The other sailboat was just a few feet away from the starboard side of the Tana Mari, while the boom was transitioning from a starboard tact to a port tact. As the boom was moving toward the starboard side, V1 owner and Operator1 believe the boom got caught in one of the stanchions on the other sailboat just prior to the sailboat colliding with the mid starboard side of the Tana Mari. The wind and force of the impact from the other sailboat torqued the mast of the Tana Mari causing it to shear off. The mast fell in between both sailboats. 

At this point both sailboats are caught up with the sails and rigging of the Tana Mari. V1 owner and Operator1 along with the other sailboat occupants worked to free the sailboats and avoid any more damage. They had a difficult time keeping the sailboats apart because of the wind and a 1-2 ft. chop. There was no conversation between the captains of each sailboat or occupants on who was at fault. The other sailboat had three people onboard, one male and two females. As soon as they were freed, the other vessel continued on with the race. V1 owner and Operator1 secured the mast to the sailboat and motored back to Bay Boat Works.

 At the time of the accident no information was exchanged. Tana Mari sustained major damage. There were some minor scrape/rub marks on the mid/forward starboard side of the sailboat and the mast sheared off the mounting bracket. The mast is torqued and the boom sustained minor scraps. Additional damage occurred to the bow of the Tana Mari while they were freeing the sails and rigging. V1 owner called the race coordinator to get contact information from the other vessel. Natural Resources Police were notified by V1 owner on Saturday August 6, 2016 to report the accident


BARDID: MD-2016-0100
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07 August 2016 at 1744 hours I received a call from DNR Communications advising that a boat accident victim had checked in the Emergency Room at Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) in Oakland, MD.  I arrived at GRMC at 1802 hours.  

     I met with the victim and his father in the Emergency Room.  I observed that Victim had a contusion around the right eye (black eye).  He also had lacerations to the face near the right eye, eyebrow, and nose.  These were covered with bandages.  Victim stated that xrays had been completed and that he was waiting for stitches.  

    I asked Victim what happened to sustain the injuries.  He stated that he was waterskiing on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, MD.  As he was being pulled behind the vessel Victim decided to try and jump the towing vessel's wake.  During the attempt he began to fall.  Both of his waterskies came off.  As he fell, one of the skis struck Victim in the face.  Victim stated that he was not being pulled near any object.  They were in the middle of the lake.  Victim was wearing a life jacket while skiing.  This was Victim' second time ever to waterski. 
 
    I interviewed the operator of the vessel.  The vessel was a rental boat from Deep Creek Marina, McHenry, MD.  Operator has had no official boater safety and considers himself a novice with powered vessels.  Operator gave a similar statement as Victim.  Operator stated that he was not sure how fast he was going since the speedometer was broken.  The vessel had a 190 Hp motor and he was at 3000 rpm.  (20 - 30 mph).  He was operating the vessel on a straight course at the time of the accident.  

     I left the emergency room and drove to Deep Creek Lake Marina, McHenry, MD.  The vessel that the Davis' had rented was MD 2905 LB.  It is a 19' Regal 1900 ski boat with ski tower.  Red and White in color.  Deep Creek Lake Marina was advised of the accident upon returning the vessel.  

    The vessel appeared appropriately supplied with required safety equipment.  

    No violations were detected.

    Two other individuals were in the vessel at the time of the accident.  Both are sisters to Victim.  Both were acting as observers for the waterskiing activity.


BARDID: MD-2016-0101
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LLOYDS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: BETTERTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 7th, 2016 at approximately 1700 hours, the operator of a PWC suffered a rib injury requiring hospital treatment.  Three people were at Lloyds Creek on the Sassafras River and decided to take a ride on Operator's 2015 Kawasaki PWC.  Operator was the operator.  They departed Lloyds Creek and entered the main stem of the Sassafras River.  The PWC has two power settings, a green "high performance" key and a yellow "cruising" key.  Operator was nervous using the green key as the throttle lever is very sensitive so she exchanged the green key for the yellow key.  They had only just departed the creek and were heading in a straight line at approximately 35 mph when Operator describes either hitting a wave or a wake, she is not sure which, and everyone on board the PWC was thrown off the rear of the PWC.   

It appears the PWC must have turned as it hit the wave for everyone to be thrown off the rear.  Operator struck the water and remembers feeling a pain in her side but doesn't remember hitting any object.  She did not strike any part of the PWC so it is likely she struck one of the passengers.  Operator knew she was injured but got everyone back on board the PWC and heading back towards the beach from which they departed.  At shore Operator decided to lay down on board a friend's 20 foot bow rider power boat.  After lying down for approximately a half hour Operator could not move and was having difficulty breathing.  So the other persons in their group stabilized Operator and headed towards White Crystal Beach, which is where they had departed from earlier in the day.  At shore they decided to contact EMS and Operator was transported to Christiana Hospital, DE.  

There were no injuries to the other passengers.
 
 
All events occurred in Kent and Cecil County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0102
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8, 2016, at 1900 hours, I, Corporal was dispatched to respond to Garrett Regional Medical Center in reference to a person being treated as a result of a boat accident.  I arrived at the hospital at approximately 1915 hours, and was led to emergency room 4A, where I met with a man being treated for an injury. 

  I identified myself to Victim, and informed him as to the reason for my presence.  Victim provided me a copy of his Drivers License, and when questioned, gave the following account.  

Victim stated that he had rented a personal watercraft from the Aquatic Center in McHenry that afternoon, and at approximately 1750 hours, was in the southern main body of Deep Creek Lake when he was thrown from his vessel.  Victim stated that he was the sole occupant of the vessel while traveling at approximately 30 miles per hour, and was making a turn, which caused him to be thrown forward from his seated position, leading him to strike the inner part of his right clavicle on the vessels handle bars.  Victim stated that there was some light vessel traffic in the area at the time, and that he may have struck a wake, but wasn't sure.  Victim was able to get back onto his vessel, and return it back to the Aquatic Center without incident.  Personnel at the Aquatic Center were made aware of the injury, and transported Victim by private vehicle to the hospital to be checked out.  

  Victim stated that this was his first time on a personal watercraft, and that he has 15 hours boating experience total.  Victim stated that his right collar bone area was sore, and had a small abrasion, but he did not believe it to be broken.  I cleared the hospital, and made contact with personnel at the Aquatic Center.  I was informed that the vessel Victim was operating, a 2015 Kawasaki STX 15F bearing Maryland registration MD 3316 LB, was undamaged as a result of the incident.  I was able to obtain all pertinent information regarding the vessel involved, and cleared the incident at 1945 hours.

  As a result of my investigation, no charges have been filed.
  All these events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0103
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8, 2016, at 2051 hours, I, Corporal, was dispatched to respond to Garrett Regional Medical Center for a person being treated as a result of a boat accident.  I arrived at the hospital at approximately 2110 hours, and made contact with the victim who was being treated in the emergency room.

  Victim stated on August 7, at approximately 1630 hours, he was being towed on a tube in the southern portion of Deep Creek Lake when he lost grip of the tube, and was sent into the water.  Victim stated that he felt a pain in his left shoulder at the time of the incident, but did not feel that it warranted medical attention at the time.  On August 8, Victim found that the pain had not subsided, and that he should have the injury checked at the hospital.  Victim stated that his brother had driven him to the hospital, and was going to return when he was done receiving treatment.  

Victim stated that his brother was the operator at the time of the injury, and that there were two other persons on board the vessel.  Victim stated that one subject was also on the tube at the time of the injury, but that he did not suffer any injuries as a result.  Victim provided me with his identification, and contact information for Operator.  Victim stated that Operator does not drink alcohol, and that he had not consumed any alcohol at the time of the incident.  I cleared the hospital, and made contact with Operator via telephone.  Operator stated that he would meet with me.

  At 2145 hours, I made contact with Operator.  Operator provided me with all pertinent information for the vessel involved, a 23' 2000 Malibu ski boat bearing Maryland registration MD 2859 BG.  Operator stated that he was the operator of the vessel that day, and that he was towing two on the tube in the area of Green Glade.  Operator stated that he did not know what the boat was doing exactly at the time of the incident, because Victim fell off of the tube several times that day, and never notified him when the injury occurred.  Operator collaborated the information given to me in reference to the persons onboard, but could not provide any additional information as to the incident.  While I was speaking with Operator, Victim called him from the hospital to inform him that he had injured a ligament in his shoulder as a result of the incident.

  I cleared the scene with no charges being filed against any parties.
  All these events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0104
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2016, at about 1152 hours, I, OFC, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from DNR Communication in regards to a recreational boating accident that just occurred in Still Pond Creek, related to YMCA Campy Tockwogh. DNR advised that a wakeboarder was injured in an accident and being transported to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown. 
 
   I arrived to YMCA Camp Tockwogh, located at 24370 Still Pond Neck Road, Still Pond, MD, 21678, at about 1233 hours. I subsequently met with Camp Counselor in reference to the accident. Counselor provided me with most of the information I needed for the boat accident report. Counselor advised that victim was wakeboarding in Still Pond Creek, as part of a camp activity. Counselor advised that Victim fell when the front lip of his wakeboard went underwater, which caused Victim to fall face first into the water. Counselor advised that he spoke to the vessel operator, who advised that the vessel was heading towards the Still Pond USCG Station at about 21 mph, just prior to the accident. She recognized that Victim was injured and possibly had a concussion. As a result, Victim was transported to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown via camp staff for treatment and evaluation.
 
  Counselor advised that he obtained the following information in regards to the accident:

 
 I arrived to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown at about 1327 hours. I met with Victim and spoke with him about the accident. He advised that he was wakeboarding, when the front of his board went under water. Victim advised that he was then flipped, face first, into the water. Victim advised that hospital staff advised that he had a concussion, with no neck injury. Victim was able to tell me where the other occupants of the vessel were sitting, for boat accident reporting purposes. Victim advised that the water was calm in Still Pond Creek, with little wave action. I thanked him for his time, wished him well and cleared from the area. 
 
All events occurred in Kent County.
This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0105
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
OtherAccidentCause: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 29, 2016, at about 2212 hours, I received a call from DNR Communications in reference to a report of a red and white vessel that had struck a barge on Chester River in the area of the Fish Whistle. DNR Communications (DNR) advised that the call came in to Kent County Emergency Services (Kent Central) and they advised that the vessel was taking on water and one occupant was standing on the barge. I responded to the Kent County NRP Patrol Boston WOperator1r located at the MD 213 Chester River Bridge. I knew that there was a construction work being done to the bridge and there was barge sitting under the drawbridge section of the bridge. 

I would later locate the boat and barge on the Queen Anne’s County, MD side of the Chester River, across from the Chester River Yacht Club. Three vessel occupants were found standing on the barge. The vessel operator admitted to being drunk. All three occupants were transported to the hospital for treatment
 
  I obtained all of the occupants identifying information and spoke to them about where they were sitting in the vessel prior to impacting the barge. Passenger1 advised that Operator1 was sitting in the starboard side driver’s seat, while he was sitting in the port side passenger seat, next to Operator1. Passenger2 advised that he was sitting in the bow, in front of the vessel’s windshield. Passenger2 advised that no parts of his body were outside of the boat. Passenger2 advised that when the vessel impacted the barge, he was ejected out of the boat and into the water. Passenger2 advised that he was not sure where he landed, but he knew that he was able to swim over to the barge and climb aboard. Passenger2 advised that he then went over and helped Passenger1 and Operator1 out of the sinking boat. I asked Passenger1 who was driving the boat. Passenger1 advised that Operator1 was driving the vessel. The men advised that they had just left the “Sand Bar”, which I know to really be the Rolph’s Wharf Sand Bar, located on land at 1008 Rolphs Wharf Rd, Chestertown, MD 21620. The “Sand Bar” is located on the Chester River about 1.8 miles downriver from the scene of the crash. Passenger1 advised that they got to the Sand Bar at about 8:30 PM and they all drank alcohol at the bar. Passenger1 advised that Operator1 had less alcohol to drink than he and Passenger2. I asked what time they left the bar. Passenger2 advised that they left the bar about 10 minutes before the accident. Passenger2 advised that he called 911 to report the crash at 10:05 PM (he obtained the call time from his cell phones call log). Passenger1 advised that they were heading back to the “Duck Neck Camp Ground”, located upriver from our location. I asked Operator1 if he had his vessel’s bow lights on. Operator1 advised that he did have them on. I did not observe anchor light displayed on the barge. I asked Passenger1 how fast he thought they were going. Passenger1 advised that he estimated that they were traveling about 40 miles per hour. Operator1 advised that he did not have any insurance for his vessel. I asked Operator1 about his address. Operator1 advised that he lived in Pennsylvania. As I spoke to all of the men, they all displayed slurred speech, had the overwhelming odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from their breath, and had very glassy eyes that were slightly bloodshot.


BARDID: MD-2016-0106
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FENWICK DITCH - OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday August 11, 2016 around 1400hrs I OFC. along with CO. were on boat patrol in the area of Ocean City near Harbor Island. We received a call from dispatch advising us of a boat accident involving a PWC and boat near Fenwick Ditch. As we headed to the area of the accident, I was advised that the PWC operator was being transported to North Side Park and was going to be flown to Christiana Hospital in Newark Delaware.

 Once on scene I made contact with the boat owner. Operator1 had a passenger on board. Operator1 told me that he had just gotten under way heading south to go see the boats come back for the White Marlin Open, taking place in Ocean City MD. Operator1 told me that while heading south he checked his navigational aids and checked for any traffic around him before he got up on plane. Operator1 told me he was operating at about 22 knots at this time. Operator1  said " then out of no where came a jet ski from my right side (starboard)". He stated "I tried to turn hard to my left (port) and hit the throttle but by that time it was to late the ski had hit my boat". 

 I asked Operator1 if he had seen the PWC before that moment to which he replied " no, she came out of nowhere and looked to be traveling at a high rate of speed about 50 knots". I asked V1 occupant if she had seen the PWC she replied "I didn't see it till we were about to make contact with it". I asked Operator1 after the collision what happened next, he stated 'the PWC popped up and V1 occupant noticed the lady behind the boat". He said that V1 occupant jumped into the water and they were able to get the lady loaded onto the swim platform. Once the female PWC operator was on board Operator1 then operated his boat back to his dock and he called 911

 Once at his dock, EMS arrived on scene and transported the female operator to North Side Park for transport to Christiana Hospital by life flight helicopter. I took several photos of Operator1's boat and finished questioning him and V1 occupant. 

 I informed Operator1 I would be in contact for further information at a later time. Myself and CO. were able to locate the PWC that a neighbor had towed to their dock just down the channel. I took a couple photos of the overturned PWC and we began to side tow the PWC to Harpoon Hanna's boat ramp located in Fenwick Ditch. OFC. was on scene at Harpoon Hanna's and was able to get the PWC loaded onto a trailer for transport to our Johnson Office located in Salisbury MD.

 Charges are pending for this incident based upon further investigation

Events occurred in Worcester County Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0107
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:28:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: SHARPSBURG
NearestCityorTown: SHARPSBURG
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Unknown
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2016, around 2140 hours, Officer#1 responded to a call for a missing boater with Officer#2 and Corporal#1. The missing person was said to be Victim1. The information reported to the officers was a boater had been out on the Potomac River in the Dargan area but had not returned. Officer#1 checked the C & O Canal for signs of the boater while directing Maryland State Police Aviation's Trooper 3 Helicopter. Officer#1 arrived at the Dargan boat ramp to where he was taken to a boat dock for the residence. Officer#1 observed Washington County search and rescue and Maryland State Police searching for the subject.
Officer#1 met with Uncle1, Cousin1, and Family Friend1. Officer#1 interviewed these three subjects on the dock where Victim1 was last seen going to. Cousin1 did most the talking. Cousin1 stated that Victim1 was at the residence visiting friends and family Cousin1 stated the group was having a good time together. The family did not know of any medications or illnesses that Victim1 had. Cousin1 stated that Victim1 had around 5 alcoholic beverages and dinner before Victim1 decided to go kayaking around 1745-1800 hours. Victim1 was going out on the kayak after a thunderstorm had passed through the area. The friends and family last saw Victim1 carrying Cousin1's kayak (A blue Acadia) to the boat dock. No one saw Victim1 launch the kayak or paddling the kayak in the water. Victim1 was described as being a balding, white male, average build, with a tattoo of the Chinese symbol for the year of the rat on his right calf. Cousin1 stated that Victim1 would go out alone and had experience in the area. Victim1 was last seen wearing black swimming shorts with a flower pattern on them. Cousin1 stated that Victim1 was not a strong swimmer. 
Around 2000 hours, Victim1's friends and family began to worry as it was becoming dark. Around 2100 hours, Uncle1 called 911 to report Victim1 missing. Around 2200 hours, Family Friend1 located the blue Acadia kayak downstream of the dock that Victim1 was using. The kayak had a lifejacket attached it. Family Friend1 claimed the kayak was pulled up the boat ramp approximately 20 feet and was well out of the water. Family Friend1 was not sure who might have pulled the kayak out of the water. The kayak was approximately 3/4 of a mile downstream of Victim1's possible launch point.  Around 2330-2345, Cousin1 located the paddle used with the blue Acadia kayak. The paddle was located approximately 40 yards from the dock that Victim1 was to launch from. Officer#1 took witness statements from Cousin1, Uncle1, and Family Friend1. 
Corporal#1 and Officer#1 stayed with the body of Victim1 until Mid- Atlantic Transport retrieved the body to transport the body for the autopsy. Sgt.#1 and Corporal#1 notified Victim1's mother and father.  
All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland besides the events documented as happening at the residence in West Virginia.  This incident has been coded as a fall overboard


BARDID: MD-2016-0108
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:19:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROCK HALL
NearestCityorTown: ROCK HALL
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, August 15, 2016 at approximately 0200hrs, I, Ofc. of the Criminal Investigations Section was notified by Sgt. to respond to Rock Hall Harbor in reference to a drowning that had occurred south of Swan Point and west of Windmill Point. Sgt., the SOD Duty Officer, also told me that the Underwater Operations Team (UOT) would be activated. 

Upon my arrival, I was briefed by Sgt., the Area 2 Duty Officer. Sgt. told me that a 21' Custom Fiberglass boat had overturned at the above listed incident location. Sgt.. stated that three people were on board; two had been located by Galena and Chestertown Rescue Squads and the third was still unaccounted for. One subject was transported to Chester River Hospital for evaluation. The 2nd subject was evaluated at the scene.

 The vessel remained at the incident location, overturned, and marked with buoys for safety
 Upon the arrival of the Underwater Operations Team (UOT), at approximately 0800hrs, members responded back to the incident location and side scan SONAR was deployed by Cpl. and Ofc., while Ofc. conducted a search of the area near the vessel. Ofc. located the missing person deceased near the vessel, on the bottom, in approximately eight feet of water. The decedent was transported to shore via Boat 8 of the Chestertown Rescue Squad. Forensic Investigator from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) responded, and the decedent was subsequently transported to the OCME for autopsy. The decedent's family was on the scene and notified.

 The investigation revealed that the three subjects were fishing (recreational) on board the above described vessel at the incident location. The three subjects had arrived to the area at approximately 1730-1800hrs and were periodically checking the weather radars on their phones. Information gathered revealed that they were aware of the storms on the western shore of the bay but their location remained clear. At approximately 2000hrs, a strong storm approached their location and the waves began to increase in size. Subject1 described the waves as being greater than 6' in height. At some point, a wave breached over the stern of their boat and before subject1 could do anything, a second wave came over the stern. Subject1 said that the outboard motor "cut out" and the vessel began to fill with water. Due to the weight of the persons, gear on board, and the stern filling with water, the vessel capsized. 


BARDID: MD-2016-0109
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:53:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE RIVER - DARK HEAD CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLE RIVER
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
 On August 17, 2016 at approximately 1350 hrs. I, Officer#1, was notified by Sergeant#1 of a reported missing person from a vessel. Sergeant#1 advised me that the incident had occurred on Dark Head Creek in Baltimore County and Maryland Natural Resources Police (MNRP) units were currently on scene as well as local police and fire agencies. While enroute to the scene, I contacted Sergeant#2, who was on scene, for additional information as well as a location to meet and speak with witnesses.  At approximately 1530 hrs., I arrived at Wilson Point Park where I was met by Sergeant#2 and Officer#2. Sergeant#2 stated that the missing individual was last seen operating a dinghy on Dark Head Creek and he was observed between the boat ramp at Wilson Point Park and a group of houses on the opposite shoreline. Sergeant#2 also stated that the dinghy had been located but was completely submerged (approximately 50 yards from shore) near the address of xxx Kingston Park Lane.

Officer#2 was able to provide me with the name of the missing individual as well as witness information. The missing person, victim1, was last seen wearing blue jeans and pink t-shirt. Witness information revealed that victim1 had a boat that required engine repair. The vessel was kept at his pier and he towed it across Dark Head Creek with his dinghy to Wilson Point Park where he met his wife and brother-in-law. Victim1 and his brother-in-law loaded the vessel onto a trailer and all parties were to meet back at the house. When brother-in-law returned to the house, he and Victim1's wife went to the rear of the home to check on Victim1. Brother-in-law saw Victim1 struggling in the water, unable to stay afloat. Brother-in-law said Victim1 was not far from shore and he (brother-in-law) began yelling for help. Wife ran towards the pier with a life preserver but by that time, Victim1 had gone under the water and he did not resurface.  
 On August 18, 2016, at approximately 0815 hrs, Officer#2 and Officer#3 were conducting a surface search of the area where Victim1 had last been seen. Officer#2 and Officer#3 located the victim's body floating adjacent to where divers had been looking the previous evening. The victim was recovered in approximately 7' - 8' of water.  Officer#2 and Officer#3 transported the victim to the boat ramp where a Baltimore County paramedic, pronounced the victim deceased. A Forensic Investigator was requested to respond to the scene and at approximately 0940 hrs, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME), arrived on scene. She contacted Alvin's Anointed Hands transport service and the victim's body was taken to the OCME.


BARDID: MD-2016-0110
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEY POINT
NearestCityorTown: PINEY POINT
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday August 14th 2016 I (Officer#1 of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) and Officer#2 were on patrol when we received a call in reference to a boat fire at the St. Georges Island boat ramp. We responded to the location and found an 18ft 6in Sea Ray that had been pulled out of the water with obvious burn damage. I went to the boat to take photographs and talk to the fire department while Officer#2 began interviewing the individuals on board the vessel. 
 The fire department informed me that when they arrived on location the boat was in the water, still tied to the dock. It was completely engulfed in flames and all individuals on board had already vacated the vessel. They extinguished the fire, and brought the boat onto land in order to prevent it from sinking. They also made me aware that Trooper 7 had been called for two of the individuals on board (Passenger1 and Passenger2) due to serious burns to their legs. The individuals were being flown to Med Star Washington Hospital burn center. 
Officer#2 interviewed the remaining four individuals that were on board the vessel. Operator1 was identified as the owner and operator of the boat. He reported that he had fueled the boat up that day shortly before arriving at the boat ramp. Once they had launched the boat and tied to the docks Operator1 ran the blower for approximately three minutes, started the engine, and then approximately three minutes later he heard “an explosion and saw flames shooting out of the engine.” At that time everyone evacuated the vessel before it became completely engulfed. Operator1 stated that he did not activate any switches on the vessel other than the blower and the engine start, and that no other electronics were active except for a battery-powered radio and cellphones. He did not see, hear, or smell anything unusual onboard prior to the accident. He said that he heard the blower motor running when he activated the blower switch
 Officer#2 then interviewed Passenger3, the left rear passenger on the vessel. Passenger3 did not recall seeing Operator1 activate any switches other than the engine start or recall hearing the blower motor running, but said that he is unfamiliar with boats. Passenger3 did not see, hear, or smell anything unusual onboard prior to the accident. Passenger3 said that after Operator1 started the vessel and it had run for approximately three minutes, he heard an explosion, then saw flames shooting out of the bottom of the engine box. The top of the box was blown open by the explosion, but he slammed it back down in an attempt to contain the fire.
Officer#2 also interviewed Passenger4 and Passenger5; however there was a language barrier. They both reported not seeing the operator activate any switches other than the engine start. 
 Operator1 provided his boater safety card and informed us that he had approximately 1,000 hours of boating experience. He further stated that the vessel was equipped with enough personal flotation devices for all those on board although no one was wearing one at the time, there was also a fire extinguisher on board which was not used in the incident. Operator1 was unsure if the boat was equipped with a backfire flame arrestor. Due to the damage from the fire we were unable to tell the make of the engine on the boat or if it had the arrestor. Operator1 had just purchased this vessel, the title was on board the boat and was destroyed in the fire, the bill of sale was at his residence. 
Deputy Fire Marshal#1 responded to the scene and assumed primary on the investigation.  Deputy Fire Marshal#2 interviewed the two passengers at Medstar Washington.
All events occurred in Saint Marys County, the case is currently closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0111
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: AQUALAND - POTOMAC- COBB ISLAN
NearestCityorTown: MORGANTOWN
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08-19-16 I received a call for service in reference to a boat fire at Aqualand Marina Charles County Maryland.  On arrival I was greeted by the local Fire Chief who had assisted fireboard in putting out fire.  Steeping on the vessel I headed below to the cabin.  Immediately to the left of the stairs was the galley.  The range appeared to be the source of the fire.  The Fire Marshall would later confirm this.  The water damage from extinguishing the fire was very minimal.  The Chief said that they had used as little water as possible.  There was substantial charring of the wood above the range and melting of the wall around it.  Upon his initial inspection of the damage, the Fire Marshall asked if anything had been removed from the cabin.  The Chief replied that," Yes, some burned towels were placed on the stern swim deck (shown in picture).  Inspecting the towels, two distinct circular burns could be seen on one that matched the circular burners on the range.  It was determined by the Fire Marshall the range was the source of the fire.  


  The owner of the vessel had been out on the boat earlier with some family and friends.  He reported he had no issues while using the vessel.  He tied the vessels up as usual and left the marina for home.  He received a call from Aqualand Marina approximately 30 minutes after departing to return to the marina and that his vessel was on fire.  The initial call came from two witness at the marina that reported the fire to Fireboard. Neither witness reported seeing anyone present on or around the vessel at the time of the fire. It could not be determined who the initial witness were.  Owner stated that he never used the range, had never tested it and in fact didn't know how to operate it. It could not be determined at that time how the range was turned on. The vessel remained secured at the marina.  As of this writing there is nothing to suggest this was a criminal act.  Owner contacted Progressive insurance in regards to his vessel is currently waiting for an estimate from them.

   This case is closed. A supplemental will be issued pending reception of further information. All events occurred in Charles county.  


BARDID: MD-2016-0112
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROCK HALL
NearestCityorTown: ROCK HALL
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 31, 2016 I, Ofc., was dispatched to Osprey Point Marine in Rock Hall for a boat fire. Once on scene I found several fire and rescue squads on station, both by land and by water. Rock Hall Fire Department was the lead agency. The boat, "Home Port",  had already burned to the waterline and no one was aboard.

The owner of Home Port was identified. The tender boat was a complete loss. It was identified as a Walker Bay with Maryland registration number 0255CS and hull Id# EWVGE433B515.

 37" Beneteau, "Max", that was adjacent to Home Port also sustained heat damage to the windows, side and sails from the fire.  

Several other vessels in the area were moved to prevent damage due to the heat of the fire. (See Attachments)

The USCG was present but departed after NRP arrived at the location.

All state and local emergency HAZMAT teams arrived to clean water after the fire was put out.  Massive amounts of fuel and oil were in the water along with the fire- fighting agents. 

The scene and the vessel was turned over to Deputy State Fire Marshal for continued investigation
 
All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0113
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SASSAFRAS RIVER - HOWELL POINT
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Aug 11, 2015 at 1530, a counselor at Camp Tockwogh was operating a 17' Flying Scot sailboat.  He had 5 campers, all wearing safety equipment, onboard and they were around the mouth of the Sassafras River off of the Chesapeake Bay, not far from shore
 
He stated that the main sheet got caught in the tiller and the sail would not move causing the vessel to pitch.
 
Victim fell from the bow area of the vessel into the water. She was wearing her PFD.  The other girls onboard helped her get back onboard. Once back on land Victim talked with the camp nurse.  Later that evening Victim was taken to Shore Medical in Chestertown.
 
Victim sustained a possible fractured tip of her middle finger on her right hand.  She was seen and released from the Shore Medical.
 
All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland


