# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: FL-2020-0193
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:16:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Privately Owned Pond
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS

On Sunday, April 12, 2020, at approximately 1216 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a single vessel accident, located in Manatee County, Florida. A 1977, 17-foot Alumacraft Canoe (V1) was paddled across a 3 acre (approximate) pond, located on private property. 

The operator was sitting at the rear of the canoe and was paddling. A juvenile occupant was standing near the center of the canoe and was fishing with a cast net. The juvenile subject threw the cast net and lost his balance which caused the canoe to capsize sending both occupants into the water without life jackets. 

Both subjects attempted to stay afloat but eventually sank and never resurfaced. Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dive team recovered both subject’s bodies from the bottom of the pond, a short distance from the incident location.

According to relatives, Operator had recently purchased the canoe and this was the first time that he had used it. Operator had over 100 hours of vessel operating experience and knew how to swim. The preliminary cause of death for Operator was drowning. The manner of death was ruled an accident. ;

According to relatives, victim knew how to swim. The preliminary cause of death was drowning. The manner of death was ruled an accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0194
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:46:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Sarasota Pass
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 with 9 people on board was slowly reversing up to another boat. Occupant of V1 was standing on the port side aft deck and jumped into the water. Victim struck their head on the motor/propeller and never resurfaced. Victim was located the next day by divers.

The vessel involved was a 19ft Smoker Craft deck boat, FL 7315 SN, (V 1) with 9 people on board. V1 was traveling in reverse at a slow rate of speed. One of the passengers was standing on the rear, port, swim platform as the operator was manipulating the throttle in and out of reverse attempting to move the vessel closer to the beach.

 At some point, when the vessel in 10-15 Ft of water, approximately 25 yards off the beach, victim willingly jumped into the water from the transom swim platform. Upon entering the water, victim struck his head on the propeller and did not resurface. 

The other occupants and witnesses on the beach entered the water to attempt to locate victim. Multiple agencies responded by water and land to search for victim. The Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) dive team located body the next morning (March 13, 2020) at 1040hrs in the same vicinity that the accident occurred in approximately 15ft. of water.

The 12th District Medical Examiners office ruled the cause of death as "drowning" with a contributing factor of "craniocerebral trauma" due to the propeller strike.; 

District 12 Medical Examiners office performed the autopsy on March 14th, 2020 at 10:00hrs.  The summary of the findings are:  Craniocerebral Trauma associated with propeller injury to the head 	i.	3-inch propeller injury- apical left parietal cranium 	ii.	Associated depressed skull fracture and superior cerebrocortical laceration 	iii.	Smaller scalp thickness propeller injury, occipital scalp without intra cranial trauma Stigmata of drowning 	i.	Acute fulminant bilateral pulmonary edema and congestion 	ii.	Bilateral acute pleural effusions 	iii.	Water in sphenoid sinus 	iv.	Stark contrast between grey and white matter 	v.	Congested petrous temporal ridges  The cause of death was ruled “Drowning” with the head injury as a contributory cause.  Toxicology results revealed that victim was negative for drugs but did have alcohol in his urine at a level of .14g/dL and blood at a level of .10g/dL


BARDID: FL-2020-0195
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: clearwater pass
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, May 12, 2020, around 1900 hours, boating accident #FWSW20-OFF009781 occurred in Clearwater Pass, Pinellas County, just outside of Shepard's Resort. V1 was cruising in Clearwater Pass with passenger on back of the PWC when the vessel hit a wave, causing the passenger's head to lurch forward and strike the back of the operator's head as the two were ejected. 

The operator was transported to Bayfront Medical Center where he was evaluated for a head injury and released. The passenger was transported to Bayfront Medical Center where he was treated for a head injury and admitted to the hospital. 

Based on interviews, evidence and information gathered to date, I find the accident was caused by rough sea conditions, operator inexperience and operator inattention. The operator of V1 and his passenger were likely enjoying the thrill of blasting through the waves at high speed and did not realize they could become injured or get ejected from the PWC due to the inexperience of the operator in rough sea conditions. The operator may not have been aware of the potential impact and resulting ejection as he was preoccupied with the thrill of the wave jumping.

Subject struck his head on the back of the PWC operator's head. Subject transported to Bayfront Medical Center and treated for a head injury. Admitted overnight. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0196
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Two females on a PWC at N 25 50.732 W 081 40.664 turned sharp while cruising around 20-25 mph. Passenger started to fall off PWC and pulled the operator with her. Operator suffered a broken wrist. Unclear if hitting the PWC or water during the fall caused the injury.


BARDID: FL-2020-0197
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: SUNNY ISLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck the outboard motors of V2 causing property damage and no bodily injury.  I administered a sworn written statement from the operator of the PWC, V1. He admitted to striking the cowling of V2 while headed southbound in the ICW. His statement was in spanish and translated to english (see attached document).

Operator of V1 admitted to striking the cowling of V2. He advised his vision was obstructed by water splashing in his face. There was damage to the port fender of the jet ski (photographed). There was a hole left through the white and blue cowling of the starboard Mercury 300 hp outboard motor.

I administered a sworn written statement from the occupant of V2. He wrote that they were travelling at a high speed when they ran into the rear of the boat. The PWC hit their motor causing enough damage that the motor cut off. There is also damage to the hydraulic system of the motor.

The V1 operator was cited for careless operation due to possibly violating navigation rules of following to closely, improper passing or other activity that caused him to collide with the vessel ahead of him. He was also given an infraction for failure to comply with boater education law.


BARDID: FL-2020-0198
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fort Pierce Inlet ICW
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was hip towing V2. V1 and V2 were heading north on ICW in Fort Pierce. While waiting for the north bridge to go up V3 approached at high speed causing wake. The wake created made V1 and V2 to collide together causing damage to V1.


BARDID: FL-2020-0199
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Keystone Lake
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a Personal Water Craft (PWC) was operating on Lake Keystone and heading back to the boat ramp between 10-15MPH when it bumped a floating dock holding a PWC, and suddenly increased speed.  

Vessel 1 traveled approximately 20-feet after bumping the floating dock at a higher rate of speed before hitting a fixed wooden dock.  The operator of vessel 1 struck his head on the dock and was ejected from the PWC, landing in the water face down and unconscious.  

Nearby people on land heard the PWC impact the dock and came to accident scene, found the vessel 1 operator in the water and removed him just moments before he regained consciousness. Vessel 1 operator was transported to a local hospital. 

Victim suffered a concussion with retrograde amnesia and a laceration on the bridge of his nose and left eyebrow.  Subject transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa FL.  He was admitted for observation and released after receiving stitches with instructions to follow up with his primary care physician.


BARDID: FL-2020-0200
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pine island sound
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/25/2020 at approximately 2130 hours V1 was traveling south bound from shell cut to captiva pass and V2 was traveling north bound from captiva pass to shell cut. 

V1 port side bow collided with V2 starboard side bow. V1 appears to have partially ramped V2 then continued to glance off V2 starboard side causing all 3 passengers from V2 to be ejected. 

V2 occupant received contusions on his lower left back. He also received a mild concussion. he will continue to undergo testing for a possible kidney injury.

Operator2 received a laceration to his right eyebrow requiring stitches. He never lost conciseness.


BARDID: FL-2020-0201
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were traveling northbound on the Intracoastal waterway, north of the 707 bridge.  Both vessels had recently entered a 25MPH zone. The operator of V1 stated that he had slowed down due to wake from other vessels / congestion and then began to “give it gas again”. 

The operator of V2 stated that he was travelling at approximately 20 – 25 MPH. As V1 was traveling north its port bow collided with the starboard stern of V2.

V1 collided into the starboard stern of V2 causing minimal damages. The operator of V1 failed to exchange information with the operator of V2 and did not contact law enforcement to report the incident. No injuries were reported at the time of the incident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0202
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Scharrer Bayou
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Single Vessel Accident - vessel struck a fixed object.

Vessel 1 (V-1), 10' Yamaha Personal Watercraft, is a commercial jet ski used by Wet Rentals and Tours in Clearwater, FL.  V-1 had been rented out by two subjects.  V-1 was cruising in a mangrove cut near Scharrer Bayou in Clearwater, Fl heading north toward Caladesi Island.  V-1 was traveling 20 to 25 MPH.  Operator1 was operating V-1.  Operator1 lost control of V-1 and vessel bow collided with the mangroves.  

Both operator and passenger were ejected. Both operator and passenger were wearing life jackets. Operator transport to hospital with head, arm and leg injuries.  Occupant received minor injuries and did not receive medical attention.  V-1 received minor damage.  

Envrionmental conditions: Clear daytime visibility, cloudy, calm water, moderate winds. Water temperature approximately 77F, air temp 80F. 

No citations issued. 

Occupant received a couple minor scratches on her knees and lower legs. 

Operator1 received a cut on the right temple, her right cheek was swollen, 7 stitches on her left elbow, 2 stitches on the top of her right foot, several cuts on her right lower leg, 10-12 stitches on her left leg below her knee, several cuts on her lower left leg, and over 20 stitches on her upper left thigh.


BARDID: FL-2020-0203
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HILLSBOROUGH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 22nd, 2020 at approximately 1507 hours, boating accident # FWSW17OFF006313 occurred on the Hillsborough River, Hillsborough County, Florida at dock. Vessel 1 (V1) with one operator and one occupant was operating northbound on the river. V1 was operating at high speed and navigated a blind right-hand turn in the river. V1 made a sharp right-hand turn close to the east bank of the river and did not see a dock extended into the river from the east bank until the last minute, which left the operator insufficient time to take action to avoid the collision. 

V1 collided with the deck portion of the dock at the front cowling and steering column. V1 operator and occupant collided with the deck portion of the dock and were ejected from the vessel. V1 operator sustained a severe concussion and was kept in intensive care at St. Joseph’s Hospital for approximately 12 days. The occupant of V1 was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital, given stitches for a laceration to her forehead, and was released. 

Occupant received a laceration to her forehead which required stitches.

Operator received lacerations to his forehead and under his throat, as well as a severe concussion which left him unconscious. Operator admitted and kept in ICU for 12 days.


BARDID: FL-2020-0204
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SKYWAY BRIDGE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 22, 2020 operator and the other occupants three of the vessel went out to go fishing near the Skyway Bridge. The sea conditions during that time were rough and a large wave went over the bow of the vessel causing the vessel to fill up with water. 

The bilge pump was unable to pump the water out in time. The vessel then capsized and all of the occupants placed life jackets on and went into the water.


BARDID: FL-2020-0205
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clearwater Pass
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 took on water over the bow due to large wake from another unidentified vessel.  V1, a white and blue deck boat bearing Florida registration numbers (FL 7122 RE) was under way heading east in the Clearwater Pass just east of the Sand Key bridge. 

Operator was heading east to return to the Clearwater Municipal Marina located at 210 Drew Street in Clearwater, FL 33755. According to Operator, another vessel described as a large blue boat with 4 engines was heading west on a plane creating a large wake. 

As Operator approached the wake, the bow of his vessel dipped into the wake causing a large volume of water to be forced over the bow into his vessel. Due to the large volume of water, V1 began sinking and Operator began passing out life jackets to each person on board. 

After a short amount of time, the vessel was underwater with just the Bimini top above the surface and all 8 people in the water. Several good Samaritan vessels quickly responded to the scene to help assist and gather the swimmers from the water. United States Coast Guard responded to the scene and began to tow the vessel and start de watering the vessel with their portable bilge pump. Pinellas County Sheriffs Office responded as well on their vessel to assist. Once enough water was pumped out of the vessel, it had resurfaced, and the Coast Guard continued to stern tow the vessel to the Clearwater Municipal Marina. Pinellas Sheriff’s Office transported all 8 people to the marina as well. Once at the marina all persons involved stated that they did not receive any injuries. Also, according to all persons involved, nobody was able to provide any type identifiers for the blue vessel that caused the large wake. Due to the limited description provided, the above blue vessel to date, was unable to be located.


BARDID: FL-2020-0206
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel accident involving two personal watercraft (PWC) occurred in the vicinity of  1300 Cove Cay Dr. in Clearwater.  The accident resulted in damage to one vessel with no injuries to either operator.      V2 was traveling NW of the center span of the Bayside Bridge followed by v1.  Speeds were approximately 20mph.  operator2 fell off V2 "going too fast".  This left an un-manned V2 in the path of V1. 

V1 struck V2 in an abrupt and extreme turn.  The hull of V1 struck the starboard side of V2 midship.  The momentum of V1 caused it to run over the top of V2 causing extensive damage to fiberglass, fairings and steering.


BARDID: FL-2020-0208
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caloosahatchee river
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was on the Caloosahatchee river. While wake jumping, Victim's head collided with his PWC causing him to be ejected from the PWC and receiving a laceration to his head. Victim sustained a laceration on the left side of his head above his left eyebrow going towards the top of his head. Victim's laceration required between 30 and 40 stitches to close the laceration.


BARDID: FL-2020-0209
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TEN MILE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was recreational cruising within Mullock Creek and attempted to navigate into the entrance of the ten mile canal.  

V1 impacted the mangroves on the east side of ten mile canal at slow speed. The impact and reversing out of the mangroves caused damage to the vessel's bimini top, windshield, and starboard side.


BARDID: FL-2020-0210
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-01-10 00:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOE BAY
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. JOE
County: GULF
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 01/10/2020 at approximately 1035 hours EST, V1 was found washed up on the bay side shoreline of St Joseph Bay at St Joe State Park near Eagle Harbor.  Attached to the vessel, via a nylon strap, was a deceased white male laying face up partially underneath and to the side of V1.  The white male was later identified.  The vessel (V1) that he was with was a 10 ft. Emotion kayak.  Also present at the scene was a rod and reel, personal items, and a life jacket (PFD) that was not being worn.

Investigation revealed that Operator was last seen on the afternoon of 01/07/2020 when he departed work.  Operator did not report to work the following day, 01/08/2020.  Operator's truck was found 01/11/2020 on the other side of St Joeseph Bay on Butler Bay Rd which is approximately 7 miles from where Operator was located.  The truck was backed in towards the bay as if it was used to unload fishing gear and possibly a kayak.  There was additional fishing gear inside the bed of the truck as well as a cell phone laying on the seat inside the cab.  The truck was noticed to have been locked and secured.  Gulf County Sheriff's Office towed the truck for security storage pending a family member to pick it up.

The victim was transported by Comforter Funeral Home to the 14th Judicial Circuit Medical Examiner's Office for a pending autopsy. "Other" used as contributor due to unknown reasons why the operator fell overboard, no witness or evidence to provide information on why the operator fell overboard.; 

14th Judicial Medical Examiner's Office showed his cause of death was drowning with a contributing factor of a heart condition.


BARDID: FL-2020-0211
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Peace River
NearestCityorTown: ARCADIA
County: DESOTO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
In this report the black Panther Airboat (FL5666PR) will be represented as V1. V1 was occupied by 3 subjects, according to the two subjects at the scene V1 was traveling north on the Peace River near Veteran’s Park in Desoto County. 

The vessel was cruising at approximately 15-30 MPH. V1 came to a left bend on the river just north of the State Road 70 bridge. V1 began its turn at a high rate of speed and started to skip across the water. 

V1 reached the eastside of the riverbank hitting a rock and then dry ground causing V1 to flip on its starboard side ejecting three occupants. The operator took off on foot. The two occupants flipped V1 right side up on to its hull.


BARDID: FL-2020-0212
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wacissa River
NearestCityorTown: MONTICELLO
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/22/20 I was conducting water patrol on the Wacissa River at the headwaters. I was conducting a boating safety inspection when I overheard an occupant state her friend had been in a boating accident “several weeks ago” and was injured after being thrown out of the boat on the Wacissa River. I asked her who had been in an accident and was told “Subject1”. I asked where to find Subject1 and was directed to a blonde haired male in a vehicle about to leave the Headwaters Park. I stopped the vehicle and asked if Subject1 was inside. Subject1 was in the back seat and I asked if he would get out to speak with me about the boating accident. My investigation revealed the following:

I asked Subject1 if he had been in a boating accident and he stated the following:  He and his girlfriend hit a rock a few weeks ago on Sunday May 3rd at approximately 12:00 p.m. They were in his new boat and travelling upriver in the area known as the Rock Garden but the channel was full of kayaks. Subject1 steered the vessel to the east side of the Rock Garden to avoid the kayakers and hit a submerged rock going approximately half throttle (15 mph). Subject1 was not aware of large rocks in that area. Subject1 girlfriend was riding in the front seat and was ejected. Victim sustained injuries to her face and left knee. Subject1 assisted Victim back into the boat and transported her to the Headwaters. Jefferson County Sheriff Deputies were at the boat ramp and were told of the incident. They offered to call an ambulance but declined. Subject1 parents were notified and they arrived to transport Victim to the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Northeast Emergency Room. 

I obtained all biographical information for Subject1 and Victim. I contacted Victim via telephone to ask about the incident. Her account of the incident was the same as Subject1. Victim advised she had been treated with stitches to the lacerations on her face including her right eyebrow, cheek, and lip. She also received stitches for the laceration on her left knee. She provided photographs taken at the hospital of her injuries prior to medical treatment which are attached to the report. 

On 5/28/20 I met with Subject1 at his residence to photograph the vessel. The vessel is a 2019 17’ Gator Tail aluminum open hull boat. The vessel was registered in Alabama displaying AL5256VB. Subject1 had a bill of sale from where he purchased the vessel but due to COVID19 closures he had not been able to apply for title. There was one area of damaged from the accident on the port side about mid vessel. There was a noticeable gouge in bottom of the side of the vessel that had removed the paint and showed bare aluminum. The damage did not penetrate the hull of the boat and was estimated at $250. 

The accident was caused by congested waters and striking a submerged object at an unsafe speed in violation of Nav Rule #6. The rocks were below the surface of the water and not visible to Subject1 or Victim. The channel is not marked nor are the underwater hazards. Subject1 was issued a warning for Violation of Inland NAV Rules.


BARDID: FL-2020-0213
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Marco River
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 23rd, 2020, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) and Lieutenant were on water patrol in Collier County. Lieutenant responded to an overturned vessel in distress approximately 1-mile North of the Jolly Bridge in a 30mph in channel zone, Collier County, FL. When he arrived on scene, Collier County Sheriff’s Office and EMS were on scene. There were 2 vessel occupants and a dog, which were on good Samaritans vessels and Sea Tow was recovering the vessel. 

Officer interviewed the vessel occupants on May 24th, 2020. The owner and his wife said the vessel was off balance after going over a large wake. Their dog fell on the vessel and subject went to get the dog, the shift of weight on the 15ft vessel capsized the vessel. Good Samaritans pulled them and their dog out of the water. Subject went with EMS and later transported to Physician Regionals Medical Center; she was cleared with no injuries. The vessel was recovered and towed.


BARDID: FL-2020-0214
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: PALM COAST
County: FLAGLER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 4th, 2020 a single vessel hit and run crash occurred on the Intracoastal Waterway, Flagler County.  V1 a 33’ 2004 Rinker cabin vessel powered by twin 225 hp inboard engines. V1 was occupied by two adults, one male and one female. 

V1’s operator while trying to pass another vessel lost control and had an allision with a dock. V1’s operator after allision failed to stop and exchange information. V1’s operator returned to his dockage. There weren’t any injuries to either occupant of V1. A hit and run investigation was started.


BARDID: FL-2020-0215
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Stuart Sandbar
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb tangled in vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was trying to anchor at the Stuart Sandbar when the operators hand got caught inside the automatic anchor chain and damaged his left hand resulting in multiple lacerations and causing the tip of his pinky to be amputated.  left hand he injured his middle, ring, and pinky finger. Middle finger had severe lacerations bruising and dislocations. Ring finger was broken, severe lacerations and dislocated. Pinky finger was broken, severe lacerations, dislocated, and the tip of his finger was amputated.


BARDID: FL-2020-0217
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Palma Sola Bay
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of a personal water craft (PWC) struck a stationary boat lift/dock.  The owners of the house were able to assist the operator out of the water and provide basic first aid until EMS arrived.  Damage was observed on the bow/hood assembly of the PWC. The operator vomited onscene and had minor scrapes/cuts and bruises on arms, hands, legs, and feet and was admitted to Blake Medical Center for further assessment. 

Operator stated they were doing one more lap around Palma Sola Bay with the dock on his right-hand side.  He stated a wave brought him closer to the dock, making the PWC very difficult to control.  He soon thereafter crashed into the side of the dock.  He told Officer that he had let off the throttle, therefore taking away the steering capacity of the PWC.


BARDID: FL-2020-0218
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Channel
NearestCityorTown: CORAL GABLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The victim fell while attempting to board V1 and cut his leg on the starboard motor's propeller.  Occupants stated they were in Biscayne Channel/Stiltsville when subject was attempting to board the vessel he fell back into the water cutting his leg on the propeller. He also stated his boat was in neutral drifting at the time of the accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0219
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Maurine
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/02/20 at approximately 1852 hours, V1 (2018, 11Ft, black and blue in color BRP personal watercraft bearing FL 7870 RR) struck a dock piling ejecting all 3 occupants into the water. According to witness statements, V1 was traveling South in Lake Maurine at a high rate of speed near the shore when it struck a dock piling on it's port side at the above listed address subsequently ejecting all occupants causing injury to each subject. 

The dock piling was split in half due to the impact caused by V1 and the boat lift also sustained damages. The operator of V1 and the two occupants were all transported and admitted to three different hospitals in Tampa. (refer to the injury supplement listed in report for a synopsis of injuries as it relates to each individual involved). Further investigation later determined that there were no serious bodily injuries sustained. V1 was recovered from the lake on 05/03/20 from its owner. V1 sustained damages estimated to be approximately $10,000. The damages to the dock are estimated to be greater than $2,000 dollars of property damage. 

At the conclusion of the investigation, the operator of V1 was issued a citation for careless operation of a vessel. 

Operator had lacerations to left leg and left ankle and contusion to left calf. Contusion to shin near knee on right leg (Hematoma)

Victim 3 had Left upper thigh contusion, right wrist sprain, left knee sprain.

Victim2 had Deep laceration on left knee with 10-12 stitches/staples. 3 stitches on left shin due to laceration. Big toe on left foot out of socket. Bruising on ribs and a minor burn on the right leg.


BARDID: FL-2020-0220
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: VENICE
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 22, 2020 at approximately 05:15, I Officer with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, received a call from Venice Police Department about a rental pontoon boat that belonged to Marine Max Marina had been in an accident. I drove to Marine Max Marina of Venice to meet with the operator and the owner of the vessel to conduct a boating accident investigation. 

	As I spoke with the operator of the vessel he told me that he was distracted looking at other vessels on the water and struck channel marker 55 on the front left of the boat, as you are facing it. The location of the channel marker is in Little Sarasota Bay.  He then explained that he checked the damages and boated back to Marine Max of Venice. At this time, I inspected the damages of the vessel and asked for a sworn statement. After receiving the statement, I cited him for violation of Navigational Rule #5, Improper look-out. 

	Upon Inspecting the channel marker 55 and the channel markers around them I did not notice any real damage to any of them. I was informed that the estimated damages done to the vessel are estimated to be about $5,000. This concludes my investigation.


BARDID: FL-2020-0221
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 stopped due to fouled anchor. V1 operator slipped off bow and injury occurred during entry into the water. Required overnight hospitalization.

The pontoon operator was trying to recover and stow a dislodged shallow water anchor hanging from the front deck.

 While attempting retrieval, she slipped and fell, landing on the starboard forward pontoon eye. The welded aluminum pontoon eye caused a significant right inner thigh laceration. She was assisted out of the water by the OCSO Deputies.

The Deputies were able to get both the pontoon boat and V1 operator to the nearest dock at Boogies Watersports (16 Harbor Blvd Destin, FL). They were met by the Destin Fire Rescue boat. VIctim was transferred by ground ambulance for treatment. 

She was held overnight at the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. She described her injuries as a 12' laceration requiring 20 staples.


BARDID: FL-2020-0222
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fort George River
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
A recreational personal watercraft with one occupant was cruising on the Fort George River at a high rate of speed back towards two other PWCs that were beached on the Southern end of Little Talbot Island. 

The operator was inexperienced with the waters and sandbars of the Fort George River which caused her PWC to run aground at a high rate of speed on a sandbar North of Alimacani Boat Ramp. When the PWC ran aground the operator impacted the handlebars and was then ejected from the vessel as it capsized towards the port side. 

The operators of the two other PWCs heard the accident happen and rushed to aid the victim. The Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department was called and arrived onscene with a rescue vessel. The victim was transported back to the Alimacani Boat Ramp and then taken by ambulance to Shands Hospital. She was diagnosed with a broken left arm, left foot, rib, and both wrists. As of 4/13/2020, the victim remains at Shands Hospital awaiting surgery which has been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On 4/13/20, I issued the victim a written warning for violation of USCG Inland Navigation Rule 6 "Safe Speed" resulting in an accident (first offense) and mailed it to her address.


BARDID: FL-2020-0223
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARGE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: MERRITT ISLAND
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Generator and fire extinguishe
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6, 2020, I, FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) Officer responded to boat fire call in Brevard County.  I responded to the area of the Barge Canal and Merritt Island Boat Works in Merritt Island where I met the Brevard County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) marine unit.  I got on their vessel and was taken to the scene just east of there.  I found a vessel that had sustained significant fire damage.  The vessel information was as follows:

- 2018 Robalo 
- 21 foot open fishing vessel
- Florida registration FL-2871-RT

After photographing the vessel, I met with United States Coast Guard (USCG) a short distance away.  On their patrol vessel were the operator and passenger who were onboard the vessel that caught fire.

The captain (owner and operator), advised that while anchored in the Barge Canal, smoke began coming from the head unit hatch.  When opened, a fire started.  The vessel's fire extinguisher was located for use, but did not function.  At this time, subjects donned personal floatation devices and entered the water to escape the flames.  Neither subject was injured.

The fire was attributed to a recently used generator that had been stowed away in the hatch.


BARDID: FL-2020-0224
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caloosahatchee River
NearestCityorTown: NORTH FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was leaving port when fuel vapors ignited and caused an explosion.  No other vessels involved and no injuries. 

During my investigation, Operator1 stated the following:
	-He was operating the vessel
	-Three people were on board at the time of the accident.
	-Subject1 was on the bow at the time of the accident
	-Subject2 was on the stern at the time of the accident
	-He turned the blower motor on.
	-He was pulling out of the slip at slow speed when he noticed the starboard motor had stalled.
	-When he turned on the switch to re-ignite the starboard motor, he heard the explosion and the vessel rocked as if it hit something (from the blast).
	-He immediately switched off all the electrical components on the console.
	-Subject1 was able to use a dock hook to push the bow of their vessel back towards the slip they just pulled out of.  
	-Subject2 was able to hook a nearby piling and assist with getting the vessel back to the slip.
	-He grabbed a fire extinguisher and began spraying inside the engine compartments.
	-Bystanders on the dock grabbed fire extinguishers and sprayed inside the cabin through a side window.  
	-No injuries were sustained as a result of the explosion.


BARDID: FL-2020-0225
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: INDIALANTIC
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 was attempting to drop off passenger on beach when a wave capsized V1. No injuries. Family dog did not survive .

It was very calm conditions and the ocean was flat. Operator was traveling at 1800 RPM as he left the Sebastian inlet heading north. He headed toward the beach to drop subject off on the beach so that he could get bait for fishing from the bait store in Sebastian River State Park. 

As the vessel approached the beach, Subject1 told Operator that a large wave was coming from behind the vessel and she was concerned it was going to break against the vessel. operator attempted to power away from the wave but the wave was too fast. the wave flipped the vessel throwing Operator and subject2 away from the vessel. Two people and the family dog were trapped under the vessel. Only one person was wearing a life vest. Both Operator and subject2 dove under the vessel and pulled the two people to safety. Operator went back and retrieved the dog. The dog was deceased.

The vessel washed up on the beach next to the rocks on the north side of the Sebastian State Park.  Sea Tow was called and the vessel was salvaged and turned over to Progressive Insurance at their request.


BARDID: FL-2020-0226
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Santa Fe River
NearestCityorTown: FORT WHITE
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 14, 2020, at approximately 1:15 p.m., the Columbia County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call from a subject who was visiting another person. Subject advised he discovered a person deceased lying near a small boat on the Santa Fe Riverbank. Upon Sheriff Deputies' arrival, a deceased subject was found lying face up between a small boat and the riverbank. At 1:27 p.m., FWC's Jacksonville Regional Communications Center was contacted by the Sheriff's Office and requested FWC's response.  Columbia County EMS Medic 03 responded and pronounced Victim deceased at 1:33 p.m. 

Preliminary evidence showed V-1 operated by Victim left Hollingsworth Boat Ramp and traveled a short distance down-river. For an unknown reason (possibly medical) V-1 turned at a 45-degree angle toward the north bank, impacting and traveling between two trees that extended out from the bank. 

V-1 continued several feet along the riverbank stopping with the starboard side partly on the bank and Victim laying face up between the vessels Starboard side and the riverbank. "Other" is used for unknown due to lack of facts or evidence to ascertain reason the incident occurred.

Victim sustained a laceration to the right forehead and lacerations to fingers on both hands. Also suffered from a medical condition, possibly a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Pending autopsy.


BARDID: FL-2020-0228
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: BIG COPPITT KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 28th, 2020 at approximately 2100 hours, a small scout boats operated by a resident of Rockland Key was travelling southeast towards the canal system of Rockland Key when it struck an unoccupied derelict sailboat. 

The subject operating the scout boat received scratches and bruises. The subject’s dog was ejected from the vessel during the impact. Unable to call 911 services, the subjects swam to shore for help and was then able to make contact with Sheriff’s Office dispatch for help. 

 At approximately 2100hrs, Operator was operating his 17’ Scout on the Gulf side of Rockland Key on plane in a southeasterly direction without the aid of radar. An unoccupied blue sailboat was adrift in the area and was not displaying any navigational lights to make other boaters aware of its presence. While trying to navigate through the area, Operator struck the stern of the blue sailboat, ramping up over the stern and coming to a rest on the starboard side of the sailboat with the Scout’s engine lower gear case wedged into the hull of the sailboat. 

During the accident, the steel cable wires used to hold the mast in place broke and entangled themselves onto the Scout. The mast of the sailboat came to a rest on top of the Scout’s operator’s seat; 

Operator sustained small abrasions to his shoulder. These abrasions likely came from the metal cable wires utilized to hold the mast of the sailboat in place. Operator was evaluated by Fire / Rescue and released on scene.


BARDID: FL-2020-0229
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
I met with the operator of the vessel and asked her what had happened. She said they had run aground and got loose. They were returning back to their dock so they could check the damage to the prop. She said while they were docking, there was a squall going by that created waves that caused the victim to fall and hit her head. 

Subject got a statement from the victim at Fisherman's Hospital. She said they were docking back at the condo and she was trying to get the line and a wave knocked her into the piling causing the injury above her eye.

It appears that it was weather that caused this fall in a boat.

The victim received 13 stitches and was released.; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0230
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityorTown: HIALEAH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 3rd, 2020 I was dispatched to Krome Avenue and mile marker 34.5 in reference to a boating accident involving a personal watercraft (PWC), which had resulted in injuries that required transportation of the victim via helicopter. The victim was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, Ryder Trauma Center. Officer was dispatched to Ryder Trauma to gather more information about the extent of injuries sustained by the victim, while at the Trauma Center officer gathered written statements from two witnesses. 

Officer was first on the scene. He gathered written statements and pertinent information for the accurate documentation of this boating accident. 

Upon arrival to the scene, I met with Owner who advised to be the owner of the PWC and the passenger of the same at the time of the accident. Owner had already provided a written statement documenting the events leading to the accident. 

On his written statement, Owner advised that Operator was operating the PWC and that he was riding in the back as passenger. Owner remarked that Operator’s family was present at the time of the incident. Owner said on his statement that Operator lost control of the watercraft and he was ejected. During my interview with Owner he advised that Operator also was ejected from the PWC. Owner said the PWC impacted the side of the canal on the west side, exiting the water and ejecting Operator who landed on the levee. Owner advised Operator was severely injured and was transported to the hospital. 
An eyewitness, also documented on a written statement that he saw Operator lost control of the watercraft, hit the side of the lake and the PWC and Operator flew out of the water resulting in Operator hitting the land. 

Another eyewitness, documented the events on a written statement and mentioned that he observed Operator operating the PWC. Subject said Operator hit the shoreline of the canal violently sending Operator forward, going over the PWC and landing on land. Subject advised Operator tried to stand up a couple of times but fell every time. 

Another person documented on a written statement that she felt a loud noise and saw Operator rolling on land. During an interviewed subject1 mentioned that Operator was asking unintelligent questions after the incident while everyone was trying to render aid. 

I interviewed Operator at her house, and she advised he did not remember anything about the incident. She said she could not even remember when she got on the PWC. 

Based on the information gathered, I believe that Operator was operating the PWC close to the west shoreline of the canal. The shoreline or edge of the canal consists of rocks, dirt, and grass. Per witnesses Operator got to closed to the shoreline and lost control when trying to change direction, the maneuver caused passenger to be ejected to the starboard side of the PWC. Operator continued traveling northbound and the PWC continue to go over the rocks and shoreline causing damage to the PWC and ejecting Operator toward the bow of the watercraft which resulted on her landing on the levee. 

The more severe injuries were on the right side of Operator’s body. Operator received surgical procedures to the shoulder due to her injuries. Operator advised her right arm bone broke and ruptured the arm’s skin exposing the bone. Other injuries include abrasions, cuts and lacerations on both legs and arms.

The contributing causes to the accident appeared to be careless operation, excessive speed, and no proper look-out.

No further at this time. OPERATOR:Fractured bones to the right arms. abrasions, lacerations to both arms and legs.


BARDID: FL-2020-0231
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 moored to dock. V1 undocking behind V2. V1 ramped over V2 port stern causing damage to both vessels. V1 starboard aft pontoon also struck same dock, with major flooding disabling V1.


BARDID: FL-2020-0232
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MEXICO BEACH CANAL/ GULF OF ME
NearestCityorTown: MEXICO BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
EquipmentFailure: Fire extinguisher
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
I was advised by Officer of a vessel fire in the Mexico Beach Canal.  Dispatch advised of no injuries and the engine caught on fire.  See detailed narrative.

Operator1 advised " we were idling thru the canal, when the throttle got stuck, I tired shifting the throttle and heard a loud pop.  When I looked back the engine was on fire.  I grabbed my fire extinguisher and when I popped off the safety tab, the fire extinguisher fell apart.  I paddled over to the condo where a lady name saw us in distress.  She threw us some fire extinguishers to put the fire out until the fire department arrived.  Then we paddled back to the boat ramp to recover the boat.


BARDID: FL-2020-0233
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/9/2020 a single vessel accident with an injury occurred in the ICW near Blind Pass in Pinellas County.  A subject on the back of a vessel slipped into the water and was injured on the leg by the vessel's propeller.

OPERATOR stated that he was travelling south through Blind’s Pass. The victim advised OPERATOR that he needed to use the bathroom. OPERATOR stated that to his memory he placed the vessel into neutral and advised he was driving. 

OPERATOR stated that the victim’s hat fell into the water as he was leaning over, the hat fell off the vessels starboard aft corner. OPERATOR placed the vessel into reverse and started maneuvering the vessel toward the victim’s hat while looking over his right shoulder. OPERATOR stated that the victim somehow fell into the water and was struck by the propeller. 

OPERATOR then stated that he might have left the helm and tried reaching for the hat himself when the victim fell overboard. Operator and several other occupants brought the victim back into the vessel and took him to the nearest residence on the water.

Victim sustained deep lacerations to his right leg from his upper thigh down to his calf. He was transported by EMS to Bayfront Hospital Emergency Room where he had emergency surgery to stop bleeding and repair his leg.  Contact with the vessel's propeller caused the damage.


BARDID: FL-2020-0234
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FRESH WATER LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CLERMONT
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
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:
Vessel #1 made a sharp unexpected left turn in front of vessel #2.  Vessel #2 collided into vessel #1's right side (center/rear) with the left front section of its bow, causing substantial damage to vessel and serious bodily injury to a juvenile passenger, who was later medevaced to a local children's hospital. 

Operator of vessel #2 was found to be the cause of the collision, however both PWC operators were issued additional citations under rule #5, #8, #16 and #17 of the U.S.C.G. Inland/Navigation rules.  

 Witness stated he was fishing on the pier overlooking Cricket Lake when he saw the two jet ski's operating in a "negligent" manner directly out in front of him.  Prior to the accident, he saw the man and woman roll over and fall off the jet ski, with the man and child driving over to assist them back on. Directly after that he saw both then heading towards each other. 

The man with the child, cut directly in front of the other operator, as if he was fishtailing in front to splash the couple. The couple collided into the man and child, causing the child to be thrown into the lake. He signaled the lifeguard for help who immediately went into action pulling the girl out with one arm and bringing her to shore.  He feels that the man with the child was the one at fault due to him maneuvering in a manner to attempt to soak the other jet ski couple, however prior to the crash both were "Horse playing around." 

Juvenile victim struck in right leg by other PWC, breaking right femur and right ankle. Ankle was dislocated.


BARDID: FL-2020-0235
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sebastian Inlet
NearestCityorTown: MELBOURNE BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 17th, 2020 I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on patrol when I received a call reference a vessel capsizing in the Sebastian Inlet, located in Sebastian Florida. 

Upon responding to the call, I was informed Indian River County Sherriff’s Department arrived on scene, located all members involved in the accident, and transported all members to the Sebastian Inlet State Park boat ramp with no injuries. 

Once I arrived at the State Park boat ramp, I spoke with two subjects on the only vessel involved. The vessel operator threw the anchor from the bow, the current swept the anchor and line into the vessels lower unit, the vessel then lost power, the anchor caught ahold of the ocean floor, the vessels stern was then anchored with the tide pushing water over the stern and into the vessel. 

Both subjects involved then put on their life jackets and abandoned the vessel as it began to take on water and capsize. Both subjects were picked up by the Indian River County Sheriffs Department. The vessel then broke from anchor and drifted out of the inlet and into the atlantic ocean. I then arrived on scene to take a report and assist sea tow in retrieving the capsized vessel. No charges were issued. No further action was taken.


BARDID: FL-2020-0236
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAND OLAKES
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed southeast around the East Lake cove, when V2 entered the cove from the canal heading in a northwest direction. V2 crossed in front of V1. The individuals on V1 jumped into the water and V1 collided with the starboard side of V2. 

No injuries were sustained.


BARDID: FL-2020-0357
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: old tampa bay
NearestCityorTown: tampa
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 states a pwc collided into bow of his boat, pwc operator laughed and refused to provide information, then fled scene.


BARDID: FL-2020-0358
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: san carlos bay
NearestCityorTown: cape coral
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was traveling at slow speed west of picnic island, next to the icw. operator of v1 was watching dolphins, wakes from heavy vessel traffic caused the operator to fall from the helm seat to the deck. operator was incapacitated due to severe back pain. one of the occupants drove the vessel back to the marina, operator was transported to the hospital.; subject has a history of back surgery


BARDID: FL-2020-0359
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: matlacha pass
NearestCityorTown: cape coral
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was traveling north in matlacha pass attempting to escape a thunderstorm. v1 became flooded when waves and rainwater collected in the stern.  Operator beached the vessel on master landing island to avoid sinking.  v1 deck drains were plugged preventing the evacuation of water.


BARDID: FL-2020-0360
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: snook hole channel
NearestCityorTown: marco island
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Occupant advised she and the operator of the pwc were going fast (+-30 mph) entering a small creek off snook hole channel. they turned left then right quickly upon entering then had to make another sharp left turn. Operator let off throttle and vessel slid into mangroves. operator was injured via a puncture wound in the neck from a mangrove branch. she applied direct pressure and started screaming for help. Her brother, on a different pwc, came to their aid.  operator received stitches to close the wound, no throat or arterial damage.


BARDID: FL-2020-0361
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-02-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: caxambas pass
NearestCityorTown: marco island
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
operator stated he took his pwc out from the marina staying in the channel way. he drove out caxambas pass and was turning north to head to keewaydin island when the vessel started to overheat and sounding alarms. 

the engine overheated and melted the carbon fiber exhaust port allowing water to flood the pwc.  a Good Samaritian pwc towed v1 back to the marina.  operator stated he had just received the pwc back from being serviced.


BARDID: FL-2020-0362
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-01-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityorTown: riviera beach
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
v2 was unoccupied and secured to the public dock on the west side of peanut island. v1 was facing east and leaving the dock. v1 turned around to travel westbound, while turning, the starboard stern of v1 struck the starboard side of v2 pushing v2 into the dock.


BARDID: FL-2020-0363
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-02-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: wpb stub canal
NearestCityorTown: west palm beach
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was traveling NB on stub canal, v2 was traveling SB. v1 made a right turn to the east into the path of v2. visibility was possibly obscured by the cattails/vegetation along the shoreline of the canal. v2 bow made contact with port side of v1. no injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2020-0364
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake rosalie
NearestCityorTown: lake wales
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was operating along the shoreline, the polymer affixed to the bottom of the hull broke free, cupping the water as the vessel moved forward. the cupping action acted as a water brake and immediately stopped the vessel.  the operator and occupant were ejected, the operators foot got caught resulting in a fracture to his left ankle.  vessel was recovered by local landowner and released to vessel owner.


BARDID: FL-2020-0448
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: HOLIDAY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
1 PWC with two persons onboard was being operated in open water.  Operator made a turn at high speed collided with a wake which brought the PWC to a sudden stop which subsequently caused both occupants to be ejected from off the PWC. 

Occupant sustained injuries (internal bleeding, internal trauma, lacerated spleen).

Operator sustained the following injuries as a result of the boating accident. She had a sprained clavicle and pubic bone. She also sustained a perforated left ear drum. she took herself to a walk in clinic in Clearwater and then saw a Ear specialist for her ear drum. She was given ear drops to prevent infection.


BARDID: FL-2020-0449
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/04/2020, at about 10:20 AM, a 19ft Sea Craft (V1) center console vessel bearing the Florida Registration Fl 6582 BE, departed a boat ramp in Plantation Key Colony and navigated through Tavernier Creek toward Crocker Reef. 
	V1 arrived at Crocker Reef at approximately 10:45 AM and set anchor. Once the anchor was set, all occupants entered the water to snorkel. A short time later, two people noticed the vessel was taking on water and swam back to V1. Once onboard, the vessel was swamped and the motor failed to start. According to his statement, subject1 tossed lifejackets to the other swimmers and shortly after, V1 capsized. 
	The occupants of V1 were assisted by an unidentified good samaritan vessel within a few minutes and TowBoat US and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Islamorada small boat arrived shortly after. 
	V1 was recovered by TowBoat US Islamorada. 
	USCG Islamorada asset transported the occupants of V1 to USCG Station Islamorada where FWC personnel met the group and conducted interviews. 
	According to an inspection of the vessel and interviews, it was found that at least one of the through-hull bilge plugs was missing causing the vessel to take on water.  
	V1 sustained minor damage due to the swamping of electronics but was in functioning condition again after minor repairs. 
	Nothing Further


BARDID: FL-2020-0450
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tavernier Creek
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 31st, 2020, at about 1530 hours, Vessel 1 (V1), an 11ft., blue, personal watercraft (PWC), bearing the registration FL 3231 RE departed from JSK Watersports in Tavernier Creek on a guided tour. V1 was the last PWC in the tour group of five (5) that included her boyfriend on a separate PWC, and the tour guide of JSK Watersports.

Guide guided the group towards the bayside through the Tavernier Creek’s slow speed zone. As the tour group left the slow speed zone an unidentified vessel was traveling towards the oceanside through Tavernier Creek, entering the slow speed zone. The first four PWCs passed without incident. While on plane V1 crossed the bow of the unidentified vessel and continued towards the south mangrove shoreline. She released the throttle as she attempted to avoid the south shoreline. Without power the PWC continued straight and collided with the mangroves, traveling at approximately 10-20mph. Operator1 approximates the time of impact to be around 1545 hours.


As a result of the collision Operator1 sustained 3 lacerations to her face over her left eye, a fractured fifth proximal phalange, a fractured fourth metacarpal on her left hand, and was forced off the back of V1.

In the collision V1 was scuffed on the starboard side forward of the registration numbers. The cap on top of the handlebars popped off in the impact and the reverse lever on the port handlebar was broken. The body, forward of the handlebars with the livery’s identifying number “3,” was gouged by a mangrove branch.

Guide and Boyfriend noticed Operator1 had not followed the tour group out of the creek and returned to check on her. They found her bleeding from the lacerations on her face and with an obviously disfigured finger. Guide towed Operator1 back to the livery and arrived there at approximately 1600 hours. Guide offered to call EMS and provide first aid. Operator1 refused treatment from Guide. Boyfriend then took her to Mariner’s Hospital for treatment for her injuries. 

I arrived at JKS Watersports’ livery to document the damage to V1 and take Guide’ statement. I conducted a livery inspection and found the livery to be in compliance.  

Operator1 sustained 3 lacerations to her face over her left eye that required 15 stiches, a fractured fifth proximal phalange, and a fractured fourth metacarpal on her left hand.


BARDID: FL-2020-0451
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was taking on water before it capsized at the shoreline. There we no injuries to the occupants. 

Once on location we observed a light blue center console vessel overturned at the shoreline. Boynton Beach PD and TowBoat US were on location and advised us that both occupants were safe and on shore. TowBoat US was able to float the vessel upright and tow it to Old Sportsman Park in Lantana. Boynton Beach PD transported the occupants by vehicle to the same location.

At Old Sportsman park we met with the occupants. Operator stated that he had launched his boat, a 2020 22’ Carolia Composites from Old Sportsman’s Park at around 0700 hours on this date. He then proceeded out of Boynton Beach Inlet and traveled approximately 7 miles south-west fishing at various locations along the way. 

He then proceeded to make his way back again fishing at various locations when at around 1315 hours, the boat felt heavy and could not get onto plane. He then tried to get his bilge working but had no success. He and his passenger put on their life jackets and radioed and waved for help. At this point they were approximately 2 miles south of the Boynton Beach Inlet and not far off the beach, so he started heading towards the shore. When they got near shore, they both jumped out and were able to walk to the beach. The vessel continued to sink before it capsized.  

The hatch from in front of the engine was missing and this may have been a contributing factor to the vessel taking on water.  Operator stated that he tried the bilge pump several times in both automatic and manual mode and neither worked. He also stated that he had never opened the hatch near the engine but recently had the boat in for service.  

There was significant damage to the T-top and the engine had been fully submerged.


BARDID: FL-2020-0452
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: NORTH PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4 August 2020, at approximately 1230 hours, Officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) were dispatched to a Boating accident that occurred at the North Palm Beach Marina located at 1037 Marina Dr, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. We met with North Palm Beach Police Department at the scene who reported the accident to dispatch. The crash involved 3 vessels, and it was determined that vessel 1 crashed in between vessel's 2 and 3 while trying to dock in their slip in the marina. 

Vessel 1 was entering into the marina to dock at their slip. While attempting to reverse the boat into their marina slip located directly behind the stern, their vessel failed to engage in reverse while trying to move the vessel backwards into the slip. Vessel 1 has electronic controls that control the transition of direction. Instead the boat was still engaged in forward gear and the forward momentum caused the vessel to glide forward and strike a wooden piling in between vessel 2 and vessel 3 causing some damage on this impact. An attempt was made to correct the error; however Booth stated the vessel’s controls failed to electronically switch from forward to reverse. Due to this vessel 1 went forward again with more force causing more damage on this impact to both vessel 2 and 3.
	
	After interviewing vessel 1 operator it was stated that some sort of mechanical error occurred on their vessel. The vessel has two sets of controls. while trying to switch from the interior controls inside the helm, to the aft controls just outside the helm, he stated that the aft controls would not engage, and he could not control the direction of the vessel. We could not determine if the mechanical error did or did not occur.


BARDID: FL-2020-0453
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST COWPEN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival I met Subject2 at the residence.  He informed me his dad was at the hospital getting evaluated.  Subject2 stated that they were working on the motor and he let his dad and daughter take the boat out for a test ride.  They were supposed to stay close to the dock but ventured across the lake.  

Subject1 stated she was sitting in front of the boat and noticed they were headed straight towards land.  She repeatedly yelled at her Grandfather to turn the boat, but he was staring straight ahead with a blank look on his face.  The vessel ran aground, throwing both persons to the bottom of the boat.  The vessel went partially through an old wire fence and stopped with the motor just out of the water. 

Both operator and Subject1 had minor scratches.  They pushed the boat back into the water with a four-wheeler.  A neighbor drove the vessel back to the dock.

Operator could not remember anything at all about the accident.  Subject2 thinks that his dad possibly had a stroke during the ordeal and called for EMS to check him out. He fractured a bone in his right hand and had bruising on his face.


BARDID: FL-2020-0454
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WORTH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26th 2020, The owner (operator) while docked turned the battery switch on to get his engines started and the switch started sparking causing the wiring to catch on fire. 

The owner try to extinguished the fire but the battery switch kept sparking. Fire rescue had to cut the battery cables off and vent the rest of the boat to eliminate any other secondary fires. Owner mentioned that a about a week prior to the fire he had Three Lakes Marina change two batteries. The boat was consider a total loss by the insurance company


BARDID: FL-2020-0493
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: madeira beach
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were rented from Mad Beach Watersports in Johns pass. while riding approximately 200 yards west of madeira beach, north of the pass, vessel 1 and 2 ended up in a head on situation. Neither vessel took evasive action and collided. V1 ramped v2 striking the operator and occupant, knocking them into the water.  occupant of v2 suffered a laceration requiring sutures from impact with v1 on her forehead.; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0494
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Law Enforcement, responded to a boating incident on 08/16/2020 at approximately 1730 hours. I was advised that the incident took place at approximately 1453, there were no injuries,  and that the vessels were located at one of the subjects residence.

Upon arrival, I met with the operator of vessel one (FL1866RM). Operator1 advised me that he was North bound in the ICW nearing the mouth of the Fort George River when a South bound vessel struck them. No one was ejected or injured. Operator1 stated that both vessels attempted to make evasive maneuvers to avoid collision, however one the vessels made an incorrect maneuver causing the vessels to collide. 

Operator1 also advised me that the operator of vessel 2 (FL1613NM) and his father were present and exchanged information. Operator1 and Subject came to an agreement for Subject to purchase vessel one for $19,000. 

Operator1 issued Subject a Bill of Sale and the title for the vessel. In addition, Operator1 is going to issue Subject a power of attorney for the vessel so Subject can take care of the insurance claim while Operator1 is on deployment as he is active duty and ships out later this week. Both parties were satisfied and were mutually agreed to this arrangement. 

While speaking with Operator2,  he stated that he was South bound on the ICW near the mouth of the Fort George River where he stated he was as far starboard as he could be. Operator2 added that the ICW was heavily congested and he had a vessel 20 feet away to his starboard. Operator2 then stated he observed a vessel approaching head on. Operator2 attempted an evasive maneuver to avoid collision. Operator2 added that Operator1 also attempted an evasive maneuver. 

It is unclear who made the incorrect maneuver based on both testimonies from both operators. However, both testimonies stated that both vessel one and vessel two attempted an evasive maneuver. No citations were issued.

The vessel collided on their portside bows in a glancing blow. Vessel one sustained moderate fiberglass damage, puncturing and ripping through the hull near the gunwale and a busted rub rail. Vessel two suffered minor damage displaying striations on the portside bow.


BARDID: FL-2020-0495
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Banana river
NearestCityorTown: SATELLITE BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling north in the banana river, into the wind, when two occupants switched places and the bow took on water. The amount of water was insurmountable eventually capsizing the vessel.

The owner of the vessel said that his daughter was operating the vessel north bound on the Banana River at about 5 knots. They were headed into the wind and his wife was getting sprayed by the waves so he volunteered to switch places with her. Once the two switched the vessel bow began taking on water over the bow. The vessel eventually took on so much water that it capsized throwing all occupants into the water. Two good Sam vessel came by and helped all occupants out of the water and to shore.


BARDID: FL-2020-0496
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: apalachee bay
NearestCityorTown: CRAWFORDVILLE
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24, 2020 at Approximately 0730am two subjects were transiting in the waters of the west flats area of St. Marks on his 16ft Carolina Skiff, the seas got to rough and overturned their vessel throwing them into the water. 

They were picked up by a good samaritan who brought them into the lighthouse boat ramp around 1330. Both subjects were not injured and were checked out by EMS.


BARDID: FL-2020-0497
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the vessel saw pod of dolphins and put the vessel in gear to see the dolphins up close. While the vessel was in motion two of the passengers jumped in the water and got hit by the vessels propeller. Both passengers received injuries beyond first aid. 

I spoke to the operator of the pontoon vessel. Operator advised they were out in the Gulf looking at dolphins. They were situated about 100 yards from the pass, dead center, facing northwest. She also advised she was operating the vessel. They spotted a pod and she began turning the vessel towards the port side to get closer. Operator advised the vessel was just in gear going as slow as it could go (idle speed). Operator advised that she suddenly heard a splash and realized two of the girls had jumped in the water to take a closer look at the dolphins. Operator said that as soon as she realized the girls had hit the water she had taken the vessel out of gear. However, immediately after that she realized the girls had gone down and had been sucked under by the current and hit the propellers. 

After speaking to the mother of both girls, Subject advised the girls jumped from the platform in the front of the boat and that they were not wearing life jackets. Subject advised she immediately jumped in the water to get the girls but the current was too strong to bring them back. She then yelled for help and another adult jumped in to help her with the girls. Both received propeller injuries. The girls were placed back in the boat and taken to Salty Pontoon Rentals to be taken to the hospital and receive treatment for their injuries. They were transported to Gulf Coast Medical Hospital. 

Victim1 received two lacerations to her right knee and some scrapes to her forehead.  Victim2 received several lacerations to the side of her head, neck, back and arm.


BARDID: FL-2020-0498
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne bay
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel exploded after fueling up at the Marathon fuel station and one occupant was transported to the hospital. 

I obtained sworn statements from the three passengers that were on scene. They advised the operator  had fueled the vessel and they were leaving the fuel dock when the boat exploded. They all gave similar accounts that when the vessel exploded they jumped into the water and swam back to the fuel dock.

Occupant1: Burns to the right foot and Minor burns to the left hand.

Occupant2:Burns to the right foot ; 

Operator: Two small cuts to the left foot.

Occupant3: Minor burns to the left foot


BARDID: FL-2020-0499
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I asked Operator2 what happened. He stated that towards the end of the jetski tour he was leading, he signaled to the group to stop. Operator2 said that he looked around before slowing jetski 2 down and jetski 1, operated by Operator1, was behind him far away. Operator2 said that he turned jetski 2 around and shut it off. 

He looked around again, noticing that Operator1 was not looking in his direction or slowing down. Operator2 said he tried to get his jetski to start, but it would not turn over. Operator2 said that he started jetski 2, but at the same time jetski 1 made impact with him on the Port side of jetski 2, at full speed. 

Operator2 said that he checked to make sure he was uninjured and then asked Operator1 of jetski 1 if he was okay, to which Operator1 stated that his lip was bleeding, but he was otherwise fine. Operator2 said that when they arrived back at the dock, Operator1 told the manager that he was not paying attention. Operator1 expressed the need to go to Urgent Care and left immediately.

	At approximately 1910 hours, Lt. contacted Operator1 to obtain a statement. Operator1 stated that Operator2 never signaled for the group to stop. Operator1 said that Operator2 turned completely around in front of him and stopped, leaving Operator1 little time to stop jetski 2. Operator1 said that he let go of the throttle completely and turned the handlebars to the right, trying to turn away from jetski 2. Operator1 stated that the force of the impact with jetski 2 caused him to hit his face on the handlebars and begin bleeding from his nose and lip.


BARDID: FL-2020-0655
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jewfish Creek
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel struck Red Channel Marker 30 in Jewfish Creek. Vessel operator was injured when his head hit the piling.  

There was a witness on scene that towed the boat and subject to Gilbert's after the accident. Witness said she saw the accident happen. She was given a sworn Written statement and wrote down what she saw. In her statement she states that Operator was on plane in the channel headed out into Barnes Sound when he turned to look back and turned the vessel to the port side and into the Red Marker 30. The engine was knocked off the back of the vessel when it struck the Marker. 

EMS transported Operator to Mariners Hospital for further evaluation where Officer (Also with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) met with and received a Sworn Written Statement from him. Officer photographed the injuries. In his statement, Operator describes the same scenario that Witness does. He said when he was coming up on plane his hat flew off and he turned around to keep his eyes on the hat while he turned the vessel around to get it and hit the marker. 

He stated the Dr. said everything looked good after a scan was done and he was released that day with 5 stitches.


BARDID: FL-2020-0656
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday October 28th, 2020 at approximately 1843 hours, a personal watercraft (PWC) collided with a 21’ pontoon vessel just east of Pace Picnic Island in Miami Dade County, Florida.  There were no injuries and both vessels sustained extensive damages.

Operator on his vessel saw the PWC(V1) coming toward them and tried to get out of his way but it was too late.  He stated that the PWC pushed the motor and back railings into the vessel.  They stated that no one was injured on their vessel.

Operator1 stated he was riding a rented PWC away from the island and he saw two boats in the water ahead of him.  He stated the guy who rented them the PWC’s told him to use the throttle when making turns.  Operator1 stated he throttled into the turn to avoid the vessels and when he turned right the PWC jerked left and he crashed into the back of the pontoon boat(V2).  Operator1 was not injured in the vessel collision.  Operator1 also stated this was his first time operating a PWC.


BARDID: FL-2020-0657
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC struck rocks on island. Operator and passenger ejected.
Operator went a distance to the Southeast of the island before turning around and coming straight back towards the island at approximately full speed. When he got close to the island, he let off the throttle and attempted to turn to the right away from the rocks. However, he got too close before decelerating and was unable to avoid the collision due to off-throttle lack of steering. V1 struck the rocks at a slight angle and both Operator and Occupant were ejected. Occupant landed on the rocks next to/underneath the PWC, and Operator landed approximately 10 feet away. Others went to help Operator and Occupant and ensured they were stable until fire rescue arrived and transported them to Aventura Hospital.; OPERATOR: Center and lower back pain. Abrasions on left palm and elbow.; OCCUPANT: Lower back pain. Left calf pain. Several small lacerations.


BARDID: FL-2020-0658
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2, a 1967 31 foot sailboat, with 3 occupants on board was traveling towards the Tampa Bay main shipping channel, when vessel 1, a 2007 38 open Tiara open fisherman, with 2 occupants on board, struck vessel 2 on its starboard side, causing damage to vessel 2 and one injury to an occupant on vessel 2.

All three witness statements say approximately the same thing(see attached).

-They were lowering the jib when they noticed a large vessel approaching.
-They started engine as vessel approached to avoid collission.
-As other vessel approached there seemed to me no one manning the helm
-Other vessel rammed them with their bow making contact with their starboard midship.
-Other vessel did not talk to them and talked to sea tow and left the scene.


While on scene I observed the damage to V-2.  They lost their mast and sail and had extensive damage to the starboard mid of the vessel.  Subject1 estimated the damage to V-2 was approximately 30,000 dollars.

On September 27, 2020, I arrived on scene of the operator of V-1 at his address on record.  Operator1 agreed to speak to me and I read him his Miranda rights.  He provided a witness statement the day before to Officer, but I wanted to reinterview him.  He stated that him and his son were on the vessel at the time of the accident  Operator1 stated that he was the operator of the vessel and that at the time of the accident he and his son did not pay attention and did not realize that they struck V-2 till after the collision.  Operator1 stated that he called US Coast Guard on VHF after the accident and also checked on the welfare of the occupants of V-2.  He stated that US Coast Guard gave him the all clear to leave the scene on VHF.  Operator1 stated that he contacted the occupants of V-2 after he left the scene and heard their contact information on VHF.  Operator1 estimated that the damage to V-1 was approximately 1,000 dollars;

Victim had BRUISING OF LEFT ARM.  PIECE OF METAL CAUSED SMALL LACERATION ON FOREHEAD.  REFUSED TREATMENT


BARDID: FL-2020-0659
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, identified as Florida registered FL4117MK, was drifting southbound on the ICW approximately ¼ mile south of Pine Island. 

Vessel 1 was operated by drifting with the current in reverse to keep the boat from spinning. At approximately 5:30pm, Passenger 1 and Passenger 2 jumped off the bow of the boat to swim.  When ready to exit the water, Subject1 asked Operator if the boat was in neutral. She advised yes. Subject1 swam around the port side to the ladder and boarded. 

Subject2 swam down the starboard side around the motor and was struck by Vessel 1’s propeller at a low speed as the motor was still in reverse rather than neutral. Subject2 was transported to Memorial Hospital with injuries.  

Admitted to hospital and treated with stitches and staples. Not life threatening.


BARDID: FL-2020-0660
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-10-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, October 17, 2020 at approximately 0800 I was called out to respond to Ryder Trauma Center in reference to a victim that was being treated for a laceration to the left thigh. 

After interviewing both individuals involved in this boating accident they both stated that the victim was standing in the water behind the vessel when he instructed the operator to engage the engine trim switch. The operator not having any prior experience or knowledge of vessel control systems, engaged the transmission in the vessel throttle control causing the propeller to spin causing injuries to the victim. 

City of Miami Fire Boat 15 responded to alarm number at approximately 0445 hours and transported both parties to an ambulance located at Miami Beach Marina where they were transported to Ryder Trauma Center for treatment of injuries to the victim. 

Victim had a Laceration to left thigh. multiple stitches.


BARDID: FL-2020-0661
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-11-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Lucie River
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 7, 2020 a large vessel was operating in the St. Lucie River near Harborage Marina. The vessel created a large wake that struck the Marina causing damage to the marinas dock and the vessels that were docked there. 

V1 had damage to its bow.  The vessels bow struck the dock and bent the anchor pulpit. V2 and V3 both received damage from striking the dock as well. The vessels had small damage to the fiberglass in the sterns about 6 inches wide. the gel coat was missing and the fiberglass was exposed.No injuries were reported and the vessel that caused the damage was not identified.


BARDID: FL-2021-0120
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mx
NearestCityorTown: HUDSON
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
March 26, 2021 VICTIM was a passenger on her boat, when it hit a wake.  VICTIM landed, and felt pain in her back.  She was taken to Bayonet Point Hospital in Hudson, FL.  She was diagnosed with a broke L1.  VICTIM was admitted for surgery and stayed at the hospital for 5 days.
VICTIM explained that they had been heading westward out the Hudson channel near marker 28.  She was sitting on the bow and was facing east toward OP1 as he operated the vessel.  VICTIM commented that OP1 had waved to another vessel.  Not realizing the other vessel was throwing a large wake, the passing wake impact threw VICTIM from her seat on the bow;
VICTIM: While traveling west bound in the Hudson Channel, near marker 28, an inbound vessel (eastwardly) created a wake that caused VICTIM to lift off her seated position, her impact back onto the vessel caused her extreme pain.  She screamed to OP1 that she needed to return.  OP1 navigated the boat back to the residence.  VICTIM's son was there and called for emergency services.  Pasco EMS took VICTIM to Bayonet Medical Center, Hudson, FL.    VICTIM suffered a broken L1 and required surgery to stabilize her spine, and was hospitalized for five days before being released to recover at home.


BARDID: FL-2021-0121
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-03-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Lake Tohopekaliga
NearestCityorTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
On March 13th, 2021, at approximately 2000 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a boat accident on East Lake Tohopekaliga near Chisholm park in Osceola County. Vessel one was a 33’ Avanti silver cuddy cabin aluminum hull boat that had 4 occupants. Vessel two was a 19’ Dolphin blue center console boat with 6 occupants. Vessel one was anchored with navigation and anchor lights on facing East approximately a half mile off the shoreline of Chisholm park. Vessel two was heading North on the lake when it struck the starboard side bow of vessel one and deflected off. One occupant from vessel one was seen by EMS at the boat ramp for central back pain. The estimated damage to vessel one is approximately $1500-2000. The estimated damage to vessel two is approximately $500-1000. 
FWC received a call that two vessels were involved in a boating accident on East Lake Tohopekaliga at approximately 2000 hours. Once on scene I observed vessel one on the South side docks and vessel two on the North side dock of the Chisholm park boat ramp. I ran both vessels through dispatch, and both were identified as:
Vessel 1: 1999 33’ Avanti Aluminum Hull
Vessel 2: 1973 19’ Dolphin center console 
I met with OP1 and he advised me that he was on vessel one anchored approximately a half mile to the West of Chisholm park with his three grandsons and that they were going to camp out. He advised me that he made sure that all of his navigational lights were functional and working and that his all around 360-degree light was working and on at the time of the accident. OP1 showed me that all his lights were functional and working. OP1 stated that he didn’t hear anything before the accident happened, and that his three grandsons were inside the cuddy cabin portion of the vessel when they were struck. 
I spoke with one of OP1’s grandsons. He advised me that him and two other passengers were all inside the cuddy cabin when vessel two struck them. After the initial impact, he advised me they didn’t know what happened, so they went out onto the deck to see.
I spoke with the operator of vessel two OP2 to receive his side of the story. OP2 advised me that they were headed back to their house in Fells cove after eating at the restaurant on the South side of East Lake Tohopekaliga. OP2 stated that they were traveling North across the lake at approximately 20-25mph when they struck vessel one with their bow. OP2 stated that he couldn’t tell the difference between OP1’s all around 360 light from the house lights while looking North. 
Another passenger was also standing at the console with OP2 while the other 4 occupants were sitting at the rear transom of the vessel bundled up due to the temperatures. He advised me that he couldn’t make out vessel one’s all around 360 light from the background lights as well. 
After the accident had occurred OP2 stated that they circled back around to make sure everyone was ok and advised them that they weren’t leaving. OP2 then stated that they helped vessel one get back to the boat ramp.

I issued OP2 a warning for violation of a navigational rule resulting in an accident (1st violation)

Pictures were taken of the damages to both vessels. OP1, OP2 and OP2 passenger all provided sworn written statements on their recollection of the incident.


BARDID: FL-2021-0122
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tavernier Creek
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
OP1 was approaching a turn at approximately 20mph when the steering system did not respond to the wheel turning. OP1 then shifted the engines into neutral and the forward momentum slide the vessel into the manrgroves. No injuries.


BARDID: FL-2021-0123
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Inexperienced Subject rented a PWC and suffered minor injuries, bruised right ribs and a laceration to the right cheek, after jumping wake and hitting handlebars.

OP1 stated that he had been “doing donuts and pushed the throttle to go faster and hit a wave the wrong way and smacked my face and ribs causing the cut. I have bruised ribs and laceration on right cheek.” OP1 was treated for his injuries at Lower Keys Medical Center and released.; 

OP1:The victim, suffered contusions to his upper right rib cage and a large laceration to his right cheek. OP1 was treated for his injuries at Lower Keys Medical Center and released. Photographs taken on my agency issued digital camera are attached.


BARDID: FL-2021-0124
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-03-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: New River
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, 03/27/21 at approximately 10:00 pm, vessel 1, a large, unknown vessel, was heading east on the New River in between Andrews Ave and SE 3rd Ave in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Vessel 2, a 35 foot pontoon boat, was heading west on the New River in between Andrews Ave and SE 3rd Ave in Ft. Lauderdale. Vessel 1 was passing a different vessel that was ahead of it and did not notice Vessel 2 until they were about to collide. Vessel 1 and vessel 2 made evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision. Vessel 1 struck vessel 2 on the port stern with it's own port stern at a slow rate of speed. Immediately after the collision, both vessels stopped to assess damage. Vessel 2 tried raising vessel 1 over the radio, but received no answer. Vessel 1 fled the area and Vessel 2 was unable to gather enough identifying information on vessel 1. Vessel 2 went to the dock and reported the accident.


BARDID: FL-2021-0125
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/8/2021 V1 made contact with three other vessels while attempting to dock at Sailfish Marina at 98 Lake Dr. West Palm Beach FL causing damage. OP1 told me that when he was attempting to back into his slip at the marina, the tide caught his vessel and pushed his starboard side against the bows of three docked vessels on the other side of the fairway. OP1 told me that marina staff assisted him while the tide changed and he was able to free his vessel, and back it into his slip. He advised me that he had based his arrival on the slack low tide of the Port of Palm Beach, a short distance away. However, the tidal current at Sailfish Marina is approximately 10 minutes later than the port. OP1 arrived at Sailfish Marina while the tide was still flowing out, pushing his vessel farther South than he intended


BARDID: FL-2021-0126
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2021-03-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Matecumbe Bight
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 11, 2021 at approximately 1440 hrs, V1 was traveling east back to the shoreline and struck a concrete dock pilling. Per OP1 witness statement he explained that he started riding in circles at mid-speed. He explained that he started to make his way back to shore when he approached the piling then struck it on the bow of the PWC. Causing the piling to completely break where contact was made and fall in the water.  OP1 said he was fine and did not need medical attention. However, the PWC suffered heavy damage and was totaled.


BARDID: FL-2021-0156
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Estero River
NearestCityorTown: ESTERO
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 cut across the bow of V2 causing a collision. V1 has mostly cosmetic fiberglass damage on the starboard side just above the water line. V2 has significant fiberglass damage to the bow. The vessels were approaching each other in a head on situation in an area of the river with limited visibility due to bends in the river. As the vessels came through their respected bend and could see each other, all the occupants of V2 stated, V1 hesitated and made several adjustments back and forth and seemed confused what to do. The occupants of V2 stated they moved toward the inside, shallow part of the river and came off plane to allow V1 to have the outer, deeper portion of the channel. V1 did not reduce speed, or appropriately alter her course. V1 left the outer limit of the channel and instead of passing port to port with V2, V1 crossed the bow of V2 causing collision. V1 sustained mostly cosmetic damage to the fiberglass along her starboard side, just above the water line. V2 sustained significant structural damage to the bow, causing the cap and hull to separate. Based on the damage, it appears V2 was sitting low in the water, off plane, while V1’s waterline damage shows that she was up on plane at the time of collision.


BARDID: FL-2021-0157
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf Of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was undocking from it's slip in the marina at Keys Fisheries Restaurant. As the operator turned to the East to exit the marina, a gust of wind hit the port side of the vessel and the operator was unable to make the turn and he struck V-2 on the port side. V-2 was unoccupied and docked.   There was damage to V-2 on the port side from V-1 striking it. There was damage to V-2 on the starboard side from V-1 pushing it into the dock.

There was no damage to V-1.

Boat Rental Company, came and drove V-2 back to the livery.


BARDID: FL-2021-0158
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 began dragging anchor due to foul weather. Operator then cut his anchor line when he was approaching bridge. Operator then attempted to power his vessel away from bridge but weather was too strong. V01 then collided with active power lines and bridge. FWC then removed operator from vessel and a salvage company removed vessel the next morning.; 

Operator fell in boat when collided with bridge causing a laceration and breaking his right foot. Operator was transported to USCG Marathon where EMS was waiting and treated him.


BARDID: FL-2021-0159
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: biscayne bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel was docked at the marina and when the vessel tried to leave the operator of the vessel almost hit one vessel, then tried to correct and hit another vessel then left the scene.


BARDID: FL-2021-0160
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-02-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf Of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west towards Fleming Key Bridge in the Gulf of Mexico at a medium rate of speed. V2 was traveling southwest towards Fleming Key Bridge at a fast rate of speed. The port side of V2 struck V1 at a fast rate of speed, causing V2 to end up on top of V1. The operator of V1 was ejected. The operator of V1 was pulled from the water by good samartians. Due to OP2 being seated behind the helm of the vessel, I believe OP2 was not able to see over the bow of his vessel. Which caused V2 to collide with V1.


- The operator, OP1 was transported to Lower Keys Medical Center.

- OP1 sustained several lacerations to the head and body, however is expected to make a full recovery. OP2 was admitted to Lower Keys Medical Center with several lacerations to the head and the body. OP2 is being treated for his injuries and expected to make a full recovery. OP2 will be released from the hospital within a few days.


BARDID: FL-2021-0161
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Islamorada Marina
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was exiting its slip at the marina. While turning the  vessel around to exit the marina, vessel 1 struck vessel 2 on the back right section. Vessel 2 was unoccupied and moored at the dock.


BARDID: FL-2021-0162
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PONCE INLET
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/10/21 at approximately 1315 hours I was dispatched to a reported capsized vessel in the middle of the inlet (Ponce Inlet). Prior to arriving on scene Volusia County Beach Patrol and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) rescued the operator from the water. I arrived on scene and was advised the vessel was currently capsized and drifting outside of the mouth of Ponce Inlet (note it was outgoing tide; strong winds, waves and current within the inlet). The operator/owner later identified as OPERATOR 1 by his FL learners permit, was uninjured and brought to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse boat ramp by USCG. I spoke with OPERATOR 1 who advised he and his parents had recently purchased the vessel and had not had it transferred into his name. OPERATOR 1 provided a sworn written statement (see attached) and contact number at the scene. OPERATOR 1 stated he was operating his vessel inside of the inlet when he attempted to turn around and head back in; due to bad water conditions; a wave went over the transom and capsized his vessel almost immediately. 
Once at Ponce Inlet Lighthouse boat ramp, OPERATOR 1 made arrangements with a tow/salvage company to retrieve the vessel, weather permitting. OPERATOR 1’s father advised the vessel had been retrieved but had suffered extensive damage. The vessel is going to be claimed as a total loss.


BARDID: FL-2021-0390
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Upper Tampa Bay
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday June 26, 2021, at approximately 1200 hours, boating accident # FWSW21OFFC13954 occurred on the West side of Bayside Bridge, Pinellas County, Florida in Upper Tampa Bay.  Vessel one (V1) with one operator and no passengers was traveling parallel and approximately 50 yards in front of Vessel 2 (V2).  V2 also had one operator and no passengers and was operating on the port side of V1.  Both children were underage and renting both PWC’s.  Since both operators were 14 years of age at the time of the incident, waivers had to be signed by legal guardians for them to operate the PWC’s.  According to statements given, V1 stopped or slowed down and his PWC veered slightly left.  V2 due to limited experience operating PWC’s tried to compensate by slowing down but still made contact with V1 on his Port stern side.  The damage on V2 was by the D-ring on the Bow on the bottom of the hull.  The operators of both V1 and V2 sustained no medical injuries and refused any medical treatment at the time of the accident.  Neither operator was ejected from the PWC’s they were operating.  Both children were wearing their required PFD's at the time of the accident.  Both V1 and V2 were rental vessels, and the owner was notified of the accident and damages to both vessels.


BARDID: FL-2021-0391
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/9/2021, V1 and V2 were operating in the Gulf of Mexico 20 yards North of Bunces Pass approximately 200 yards from shore.  At approximately 1500 hours,  V1 and V2 were involved in a head on collision causing damage greater than $2,000.  Neither party was injured.

At approximately 1500 hours V1 and V2 were heading north, V2 was slightly ahead of V1.  V2 made a sudden U-turn to the port side and the PWCs were involved in a head on collision. With the collision V1 started to ramp over V2 but did not ramp completely over V2.  
Neither party sustained any injuries.  V1 sustained some scuffs underneath the front portion of the hull.  V1 also had a small slice in the plastic underneath the bow.  V2 sustained multiple fiberglass breaks on the port side of the bow.

Conclusion 
Based on interviews, assessment of the damage, and information gathered to date.  The operator of V2  admitted to not looking before making a sudden turn.  Being their close proximity, the operator of V1 did not have ample time to react thus resulting in collision.


BARDID: FL-2021-0392
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING IN A NORTH EASTERLY DIRECTION AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED WHILE ON PLANE. VESSEL 2 WAS IN FRONT OF VESSEL 1 OPERATING IN THE SAME STYLE AND MANNER. VESSEL 2 THEN MADE AN ABRUPT STOP AND TURNED SHARPLY TO HER STARBOARD SIDE TO AVOID AN UNKNOWN GIVE-WAY VESSEL WHO WAS OPERATING IN A SOUTH EASTERLY DIRECTION ON PLANE, WHO DID NOT GIVE WAY. VESSEL 1'S BOW  STRUCK VESSEL 2'S STARBOARD SIDE BOW CAUSING BOTH OPERATORS TO BECOME EJECTED OFF THEIR VESSELS. THE ACCIDENT RESULTED IN SEVERAL MINOR INJURIES WHICH REQUIRED TREATMENT AT A MEDICAL FACILITY. ; 

Operator of vessel 1 suffered several cuts to her jaw area and was treated for a concussion from her impact with vessel 2. She was taken to Urgent Care: Med Express in Cape Coral, FL for treatment. ; 

Operator of vessel 2 suffered a bruised knee, ankle, and thigh and had an x-ray taken of the affected area from where vessel 1 struck her. She was taken to Urgent Care: Med Express in Cape Coral, FL for treatment.


BARDID: FL-2021-0393
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: DELRAY BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/05/2021 at approximately 12:30pm, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was notified by the Boca Raton Police Department of a boating incident. The incident occurred at approximately 11:40am in the intracoastal waterway just south of the Linton Blvd Bridge. A 21ft Hurricane vessel hit a large wake and an elderly female on the vessel was injured. 
I met up with the vessel (FL3722SY) and occupants at Spanish River Park in Boca Raton. I identified the operator as OP1. There were three passengers on the boat. VICTIM was transported to the Boca Raton Medical Center by EMS. The extent of her injuries at the time were unknown but not believed to be serious or life threatening. 
	OP1 stated he was driving the boat northbound toward Delray Beach when they hit a wake from a vessel that was southbound. Afterward his mother, OP1 who was sitting on the front port side seat complained of a back injury. 
	OP1 provided me with a sworn written statement detailing the incident
	On 07/08/2021 at approximately 2:00pm I called OP1 to receive an update on his mother’s condition. He stated she was discharged on 07/07/2021 with a minor lumbar fracture that did not require surgery. ; VICTIM:L4 Fracture


BARDID: FL-2021-0394
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:35:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mildred Lake
NearestCityorTown: INTERLACHEN
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Seat broke loose
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
For a detailed incident summary report, with photos, see "Detailed Incident Summary Report" in attachments or see ISR060533, which is linked to this BAR.
On 4/17/2021 at approximately 1235 hrs, the above listed individuals were fishing from a small 10ft aluminum Jon boat on Mildred Lake in Putnam county. The operator was sitting on a seat with a pedestal. According to the other two occupants, the pedestal broke causing him to fall over to one side of the vessel. This caused the vessel to turn over and all individuals fells overboard.  They treaded water for several minutes until a good Samaritan heard their screams for help. The good Samaritan used a Jon boat to row out to their location.  When the good Samaritan arrived, operator was face down in the water. The Samaritan pulled his head above water and they were able to row back to shore where Operator was transported to Putnam Community Hospital in Palatka. He was later pronounced deceased. The Investigation is ongoing.
CONCLUSION
Based on evidence, statements made, and information gathered to date, I offer the following conclusion:
The primary factors which led to the incident are, the overloading of the vessel and no boating safety equipment onboard. Primarily, no personal floatation devices.
The 10 ft Jon boat was overloaded. It did not display a Coast Guard capacity placard, but a boat of that size would generally be a maximum of two people and a weight of 300-350 pounds.  This would have been exceeded with the three occupants, along with their gear. 
The vessel did not have any of the required safety equipment onboard. Even with the vessel capsizing, having life jackets on or nearby could have prevented the drowning of Operator as well as the near drowning of a passenger. Victim was found floating face down in the water when a good Samaritan arrived to assist. The Victim was transported by EMS to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased by a Dr at 1314hrs. Autopsy report indicated cause of death was drowning.


BARDID: FL-2021-0395
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sunshine Skyway
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday June 10, 2021, at approximately 1615 hours, boating accident #FWSW21OFFC12421 involving one vessel occurred on the west side of the North Skyway Fishing Pier, Pinellas County, Florida.  Vessel (V1) had one operator and no other people on board.  The owner/operator of V1 is a charter captain who was cast netting for bait at the time of the incident.  While he was pulling up his net, the bottom got snagged on the rocks below and V1 operator tried to retrieve his net.  While pulling the snagged net up he slipped towards the center console and accidentally put the vessel in full throttle.  The net was secured to his wrist by a cord and pulled him overboard when the vessel pushed forward.  The vessel completed a few circles near the ejected operator until it started heading towards the pylons of the fishing pier.  The vessel made contact with the pier on the bow and port starboard areas of the vessel causing major damages.  The operator of V1 sustained no medical injuries and refused any medical treatment.  V1 operator was not wearing a PFD when he was ejected, but he is a good swimmer.  He was picked up by a good Samaritan who was near-by at the time.  The good Samaritan left the scene before being identified after the operator of vessel 1 was transferred to Eckard Search and Rescue.  Shortly after making contact with the pier the vessel capsized, cutting all electrical equipment off, including the engine and turned upside down.  Sea Tow was called to retrieve the vessel and both the vessel, and the operator were transported to Maximo Boat Ramp where the V1 operator launched from to return the crippled vessel back onto the trailer owned by the operator.


BARDID: FL-2021-0396
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V-2 was traveling southeast in the Destin Pass en-route to the Destin Harbor when V-1 observed V-2 violating the no wake zone. V-1 was attempting to conduct a vessel stop on V-2 in a marked Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office patrol vessel. V-1 was on the port side behind V-2 with the emergency lights and siren activated when V-2 noticed V-1. V-2 reduced speed quickly to a stop and turned to the left at the last minute in the path of V-1. V-1 was still closing the gap between vessels when V-1 realized V-2 had stopped. V-1 attempted to avoid V-2 by immediately placing the throttle in reverse. V-1 could not stop the forward momentum and struck V-2 on the stern port side. There were no reported injuries. A more detailed narrative to follow.


BARDID: FL-2020-0237
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Stanley (Back Lake)
NearestCityorTown: DEFUNIAK SPRINGS
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
FWC was called to Lake Stanley’s back lake reference a male that had fallen from a Kayak.  Walton County EMS and Defuniak Springs Police Dept (DFSPD) arrived first on scene.  The victim was transported to Healthmark Regional Medical Center in Defuniak Springs.  He was pronounced deceased at Healthmark.

V1 left from the south shoreline of Lake Stanley.  V1 was seen by an independent witness, being paddled northwesterly in Lake Stanley towards an area known as back lake. 

For unknown reasons V-1 capsized and Victim1 was separated from V1.

Victim1 was not wearing a PFD.  Witness heard a distressed person, looked and saw that Victim1 was in water and unable to get back to V1.

Rescue attempts were initiated.

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, Victim1 was ejected when the kayak capsized. Without the aid of a PFD he was unable to stay above surface.  Despite rescue attempts by Good Samaritan’s and Defuniak Springs PD and Fire Rescue, he died as a result of drowning.


BARDID: FL-2020-0238
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico - Pass-a-Grille
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Limb tangled in vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/30/2020 at approximately 1710 hours Victim lost 1/4 inch off his finger by getting it caught between the vessel and the anchor line.  This was the only vessel involved in this accident. The vessel was in the process of anchoring in Shell Key.  The front anchor was already down.  Victim was in the process of setting the rear anchor on the port side of the vessel.  He stated it was choppy due to the wind and vessel traffic.  His ring finger on his left hand got caught between the vessel and anchor line and caused a laceration.  He was missing about ¼ inch off the top of his finger. 

Officer and I were on state water patrol in the Treasure Island Causeway.   At approximately 1730 hours Operator’s vessel approached ours.  The passengers on the vessel were waiving at us to get our attention.  Victim and his girlfriend were assisted onto our vessel and placed in PFDs.  They were transported to Treasure Island Police Department to be evaluated by the Treasure Island Fire Department.  While being interviewed, Victim stated he had 5-6 beers.  It is possible this contributed to the accident.  Victim was later brought to Palm Hospital in South Pasadena to be treated for the laceration on his finger.; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0239
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Marys Inlet
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/31/20 the vessel Valhalla, DOC # 1036133 was eastbound in the St Marys Inlet.  At approximately 14:00 hours the vessel was located approximately 1 mile east of the end of the south jetty rocks in approximately 32' of water.  

The vessel was traveling at 9 knots. The vessel struck an object submerged in the water.  The collision resulted in a hole on the starboard side of the hull at the bow.  

Operator attempted to return the vessel to port, but the bilge pump could not keep up with the water intrusion.  Fearing the vessel would sink he grounded it on the beach inlet side at Ft Clinch State Park.  There were no injuries and no fuel spill.  


BARDID: FL-2020-0240
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ponce De Leon Inlet
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 01 (V01) was seen by the witness traveling east, exiting the Ponce De Leon Inlet to travel to the Atlantic Ocean. After approximately 45 minutes had passed the witness observed  V01 reenter the inlet, traveling west towards the Intracoastal Waterway.

Wind speeds were strong and the water conditions were hazardous with waves over six feet. The bow of V01 was swamped by the large waves, V01 operator stated that he attempted to displace the water from the bow to the stern by throttling up the motor. 

V01 Operators actions resulted in V01 diving down below the water line and sinking.


The witness vessel who was unrelated to V01 responded to render aid and rescued all occupants from the water before transporting them to a nearby responding U.S. Coast Guard Vessel.

Upon this Investigator's arrival to the scene all person onboard V01 were on the Coast Guard vessel and uninjured. Several attempts to locate V01 by the US Coast Guard and this agency were unsuccessful.

V01 Operator stated that he was unable to start V01's motor and that caused V01 to drift out of the Inlet for a short time. This contradicts the independent witness's statement.


BARDID: FL-2020-0241
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel (V1) was traveling South in the Destin Pass when a wave came over the bow causing the vessel to take on water. The operator continued South and another wave came over the bow.  The operator then turned the vessel North and a wave came over the stern causing the motor to turn off. 

A good samaritan barge attempted to tow the vessel North but was unsuccessful.  The tow line broke.  The vessel continued to take on water and capsized. 

The occupants were wearing PFD’s and swam to the dredge pipe. The occupants climbed onto the dredge pipe/buoy, where they were picked up by Destin Fire Rescue. Three subjects suffered abrasions from climbing onto the dredge pipe and one of the subjects also suffered a broken knee cap. The three subjects with injuries were transported to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center by EMS.

Victim3 suffered abraisons to his left knee/leg and was complaining of knee pain while standing. He was transported to FWB Medical Center to further evaluate his knee. 

Victim2 suffered a broken right knee cap and abrasions on the front and back side of her legs from the thigh down. She received treatment at FWB Medical Center and was transported there by EMS. Victim1 suffered abraisons on his left leg and ingested water. He was transported to FWB Medical Center by EMS.


BARDID: FL-2020-0242
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Weekie Wachee River
NearestCityorTown: SPRING HILL
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A Hernando Sheriff Deputy advised they received a call about a possible boating accident with injuries on the Weeki Wachee River in the area of Dawn Lane.  FWC Lt. , K9 Officer Specialist, and myself responded to Dawn Ln.  Contact was made with the individuals involved.  One occupant was ejected from the vessel and was hit by the propeller causing 3 lacerations to the front of his left leg below the knee.  Victim received aid from EMS and was transported to Bayonet Point Hospital for further treatment. 

Victim stated he was operating the vessel down river. They approached a bend in the river, so he stayed to the outside (his right side) of the river.  There were some overhanging branches that they ran under and one of the juveniles fears spiders, so they pushed on one of the branches.  

Victim then lifted his arm up to sweep under the branches.  At this time, when his arm came down, he hit the throttle arm on the tiller motor into high gear and turned the motor to port.  The seat cushion Victim was in was not securely fastened to the metal seat of the vessel and with the increase of speed and sudden change of direction, Victim was ejected off the starboard side of the vessel, no one else was ejected from the vessel.  

At this point, according to Victim, the vessel made a circle and he was able to grab the vessel and gain control of the throttle.  During this time is when the motor went over Victims leg and caused the 3 lacerations.


BARDID: FL-2020-0243
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. lucie river
NearestCityorTown: PALM CITY
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 6, 2019 at approximately 0930 hrs operator was operating his vessel a 36' cabin cruiser (v1) West in the St. Lucie River with 2 occupants. While operating at approximately 20 knots Operator1 failed to notice that he had traveled outside of the channel near marker 38. The vessel ran aground onto a sandbar causing the 2 occupants to fall inside the cabin.

Subject1 received a minor laceration on her lower leg. Subject2 struck his head and received a laceration to his ear briefly losing consciousness. The operator of the vessel Operator1 was uninjured. The vessel did not have any visible damage, but ran aground and most likely received damage to the props.; 

SUBJECT2:The subject received a laceration to the right ear and briefly lost consciousness after impacting the vessel during grounding;

SUBJECT1:The subject received a small laceration on the lower leg due to impact with the vessel during grounding.


BARDID: FL-2020-0244
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND/QUIETWATER
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
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: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
While recreating on rental PWC's V1 operator was instructed to return to livery, but disregarded staff instructions and made an additional "loop" prior to heading to shore.  

During "loop" V1 struck V2's starboard side at considerable speed, causing all occupants to be ejected from vessels.

OPerator2 sided bruising, contusions, right shoulder dislocation, neck stiffness, chiropractic aftercare and possible physical therapy.

V2 occupant:Contusions and soreness to r side of upper body, neck stiffness, possible neck injuries tbd, possible chiropractic and physical therapy aftercare.


BARDID: FL-2020-0245
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Padgett
NearestCityorTown: LAND OLAKES
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 16, 2020, at approximately 5:05 pm, an accident occurred involving a single vessel with one operator and five occupants. The vessel operator was backing off the shore, when he struck an individual who was in the water. The subject (13-year-old male), received injuries to his lower left leg from the vessel’s propeller. The subject was transported (by family) to Advent Health Central Pasco ER, where he was treated for his injuries and released. This vessel accident was reported approximately 24 hours after the incident.

Pre-Accident
V-1 with operator and occupants pulled up to the beach in Lake Padgett, just south of the boat ramp. Subject1 turned the engine off and exited V-1 to get / back the vessel trailer into the water to retrieve V-1. Subject2 and Subject3 jumped off V-1 into the water on the starboard side. Victim jumped off V-1 into the water from the stern. Victim was facing west (away from V-1 when he jumped into the water). Operator started V-1 engine at the same approximate time Victim hit the water (according to Victim).    

Accident  
Operator looked to make sure no one was behind him (according to Operator) prior to shifting the throttle on V-1 into reverse, in order to back V-1 off the beach. Operator stated he was not going fast. Operator stated he gave just enough throttle to get V-1 off the beach. Victim stated he turned towards the stern of V-1, as soon as he hit the water. Victim stated he was wearing his blue in color Crocs shoes, which caused his feet to float towards the surface. Victim stated that his lower left leg struck V-1 propeller, (resulting in 2 lacerations). Victim stated he grabbed the stern of V-1 and pushed himself away from V-1 propeller to avoid further injuries. 

Post-Accident 
Victim stated he was able to get himself onto the swim platform of V-1. Victim stayed on V-1 until it was trailered and pulled-up into the parking lot. Victim went into his bag, retrieved his towel, and wrapped it around his waist to conceal his injuries from everyone. 

Three people and Victim got on a golf cart and proceeded towards the house. While enroute, the golf cart lost power and stopped. During that time, subject4 told operator that Victim was crying. It was at that time, Victim advised them of his injuries however; not how he received them. Victim was transported to his grandmother’s house and she transported him to the Advent Health Central Pasco Emergency Room; He received numerous stitches.


BARDID: FL-2020-0246
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Whiskey Creek
NearestCityorTown: DANIA BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
A 17-Foot vessel with 5 POB ran aground in Whiskey Creek located in Broward County, Florida. 

After the grounding, the vessel collided with a tree ejecting two people who remained uninjured. One additional person was airlifted by U.S. Coast Guard Miami with a reported back injury. The airlifted person refused medical treatment at the hospital and was never admitted. No further information was reported. The vessel was salvaged by SeaTow. 

Individual was reportedly bleeding from her back and complained of a back injury. She was airlifted by U.S. Coast Guard Miami Helicopter to Palmetto Hospital in Miami-Dade, Florida where she refused treatment and was not admitted. No identifying information was received by hospital staff to verify identification.


BARDID: FL-2020-0247
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Doctors Bay
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The victim was bow riding on V1 along with along with another occupant. Occupant slipped off the bow of V1, and was struck by the propeller of V1. 

Victim was transported to NCH Downtown for treatment of her injuries. There are two severe lacerations on her left leg which resulted in broken bones, damaged tendons, soft tissue, and nerve damage. Surgery is required to repair the injuries. 

Victim was "bow riding" on V1, sitting on the bow with her feet in the water. Victim fell into the water, and attempted to swim down to avoid the propeller. Victim suffered contusions to her left arm, and severe lacerations to her left leg. The lacerations are consistent with strikes from a spinning propeller. One laceration is near the knee, and the other is near the middle of her shin. The lacerations caused broken bones, soft tissue damage, tendon damage, and nerve damage.


BARDID: FL-2020-0248
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAINT MARY'S RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/31/2020 V1 and V2 were conducting recreational cruising in the Saint Mary's River in the vicinity of Fort Clinch.

V1 was under way at less than 10 MPH when it struck the starboard side of V2, which was stopped, causing damage approximately $300 worth of damage to each vessel.

The passenger on V2 was treated and released at UF Shands North in Jacksonville, Florida for a possible concussion. Operator received scrapes and bruising to elbow, no treatment received.

The occupants of V1 received no injuries.

The operator of V1 is at fault for careless operation.

Case status:  Closed.

V2 occupant was treated and released at UF Health North Emergency Room for a possible concussion.; Operator2  received no treatment besides first aid for the scrape to his elbow.


BARDID: FL-2020-0249
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
While attempting to tow a vessel that was beached the towing vessel took a wave over the starboard aft stern and capsized.

On June 2nd at approximately 6:22 pm a Boat US towboat was attempting to recover a beached 44' yacht from the beach at Fort Clinch state park. The operator of the recovery vessel attached a line to the stern of the 44' yacht and attempted to pull the 44' yacht off  the beach. 

During the operation the recovery vessel took a wave across the starboard aft stern and caused the vessel that was under tension to capsize due to the water coming aboard and the wave action. The operator of the recovery vessel who was wearing his life jacket at the time was uninjured and was able to get on overturned hull of the recovery vessel and then swim to shore. 

Bystanders on the beach notified the Coast Guard who in turn notified the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission dispatch. Nassau County Sheriffs office responded to the accident and took information to relay to FWC. I was dispatched to the call on June 3rd at 6:00 am and arrived on scene at 8:03 and began my investigation and report. Due to the risky nature of vessel recovery operations and the experience of the tow boat operator (17 years) no charges will be forthcoming.


BARDID: FL-2020-0250
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, May 21, 2020, at approximately 10:30 am, Investigator and I received a call from dispatch reference a vessel fire at Rickenbacker Marina.  At approximately 11:00 am, we arrived at Rickenbacker Marina and located the vessels involved in the fire. 

 Both Miami Dade and City of Miami fire departments were there and had extinguished the fire.  As a result of the fire there were 9 vessels damaged.  Five of the vessels had moderate to severe (total loss) damage and the other 4 appeared to have sustained minor damage.

 In addition to the vessels damaged, the docks at the marina had 2 electrical panels and several pilings damaged by the fire.   City of Miami Fire department is conducting an investigation to determine the origin and cause of the fire, case # 20039949.  

It is believed that the fire originated somewhere on vessel 3’s deck (V3 is at fault)


BARDID: FL-2020-0251
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the vessel was trying to pick up additional people from the beach.  It was rough and windy.  The operator was in reverse backing up to the beach.  The occupants came to the rear of the vessel to get in the boat. A wave hit the boat pushing the vessel into the swimmers, cutting both of them with the propeller. 

One person received 12 stitches in her left leg below the knee.  The other person received 21 stitches in her left ankle and on a small cut on her right foot just above her big toe.  


BARDID: FL-2020-0252
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian River
NearestCityorTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5-28-20 at approximately 15:30 hrs, a 16' Gheenoe powered by 50 hp outboard was being operated on the Indian RIver just south of the Max Brewer Memorial Parkway in Brevard County. The vessel was had two occupants and was traveling north when a large sea swell struck the transom of the vessel causing the bow to be submerge into the swell in front of the vessel. 

The wave action caused the vessel to turn abruptly to the port side and the vessel rolled to its starboard side.  The vessel capsized and ejected both occupants. Both occupants were recovered unharmed and the vessel was transferred to the boat ramp with damage due to submersion.


BARDID: FL-2020-0253
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SUBJECT ON V1 JUMPED OFF BOAT WHILE IT WAS DRIFTING NEAR THE DESTIN BRIDGE. SUBJECT SWAM TO STERN OF VESSEL TO BOARD VESSEL ON LADDER.  WHILE NEAR STERN OF VESSEL THE OPERATOR ENGAGED THE MOTOR IN REVERSE CAUSING THE PROP T0 STRIKE THE SUBJECT IN THE UPPER LEFT LEG (THIGH AREA). THE INJURED SUBJECT BOARDED THE VESSEL AND WAS TRASNPORTED TO THE DESTIN HARBOR.  ; His wounds were not life threatening.


BARDID: FL-2020-0254
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INLET
NearestCityorTown: CRESCENT BEACH
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was on a plane in heavy a large sea state off of Matanzas Inlet. V1's female fuel line connector broke away from the engine. V1 ran out of fuel in heavy seas and went dead in the water. V1 capsized in heavy seas ejecting all three souls on board. V1 was pushed back to shore and turned over. V1 was towed and loaded back on its trailer.


BARDID: FL-2020-0255
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Dock damage
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 plowing with significant wake in restricted speed zone caused property damage to marina refueling docks


BARDID: FL-2020-0257
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Individuals on vessel were fishing.
The individuals on board were standing on one side and the vessel began taking on water. 
The vessel then capsized and all three occupants went into the water.


BARDID: FL-2020-0258
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:16:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST ANDREWS BAY
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Swimmer inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/11/2020, at approximately 1416 hours central time, swimmer 1 and swimmer 2 were snorkeling in St Andrews Bay, underneath the Hathaway Bridge, in Bay County, Florida.  At that time, vessel 1 was traveling in a northerly direction and approaching the Hathaway Bridge as it was traveling through.  Vessel 1 struck both swimmers where Victim1's right arm was severely injured and Victim2 went missing.  

Victim2 body was recovered by FWC divers the next day on 4/12/2020 at the accident scene where he had been fatally struck by Vessel 1. Based on evidence and information gathered to date, it was determined that Victim1 and Victim2 were snorkeling (swimming / free diving) in St. Andrews Bay in the third opening from the east side of the Hathaway Bridge and proceeding in a westerly direction towards the third pylon.  

Victim1 and Victim2 were both wearing dark colored neoprene wet suits (camouflage and black / blue.)  Victim1 and Victim2 were both utilizing masks and snorkels so they could keep their heads down and still be able to see and breathe while swimming and spear fishing below the surface of the water.  Victim1 had his head down trying to untangle his leash line on his pole spear.  

Both Swimmers (divers) were not displaying a divers down flag nor was there one in the vicinity.  ; 

Victim1 was admitted to the hospital for severe lacerations and injuries he sustained from propeller contact, which required surgery and treatment.  Victim1 was discharged from the hospital on 4/16/2020 with pending follow-ups.  

Victim2 was struck by V1's propeller as he was snorkeling underneath the Hathaway Bridge on 4/11/2020.  Victim2 body was recovered at the accident scene by the FWC Dive Team on 4/12/2020.  The cause of death was an accident due to head trauma.


BARDID: FL-2020-0259
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: SOPCHOPPY
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 30th, 2020 I was dispatched to a vessel off the Rock Landing channel which was submerged. The four individuals onboard had been picked up by a passer by and were transported to the Rock Landing boat ramp. 

The individuals had been fishing, and as the wind and sea state picked up their vessel had begun to take on water from the stern. The vessel quickly filled with water and sank near the channel as they were making their way toward shore. 

On May 31st, I contacted the Sea Tow Big Bend unit located in Panacea. They advised that they had recovered the vessel and it was currently at their office in Panacea.


BARDID: FL-2020-0260
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel (PWC) vs rocks, no injuries.
The vessel accident occurred in the ICW at NE 18th Street in Pompano Beach. The operator was operating at a rate of speed faster than the posted speed of Slow Speed Minimum Wake. 

Due to lack of experience and the speed, operator last control of the vessel, causing impact with the rocks along the seawall. The vessel sustained damage to the hull from the rocks.


BARDID: FL-2020-0261
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian river
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
single pwc involved in accident with injuries. pwc airborne from vessel wake. operator struck handlebar causing injury.

Operator stated he was in the middle of the marked channel and the rest of his party were ahead of him "up by the bridge". Operator stated that another vessel overtook his PWC also northbound and the wake from that vessel caused operator vessel to launch into the air. Once Operator' vessel impacted the water, to the best of Operator recollection, he lurched forward over the handlebar with his lower gut/pelvic area impacting he handlebar forcefully. 

Operator stated that after impacting the handlebar, he fell into the water. Operator advised that he was rescued from the water by SLCSO and was in a lot off pain. Operator stated that his speed at the time of the incident was likely around 30 miles per hour. The speed limit in this area of the ICW is 30 miles per hour at this time of year (1 May to 15 November). 

Hospital staff advised that Operator had sustained a fracture to his pelvic bone and likely bruised his lower gut and that none of his injuries were of a serious or life threatening nature.


BARDID: FL-2020-0262
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OKEECHOBEE
NearestCityorTown: PAHOKEE
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/6/2020, I F.W.C. Officer, was dispatched to a vessel in distress approximately 5 miles west of Port Mayaca. I arrived on scene at approximately 5.00pm and observed fly deck cabin cruiser (later identified as 1998 Sea Ray 44’ HIN SERP3967L798, Crown & Water) taking on water. 

Tow boat U.S. were already on scene and trying to pump water out of the vessel. A good Samaritan vessel was also on scene, and the operator and crew of Crown & Water had transferred to this vessel. I briefly spoke to the operator of Crown & Water who advised me there were no injuries to any himself or any of his crew. 

“We were cruising along Lake Okeechobee route 1 at approximately 12-15 knots. We drifted slightly out of the channel, and the underwater running gear made contact with submerged rocks. For a small time we had lots of vibration, then both engines shut down and couldn’t be restarted. At this point we made a distress call on VHF channel 16 to the U.S. Coastguard. We could see water being taken on board in the engine bilge compartment. Our bilge pumps couldn’t keep up with the water being taken onboard and slowly the vessel began to swamp and flood. Tow boat U.S. showed up and started pumping water out of the boat. A member of the general public who were nearby heard our distress call and came to help. We grabbed what personal belongings we could and my passengers and I transferred to their boat”.

Shortly before leaving the scene, the vessel partially capsized / sunk.

No further information at this time.


BARDID: FL-2020-0263
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-02-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:11:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityorTown: GULFPORT
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 3, 2020, at approximately 1211 hours, a double vessel accident occurred in Boca Ciega Bay, Pinellas County, Florida. At approximately 1223 hours while on water patrol, FWC Officers found the male subject found floating face down deceased, attached to a 9’4” Water Tender dinghy (V1) by his shoelace, which was wrapped around an oar mount. 

V1 had sustained major damage from a collision with a larger vessel. V2 was identified after it had left the scene of the collision. 

V2 was traveling north at approximately 16 knots and V1 was traveling east at an unknown speed and heading when V2 struck the starboard side of V1 just forward of mid-ship. V2 passed over top of the unoccupied front seat of V1 before exiting along the port side just forward of mid-ship on V1. V2 was operated by a male subject that called Gulfport Police Department to report the collision with a navigational hazard at approximately 1245 hours.

The cause of death was ruled as a drowning and manner of death was ruled as an accident.   The medical examiner noted three findings in their report:  Cutaneous Abrasions and Contusions Pulmonary Edema  Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease  Evidence of Injury included:  The right aspect of the face has focal purple contusions. The left frontal scalp has a purple contusion. The left temporal scalp has a red abrasion. The right forearm has a laceration. The right lower back has a linear red abrasion.
V2 was the stand on vessel in a crossing situation.


BARDID: FL-2020-0264
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: ATLANTIC BEACH
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel capsized while attempting to turn around in the surf near the beach at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Mayport Florida. operator said that at the time of the accident he was watching surfers, was going to turn around from south to east, went down a roller, then saw a big wave. 

He sped up to keep the wave from crashing but started to nose dive.  He turned north to make the turn and the wave hit on his beam to capsize the boat. He was briefly under the boat then swam to shore.


BARDID: FL-2020-0266
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 while traveling in the direction of vessel 2 then vessel 1 began to turn causing the operator and occupant to be ejected from the wave runner to which the wave runner continued onward where is collided with vessel 2.

It is believed that the wave runner exited the shoreline and headed towards the area of the parasail vessel where it was operated in the vicinity of said parasail vessel in a manner that the parasail vessel captain asked Operator1 to exit the area for safety purposes. 

Operator2 told officer that after the initial interaction with Operator1 the wave runner went approximately 100 yards away from the parasail vessel and immediately turned back towards the parasail vessel, while traveling at a cruising speed the wave runner operator attempted a turn within a close proximity of the parasail vessel to which the operator and occupant were thrown from the wave runner. The wave runner continued its trajectory and collided with the parasail vessel.


BARDID: FL-2020-0267
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on the starboard side. The operator of Vessel 1 was thrown off his Vessel.

Operator of Vessel 2 jumped off and helped the Operator of Vessel 1.

Operator2 stated that he was going slow on the jet ski when Operator1 turned in front of him and Operator2 struck Operator1 on the starboard side of the jet ski. Operator1 was knocked into the water and was rendered unconscious from the pain in his thigh. Operator2 jumped in the water and helped get Operator1 into Subject1’s vessel. Subject1 then proceeded to Vaca cut where he waved me down. 

I found that neither (PWC) had any damage. Vessel 2 had only a small amount of transfer paint on the bottom. I photographed this with my state issued digital camera. All interactions were recorded on my state issued body warn camera.

I had Officer of (FWC) in Miami speak with Operator1 over the phone on May 22nd ,2020. Operator1 stated that he and Operator2 were riding the jet skis and they were weaving in and out. This is when Operator2 struck Operator1. Operator1 was flown from Fisherman’s hospital to Jackson Memorial in Miami. His injury was a hematoma on his left thigh. He was released from Jackson Memorial on the following day after being discharged by the Doctor.


BARDID: FL-2020-0268
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityorTown: PALATKA
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 1, 2020, a boating accident occurred in the St Johns River near channel marker 36.  Two male occupants were traveling in a 15ft 1980 Gheenoe with a 9.9hp outboard attached.  

Due to the wind and water conditions, the vessel took on water and capsized.  Both occupants entered the water.  Both occupants were able to put PFDs on while in the water.  Both occupants we un-injured in the accident. 

Operator1 and Occupant launched at Riverdale boat ramp and were cruising near Federal point when a storm began to blow in.  Operator1 saw the storm approaching and began to head back to Riverdale boat ramp.  V1 was traveling down-river (north-west) at a slow speed.  Strong winds and waves caused V1 to take on water and capsize.  

When V1 capsized, both anchors deployed and kept V1 stationary.  Operator1 and Occupant fell into the water after the vessel capsized and were able to put on life jackets while swimming.  Operator1 used his cell phone to call for help and they stayed with the capsized vessel.  At 7:15pm I located Operator1 and Occupant, retrieved them from the water, and transported them to Riverdale boat ramp.   Operator1 and Occupant were un-injured in the accident and refused medical treatment.  I secured V1 to navigational marker #36 and notified the USCG.  Operator1 retrieved V1 from the river the following day.


BARDID: FL-2020-0269
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/26/2020 at approximately 1430 hours according to Operator1 who stated he was the operator of the 25 foot Scarab, from this point referred to as V1.  Operator1 stated that he was at the helm of V1 backing away from a dock on the East side of the Intracoastal Waterway between the Atlantic Blvd Bridge and the Beach Blvd bridge when a 19 to 21 foot vessel, from this point referred to as V2, traveling North, struck the aft starboard corner of V1. 

Operator1 stated that V2 did not attempt to stop or slow down. Operator1 gave a vivid description of two occupants on board V2 but a very vague description of the actual vessel, 19 to 21 foot “skiff’ white to off white in color. I asked Operator1 for a more exact location, Operator1 was unable to provide one stating that it was just a random dock. 

An occupant at the stern of V1 at the time of the collision, she sustained minor contusions to the chest, right arm, and right knee. I was unable to locate or identify V2 or the subjects on board. It is unknown if either subject of V2 was injured. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0270
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Escambia Bay
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating eastbound in the Pensacola Shipping channel and stuck a fixed green channel marker (#17). According to the interviews and statements provided, they were traveling approximately 20-25 mph heading east. 

Operator said he was paying attention to his GPS and looked up and noticed the channel marker directly in front of the vessel.  He said he turned the vessel hard left to try to avoid hitting marker but was unable to react quickly enough. He said the front right side of the bow struck the fixed object, ( Channel Marker Green # 17) causing him and his passenger to get jarred forward into the windshield of the vessel.  He said he believes the vessel become airborne after impact.  He said after the vessel struck the channel marker, he noticed water entering the vessel.  

He turned the vessel around and beached it at Ft. Pickens beach east of the fishing pier prior to the boat sinking. 

He and his passenger sustained lacerations to their foreheads but other than that they were ok. They called for help and a friend came to pick them up by another vessel.  Once they arrived at Sherman Cove Marina, occupant went to the emergency room and received 6 stitches to his forehead.  Operator refused medical treatment. It is believed that he fell forward striking his head on windshield of the boat. ; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0271
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tomoka River
NearestCityorTown: ORMOND BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading Southbound on the Tomoka River occupied by the operator only.  V1 attempted to change course and struck corner post of a residential dock.  

The damage to V1 indicated the vessel struck the dock at a near right angle. No other witnesses observed the collision. Subject was operating a PWC heading Southbound on the Tomoka River in a Slow Speed zone. Subject was single occupant and had very little experience operating the watercraft. 

Subject was making a u-turn and went too wide, causing the PWC to hit the corner post of a residential dock. Subject doesn't remember exactly what happened, but stated she remembers looking back and then forward, only to see the dock right in front of her. There was another PWC being operated by her friend in the immediate area, but that operator did not see the impact. The homeowner of the dock herd the collision and went down to the water to help. He was able to get the subject off of the PWC and get her onto land, she was unconscious. 

An ambulance arrived and transported the subject to the hospital before we got on scene. The damage to the PWC shows that it made contact with the corner post of the dock at a near right angle. The PWC was totaled by the insurance company (greater than $7,900 in damages).

Subject sustained a concussion, broke bones in left side of her face, received about 30 stitches on left eyebrow and also 20 stitches to her left leg.


BARDID: FL-2020-0272
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Halifax river
NearestCityorTown: PORT ORANGE
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
THE UNDERSIDE OF V1 STRUCK THE BOW OF V2 
Operator1 was operating V1, and Operator2 was operating V2  in the area of G "53" in the Halifax River. Operator1 advised me that he was trying to spray his sister who was operating V2. Operator1 advised me that as he turned V1 to the right he struck the front of V2. Damage to V1's underside and V2's bow confirm this. 

Operator2 advised me that her and her brother had been spraying each other. Operator2 went on to explain Operator1 turned in front of her and struck the bow.

Neither operator sustained any injuries.


BARDID: FL-2020-0273
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saint Andrews Bay
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/22/2020 at approximately 4pm cst, V01, a 52' Irwin Yacht was being sailed. Operator stated that as storm grew closer the winds unexpectedly grew exponentially causing the sailing vessel to list aggressively to the port bow allowing water to enter the hull. 

Within moments the vessel was beyond saving and Operator had to retreat to his 11' inflatable vessel that was in tow. no injuries were sustained, and the vessel is sunk on the submerged lands of Saint Andrews Bay with only the masts and sails above the water line. On 06/23/2020, Operator called me and stated that Seatow would be able to raise his vessel next Monday and that he was going today to attempt to place lights on the masts of the sunken vessel and to attempt to seal the vents of the fuel tanks onboard.


BARDID: FL-2020-0274
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian River Lagoon
NearestCityorTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 26th, 2020 I Officer, of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, responded to a call of a vessel that had caught on fire. Before I could get on scene I was redirected to the hospital where I collected the statements from the occupants. On April 26th subject and his family left from a sandbar just northeast of the railroad bridge where they had spent the day. 

After packing up subject began to idle from the sand bar into deeper water. After approximately 10 minutes they noticed that the vessel was running different, but no one thought it was anything to be concerned about. Moments later there was an explosion in the engine compartment causing one person to be thrown from the vessel. Shortly after the explosion all the other occupants jumped from the vessel and were later picked up from the water by a nearby boat. 

I determined that the engine bay exhaust fan was either not engaged long enough prior to starting the boat, or the fan was not operational. This allowed gas vapers to accumulate in the engine compartment resulting in the fire and explosion that burned the vessel. 

Occupant2 received 1st degree burns to his right forearm and chest.

Occupant3 received 1st degree burns to her right arm and torso.

Occupant4 received 2nd degree burns to her right tricep and back.

Operator refused treatment of his injuries, he did receive minor burns to his left forearm.


BARDID: FL-2020-0275
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
S4B with injuries on Black Creek in Clay County. PWC vs Skier.

While speaking with the operator of vessel 1 (FL-5473-RJ), it was explained that he was the owner of both PWCs and the vessels were traveling west on Black Creek together. 

Operator1 was towing the tube that the victim was ejected from as he steered (V1) to the right. Once in the water, she was struck by the PWC following them (V2) with the forward port side of the hull (see attached statements). 

Operator1 went on to say that he believed it happened due to V2 following closer than it should have been and  not having enough time to react. After the collision, operator2 jumped into the water to render aid and help get victim back on the tube to take her to shore to call 911.;

 Victim was evaluated by Wolfson Children's Hospital, multiple X-ray and CT scans of her head, neck, spine and abdomen were taken. She did not have any abnormalities on the scans and  her vitals had remained normal. She was kept over night for observation and has been cleared to go home with no medical issues or findings.


BARDID: FL-2020-0276
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ft George Inlet
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Three personal watercraft were traveling north in Ft. George Inlet. 

The operator of the far right watercraft, Operator2, turned left and collided with watercraft to his left that Operator1 was operating. Operator2 had a laceration on his left arm and a small abrasion on his left ankle. Operator1 had a swollen lip and a sore and swollen left arm. They both refused medical attention at the scene.

Operator2 had a fat lip, cut on his right arm, and scratch on his right ankle. The subject wrapped a bandage around the cut on his arm. He refused rescue at scene.; Operator1 had a swollen lip and swollen side of right forearm. Refused treatment on scene but stated he was going to the hospital after to get his arm looked at by a doctor.


BARDID: FL-2020-0277
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 5/17/20 at approximately 1445 hours, Boating Accident #FWSA-20-OFF-5358 occurred on the ICW 100 yards south of Oakland Park Blvd bridge in Fort Lauderdale, FL in Broward County. The vessel caught fire for an unknown reason. Approximate latitude is N 26 10.0476, W 80 6.2514. The vessel was smoking when the operator and 8 passengers were removed from the vessel. Injuries included mild burns to a 3 year old child and a 25 year old female. The whole boat sustained fire damage. The boat is not salvageable ;

 Subject1 had burns her left shoulder and arm and left buttox. Subejct2had burns to outside left knee approximately 6 inches long.


BARDID: FL-2020-0278
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: PONTE VEDRA
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, identified as Florida registered personal watercraft FL8719SP, was traveling southbound approximately 1/2 mile north of Palm Valley Bridge. Passenger was sitting directly behind Operator1. 

At approximately 2:30pm, Vessel 1 drove over a passing wake from a vessel headed northbound. Operator1 turned the PWC handlebars to the port side in an attempt to safely go over the passing vessel wake. As Vessel 1 drove over the passing vessel wake, Victim lost his grip of the back handlegrip and fell off the starboard side of Vessel 1. Victim's body turned causing his right arm and head to made contact with the starboard back corner of Vessel 1. Victim was transported to Baptist South Hospital. He was given a head cat scan and a right arm X-ray. The X-ray came back normal.  The head cat scan showed a concussion. Victim was transported to Baptist South with injuries. Victim suffered a head concussion and scrapes to his right forearm.


BARDID: FL-2020-0279
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Snake Creek
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC struck concrete piling. Operator and passenger ejected. He stated that he had recently purchased two PWC’s and he was out with his son and grandson testing them. His son was operating the PWC (FL0750MZ) with his son riding as a passenger. 

Subject was riding on the other PWC a considerable distance behind Operator and did not see the collision. They were both travelling West in the canal returning towards the boat ramp near NW 2nd Ave.
 
	I then spoke with a good Samaritan who was fishing on the bank nearby, East of the collision site. He stated that he saw Operator drive past him on the PWC, then several seconds later he heard a loud crash. When he looked over he saw that the PWC had struck a concrete piling, and Operator and Occupant were unconscious in the water. Subject2 ran down the bank and jumped in the water, pulling both Operator and Occupant to safety. 

	Both subjects were transported by EMS to Ryder Trauma Center. The hospital staff stated that Operator only had mild injuries and would be discharged soon. Occupant suffered injuries to the front and back of the head and had some blood on his brain. He was sent to the ICU but expected to make a full recovery.


BARDID: FL-2020-0280
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was travelling North towards Pensacola Pass and stuck a partially submerged object.  

V1 then sank to the bottom from a large hole in the bow that sustained from striking the object. I contacted operator of the vessel and asked him what had happened.  Operator1 advised he was travelling from New Orleans to Pensacola like he had done numerous times before.  He advised we was following his previous tracks on his GPS and when he was around the number 3 buoy in the Pensacola Pass, his vessel stuck an object that was mostly submerged.  He advised that he did not see the object.  He advised he then noticed the vessel was taking on water and headed towards land and called the US Coast Guard.  The US Coast Guard arrived before the vessel completely sunk.  

The vessel was salvaged a few days later and taken the Pensacola Shipyard.  After it was placed in the shipyard, I photographed the damage to the vessel.  

Operator1 advised he was quoted $70,000 to get the vessel restored.


BARDID: FL-2020-0281
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator advised that his vessel shut down and would not crank. V1 lost power in rough seas and took some waves over the stern.  V1 then filled up with water and capsized.  V1 washed up on the beach the next day.


BARDID: FL-2020-0282
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2020, a PWC struck an anchored PWC. There were no injuries involved.

Operator1 stated that it was his first time operating a PWC and that he did not know what happened. He was unfamiliar with the off-throttle steering system that PWC’s possess. Once a PWC motor is shut off it no longer has steerage. Operator1 had never taken a boater safety course to get his boater safety ID card. I received a sworn written statement from Operator1 that states that he lost control of the PWC. The passenger onboard stated that she did not see what had occurred. The PWC had minor fiberglass damage. They were unsure if this was caused by the accident or existing damage. I photographed the PWC and the fiberglass damage.

	 I spoke with another individual in the group who stated that he had rented the PWC for the day from its registered owner. I received a sworn written statement stating that he had put down a $250.00 down payment on the PWC and had paid $300.00 in full. There will be a further investigation into this matter.


BARDID: FL-2020-0283
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 01 (V01) was traveling southbound on the Intracoastal waterway just north of Ponce De Leon Inlet. V01 Operator made a sharp turn and was ejected, as a result V01 Operator impacted with the top of V01 before landing in the water.

V01 Operator was brought to US Coast Guard Ponce Inlet for EMS.

No damage to V01 was observed.; Complaint of hip pain.


BARDID: FL-2020-0284
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityorTown: OSTEEN
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Saturday 6/20/2020 at Approximately 3:10PM, V1 was traveling NB on the St. Johns River near Cypress Bend in Volusia and Seminole Counties. V1 was coming off plane as V2 (Unknown vessel) passed on V1’s port side. As V2’s wake approached V1, V1 turned toward its starboard side and impacted V2’s wake causing the operator to fall overboard. 

The operator of V1 was not wearing the kill switch and V1 continued under power. V1 circled the operator in a death circle turning in the starboard direction. The operator attempted to jump back on V1 but was unable to control the speed due to a broken throttle. (linkage) 

The operator was sucked underneath V1 and was struck by the prop. The operator was pulled from the water by good samaritans and taken to shore for medical treatment. V1 was taken control of by good samaritans and secured on the shoreline. The operator was transported to the hospital by EMS and treated for his injuries.

Victim was struck above his right ankle and had 4 lacerations requiring 13 staples and 12 stitches. He stated there is no loss of function or flexibility.


BARDID: FL-2020-0285
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: state water
NearestCityorTown: HILLSBORO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
On 05/29/2020, at approximately 1216 hours, upon the waters of the state located at Hillsboro Inlet, operator was inbound on his Nautic Star (recreational vessel) when he ran aground the false inlet located on the northside of Hillsboro Inlet. Operator1’s approximate speed was 10-20 miles per hour (mph).

INTERVIEWS
On 05/29/2020, I interviewed operator of vessel 1. Operator1 stated that it was only his third time operating out of Hillsboro Inlet and he misjudged where the opening was located. This caused Operator1 to run aground at the false inlet located on the northside of Hillsboro Inlet.

ACCIDENT SCENE DESCRIPTION 
The accident occurred on the northside of Hillsboro Inlet. The wind conditions were 0-6 mph that afternoon. 

VESSEL DESCRIPTION

Vessel 1: 2020, 25 foot in length fiberglass hull open motorboat. The hull identification number is JNT31665G920. The Florida Registration number is FL 5924 SN and is current until September 2020. The vessel is powered by 250 horsepower outboard motor.

ACCIDENT ANALYSIS 

PRE-ACCIDENT
Vessel 1 was inbound headed towards Hillsboro Inlet when operator Operator1 ran aground at the false inlet located on the northside of Hillsboro Inlet. 

ACCIDENT
Vessel 1 was inbound toward Hillsboro Inlet when the operator misjudged the opening of Hillsboro Inlet. The operator was at approximately 10-20 mph when the vessel ran aground. Once the vessel was on top of the false inlet, the operator, trimmed the motor upward. This allowed the vessel to be pushed off the false inlet and drift into the bay of Hillsboro Inlet.  

POST ACCIDENT
Operator1 trimmed his motor upward which gave his vessel enough clearance to drift off the false inlet. This pushed Operator1’s vessel westward into Hillsboro Inlet. At that time, I tied off to Operator1s vessel to gather his information and further assess damage done to his vessel. The vessel had noticeable damage to the propeller. The vessel was later pulled to assess damage on the bottom of the hull. The vessel had gouges on the bottom of the hull in multiple locations.

CONCLUSION
Based on my observation, I witnessed Operator1 behind the helm of the vessel that ran aground at Hillsboro Inlet. Operator1 stated he had little knowledge of Hillsboro Inlet and little boating experience. Operator1 operated this vessel in a careless manner, which endangers or causes injury or damages to a person or another person’s property.

VIOLATIONS
FSS 327.33 (2)  Careless operation of vessel


BARDID: FL-2020-0286
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:
    
On May 17, 2020 at approximately 1920 Hrs. a single vessel accident occurred on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) at the Marker 8 Hotel, 1 Dolphin Dr., St. Augustine, Fl. 32080. V1 a 2005, 13-foot Boston Whaler powered by a single 40 hp outboard, occupied by one adult male.  V1 had an allision with the hotel’s dock and veered away and collided with the concrete abutment of the Bridge of Lions.  The operator of V1 sustained no injuries and was arrested for boating under the influence post-accident investigation.  

  	
 
 DETAILED NARRATIVE:
                               
I responded to assist St. Augustine Police Department (SAPD) with a single vessel crash at Marker 8 Hotel’s dock, at 1 Dolphin Dr. in St. Augustine.  The Vessel (V1) displaying Florida registration number, Fl 5567 MY, a 2005 13-foot Boston Whaler, struck a dock at Marker 8 Hotel and veered away and hit the abutment for the Bridge of Lions on the eastside of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). 

V1 was operated by an adult white male.  No other occupants were aboard V1.   Operator took off on foot, prior to my arrival on scene, and was apprehended by SAPD and placed into a patrol vehicle and charged with resisting an officer without violence.  Cpl. informed me, Operator was possibly impaired.  

Witness 1 stated:
•	She “heard a loud boat motor noise,” she looked up to see the boat in question hit the “northeast area of the north dock at Marker 8 hotel.”
•	The “force of the crash caused the boat to be pushed back probably five feet or so.”
•	The boat “immediately swung sharp toward the shore,” (post impact with the dock), then “engine revved up, boat swung and set a straight and extremely fast course straight toward the cement area and the east end of the Bridge of Lions.”
•	The operator was “Yelling obscenities” the “whole time”.  
•	Boat “bounced back” from the bridge abutment.
•	Operator seemed “stunned for a few seconds.”
•	Operator “jumped up” and tried to start the motor.
•	“Continued several times to restart the motor with no success.”
•	She was “surprised the boat was still afloat” after the collisions.

Witness2
•	She observed a boat “speeding away from the dock” moving “extremely fast” crashing into the bridge abutment.
•	Upon impact with the abutment a man was “jolted” forward in the boat and the console “dislodged.”
•	He attempted to start the motor.
•	The operator of boat tied the boat to the Marker 8 Hotel dock.
•	The operator seemed “unsteady on his feet.”
•	When she heard the operator speak his speech seemed “irregular.” 


BARDID: FL-2020-0287
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pine Island Sound
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was following  V2 in a line South, just East of Captiva Pass.  V1 attempted to come along side V2, V1's bow crashed into the portside of V2 amidships.

V1 and V2 were rental personal watercraft that were part of a tour group.  The tour was Southbound East of the ICW near Captiva Pass.  

Operator of V1 was attempting to come alongside V2 and  instead crashed into V2 at approximately 20-30 mph.  V1's bow struck amidships V2, causing extensive damage, V2's operator received a laceration to left leg requiring hospital treatment for stitches.;


BARDID: FL-2020-0288
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST MARKS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ST. MARKS
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/21/2020 a boating accident occurred in the St. Marks river in Wakulla county Florida at approximately 6:45 PM. One person was transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital by Wakulla County EMS. 

The victim had a broken left leg. FWC dispatch received notification of the accident at approximately 8:45 PM after all the parties had already left the scene. The investigation was placed on hold until the next day by Lt.. I, Officer of the FWC conducted a boating accident investigation that resulted in one UBC being issued for careless operation of a vessel. 

Operator was operating a PWC on the St. Marks river between the Newport bridge and the power plant. He was traveling south in the river close to the right (west) side of the river. Subject1 was a passenger on the back of the PWC and he was pulling Subject2 and Victim on a tube behind the PWC. 

The tube started to get too close to the right side of the river near a dock and Operator tried to correct the tubes course to the left. The way he did so slung the tube all the way across the river causing Victim to hit a tree on the left (East) side of the river hard enough to break her leg. Operator immediately turned around to help her. Their father was close by in a vessel and they asked him to come help as well as notifying 911 that they needed help. 

I believe that the main contributing factor to the accident was operator inexperience as well as operating the vessel at speed that was unsafe while pulling a tube in that area. The river is relatively narrow and curvy in that area;  She had a broken femur in her left leg that required surgery to repair.


BARDID: FL-2020-0289
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: tampa bay
NearestCityorTown: PALMETTO
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
the owner and operator, explained to me what occurred. 
	He, and the other two occupants were fishing near the South side of the  Skyway Bridge.  While trolling, unbeknownst to them, a rag had clogged the drain of their live well. 

 For some period of time, water was spilling out of the live well and into the boat.  It was not until they went to reel in the fishing lines, that they noticed a pool of water in the back of the boat.  

Operator slowed the vessel to assess the problem.  He recounts, both bilges were pumping out water, but were not able to keep up with the clogged live well.  They had even begun to bail water with buckets, but when a swell came over the transom, all was lost, and they jumped out of the boat as it began to capsize.  They then swam over to a Sheriff Marine Unit that was already on scene.


BARDID: FL-2020-0290
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was engaged in recreational cruising approximately 1/2 mile off of Fort Myers Beach, Florida in a circular pattern. V1 struck its own wake and or wave causing operator and passenger to fall from V1 port side. During fall from V1, operator sustained injury to left lower extremity (fractured ankle). Operator and passenger were recovered from water by livery company employee. Operator was transported to hospital for treatment of injury. ; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0292
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Joseph Sound
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/16/20 a single rental PWC with two people on board struck a channel marker near Clearwater Beach. No injuries were sustained, however the rental PWC was damaged. 

Operator was with a group of rental riders following a H2O tour guide. The other PWCs were in a line ahead of Operator when he passed ahead of them to his left heading towards marker red #10. Operator had his head turned and was talking to his son. Operator looked up and saw the marker.  Operator then tried to turn to his right when he saw the marker. He was unable to avoid hitting the marker due to inexperience, no proper lookout, and off throttle lack of steering response of his PWC.


BARDID: FL-2020-0293
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Manatee River
NearestCityorTown: PALMETTO
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Bridge malfunction
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel vs. Draw Bridge

Bridge was malfunctioning. Vessel operator had been waiting for a period of time. Bridge raised slightly in an effort to get the problem corrected. As it came down, it struck vessel and caused damage.

Light and sound indicators on bridge were functioning upon LE arrival (less than 5 minutes after incident).
Operator1 stated that he had been waiting for the bridge to come back up so he could continue westbound. He stated that the bridge had started to rise and two other vessels also heading westbound had gone under the bridge. 

He followed these other two vessels and the bridge had come down on the tower of the vessel, trapping him until the bridge tender raised the bridge back up. The bridge made contact with the tower of the vessel and caused damage. Operator1 stated that he did not see any lights indicating that the bridge was coming back down. 

He pointed out that the stop light indicators on the fender system of the bridge were not on. We mentioned that those light indicators had not functioned in quite some time. However, we informed him that the red and green indictors for the bridge were on a light system hanging on the portion of the bridge that goes up and down. This light system is in accordance with the U.S. Coast Guard requirement (see attachment). We insured that the red light was illuminated on the westbound side of the bridge. The light stays red until the bridge is in the open position and it is safe to pass. The bridge indicator equipment appeared to be functioning in the immediate (less than 5 minutes) aftermath of the accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0294
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator and single occupant of V2 was later identified at Blake Hospital. While speaking with Operator1 she stated the accident occurred as she was following V2 south along the beach. She stated the were traveling quickly (approximately 40mph by the passenger account) when V2 slowed in front of her and she reacted by letting off the throttle to attempt to slow and avoid a collision with V2. 

However, by decreasing the throttle it did not allow for steerage of V1 causing it to collide with V2. V1 impacted V2 on its stern and continued to travel along the rear starboard side for approximately two feet based off the damage observed on V2. 

All occupants from both vessels were ejected during the collision. Once Operator1 and occupant on v1 realized Operator2 was injured they placed him on V1 and transported him to shore where they met EMS, who later transported Operator2 to Black Hospital. I spoke with Operator2 at the hospital and his account of the accident corroborated Operator1’s. Operator2 was treated for his injures at the hospital and later released after being diagnosed with a fractured elbow, ribs, and vertebrae. Occupant on v1 sustained a contusion to his right shin.


BARDID: FL-2020-0295
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Manatee River
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/12/2020 at approximately 7:11pm, FWC Officers received a call from our Regional Dispatch office regarding a subject involved in a boating accident on the Manatee River.  EMS had checked the individual out after he returned to his home and the subject was admitted to Blake Medical Center for further assessment of injuries to his right hand and head/scalp.  

According to the subject, he was ejected from his vessel while trying to avoid a collision with an oncoming vessel around a blind turn.  The subject believed he had been struck by his own propeller or that the impact with the mangroves in the area, causing the lacerations/injuries he was being assessed for.  

No other damage was reported to the oncoming vessel.  The oncoming vessel did not stop and continued westbound along the Manatee River.

Operator stated that he had been at Whiskey Joes Restaurant for lunch.  While there, he admitted to having two beers, then afterwards started heading eastbound up the Manatee River.  Upon rounding a blind turn near an area known as Redfish Point, Operator stated he saw a black/red or blue/red wake/jet-style vessel with a male, female, and two kids onboard emerge from the bend heading westbound straight towards him.  

Operator stated he took evasive action and steered his vessel hard to starboard/right, throwing him from the vessel, and sending his vessel into the mangroves on the island.  According to Operator, no other damage was reported to the oncoming vessel and the oncoming vessel did not stop and continued westbound along the Manatee River.  

This second vessel (VO2 in the diagram) was never identified. Operator sustained injuries to his right hand, lacerations on his pointer, middle and ring finger which required stitches.  Additionally, he sustained a laceration along the top of his scalp, which required 11 staples.


BARDID: FL-2020-0296
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Creek
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I Officer with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, received a call about a boating accident involving a rental jet ski. When I arrived the jet ski had been take back to Siesta Key Jet Ski Rental on Phillippi Creek. Upon arriving at Siesta key Jet Ski Rental I identified the operator of the damaged vessel. 

He stated that the vessel started moving under 5 miles an hour and began filling with water while in Phillippi creek. At this point I read him Miranda Rights and asked him to write a sworn statement detailing the incident before, during and immediately after. 

	While inspecting the jet ski for damage I noticed what appeared to be impact damage on the left side of the jet ski below the waterline, as you are facing it. The operator said that he did not run into anything and no other vessels made contact with his vessel that could have caused that damage.  This concludes my investigation.


BARDID: FL-2020-0297
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: San Carlos Bay
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1's starboard rear struck V2's starboard side. V1 was reversing off the dock and had mechanical issues with the shifter. V2 was docked. 

Operator1 was operating V1 in reverse, leaving the dock. V1 began reversing in “full reverse” and Operator1 appeared to be struggling to shift V1. V1’s starboard rear collided with V2’s starboard rear, damaging V2’s rub rail and a small section of fiberglass. After colliding, V1 continued in reverse down the starboard side of V2, ripping up approximately 15 feet of rub rail. Also, a small cleat on V1 left a long (approx. 18 feet) scratch in the gelcoat on the hull of V2. 

Operator1 told me his vessel had mechanical issues (shifter). He said he struggled to shift his vessel out of reverse. Operator1 demonstrated the shifter on the vessel for me. The shifter appeared to be stiff and was not easy for Operator1 to operate. When Operator1 shifted the vessel to forward the propeller did not spin.


BARDID: FL-2020-0298
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling south bound on the Intra-coastal waterway (ICW) when it had a mechanical failure with its engine(s) and struck the Southern Blvd Bridge.

It is determined that vessel 1 was traveling south bound on the Intra-coastal waterway (ICW). The operator called for a bridge opening as he approached the Southern Blvd Bridge. The vessel was having mechanical issues with its engine(s) and the operator was unable to properly control the vessel. As the operator waited for the bridge to rise the wind and tidal currant pushed the boat into the north side of the bridge span.


BARDID: FL-2020-0299
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: MADEIRA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/19/20 a two vessel accident occurred in the Gulf of Mexico when two rental PWCs collided. No injuries occurred in the accident but both PWCs were damaged.

Operator1 (who was operating PWC registration number FL8184RU) had been carving turns as his son, operator2 was doing the same thing (on PWC registration number FL8187RU).  

Operator1 then struck his son's PWC on the port side, midship with the bow his PWC. Operator1 was ejected from his PWC, but was able to get back on after the collision.


BARDID: FL-2020-0300
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sarasota Bay
NearestCityorTown: LONGBOAT KEY
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Both Operator and his son were traveling North inside the ICW near Sister Keys.  As they were approaching channel markers G31 and R30, a bay boat passed them on the inside; their port side.  The wake from this vessel, unexpectedly to Operator, pushed his PWC bow first into R30.  

Operator was ejected from the PWC, and remembers treading water on the port side of the PWC; slightly inside R30.  The additional wakes from boats continuing to pass, is what caused Operator to kick the bottom of the PWC, while trying to stay upright in the water; causing the shin contusion.  It is unclear when the rotator cuff injury occurred.  The identification of the passing vessel is unknown, and no other vessels or persons were involved.;

Operator admitted to Blake Hospital where he spent the night.  He was diagnosed with a right shin contusion and a left shoulder rotator cuff tear.


BARDID: FL-2020-0301
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel capsized while at anchor off shore Key Largo, FL.

I interviewed the persons on board regarding the incident. According to operator and passenger statements, the vessel was loaded heavily at the stern with large stereo equipment and large coolers. The starboard stern of the vessel was also the boarding location for swimmers exiting the water. 

Based upon the statements, the vessel's stern began taking on water as swimmers boarded the boat. The bilge pump turned on and began pumping out water, but the rate of the water entering the boat at the transom was too much and too fast for the bilge pump to manage and the vessel swamped at the stern and rolled to starboard capsizing the vessel. The people on board at the time were able to safely exit the boat before it fully capsized. 

The boat was recovered/salvaged and towed by Capt. employed as a commercial tow boat operator with Tow Boat US Key Largo. The vessel was towed back to Key Largo Kampground where it was successfully put onto a trailer and removed from the waters of the state.


BARDID: FL-2020-0302
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: ST. MARKS
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/22/2020 at about 11:30 AM a boating accident occurred near the Saint Marks sanbar about 4 miles south of the Saint Marks light house. Subject was operating a 14 foot homemade vessel when a large boat passed him making a wake that threw him from vessel. 

His boat continued on and struck a near by pontoon boat denting it. One of the occupants of the pontoon boat jumped onboard Subjects boat to get control of it. The large boat that passed him did not stop and left the area. Subject was injured when the prop on his vessel struck his foot while he climbing back onboard requiring stitches.;


BARDID: FL-2020-0303
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Washington
NearestCityorTown: MELBOURNE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 26th, 2020, a vessel with 11 occupants onboard was heading North on Lake Washington in Melbourne, Florida. The vessel settled down off plane to a slow speed/drift. As the vessel was drifting, one of the occupants dove from the vessel into shallow water. 

The subject was rendered unconscious after jumping from the vessel into the water. A short time later, the victim was located unresponsive in 4.5 feet of water. CPR was performed on the victim during transport to the boat ramp. Brevard County Fire Rescue met the vessel at the ramp to transport the victim to Melbourne Regional Medical Center. The victim’s injuries included fractured vertebra, water in the lungs, and traumatic brain injury. 


The victim died on April 28th from his injuries sustained during the incident. The Brevard County Medical Examiner is conducting a death investigation in conjunction with the boating accident investigation.

Victim was transported to Melbourne Regional Medical Center for injuries sustained while diving from V1 and striking the lake bed (ground). The victim's injuries were fractures to the C-5 and C-6 vertbra, water in the lungs, and a traumatic brain injury. The victim died from his injuries.


BARDID: FL-2020-0304
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOGTOWN BAYOU
NearestCityorTown: SANTA ROSA BEACH
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck V2 on the port stern causing it to yaw and eject the operator of V2.  

V1 ran over the top of V2 and came to rest at a capsized state ejecting the operator of V1 in the process.  

Both operators were wearing life jackets and the operator of V2 sustained lacerations to the left ankle.  It appeared that both individuals were in Hogtown Bayou right outside of Mack Bayou when the accident occurred.  

Through statements we could get, both operators were driving in a behavior that would suggest careless operation going back and forth, wake jumping and changing speed in a close proximity.  The operator of V1 stated that he lost sight of V2 and was looking for him from side to side.  V2 drove right in front of V1 and seemed to cavitate, causing it to lose speed.  That’s when V1 struck V2 and did not have any time to react and alter course because he was looking to the side.

Victim was taken to Fort Walton Medical Center and was given 15 stitches to close the wound.  He was released the next morning and was able to go home with the aid of crutches.


BARDID: FL-2020-0305
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Destin Harbor
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 operated by O1 was attempting to dock his vessel at the Harborwalk Marina. O1 approached the dock to quickly and struck V2. When V1 struck V2 the collision caused the cowling on V2 to crack.O1 then backed his vessel out and fled the scene.


BARDID: FL-2020-0306
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: EVERGLADES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Livewell pump
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 20, 2020 I, Officer with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was dispatched by FWC Lake Worth communication center to a boating accident near Round Key in Collier County. I was informed that a good Samaritan had picked up four people in the water next to a capsized vessel. 

Officer of the Marco Island Police Department arrived on scene and transferred the subjects of the boating accident over to his vessel, see attached report. Officer took pictures of the capsized vessel and transported the four subjects. I informed Ofc I would wait for their arrival at that the dock. 

The three adult males were identified by the photographs on their driver’s licenses. Operator stated that he was the owner of the vessel and that it was brand new. Operators stated that he was operating the vessel when it began to lose speed and eventually stopped. When he looked in the bilge it was filled with water and the vessel capsized a short time afterwards, see attached statement. All four subjects went into the water. Operator stated that no lifejackets were retrieved before the vessel capsized.

TowBoatUS retrieved the vessel and towed it. Once on the lift I ask the TowBoat captain what caused the vessel to sink. He stated that he found both livewell pumps disconnected from their bases with open valves, see attached pictures. I manually checked both locking tab screws with a screwdriver. Both tab screws were tight. Based on my training and experience and the fact both locking tab screws were tight I do not believe the livewell pumps were tightened properly during installation. With the valves open and the vessel travelling at a high rate of speed the pressure blew the pumps off the bases and filled the hull of the vessel with water causing it to eventually capsize.

No further at this time.


BARDID: FL-2020-0307
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pine Channel Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: BIG PINE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: scupper
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 sank from hull failure

 I responded to a single vessel accident. I arrived on scene a few minutes later. The vessel was resting on the bottom in approximately two feet of water.  The operator owner of the vessel stated he was operating on a plane when the vessel started slowing down and the stern began sinking. he headed for shallow water as the vessel sank to the bottom. he stated he had been out for most of the day with no issues. Tow boat U/S was on scene and advised they would be recovering the vessel. 

 The vessel is not insured. I spoke with the owner today and the vessel has been removed from the water. The cause of the sinking is believed to be a bad scupper in the stern of the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2020-0308
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: canal
NearestCityorTown: SUNRISE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3rd, 2020, at 1312 hours, I was dispatched to a PWC incident involving one PWC vs. an embankment. 

V1 was traveling northbound when another unknown vessel (V2) passed him on the port side, also heading north, causing V1 to hit the embankment on its starboard side, traveling approximately 45 feet into a wooded area where the vessel and victim came to rest.;  Operator sustained a broken left femur, laceration above left eye and possible hand injury


BARDID: FL-2020-0309
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayside
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6-9-20 responded to a vessel that took a turn and threw all the passengers/driver from the vessel.

Operator stated they were on the vessel heading North west when in the distance they could see 2 jet ski's that appeared to be broken down as they got closer one of the jet ski's moved or took off  and her husband turned the vessel to go around them and they were thrown from the vessel.   

Subject stated she and her daughter were sitting in front of the helm on the cooler and her husband was sitting down driving the vessel. 

Operator was flown to Jackson South in Miami where he was treated for water in the lungs and laceration to the chin.


BARDID: FL-2020-0310
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Santa Fe River
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: GILCHRIST
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time a personal watercraft bearing Florida registration number FL 1387 PA (V1) was jumping the wake of an unknown vessel traveling down river. As V1 jumped the wake of the unknown vessel, V1 entered the path of a 21ft Sportsman bay boat bearing Florida registration number FL 3327 SP (V2). 

V2 attempted to take evasive action to avoid colliding with V1, but without sufficient time and space to maneuver, V2 struck V1 and continued into a dock located on the south side of the river. V2 came to an immediate stop after striking the dock and all three occupants of the vessel were ejected into the river.

The three occupants were transported to North Florida Hospital and treated for non-life threatening injuries. V1 was found in the river and pulled to a dock on the south side of the river by a good Samaritan. The operator of V1 was retrieved by Good Samaritans on scene and was Life Flighted to Shands Hospital
where he underwent emergency surgery. As of 5/31/2020 at 0930 hours, the operator of V1 was out of surgery and is in the Intensive Care Unit. The incident is being investigated by the FWC Investigations Section.

Operator2 was transported to the North Florida Hospital were he was evaluated and released. Operator2 sustained bruising on the left shoulder, chest and back.

V2 occupant2 transported to North Florida hospital where he was evaluated and released. He sustained back pain and bruising.

OPerator1 was transported by life flight to Shands where he underwent emergency surgery. He sustained multiple fractures on the left side of his body and internal injuries.

V2 occupant3 was transported and admitted to the hospital to be treated for 2 displaced ribs, 4 broken ribs, 3 herniated disk in the neck area with 1 bulging and pressing on the spinal cord causing nerve pain.


BARDID: FL-2020-0311
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Oceanside Lower Matacumbe
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was navigating a 90 degree turn in a canal.  Vessel 1 noticed he was getting too close to a boat lift during the turn and attempted to power out of the turn.  Vessel 1 hit boat lift, causing damage to Vessel 1 and the boat lift.


BARDID: FL-2020-0312
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ortega River
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel two was under way going approximately 10mph and had a wake surfer behind the vessel.  While they were underway vessel one going approximately 30-35 mph came from behind and while jumping a wake the operator fell off and his Jet Ski struck vessel two on the starboard side and slid down the side.


BARDID: FL-2020-0313
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 returning to port with leak in hull during inclement weather incident. V1 vessel wake swamped three vessels moored in marina.

On July 1st at about 1700 hours, Capt. and a crew of two had taken the vessel out into the Choctawhatchee Bay to troubleshoot the problem. The vessel is an older model wooden hull. 

The operator operated the vessel while he went below decks to isolate the leak. A severe thunderstorm blew in from the north, creating a waterspout in the bay. As they returned, the leak location was identified. The storm was creating surface conditions that aggravated the problem. The speed through the Pass Idle Speed zone was necessary to keep the port bow leak above the water, reducing the amount of water into the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2020-0314
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cyprus Lake/ Hatchineha Canal
NearestCityorTown: KISSIMMEE
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 11, 2020 in Osceola County near Kissimmee, operator1 was operating his 1990 17' Ranger Bass Boat (FL5506GC) in Cyprus Lake. At approximately, 9:00am Operator1 was heading west along the south shoreline of the lake making his way towards the Hatchineha Canal. 

When he approached the canal he noticed a silver air boat sitting on the grass not in operation. He began to turn into the canal at speeds of 50+ mph when all the sudden the air boat made a hard turn to the left and towards him. 

The operator of the air boat never looked over their shoulder before making the turn and entering the canal. Operator1 attempted to avoid collision by reducing speed and making a hard turn to his port side. His vessel then slide sideways into the air boat causing damage to both vessels. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0316
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Whale Harbor Channel
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 14th, 2020 Lt. observed a US Towboat vessel pull up to Whale Harbor Marina with two occupants stating they were just part of a vessel accident with injuries.  Lt. and I took statements from the two and received the operator of the vessels information, as well as the injured party.  

	We arrived at 27 Ave D. Key Largo and observed the operator, and two other males arrive at the house.  The operator stated that they were at the sandbar and when he started the vessel to leave the cowling exploded and shot straight into the air.   Operator stated he did not know anyone was hurt and put out the small flame on his engine. 

	Operator then drove the vessel back to his house after fixing what appeared to be a small fuel leak in the engine. Operator  said that tow boat was on scene immediately and told him to go home while they took the injured party to shore. ; Subject admitted to hospital with minor lacerations to face.


BARDID: FL-2020-0317
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KEY WEST HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 18th, 2020 a PWC struck another PWC while on the Fury Company Ultimate Adventure in the area of Wisteria Island in Key West, Florida.

I was able to conduct and interview with subject. She informed me that she was on the back of the PWC and her husband was operating the PWC when the accident occurred. She explained to me that as they were doing their jet ski portion of Ultimate Adventure, her and her husband were idling on their PWC and were struck by her niece on another PWC, coming from the back right. 

She informed me that she didn’t think that her niece’s PWC physically hit her but that the force from the impact of her niece’s PWC, threw her off their PWC. She told me that once she was in the water, she felt pain in her lower back. She said she floated there until USCG arrived. She told me that there was a trauma nurse that was also a guest on the Ultimate Adventure with Fury who came to help render aid. 

Victim thinks the USCG took her to Trumbo and then was transported to LKMC.  She was treated for a lower back fracture at Lower Keys Medical Center.


BARDID: FL-2020-0318
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, Florida registered vessel FL0669LD, was traveling southeast in the ICW 1/4 mile North of Bridge of Lions. At approximately 09:20pm, Vessel 1 collided with green channel marker 7. Occupant and Operator sustained minor injuries that were treated at Flagler Hospital.

Operator stated he was operating Vessel 1 just north of Bridge of Lions. He stated he did not see the channel marker as it was not lit. He stated he collided with the channel marker causing everyone inside the vessel to fall inside the vessel. Operator could not advise exactly what channel marker he collided with. It was determined that Vessel 1 collided with green channel marker 1 as the channel marker was missing.

Upon inspection to the damage sustained to Vessel 1, I observed impact damage to the port side bow. The fiberglass was separated. I observed transfer wood chipping from the channel marker imbedded in the fiberglass. 

Occupant sustained minor injury to her right eye from impact falling into the boat. Operator received stitches to his chin.

I conducted an investigation on Operator regarding boating under the influence. After my investigation was completed, I arrested Operator for boating under the influence.


BARDID: FL-2020-0319
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was anchored in shallow water. O1 placed engine in gear and began idling towards the anchor.  A young occupant of the vessel jumped into the water and either swam towards or landed near the motor and got cut by the propeller as it rotated.

Subject told Inv. that Operator pulled up anchor and then started the engine. He stated that Victim then jumped into the water to swim one last time. He said that Victim started to swim back to the ladder and swam too close to the propeller. He got cut by the propeller, receiving multiple lacerations to the right forearm and both legs.


BARDID: FL-2020-0320
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-11 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: NORTH KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was poked in the right eye by a VHF antenna. He was tranported to Mariners Hospital. He was transported to Mariners Hospital where he was treated for his wound.


BARDID: FL-2020-0322
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling south in the Gulf of Mexico at a medium rate of speed. The operator of V1 struck a sandbar trying to come in the Mud Keys, causing the occupant to be ejected. During the ejection, the occupant of V1 struck her inner thigh on the line guide of the vessel. This caused the occupant to sustain injuries from her inner thigh to her knee.

- The occupant was transported to Lower Keys Medical Center.
 She was treated for her injuries that evening and received several stitches. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0323
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatachee Bay
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling North on the Northeast side of Crab Island when O1 took a sharp turn causing the passenger on V1 to be ejected hitting his face on O1. His braces went through his lip and was taken to Destin ER where he received six stitches.

He received six stitches in his chin from Destin ER.


BARDID: FL-2020-0324
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Apalachicola Bay
NearestCityorTown: EASTPOINT
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, July 4, 2020, at approximately 4:30 PM Officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, were dispatched in reference to a vessel accident with injuries.

The accident was a single vessel accident involving a personal watercraft with two occupants. The operator of the PWC was uninjured but the occupant was transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital to be treated for injuries. 

Interviews with the involve parties concluded operator was operating the PWC at a speed of approximately 40/45 mph, made a sharp turn and caused subject and herself to be ejected from the PWC. 

Subject’s diagnosis was bruised ribs, with possible cracked rib and there was no damage to report for the PWC.; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0325
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Johns River
NearestCityorTown: GENEVA
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 24th, 2020 at approximately 1545 Hours a single vessel incident occurred on the St. Johns River northeast of Lemon Bluff Boat Ramp and along the south shoreline in Seminole County. The vessel had two occupants, operator and passenger.  

The vessel struck two people who were swimming. Victim1 suffered five lacerations on her left leg and Victim2 received a scratch on her right leg. Victim1 was taken to Central Florida Regional Hospital (CFRH) in Sanford, Florida by Seminole County Fire and Rescue (SCFR). The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was notified at 1609 Hours by Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.

See Incident Summary Report # ISR071779 for the criminal investigation.
The occupants of V-1 and the swimmers shared the same riverside beach. V-1 was parked at the east end of the beach. As Operator attempted to start V-1, subject1 pushed it from the shore. She jumped in V-1 and sat on the bow. While Operator attempted to start V-1 the river current caused it to drift westward past the swimmers and vessels. 

V-1 nearly struck the other parked vessels and caused swimmer1 to holler at Operator to watch out. When Operator was finally able to get V-1 started it had drifted approximately 100 feet and was pointed in a southeast direction. The engine was revved up when Operator put V-1 into forward gear and attempted to steer to the port and into deeper water.  

As V-1 started forward witnesses noticed it was headed towards the swimmers standing in waist deep water. Two people yelled to warn everyone while one of the swimmers, saw V-1 approaching rapidly and began pulling the other swimmers from V-1’s path. 

In the confusion, Operator hastily accelerated and turned sharply to the port in an attempt to miss the swimmers. Operator was unsuccessful. 

Subject1 had pulled victim2 nearly clear and she received a scratch on the back of her right leg as she was struck by V-1’s hull. Subject1 also tried to pull victim1 clear, but she was struck by V-1’s propeller.  She suffered five lacerations on her left leg and swallowed some water.  Three were on her thigh, one behind the knee and one on her calf.; Victim2 was struck by the hull of V-1 and received a scratch on the rear of her right leg above the ankle.


BARDID: FL-2020-0326
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cow Creek - Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: DIXIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at approximately 1900 hours, a single vessel (V-1) incident occurred at the mouth of Cow Creek, Dixie County, Florida. V-1 operator and two passengers were traveling east into Cow Creek. 

The operator attempted to turn port (left) when the vessel started to make a loud noise, the wooden prop disintegrated. The motor sent fragments of the prop throughout the boat. 

One of the fragments struck subject in the left elbow. Subject sustained a laceration to the left arm and was transported by EMS to the Jena helicopter pad, where she was flighted to UF Health Shands Emergency/Trauma Center, Gainesville, Florida, for treatment. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0327
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was trying to dock at Sandsprit Park while it had water inside the vessel. The operator tied up the bow of the vessel to the dock and put the boat into gear while it was tied up to the dock which caused the vessel to capsize. The operator was arrested for BUI and provided a breath sample of .142g/210 litters of breath and .144 g/210 litters of breath.


BARDID: FL-2020-0328
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctwhachee Bay
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was a rented vessel from Boogie Watersports. The operator returned the vessel and stated he was aware of the hull damage but denied causing the damage. After speaking with the employees, the operator left the scene, in a vehicle. The operator was not injured. Based on the damage on the keel, the operator struck a hard object causing appx $3000.00 in damage, which was estimated by the livery.

Nothing further


BARDID: FL-2020-0329
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Andrews Bay
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was overtaking V1 in congested waters.  V2 stated the steering went out and crashed into V1.  

Operator1 stated he was coming in from fishing with his friends and turned west around Deep Water Point into grand lagoon traveling about 20 mph.  He stated a large black Everglades, DO 1268325, came flying in behind him going at least 30 mph.  

There was a lot of boat traffic in the area.  The Everglades was coming in fast on Operator1's starboard side, trying to go between him and the channel marker.  Operator2 hit his vessel with the side of his vessel, almost rolling over Operator1's vessel.  They exchanged names and Operator2 stated he was going to Pirates Cove Marina.  

I saw a small piece of fiberglass busted out of the bottom of Operator1's vessel and prop marks running down the side of his boat.  I got a statement from Operator1 about the accident (see attached).  I took pictures of the vessel damage then went to Pirates Cove Marina to see if I could find Operator2 and his vessel.

Operator2 complete a statement about the accident.  He stated he lost steering and was unable to steer away from Operator1.  He did not try to slow down at the time, just tried to steer away from Operator1's vessel.  Operator2's vessel had minimal damage, just scratches on his rub rail.  I took pictures of the damage.  Operator1 and Operator2 exchanged information.  

I had Operator2 turn on his batteries so we could look at his steering.  It functioned as normal.  He was adamant that his steering was not working.


BARDID: FL-2020-0330
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay Side Marathon
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Gas fumes in hull ignited, causing an explosion inside the hull.  No persons were ejected or injured.

On Tuesday, June 30th, 2020 at approximately 1040, I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, responded to a vessel explosion (FL8705JT) bay side of Marathon.  The explosion happened between Rachel Bank and Rachel Key.  

10 people were on the vessel at the time of the explosion. No one was ejected, and no one was injured.   I responded to the boat ramp where the vessel was taken to be pulled out of the water.  A good Samaritan took all the people back to the rental house.  

interview the occupants and collected a witness statement from the operator.  Operator1 stated that they had just left the house and noticed the bilge pump light was on, but no water was coming out of the pump.  Operator1 hit the bilge pump switch and the vessel exploded from inside the hull, blowing the hatches, seats, and table off.  

The vessel occupants all put on their life jackets and jumped off the boat.  Operator1 stated that there was some flames coming out of the back hatches and he extinguished them by dumping a few buckets of water on them.  A good Samaritan picked them up and took them back to their rental house.  The rental boat company towed the vessel Dodge Lake boat ramp and pulled it out of the water.


BARDID: FL-2020-0331
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Halifax River
NearestCityorTown: PONCE INLET
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-2 was unoccupied tied to a floating dock at Sea Love Marina with its bow pointing in a south direction.

V-1 was heading south down the north cut just past channel marker #4 when it veered to the left and hit V-2 in the upper right transom putting a 12" hole in it.

FWC and Coast Guard were notified
Op stated he was heading south down the North Cut near Sea Love Marina in a 29’ Stamas center consul, Florida registration FL8582RT when some fishing weights fell off his center console onto the deck of the boat. When he bent down to pick them up the boat veered to the left. OP.  told me he tried to put the vessel engines in reverse but one of the engines stalled and with the tidal current pushing him and momentum he had he was unable to avoid hitting the Sea Spirit


BARDID: FL-2020-0332
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf Of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PERRY
County: TAYLOR
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2020, at approximately 1430 hours, Vessel 1 (GA6500EP) was drifting approximately 2 miles off of Keaton Beach.

While drifting, waves came over the transom of the vessel. The water from the waves then entered an open access hole located near the transom that allowed direct access to the bilge area of the vessel. 

The bilge pump was not functioning properly to pump out the water. The vessel's hull filled with water causing it to become submerged. 

The two vessel occupants ended up in the water.

Both vessel occupants were evaluated and released by EMS. One person obtained minor contusions and lacerations from holding onto the side of the half sunken boat.


BARDID: FL-2020-0333
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Officers responded to a boating accident with serious bodily injury, involving one personal water craft (PWC).  One female was taken to Bay Medical Center by personal vehicle and admitted to Bay Medical Center.  Injuries sustained during the boating accident was a broken nose, facial fractures and internal injuries to hip/pelvic area.

PWC operator stated the pwc ramped a wave and flipped, she struck the pwc upon falling back to the water resulting in multiple injuries.


BARDID: FL-2020-0334
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityorTown: ANNA MARIA
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28, 2020 at approximately 1527hrs I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a boating accident that occurred at Passage Key. The accident occurred when a vessel identified as “Tequila Knot” (V1) was attempting to pull anchor and leave the area. 

Based off witness statements the operator of V1 retrieved his anchor and V1 began drifting. Operator1 was distracted by getting his anchor secured in the vessel’s bow anchor roller. During this time, V1 drifted close to nearby swimmers and vessels. Realizing this Operator1 began trying to maneuver V1 away from the vessels and swimmers. He also asked the nearby swimmers for help in pushing V1 away from the other vessels. Some swimmers did assist but were not able to control V1 for Operator1. They stated it appeared V1 was in reverse and they could not push V1 because it was still under power. 

Subject was nearby when this occurred. She realized her children were behind V1 as it continued to get closer to them. She then went behind V1 to get her children out of the way. In doing so she was struck by the propellers of V1 due to Operator1 not keeping a proper lookout. 

Subject was transported from Passage Key to Anna Maria City Pier by Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit Deputy Judy, then taken to Blake Hospital by Manatee County EMS. Officers both with FWC responded to Blake Hospital to determine the extent of Subject’s injuries. Subject sustained several deep lacerations to both legs caused by the propellers of V1. Her injuries were photographed by Officer’s while at the hospital. She later underwent surgery for her injuries. 

Operator1 was issued a citation for improper lookout. There is no further information related to this incident at this time. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0335
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intra Coastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator lost her hat in the water, her brother attempted to retrieve it. The vessel drifted towards a channel marker and her brother's arm slipped as he tried to push away. His arm was caught in between the channel marker and the boat. He received an approximtae 4inch laceration taken to hospital for further checking.


BARDID: FL-2020-0336
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Estero River
NearestCityorTown: ESTERO
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 27, 2020, at approximately 1845 hours, two vessels collided in the Estero River, Lee County, FL. V1 was traveling East in the River and V2 was traveling West. 

The two came around a bend in a head on position. V1 turned starboard when V2 turned port, causing the two to collide, ejecting all passengers. 

One passenger in V2 was injured, resulting in a broken femur to her right leg, all others had non-life-threatening, minor injuries. V1 continued East, turning in circles in one spot. V2 came to rest in the mangroves on the South side of the bend. Both vessels sustained major damage. 

Occupant3 sustained a minor sprained wrist during impact. Occupant1 sustained a broken femur in her right leg from impact with V1. Occupant2 sustained a minor injury to her arm upon impact.


BARDID: FL-2020-0338
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: DELRAY BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/7/20 a 28ft Vessel Operated lost thrust and began taking on water from the engine compartment. The vessel became partially submerged in the Intracoastal waterway in Delray Beach. All passengers were brought safely to land by a good Samaritan with no injuries. 

Upon arriving on scene, we located a partially submerged vessel and a male in the water with a life jacket on holding onto the vessel. There was also a good Samaritan nearby on a personal watercraft (PWC). 

With the help of the good Samaritan Officer and myself were able to get the operator safely onto our patrol vessel. The operator stated that he and 4 other occupants were on the vessel heading north bound at approximately 20mph when he heard a loud “bang” and the vessel lost thrust, but the engines remained running. 

He stated they opened the engine compartment hatch and noticed there was a large amount of water inside of it. At this time a good Samaritan on a nearby PWC began to offload the passengers and bring them to land as the vessel began to take on more water.


BARDID: FL-2020-0339
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Loxahatchee River
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Recreational vessel FL8253PU was cruising in the north fork of the Loxahatchee River just east of the Loxahatchee River Dr. Bridge, while towing two persons on separate skim boards. 

There were 3 occupants on board the vessel, and two skiers being towed behind the vessel. Both skiers were in the water when the operator turned to pickup both swimmers up. The operator turned the boat and in the process of retrieving the swimmers stuck victim. 

He was rushed back to Utiki dock where EMS transported him to St. Mary’s hospital. Based on the sworn statements received, the vessel was towing two subjects as they were skim boarding in the north fork of the Loxahatchee River. Swimmer 1 fell off the skim board into the water. The operator turned the vessel headed to retrieve swimmer 1 into the boat.

 According to the statements, the operator did not see swimmer 1 and only saw swimmer 2 who was still on his skim board. This is where the prop struck swimmer 1 causing injuries to the left side of his body. Swimmer 2 was able to get swimmer 1 back into the boat and they immediately called 911 and applied pressure to the injuries. At the time of the accident both subjects in the water were wearing their life jackets. 

	After swimmer 1 was back onboard they started heading east down the river towards the Utiki dock. This is where the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit escorted them back. 

Victim had the following injuries resulting from the strike of the prop:  •	Fracture of his left Femur  •	Fracture of his left Pelvis  •	Laceration of his left upper arm/ tricep •	Laceration on his lower left back/hip  •	Laceration on the outside of his left thigh  •	Bruising of left ribs •	Bruising of left lung •	70 stitches to close up lacerations   Victim was released home from the hospital on 6/17/2020.


BARDID: FL-2020-0340
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Single Vessel Accident - vessel took on water

Operator1 was driving V-1 and her husband Occupant was the occupant.  They were in Tampa Bay between the Howard Franklin Bridge and the Courtney Campbell Causeway heading north.  V-1 began taking on water, causing the engine to stall.  While the driver and occupant were still on V-1, V-1 rolled over putting Operator1 and Occupant in the water.  Occupant tied V-1 to a friends jet ski (V-2).  V-2 towed V-1 to the Howard Franklin channel structure.  Occupant tied V-1 to the channel structure.  Occupant then called 911.  Tampa Fire Boat #19 picked up Occupant and transported him to the Gandy Boat Ramp. V-2 later towed in V-1 to Gandy Boat Ramp.  

V1 took on water due to the drain plug not being inserted before getting underway.

Environmental Conditions: Clear, daytime visibility, cloudy, rough waters, moderate winds.  Water temperature approximately 85F, air temp 89F.


BARDID: FL-2020-0341
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Boca Ciega Bay
NearestCityorTown: MADEIRA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/5/20 V1 was utilizing an onboard wash down system and began to take on water. V1 later capsized while underway.  No injuries were reported as a result.  This was the only vessel involved in this accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0342
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cleawater Harbor
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling East within the marked Channel in Clearwater Harbor.  V2 was traveling West within the marked channel. V1 and V2 then met with a head-on situation. 

V1 one turned to port to avoid collision and V2 turned to starboard to avoid collision.  V2 then collided with V1 on the starboard stern gunwale causing damage. V2 sustained damage to the port bow section.


BARDID: FL-2020-0343
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: LONGBOAT KEY
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/27/2020 at approximately 6:45pm, I, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer received a call from our Regional Dispatch office regarding a report of a boating accident which had occurred earlier in the day along the Intracoastal Waterway near Jewfish Key in Manatee County.  No injuries were reported, and the owner of H2O Watersports Rental/Livery was on his way to inspect the damage to the two personal watercraft (PWC) from their fleet.  Upon arrival at the livery, the owner took me out to the dock to document the damages to the two PWC’s involved in the accident.  

During the interview, both Operator1 and Operator2 confirmed they were uninjured during the accident and that there was no damage to any of the PWC’s prior to being rented.  Both individuals stated they weren’t exactly sure where the accident occurred because they weren’t familiar with the area.  It was estimated that they were somewhere near Jewfish Key and Sister Keys based off the description they provided.  They both stated they were at or near idle speed when the accident happened.  

Operator1 was operating his vessel and steered in the direction of Operator2’s vessel.  Operator2 attempted to put his hands up and push Operator1’s vessel away once he realized they were going to collide, but the momentum of the vessels was too much to avoid impact.  Both individuals stated Operator1’s vessel struck Operator2’s vessel near the mid-point of the PWC.  It appears Operator1’s vessel then turned towards the stern of Operator2’s vessel at which point the sponson (stabilizer rail) caused the damage to the transom of Operator2’s PWC.  T

he third rider then pointed out the hole on the transom.  This accident occurred approximately 25-30 minutes into the rental time.  Operator2 then stated they continued to drive the PWC’s around for another 30 minutes before returning the vessels to H2O Watersports.


BARDID: FL-2020-0344
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28, 2020 at approximately 0919hrs I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission arrived at South Coquina Boat Ramp where a vessel caught fire. When I arrived on scene the vessel was fully engulf in flames. The vessel was later identified as FL3692RS. When the fire department arrived on scene, they extinguished the fire. The vessel sunk at the ramp while being extinguished. Based off witness statements the vessel caught fire while tied to the dock and idling when an unknown heat source ignited fuel vapors trapped inside the engine compartment. 


	There were four occupants onboard at the time. Two were sitting near the rear of the vessel when the fire ignited both described it as an explosion. Three all sustained burns to their lower bodies and arms. Operator also sustained a cut on his hand. The fourth occupant was uninjured during the incident. Only one person sought medical attention after leaving the scene. 

	The vessel was later removed from the water by a tow truck. Once the vessel was removed from the water, I was able to examine the full extent of the fire damage. The entire interior was burnt including the engine compartment. The fire damage also extended to the hull and gunnels of the vessel. The fire also caused damage to approximately 30 feet of dock at the boat ramp. The National Response Center was notified, and Florida Department of Environmental Protection responded to evaluate the scene for any contaminates released into the water from the vessel. No significant contaminates were found. There is no further information related to this incident at this time.;


BARDID: FL-2020-0345
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: boca inlet
NearestCityorTown: boca raton
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 exited the boca inlet heading east. the operator advised he then went south and got caught in some large waves. the engine lost power and when he could not get it started he threw his anchor but it would not hold. V1 was grounded on the rock jetties, occupants got off vessel safely, vessel received damage due to wave action against the jetty.


BARDID: FL-2020-0346
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: st joseph sound
NearestCityorTown: dunedin
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was traveling north from st joe sound toward a small canal leading to the east of Dunedin causeway relief bridge, close to the seawall at slow speed.  operator leaned over to pick up trash in the water and accidentally pulled on the throttle lever.  v1 jolted forward and turned to starboard, colliding with v2 on a boat lift.  v1 struck v2 lower unit, no injuries


BARDID: FL-2020-0347
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: boat ramp
NearestCityorTown: mexico beach
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
owner v2 states his vessel was tied up the public dock, v1 attempted to dock and struck the rocks along the seawall, v1 then turned into v2 and collided, pushing v2 into the dock.  operator of v1 was reported to have discarded multiple beer cans prior to LE arrival. Officer and owner did not realize damage was over $2000 at time of incident.  Operator of v1 left the scene


BARDID: FL-2020-0348
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake butler
NearestCityorTown: windermere
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was on lake butler towing 2 juveniles on a tube.  One of the tubers fell off and the operator turned the boat around to pick him up.  as v1 approached the tuber the operator placed the vessel in reverse to stop all forward movement, a juvenile occupant on the vessel jumped from the stern of the boat at the exact same moment the operator had placed the vessel in reverse.  

The action of the propeller pulled the occupant into the prop, his swim trunks getting entangled pulling him under water and stalling the motor.  the operator immediately dove into the water and tried to rescue the occupant but he was unable to free him from the prop.  The occupant subsequently drowned before he could be freed from the prop.


BARDID: FL-2020-0349
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: st. pete beach
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of vessel one was making a turn with a small radius and crossing his own wake. Wen crossing the wake the vessel was capsized, ejecting operator and occupant. Operator sustained minor knee injury when attempting to brace against the PWC and avoid capsizing.


BARDID: FL-2020-0350
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: madiera beach
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were recreating in GOM north of Johns Pass. V2 had stopped to switch operators. V1 was traveling north east toward V2, unaware the vessel was stopped. V1 turned away but was too close to avoid collision. bow of v1 struck starboard side of v2, ramping over v2 damaging v2 controls as it crossed over.  occupant on v2 was ejected.


BARDID: FL-2020-0351
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: Mediera beach
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was cruising west bound in GOM, V1 was also west bound and attempting to catch up to V2. As V1 approached V2, V2 made a turn to the south and V1 struck the port side of V2. Victim sustained a contusion on left leg due to impact with pwc.


BARDID: FL-2020-0352
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake virginia
NearestCityorTown: winter park
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was cruising in the area of lake virginia.  v1 was operating a high rate of speed and attempted to jump a large wake.  the rear hull area separated upon landing back in the water, the operator fell off and lost the key to the pwc.  the pwc was towed back to shore, op was uninjured.


BARDID: FL-2020-0353
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake maitland
NearestCityorTown: winter park
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 states he was stopped in the water, fishing for just a minute when he noticed v1 coming toward the rear of his boat. 

v2 attempted to get the attention of v1.  He thought the operator was looking forward and down. v1 impacted v2 on left stern quarter.  

v2 claims he was struck in the back by v1 as it ramped v2.   

V1 states he was operating in a counter clockwise circle.  he was pulling a wake boarder at approx. 10mph.  V1 stated he had see v2 underway and thought he was heading to a boat house.  The wake boarder fell from the board and v1 turned his head to locate wake boarder, when v1 looked forward he notice v2 had stopped in front of him.  


BARDID: FL-2020-0354
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake boca
NearestCityorTown: boca raton
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
v2 was anchored facing south in the southeast section of lake boca. v1 was accelerating to changed direction in an inbound tidal current, while turning v1 outboard motor struck the starboard stern of v2 causing gelcoat damage.  v1 had minor scratches to his outboard motor.


BARDID: FL-2020-0355
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-02-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:22:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: st. joseph sound
NearestCityorTown: dunedin
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of v1 was engaged in paddling out fishing lines in order to drop baits to shark fish. the operator radioed back to shore to advise he had set a bait and was paddling back. 

witnesses then heard the operator yelling for help. due to the time of night, and sea conditions, they were unable to see the operator.  PCSO was notified and PCSO helicopter located the subject in the water however was unable to maintain a visual prior to water rescue arriving on scene.  It is unknown how or why the operator was separated from his kayak, kayak was found floating upright-but swamped.


BARDID: FL-2020-0356
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityorTown: boynton beach
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was traveling south on the icw in Boynton beach approximately 500 feet north of the woolbright road bridge.  v1 intended to turn the vessel to port but vessel was pushed by another's wake and v1 impacted the seawall head on.  Operator was not ejected or injured.


BARDID: FL-2020-0365
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: hudson beach
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
headed north a the end of Hudson main channel when vessel struck a massive rock/submerged object.  damage to propulsion lower unit.


BARDID: FL-2020-0366
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: canal
NearestCityorTown: pompano beach
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 while attempting to dock struck v2 on port side. due to collision v2 impacted against its dock. no injuries reported

operator of v1 stated one of his engines shut down while maneuvering which caused his vessel to collide with v2.


BARDID: FL-2020-0367
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityorTown: pompano
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
v2 stated, v1 was heading southbound at approx. 35mph and v2 was following at a distance of approx. 35 yards.  

v1 struck a wake and occupant fell overboard, v2 did not see occupant fall overboard and struck occupant with pwc.  

v1 rendered assistance and ems was notified.  occupant had minor lacerations, contusions to head and was admitted for evaluation. 
 

contusion/laceration to left side of head, laceration to finger on left hand, admitted for observation due to head injury


BARDID: FL-2020-0368
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityorTown: boca raton
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was northbound in the icw attempting to go under the camino real bridge.  v1 stated as he attempted to go under the west span he realized there was not enough clearance and his radar antenna package struck the bottom of the bridge.  v1 immediately reversed and noted his damages, reported the incident.  the type 1-p bridge navigation light was also damaged.


BARDID: FL-2020-0369
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake boca
NearestCityorTown: boca raton
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
v2 was anchored in lake boca in the southeast area. v1 was heading southeast off port side of v2, v1 struck port engine of v2 damaging the cowling, v1 left area without stopping or exchanging information.


BARDID: FL-2020-0370
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-02-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I have been in contact with the lawyer in reference to setting up a meeting in order to gather the pertinent information to file the BAR. To this date it has not been possible to get a meetings date or time due to Operator being out of the country.

On May 8, 2020 I emailed Operator's lawyer, all the pertinent form related to the boating accident. I gave instructions for Operator to fill all documents and notarize them. Documents are supposed to be returned to me as per the instructions on my email. 

In the written statement provided by Operator he advised that he was driving the vessel with one female individual on board, the vessel was traveling south when it collided with the Government Cut Jetty in Miami Beach, FL.

In the morning of February 23, 2020, the United States Coast guard (USCG) Sector Miami received a distress call via channel 16 of a 45' Vanquish hard aground on the north jetty of Government Cut. USCG Sector Miami advised on their report, they observed the vessel capsize and sink on port cameras. Fast Response Salvage Company arrived on scene and recovered Operator and occupant from the water and transferred them to CG-45648.


BARDID: FL-2020-0371
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake
NearestCityorTown: HAWTHORNE
County: ALACHUA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/26/2020 at 12:00 PM I was on patrol at Marjorie Rawlings Boat Ramp when I was waived down by operator who reported around 10:30 PM, he and his wife were on Orange Lake when they noticed their vessel (FL3153NA) was taking on water.  They tried to make it back to Marjorie Rawlings Boat Ramp when their vessel capsized causing both individuals to exit the vessel into the water.  

Both were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident.  Operator reported shortly after the vessel capsized, he was able to wave down a nearby boater who gave he and his wife a ride to the boat ramp.  Operator stated he suspected he forgot to put the plug in the vessel before launching and estimates the damage to the vessel to be approximately $30,000.  Operator arranged with Seatow to remove the vessel from the lake on 6/30/2020


BARDID: FL-2020-0372
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling Northwest towards Ocean Reef Club from Carysfort Reef, V1 was traveling at approximately 25 to 30 MPH when it collided with V2 which was drifting outside of Carysfort Reef. 

V1’s bow made contact with V2’s port side and stern, leaving paint marks on the port side rib and causing damage to the outboard and transom. 

The operator of V2 was thrown into the console, causing injury to his left knee and right shoulder. The occupant of V2, who was sitting in front of the helm, was thrown from the vessel into the water. 

V1 went approximately 100 yards before stopping and turning around to render aid to the individuals on V2. 

During a follow up interview on July 15th, he informed me that he has been seeing a doctor for his injuries. He stated that his left knee and right shoulder were still in pain but were not broken. He also mentioned that he was diagnosed with a concussion and subluxation in his upper vertebra, most likely as a result from whiplash.


BARDID: FL-2020-0373
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blackwater Sound
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2020, at approximately 1030, two vessels were involved in a collision at the Blackwater Sound entrance to Marvin D. Adams Waterway.

According to interviews and witness statements, at approximately 1030, July 4, 2020, owner/operator of the Sea Hunt with eight people on board (POB), four adults, and four children, was returning from watching fireworks from their vessel and were traveling south in Blackwater Sound towards Marvin D. Adams Waterway.

 Owner/operator of the Pro Sport, with six POB, two adults, and four children, were on their vessel traveling at idle speed on a canal southwest of the entrance to the Marvin D. Adams Waterway. 

As Operator2 approached to within eighty to hundred yards of the entrance to the waterway, he began to reduce speed off plane. At this time, he noticed warnings from family members and the sound of rippling water and saw the Pro Sport approach and make contact with his port-side. 

Operator1 explained that he saw the Sea Hunt at approximately twenty to thirty yards away and managed to put the throttle in reverse in an attempt to avoid the collision, yet despite this, the anchor at the bow of the Pro Sport made contact with the Sea Hunt and left a track of damage along the portside, while the Pro Sport received damage to the bow anchor and anchor mount. 

After the initial contact, the Sea Hunt’s momentum carried it towards the waterway canal, while the Pro Sport veered to the portside and away from the other vessel. Both parties ensured there were no injuries, to which none were reported, exchanged information and left the area.


BARDID: FL-2020-0374
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARRIS
NearestCityorTown: LEESBURG
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
****INITIAL SYNOPSIS****
Vessel 1 was drifting South near the Singletary boat ramp on Lake Harris with no navigation lights on. 

Vessel 2 was heading West toward the Singletary boat ramp. Vessel 2 did not see vessel 1 until it was too late to avoid collision.  Vessel 2 veered to the North attempting to avoid collision.   Vessel 2 port bow struck Vessel 1's port Transom/ stern. Vessel 1 fled the scene and Vessel 2 called LCSO and FWC law enforcement.  No injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2020-0375
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Peace River
NearestCityorTown: PORT CHARLOTTE
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident. V1 is a 22ft Bay Boat with a single outboard engine. It had two occupants on board and was traveling south out of Port Charlotte Beach Complex in poor weather conditions. The operator stated that the vessel was “bogged down” and would not get on plane. 

According to the occupants, due to poor weather conditions, the vessel started taking waves over the transom and quickly became swamped. 

It was later discovered that a crap trap had fouled the prop and disabled the engine. The vessel subsequently became grounded on a nearby sandbar and was approximately 80 percent submerged. No injuries were reported and no other parties or property was involved.


BARDID: FL-2020-0376
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST ANDREWS BAY
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Hit and run boating incident in St. Andrews Pass. When asked, Operator1 stated that he and his passenger were near the Shell Island kiddie pool putting up his vessels bimini top. His vessel was stationary and engine out of gear. 

While installing his bimini top Operator1 stated that he looked up and saw a pontoon boat heading straight towards his vessel. By Operator1's description the oncoming vessel was approaching from their starboard midship. Operator1 stated that he sounded his vessels horn and accelerated away from the oncoming vessel in an attempted to avoid impact. The oncoming vessels right front pontoon made contact with Operator1's vessel on the starboard side of the outboard engines cowling. A photo of the damage to the engine cowling is attached to this report. Operator1 estimated the speed of impact was 5 to 7 miles per hour.

Operator1 stated words were exchanged between the two vessels and the striking vessel fled the scene. Operator1 stated the vessel, herein described as Vessel 2, looked like a rental pontoon boat from Adventures at Sea. Operator1 attempted to keep visual contact with the vessel while calling to report the accident. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0377
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityorTown: PALATKA
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Owner of V1 took the vessel off its lift at his residence.  He drove the vessel out into the river and noticed the vessel was not running right, he then started to return to his dock when the motor shutoff.  

He then restarted the motor and continued to his dock when the motor shutoff a second time.  Upon trying to restart the motor a third time he heard an explosion at the motor and noticed fire in the back of the vessel.  

The owner then grabbed his wallet and cell phone and jumped into the river.  He then swam to the front of the boat and started swimming the vessel to shallow water while it was on fire.  Once he got to water shallow enough for him to touch the bottom he then began to look for a way to anchor the vessel.  The vessel continued to drift toward a neighboring dock so he went to retrieve it.  

Once he got the vessel away from the dock he got an anchor from another vessel and secured the vessel.  At that time the fire department arrived, extinguished the fire and helped the owner get it back onto the trailer.  The vessel is a total loss.  The owner was not injured nor is there any other property damage to report.


BARDID: FL-2020-0378
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: st. johns river
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 19, 2020, FWC dispatch advised me that a vessel wrecked into Drayton Island. The accident was believed to have occurred on the night of June 18, 2020 around 2230 hours and the occupants of the vessel were picked up at 0730 hours the following morning. 

As we approached the Northeast end of Drayton Island, I observed a red and white vessel approximately 34 foot that appeared to have been launched onto land with only the propellers touching the water. I retrieved the vessel Florida decal numbers (FL7880MT) and ran the registration numbers through SmartMCT system. 

I took several photos of the outside and inside of the vessel to document the scene. Multiple containers of alcoholic beverages were found in the vessel and a red cooler was in the rear end of the vessel with open and unopened containers of alcoholic beverages. While taking photographs, I found what appeared to look like blood in several areas of the vessel. Dispatch was advised to call local hospitals in the area to see if someone had checked in with injuries relating to a boating accident. Dispatched notified me that multiple hospitals were contacted but no one has checked in with injuries relating to a boating accident. While photographing the vessel I noticed the center console had been completely separated from the deck and on the starboard side of the hull there was about a 12-inch crack in the fiber glass. 

Subject continued to inform me that Operator told him that he was driving his vessel the night of the accident and that he was trying to avoid hitting a dock when he turned sharply towards land and beached it. I asked Subject if he knew how many people where on the vessel and he believed it was just Operator and maybe a girlfriend. 

Towboat US arrived on scene and removed Operator vessel from land. 
According to the victim, the operator let go of the steering wheel which contributed to the vessel grounding.  The victim took herself to the hospital due to severe pain; she had 12 fractured ribs, a damaged spleen, & bruised lung and kidney.


BARDID: FL-2020-0380
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west through the Fort Walton Beach buoy line behind V2.

 V1 began to pass V2 on its port side when it caught a chine causing V1 to make a hard right turn in front of V2.  Operator of V1 jumped off the vessel and V1 was struck on its port side by the bow of V2.  

V2 was traveling at approximately 20mph and V1 was traveling at approximately 30 mph.  No injuries occurred and both vessels sustained damage.  

Operator1 stated he was traveling at approximately 30 mph and he did not have any experience on a PWC.


BARDID: FL-2020-0381
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:22:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Charlotte Harbor
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday May 1, 2020 at approximately 0820hrs a single vessel accident took place just north of Bokeelia in Charlotte Harbor. The vessel involved was a 15ft Sea N SP open motorboat (V1). There were three people on board at the time of the accident. 

The vessel was traveling approximately 15-20 mph when it struck a fixed channel marker (green #11) on the port side bow of the vessel. One occupant, sitting on a chair near the bow, was ejected from the vessel but was not injured. The person sitting in the middle of the vessel struck his head on something unknown. The operator was not injured. 

The operator called 911 and drove the vessel back to Lavenders Landing where he was met by Lee County EMS. The injured person was air lifted to Lee Memorial Hospital due to the head injury. At the hospital, it was determined he had a fractured skull. Fifteen days later, the occupant died as a result of the injuries. Fatal occupant was seated on a pedestal seat in the operator field of vision which may have contributed to the operator failing to see the nav aid.


BARDID: FL-2020-0382
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: atlantic ocean
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While traveling in a North direction parallel to the swim buoys on the ocean side near the vicinity of 163 Street Pier the operator and victim were  ejected from the PWC towards the PORT (left) side. 

During a recorded interview with the victim at Aventura Hospital, he told me that his leg had been caught in between the PWC and PORT side gunnel. While traveling North, he stated that both him and the operator were looking West at the buildings when they were broad sided by a wave from the East, Starboard, (right) side and were ejected into the water. The victim believes that his left leg was trapped in between the PWC and the gunnel causing the fractures to his left Tibula and Fibula.


BARDID: FL-2020-0383
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: DE BARY
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06-14-2020 at approximately 4:00pm, the operator of vessel 2 (V2) was traveling east bound within the marked channel on the St. John's River just east of Ft. Florida Road in Debary, FL.  The operator of vessel 1 (V1) had just pulled anchor, was idling away from the north shoreline (sandbar) and was attempting to enter and travel east in the marked channel as well.  As the operator of V1 was idling away from the sandbar and into the marked channel, the operator's view was partially obscured by a large uninvolved anchored vessel just to the west of the operator's location.

   As the operator of V1 entered the channel, it was struck by the operator of V2 who was on plane and still traveling east within the marked channel, causing no injuries and minor damage to both vessels.  

    When I made contact with the operator for V1, he advised that he was idling into the channel at a "45 degree" angle.  The operator of V1 said that V2 was traveling east on plane and wasn't paying attention because he was being passed by another vessel on his starboard side.  According to the operator of V1, V2 was in his "blind spot" and "ran right over the front of us" as he pulled into the channel.  

     When I made contact with the operator of V2, he advised that he was traveling east on the river at approximately 24-25mph.  The operator of V2 advised that as he approached V1s location, he was being passed by an unknown vessel on his starboard side.  

     The operator of V2, said that as he was paying attention to the unknown passing vessel, one of his passengers shouted "look out!"  The operator of V2 said when he turned around, he observed V1 pulling into his path of travel and into the channel from behind a large uninvolved anchored vessel that was partially blocking V1 from his line of sight.  The operator of V2 said that even though he attempted to make an evasive maneuver, he struck the front starboard side of V1 at a 45 degree angle.

    The operator of V1 and his passenger reported and sustained no injuries as a result of this crash.  The operator of V1 estimated to have approximately $2,000 in damages to his vessel.  V1 had minor fiberglass damage to the right mid to front starboard side of the vessel.  The operator of V2 and his two passengers reported and sustained no injuries as a result of this crash.  The operator of V2 estimated to have approximately $2,500.00 in damages to his vessel.  V2 had a minor scrape on the bottom of the port side hull.  

    No injuries occurred as a result of this crash and no major damages were caused.  Both vessels were able to be removed from the scene by their respective operators at their own request.  It should be noted that the damages observed to both vessels were consistent with the accounts given by both operators while onscene.  No further action was taken.

***My issued body camera was used for the above incident and footage is available upon request***


BARDID: FL-2020-0384
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Lake Tohopekaliga
NearestCityorTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 11, 2020, at approximately 2:00pm in Osceola County at Lakefront Park boat ramp on East Lake Tohopekaliga operator1 was pulling his pontoon boat from the water. Out of the 3 slips located at Lakefront park Operator1 was pulling his vessel from the middle slip. 

Simultaneously, in the slip facing the port side of his vessel a jet skit was being launched.  As the jet ski enters the water operator2 accelerates, goes under the dock, bounces off several dock pillars and strikes the port side of Operator1 pontoon. The collision causes a dent in the port side pontoon of the pontoon boat and minor scratches to the rub rail of the jet ski. Operator1 received estimates on his vessel totaling $3000. The jet ski damage is to minor to need repair.


BARDID: FL-2020-0385
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Pass Bay, Gate Bay
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday June 20th 2020, V2 was traveling Northwest, on plane in West Pass Bay approaching Gate Bay. There is a small opening between two mangrove islands that separate the two bays. V1 was traveling Southeast, at idle speed from Gate Bay through a pass to West Pass Bay. V2 turned the corner into the pass and struck V1, running it over. 

V1 had 1 injured party that required hospitalization. 

Subject1 went through the pass at idle speed on V3, ahead of his son, Operator1. Operator1 was going through the pass at idle and heard a vessel on plane approaching them. He saw his father frantically waving his hands to signal the oncoming vessel to slow down. 

Subject1 observed V2 coming along the mangrove island at approximately 30 mph on plane, approaching the pass. He said he tried to signal the operator of V2, by waving his arms over his head, for them to slow down to avoid an accident. 

He said Operator2 just waved back at him and continued his speed and made a sharp 90-degree right turn into the pass. Once Operator2 entered the pass, he met V1 almost head on. V2 struck V1 on its port bow, striking one occupant. V2 then traveled up and over V1, ramping it and became airborne before landing on the other side of the pass. V2’s prop broke off and was lodged into the side of V1 (pictures attached).  

Operator1 and two others dove out of the way and were unharmed by the strike. V2 occupant was laying up on the bow and was impacted by V2’s bow which left him with severe injuries to his right shoulder and midsection;


BARDID: FL-2020-0386
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Apalachicola River
NearestCityorTown: WEWAHITCHKA
County: GULF
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was towing a wake boarder on the Apalachicola River. The wake boarder attempted to jump a wake and fell into the water. The wake boarder suffered several injuries to his left leg and was transported to the hospital for treatment. He sustained several breaks to his left femur and a dislocated left knee.


BARDID: FL-2020-0387
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling east in Fleming Key channel in the Gulf of Mexico at a medium rate of speed. The operator of V1 was distracted by the passenger on board, causing the operator to hit the throttle and crash into Fleming Key bridge. During the crash, the operator of V1 struck their arm on the bridge. This caused the operator to sustain injuries.

The operator sustained a fractured wrist, however is expected to make a full recovery. She was treated for her injuries that evening and received an armsling and medication. She will be released from the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery.


BARDID: FL-2020-0388
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/11/2020 at approximately 1715 hours a 24-foot vessel bearing FL2504RG was docked at the most western dock at Mayport boat ramp in Jacksonville FL. This vessel shall be referred to as V1. The operator of V1 stated that a vessel bearing FL6795CU a 20 foot walk around was leaving the dock to load the vessel onto the trailer. 

Operator1 stated that as V2 was maneuvering around V1 the starboard stern corner of V2 struck V1 on the starboard bow keel area and caused wrap damage and minor gel coat damage. 

The operator of V2 left the scene shortly after striking V1. Upon interviewing Operator2 at his residence, Operator2 stated that V1 was docked with the bow facing east, and V2 was docked with the bow facing West. 

Operator2 stated that he kept his fishing poles at the starboard corner of V2 with the tips laid over the gunwale pointing towards the transom. As Operator2 maneuvered V2 away from the dock and around V1 he heard the rod tips shake from catching the trolling motor mount of V1. 

Operator2 stated that he did not feel contact between the vessels. Based on my training and experience, the damage to V1 is consistent with the positioning of the two vessels as described by the operators. Furthermore, the damage to V1 appears to have been due to the U-bolt located at the transom of V2.  With a lack of eyewitnesses and video surveillance my determination is based on the description of events from both operators.


BARDID: FL-2020-0389
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
While traveling south the operator of V1 shifted his weight to the bow of the boat.  The vessel took on water from the bow and capsized. There were 5 people on the vessel, Operator was at the helm, 2 occupants were at the bow, one was seated in front of the console, and one was on his left at the port side of the helm. He said he was traveling south (tide going out, against current) when he shifted his weight forward while at the helm to talk to one of the occupants at the bow of the boat. He placed his right foot forward on the starboard side of the console.  While heading south in the rip (occurs on the north side and under the bridge on tide swings) the vessel took on water at the bow and quickly capsized.  The operator and all occupants were ejected then swam to the bank/marsh on the north west side of the ICW.


BARDID: FL-2020-0390
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: goodbys creek
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/12/2020 at approximately 2:00 P.M. at Goodby's Boat Ramp Operator was splashing the boat into the water from the trailer and when he went to start the vessel it exploded immediately and he was thrown into the air and landed in the water.

The information gathered was that Operator was splashing the boat into the water from the trailer and when he went to start the vessel it exploded immediately and he was thrown into the air and landed in the water. 

He was assisted out of the water by people at the boat ramp. When he was helped from the water he had a fracture in the bottom of his leg near ankle. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue department had Ladder 44, Engine 51, Fire Chief 9 putting the fire out while the vessel was on the water. Operator was transported to Memorial as a trauma alert due to age and injurie by Rescue 42. 

Officer went to Memorial Hospital to meet with Operator.  He took pictures of the injuries for the fractured ankle and the scratch on same ankle. He had a fractured right heel. He also had 2nd degree burn on right shin. He received these injuries at some point between the blast and final resting spot.


BARDID: FL-2020-0391
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ponce inlet
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday July 13, 2020 I Officer of the FWC, along with Coast Guard Personal and EMS responded to a victim of a boating accident involving a single vessel with a single occupant. The victim was at the boat ramp located near the southeast side of the Coast Guard station at Ponce Inlet and had been transported there by a friend aboard his vessel. EMS personnel described injury as left leg being angulated below the knee and above the ankle. 

Victim’ wife was able to provide me with a sworn written statement in English which Victim dictated to her in Spanish of the details of the accident (see attached). Wife was able to tell me that Victim had been riding his jet ski near the south side of Disappearing Island in south cut Ponce Inlet. Victim encountered a “big” wave. He then tried to traverse the wave launching both himself and the jet ski up. A off center landing caused the injury to his leg. 

Victim was transported to Florida Hospital in Ormond Beach via ambulance. 

On Monday July 13, 2020 I contacted Wife by telephone. She was able to provide me with the bill of sale for the jet ski purchased on 6-23-20. She also stated no damage was done to the jet ski. Also, that the diagnoses of Victim injury was that he had a broken tibia on the left leg. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0392
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Palma Sola Bay
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07-11-2020, I, Lt. (FWC), responded to a boating accident in Bradenton, Manatee County Florida. The crash occurred in Palma Sola Bay and involved two personal watercrafts (PWC).  

Both PWCs were operational and were loaded on the trailers when I arrived. No serious injuries were reported. Operators were reportedly racing each other and were very close to one another.  

V2 turned toward or into the path of V1, V2 stated let off the throttle before collision.


BARDID: FL-2020-0393
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was beached to the right of V2 which was also beached. While attempting to leave the beach, V1 drifted towards V2. 

An occupant (victim) of V1 attempted to prevent V1 from colliding with V2 but fell into the water. O1 then accelerated in an attempt to avoid V1 bow from striking V2 stern. V

1's port bow struck V2's motor and starboard stern before continuing past V2's stern. V1 operated over the victim, and the propeller struck him on his back. 

V1 subject stated he was drifting towards V2  with his motor off due to him just pulling up the anchor. He stated he then cranked the vessel and put the vessel in forward gear in an attempt to avoid hitting V2. He stated while putting the vessel into forward, his son jumped off the vessel to stop them from hitting the other vessel. 

V1 subject then stated he realized his motor was out of the water, so while trimming the motor down, his vessel accelerated forward hitting V2 and then striking Victim. Subject stated he did not know where his son went or what happened until he seen his son behind his vessel. During the interview, V1 subject stated he has very little operating experience operating a vessel. The rental vessel V1 subject was operating sustained approximately $1000 in damage to the portside bow.  Victim suffered approximately 6 prop cuts to his back.


BARDID: FL-2020-0394
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30th, 2020, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on duty and in uniform conducting Water patrol in the Western Sambos Ecological Preserve, Monroe County, State of Florida. At approximately 1830hrs, I was dispatched to Stock Island Marina Village for a boating accident with vessel damage.

The vessel "It's About Time" struck the vessel "Second Wind" while attempting to dock at Stock Island Marina Village. The incident resulted in deep fiberglass damage from the swim platform of the vessel "It's About Time".   

Subject advised that his vessel had been struck by a vessel that was docking named “Its About Time”. The vessel was located in the slip next to him at D18. Subject1 completed a sworn written statement reflecting the following: 

The vessel “It’s About Time” came in to dock at slip D18. He was inside his vessel and noticed that the operators of that vessel were having trouble gaining control of it. Subject1 observed a woman at the helm on the bridge and a man at the stern controls and it appeared each operator was attempting to make corrections to gain control of the vessel. 

During this event, he grabbed a bumper from his vessel and attempted to fend off  “Its About”, however the vessel struck his Starboard Bow with its swim platform causing a very large hole. Subject1 advised that he took photos and immediately covered the hole with white flex tape to protect his vessel. The photos Subject1 provided are attached to this report and reflect what I observed on scene. 

I made contact with the operators of the ‘It’s About Time” and identified them as husband and wife. both stated that while trying to dock they were trying to communicate with each other through headsets and having trouble backing into their slip. Operator1 stated that he was trying to take control of the vessel, but it appeared that his wife was also attempting to operate the vessel from her helm topside. Essentially, both were fighting for control of the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2020-0395
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ft Pierce Inlet
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A 36" Morgan Sailboat struck new dock at Dockside Inn causing damage to the dock.  The vessel with two persons on board left the scene and exited the Ft Pierce Inlet. The vessel was stopped a short time later offshore traveling northbound. 

While I was on scene with the dock master the Sheriffs Office called to say they had located the vessel about a mile offshore  east of Pepper Park on North Hutchinson Island. I immediately went to City Marina and boarded my patrol vessel and proceeded to the location where  the vessel was located. 

I pulled along side of the 36'  sailboat that was occupied by two.  When asked about the incident at Dockside they advised that it was them and that they had indeed struck the dock.  White stated that he was operating the vessel and had it on auto pilot.. He stated that he went below deck to check equipment.  There was a very swift current at the time and the auto pilot was not able to hold it's course causing the vessel to veer into the dock.


BARDID: FL-2020-0396
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityorTown: MADEIRA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/7/20 at approximately 1800 hrs V1 and V2 were traveling east within Johns pass.  V1 attempted to overtake V2 on the port side without signaling. 

V2 turned left into the path of V1 causing a collision resulting in vessel damage and injuries beyond first aid.


Operator2 :Multiple fractured ribs on left side.

V2 occupant suffered multiple fractured ribs on left side.  Pneumothorax left lung.

Operator1 suffered minor contusions.


BARDID: FL-2020-0397
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator and occupant of V1 was fishing in the Gulf of Mexico just outside the Pensacola Pass.  Fishing line was tangled in the prop and the motor was cut off.  A large wave came over the stern while the operator was trying to cut the line from the motor. The vessel was swamped and capsized.


BARDID: FL-2020-0398
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: HOMESTEAD
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, May 6, 2020, at approximately 1445 hours, a 19-foot center console vessel (herein after referred to as V-1), launched from Homestead Bayfront Park Boat Ramp. Owner operated V-1 and the only passenger was his friend. Owner operated out the channel and across Biscayne Bay until they arrived in the area to the west of Elliot Key, South of Sands Cut. Owner realized that he had forgotten to install the drain plug on the vessel prior to launching. Owner told friend he forgot to install the plug, retrieved a drain plug from a duffle bag and lunged into the water in the effort to install the plug. Owner was immediately separated from V-1 by tidal and wind conditions. Owner struggled to swim back to V-1, subsequently drowning.  

Reference ISR062487 for complete investigation report. 

occupant was able to retrieve keys thrown to him by the operator and get the boat closer, at that time the operator was unresponsive, occupant got in the water and put a PFD around operator, attempting to save him, a Good Samaritain vessel came by to assist.  Operator was taken to hospital where he was pronounced deceased.


BARDID: FL-2020-0399
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were travelling on an intersecting course. V1 and V2 collided into each other.

Operator1 stated that he was a member of Freedom Boat Club, and he had taken the Boat Club vessel (V1, 23ft Cobia FL7597SP) for the day from Miami Beach Marina. He had crossed underneath the Rickenbacker Causeway and was travelling South towards Stiltsville. Operator1 stated that when he was approximately ½ mile East of the Dinner Key Channel, he noticed another vessel coming from behind him in close proximity off his starboard bow, travelling East on an intersecting course. Operator1 turned his vessel in an attempt to avoid collision, but he did not notice the other vessel until it was too late. 

	Next I spoke to the captain of the second vessel. He stated that he boarded his vessel (V2, 27ft Cobia FL1489MT), departed his marina in Coconut Grove and was travelling East out of the main Dinner Key Channel towards Cape Florida Channel. Shortly after exiting the channel he noticed another vessel in close proximity off his port bow, travelling South on an intersecting course. Operator2 turned his vessel in an attempt to avoid collision, but he did not notice the other vessel until it was too late. 

Both operators stated that V1 and V2 struck each other at approximately a 45-degree angle. The action taken by both operators significantly reduced the severity of the damages. V1 sustained significant fiberglass damage to its starboard side bow, with visible cracks on the hull, top cap, and gunwale. V2 sustained no visible damage. No injuries were sustained by any of the operators or occupants.


BARDID: FL-2020-0400
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:54:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOSTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 7, 2020, at approximately 1200 hours, a two-vessel collision occurred in the intercostal waterway just south of the Highway 64 bridge in Manatee County, Florida. The vessels involved were a green 11-foot Bombardier PWC, FL 8340 SN (V1) operated by one adult male and a red 11-foot Bombardier PWC, FL 8335 SN (V2) operated by one adult female. 

Both V1 and V2 were traveling north in the ICW at approximately 25 mph. V1 was to the left and slightly behind V2. V2 suddenly turned hard to the port side cutting in fount of V1. V1 ramped over V2 which caused fatal injuries to the female operator of V2.

The cause of death was complications of Blunt Impact Injuries of the Head.  	A.  Subdural hematoma 	B.  Duret hemorrhages of brainstem 	C.  Cerebal edema 	D.  Contusion of galea aponeurotica 	E.  Contusios of neck muscles 	F.  Cutaneous contusions


BARDID: FL-2020-0401
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctahatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2020, two individuals were operating Personal Watercrafts in the Choctawhatchee Bay heading West toward the Brooks Bridge in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.  

Vessel 2 transitioned back to a drift from planning speeds while vessel 1 followed close behind. Vessel 1 began his transition back to Idle speed but during this transition he did not have enough space to fully slow down. 

Vessel 1 collided with Vessel 2 on the port side also striking Operator 2 in the leg. Operator 2 sustained 2 broken bones below the knee on her left leg. Operator 2 was ejected from the ski at this time.


BARDID: FL-2020-0402
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clearwater Bay
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/18/20 a single vessel accident with injury occurred in Clearwater Bay at One Tree Island. A subject in the water was struck by a propeller on the left leg causing a deep laceration which required transport by EMS.

The victim stated that he had been boating to One Tree Island in Clearwater Bay with friends.

As a rainstorm approached One Tree Island the vessel (Registration number FL3773JX, a 1997 17' Boston Whaler) broke anchor as the wind increased and began to drift. Victim, who was standing in the water on the starboard side of the vessel, instructed Subject (who was onboard the vessel) to start the engine and put it in gear to attempt to avoid drifting into another nearby anchored vessel. 

Subject, who stated that she has no experience ever operating a vessel, turned the key to start the engine and pushed the throttle forward. At the time that Subject did this the engine was turned all the way to the left. Subject unknowingly pushed the throttle too far forward, causing the vessel to quickly turn left. As this happened the propeller struck Victim's left leg causing his injury. Subject then turned the key off to stop the vessel once everybody started yelling at her to stop.

Victim's lower left leg suffered an approximately 7" long deep laceration from the impact of the propeller. Victim was then transported by EMS to Bayfront Hospital Emergency Room. Victim also stated that there was a possibility of a bone fracture pending the results of an x-ray scan.


BARDID: FL-2020-0403
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 18, at approximately 1315 hours, an incident occured of the NW coast of Captiva Island. A subject fell overboard from his vessel and caught his throat/neck on a line that was towing a tube. 

He was taken to the hospital for a minor injury, no damage was done to the vessel. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0404
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: st. petersburg
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel engine malfunctioned while transiting the pass at shell key preserve, Irma cut. due to the water and weather conditions the vessel began taking water over the gunwale.  All occupants donned PFD's and exited the vessel and made their way to a sand bar.  The vessel subsequently capsized.


BARDID: FL-2020-0405
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: madeira beach
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
v1 was traveling westbound through johns pass into the gulf. operator stated vessel took several large waves of over the bow and the engines stalled. operator attempted to restart but was unsuccessful.  Current turned the vessel parallel to waves which caused flooding.  A good samaritain vessel assisted occupants on to their vessel, before all occupants could be rescued the vessel capsized.  remaining occupants were pulled to safety by PD vessel.  no injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2020-0406
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityorTown: palm beach shores
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
v2 was anchored on the east side of peanut island. V1 drifted backwards into the front starboard side of v2, v1 engine caused fiberglass damage to v2


BARDID: FL-2020-0407
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 12, 2020, a mother and two daughters were part of the tour group near Big Carlos Pass. The mother and one of the daughters were on the same PWC when a large wake ejected both of them off the PWC. 

Upon resurfacing, the mother was hit on the forehead and received a laceration that resulted her to be transported to the hospital. I also spoke with and questioned Subject1, as both daughters were currently en route via personal vehicle to the hospital to see their mother. They both stated that they were part of a tour and were waiting for the group to catch up. 

When asked who was where just prior to the incident and on which PWC, Subject2 stated that she was on a PWC by herself and Subject1 was on the other PWC with her mom. When asked what happened prior to Subject1 and her mother falling off, both Subject1 and Subject2 stated as they were waiting, a "large wave" came in rolled their mom and sister (Subject1) off the PWC. 

When her mom resurfaced, the PWC hit her on the forehead. The laceration and blood loss promoted the tour guide to call 911 instead of immediately returning to the livery. No one was certain on exactly where on the PWC victim hit her head. Both Subject1 and Subject2 acknowledged the deteriorating weather to be the main factor. All parties were wearing PFDs and can swim. Subject1 stated that her mother operated a PWC a total of three times prior to the incident.; T

Victim sustained a one inch laceration on her forehead near her hairline. She was admitted into the Health Park Hospital ER for treatment.


BARDID: FL-2020-0408
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Panama City Pass
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 27, 2020 at approximately 0900 I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on water patrol in my marked (FWC) patrol vessel when I received a call from my dispatch about a vessel fire in Panama City Pass. When I arrived at the location I noticed a vessel displaying Florida registration (FL 5093 MU) floating and no one onboard with its engine compartment open and four people onboard another vessel. 

I pulled up to that vessel and asked if anyone owner that vessel a female spoke up and said it was her vessel.  I asked who was onboard and she said herself and two friends.  I then asked them to come aboard my patrol vessel and they climbed aboard. While I was doing my investigation I noticed the vessel getting close to shore so I pulled up to the vessel and towed it to Grand Lagoon and waited on Sea tow.  

While I was waiting I got the owners information. I then asked who was operating the vessel the time the fire had started.  A white male spoke up and said he was driving. I asked what had happen? 

Operator gave me a written statement the read " While going across the pass, we lost power and smoke started pouring out of the engine compartment. There no previous signs of problems when we left Pirates Cove." I then asked if someone had used the fire extinguisher. The owner of the vessel said she did. After Sea tow arrived I turned the vessel over to them and transported the passengers to Pirates Cove marina. I waited at Pirates Cove Marina for Sea tow and when they arrived I took pictures of the vessel and engine compartment. No further action taken.


BARDID: FL-2020-0409
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Weir
NearestCityorTown: OCKLAWAHA
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Autopilot
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday July 12, 2020 at approximately 2206 hours a boating accident involving a single vessel occurred on Lake Weir located with Marion County. The nearest town is Ocklawaha. 

Operator was operating a black in color 2018 25 foot Tidewater center console open motorboat. There were three additional passengers on the vessel. Operator stated he was headed in a northeast direction when he put the vessel on auto pilot. The vessel failed to go around a peninsula and ran aground through thick brush and trees. The vessel came to a stop approximately 35 yards on dry ground. During the impact of running aground, Subject1 was thrown to the deck of the boat and sustained a head injury. She was transported to the hospital for her injuries. 

Operator, and two others suffered minor injuries and were checked out by EMS on scene but refused further treatment. 

Victim 3 had a lump on his head and lacerations. He was treated by EMS on scene but refused further treatment.

Subject1 sustained a contusion and laceration above her right ear from the accident. She was transported and admitted into Ocala Regional Medical Center. Eight stapled were used to close the laceration. She was released from the hospital the following day.; 

Operator had lacerations on his back. He was treated by EMS on scene but refused further treatment the night of the accident. The next day he went to the emergency room and received a cat scan. He had bruised ribs but nothing further.

Victim4 stated that he was sore but had no apparent injuries. He was treated by EMS on scene and refused any further treatment.


BARDID: FL-2020-0410
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nassau River
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was traveling East in the Nassau River @ Eagle Bend pulling two tubes with one occupant on each. After circling to create wakes/waves, the rough waters caused the two subjects on the tubes to collide which resulted in minor injuries to one of the subjects.

 The extent of the injuries were a laceration to the lip and a contusion to the left wrist. End


BARDID: FL-2020-0411
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: BIG PINE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel struck concrete columns under South Pine Channel Bridge. Vessel suffered severe damage, operator was ejected. Operator1 stated that he struck the bridge (South Pine Channel Bridge) at a high rate of speed. Operator1 stated that he was wearing the kill switch cord, which disabled the motors when he was ejected from the vessel. Operator1 provided a sworn written statement. 

	I asked Operator1 if I could look at his GPS, to which he consented. I observed Operator1’s track lines going under South Pine Channel Bridge. Based off Operator1’s track lines, it appears he attempted to navigate under the bridge to the right of where normal traffic flows. The course taken by Operator1 is navigable but is much narrower due to the concrete columns and low overhead.


BARDID: FL-2020-0412
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: NORTH PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Recreational vessel FL6498MZ was cruising in the Lake Little Worth north of the Jack Nicklaus Dr. Bridge. There were 7 occupants on board the vessel, and two skiers being towed behind the vessel. One skier was in the water when the operator turned to pick up the skier. The operator turned the boat and in the process of retrieving the skier struck Victim. 

	Based on the sworn statements received, the vessel was towing two subjects as they were skim boarding in Lake Little Worth. Skier 1 fell off the skim board into the water. The operator turned the vessel headed to retrieve skier 1 into the boat. According to the statements, the operator got the vessel too close to Skier 1 and lost sight of him. This is where the prop struck skier 1 causing injuries to the left side of his body. The operator of the vessel put the boat in neutral and jumped into the water to assist him. At the time of the accident both skiers were wearing their lifejackets. 

	They got Skier 1 into the boat and returned to the operator’s dock behind his house. They applied pressure to the lacerations. EMS arrived and transported Skier 1 to St. Mary’s hospital. Deep laceration to the left arm. •	Small scrapes and scratches to his lower back •	A scrape across the top of his head •	Fracture of L-5 vertebrae  •	Large amount of swelling on back


BARDID: FL-2020-0413
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Andrews Bay
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: swimmer behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling SE over a shoal to go fishing and drove through a group of 5 snorkelers that did not have a dive flag.  One person was struck by the vessel.  Minor injuries.  

They stated they were snorkeling behind Shell Island, and a charter vessel, (FL 1747 RS), operated by Operator1 was driving toward  them full speed.  Bree stated she was on a separate vessel and saw Operator1 driving towards her family in the water.  She yelled at them to wave their arms so that Operator1 would see them.  

The subjects in the water saw the vessel driving towards them and started waving their arms and yelling.  The five people were in a circle in the water.  Operator1 drove right through the middle of them on plane, running over Victim.  I asked his parents if they had a dive flag.  They stated they did not have one.  They also later stated that they were about 150 feet from their boat.  Victim had a cut on his right shin, right knee, 2 cuts on his left thigh, small cuts on the back of his left hand, one on his left chest and one on his left bicep.


BARDID: FL-2020-0414
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY/INLET
NearestCityorTown: CRAWFORDVILLE
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
July 1, 2020 at approximately 1:00 pm, V1 was traveling northwest at 5-10 MPH, returning to Rock Landing from St Marks. V1 reached the 1st Channel Marker in Ochlocknee Bay encountering high-winds, rain and seas 1-2 feet. Shorty after, V1 engine ceased, the seas compellingly increased in height, V1 momentarily drifted sideways causing waves to crash into the mid port or starboard side forcing V1 to completely flip over.


BARDID: FL-2020-0416
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: CARRABELLE
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was believed to have a dirty bilge pump.
Vessel 1 could not pump water out of the vessel adequately.
Vessel 1 sank and all individuals on board were left floating in the water for nearly 15 hours.

Subject saw the five individuals floating in the water and said they were hanging on to a cooler and had their youngest son in the 110-quart cooler. 

	Operator stated that he and his family had gone offshore fishing around 6:30 PM and that around 7:30 PM the vessel started taking on water at the back of the boat. Operator stated that he believes the bilge pump was dirty and it did not pump the water coming into the vessel properly and it caused the vessel to sink. Operator stated that he and his family all put life jackets on, and he were able to attach two coolers together and put his youngest son in the 110-quart cooler. The rest of his family held onto the coolers and floated for nearly 15 hours before being picked up.

	Operator stated that there were no injuries and that when he returned to shore that subject2 and the children left to return home. Operator and subject both provided sworn written statements.

	 As of July 15, 2020, the vessel belonging to Operator, a 24-foot, 1983 Seabird, bearing Florida registration numbers (FL8123DV) has yet to be found.


BARDID: FL-2020-0417
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal waterway, Gulf of
NearestCityorTown: TARPON SPRINGS
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 19, 2020, at approximately 1615 hours, boating accident # FWSW20OFF015064 occurred at North Three Rooker Island, Pinellas County, Florida at the south eastern tip of the island.  

Vessel One (V1) with one operator and one occupant were waiting out thunderstorms in the area on Three Rooker Island.  The occupants of V1 saw new thunderstorms approaching their location and decided to leave.  

V1 was anchored from the stern at the shoreline of Three Rooker.  

The operator of V1 retrieved his anchor off the shore.  As he was climbing back aboard the vessel, the ladder rung pivoted and broke.  V1 operator’s foot slid off the ladder rung, and he landed on the side of the ladder.  This created a 5-inch laceration in his right front lower leg.  He was transport by Palm Harbor Fire Boat to meet a waiting ambulance.  V1 operator had surgery the next day at Advent Health in North Pinellas County to repair the laceration.; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0418
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: SUNNY ISLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC Struck Channel Marker, Improper Lookout
According to statements by operator, he was operating on plane, just east of the ICW, and distracted by an acquaintance on a separate vessel. 

Operator struck the #3 green channel marker with the starboard bow of the PWC. Operator denied having sustained any injuries in the collision.

Damage to the PWC as well as paint/fiberglass marks left on the channel marker were documented by photographs.


BARDID: FL-2020-0419
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Water began coming up from the bilge rapidly so the operator immediatly turned around and headed back to the dock. Vessel was flooded with enough water to sink vessel appoximetly 300 yards from shore. There were no injuries. Vessel recovered by owner.


BARDID: FL-2020-0420
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ocean
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator tried to anchor jet ski, jumped off with jet ski while it was running and rope sucked up into ski with hand inside rope hand sucked into grate of jet ski.


BARDID: FL-2020-0422
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake
NearestCityorTown: TARPON SPRINGS
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 12, 2020 at approximately 1418 hours, boating accident #FWSW20-OFF-014584 occurred on Lake Tarpon, Pinellas County, Florida. Vessel one (V1) with one operator and one passenger was traveling toward a friends dock at a speed of around 25 MPH. 

V1 struck the corner of the dock causing the vessel to be launched up and over the dock which resulted in the vessel striking a female subject whom was sitting on a bench on the dock. The female subject was struck by the vessel on the right thigh area and subsequently hit her head on the bench or pwc as a result of the impact. She was transported to Bayonet Point Hospital where she was treated and released for a contusion to her thigh and a concussion.

     The operator of V1 was ejected from the pwc and ended up on the dock, underneath the pwc. He did not report any injuries and refused medical treatment. The passenger of V1, whom was sitting on the pwc in front of the operator remained on the vessel during and after the impact with the female subject. He reported a contusion to his right cheek area possibly from impacting the handlebars, however he also refused any medical treatment. 


BARDID: FL-2020-0423
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ocean/gulf
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Both V1 and V2 were heading in a north direction and V2 turned to the left and struck V1 in the right rear passenger area of the jet ski.

Operator1 was traveling in a North/South direction of travel and Operator2 turned the jet ski to the left and struck the jet ski Operator1 was using in the right rear of the jet ski.   Both individuals stated they were going approximately 20 plus miles per hour.  Neither individual was injured or ejected from the accident.    

The Jet Ski that Operator1 was using which was struck by Operator2 had an extensive cracking on the top of the jet ski along with damage to the jet ski at the water line.   The vessel that Operator2 was using or the striking vessel suffered no damage,


BARDID: FL-2020-0424
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Marks River
NearestCityorTown: CRAWFORDVILLE
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 told me he and his wife were in his boat.  They had stopped in the St Marks River, near the St Marks Light house, and where taking the boats bimini top down when his boat was hit.  He did not see the boat coming.

Operator2 admitted to driving his vessel.  He told me he was following Operator1's vessel in the St Marks River.   He was lighting his cigarette when he dropped his lighter.  He bent down and picked it up.  When he looked up he saw Operator1's vessel was stopped.  He turned the helm to avoid the collision but he still hit the vessel.  

Occupant of Operator1's vessel stated her head hurt and she had pain in her shoulder.   She was evaluated by Wakulla EMS at St Marks Fort boat ramp.    She was offered transportation to the hospital for further evaluations at the emergency room.  She declined transportation for further treatment at that time. ;

 Victim stated she had no memory of the accident.   She stated here head hurt and she had pain in her shoulder.   She was evaluated by Wakulla EMS at St Marks Fort boat ramp.    She was offered transportation to the hospital for further evaluations at the emergency room.  She declined further treatment.   Her husband told me he believed she hit her head and shoulder when she was thrown down to the deck of the boat.


BARDID: FL-2020-0425
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 7/12/20 at approximately 2000 hours, Boating Accident #FWCS-20-OFF-009922 occurred on the ICW 100 yards South of Palmetto Park Blvd bridge in Boca Raton, FL, in Palm Beach County, FL. The accident occurred due to navigation rule violation improper lookout by both vessels. Approximate latitude N 26 20.9092, W 80 4.3343. The occupant of the towed jet ski was ejected into the water. 

There was extensive damage to the towed jet ski. There were no injuries resulting from the accident.

V1 was undocking and headed south on the ICW. V3 was towing disabled V2 toward the same dock V1 was pulling off. 

Operator of V1 saw V3 but did not see V2 being towed behind it. Operator of V3 pulled himself and V2 West toward the dock in front of V1 was being operated at idle speed south on the ICW. Operator of V3 attempted to pull V2 out of the way of V1. Operator of V2 jumped off the vessel. V1 struck V2.

Operator of V2 was in the water. Operator V1 stopped the vessel to check on the well being of the person in the water. An argument ensued. Operator of V1 left the scene and headed South on the ICW. Operator of V3 chased down V1 to attempt an exchange of information. Another argument ensued and both parties parted ways.


BARDID: FL-2020-0427
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 while docking collided with V02 that was already docked.  Upon arrival, I met with subject who at the time of the accident was assisting Operator1 dock his vessel to get fuel. Subject stated he was assisting V02 when V01 approached the dock. 

He then went to hand a line to Operator1, who then realized the vessel was still traveling in reverse. When Operator1 went to correct this and put the vessel in neutral, he slipped and pushed the throttle to far forward. This action caused the vessel to move forward and collide with V02.


BARDID: FL-2020-0428
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 22, 2020, within state of Florida waters of Monroe County, Florida, a single personal watercraft (PWC) struck a swimmer that fell from another PWC.  V1 (FL8240SN)  struck the swimmer in the face as the swimmer was resurfacing. 

The swimmer was a minor and the guardians immediately took him to Fishermans Community Hospital, Marathon, Florida. He was airlifted to Kendall Regional Medical Center, Miami, Florida for further diagnosis. 

He is expected to make a full recovery. 

While speaking with Operator2, she told me that they arrived to Wakezone Inc. around 1445-1500 hours for their rental reservation. They left shortly after approximately 1515 hours. While on the guided tour, her stepson fell off a PWC and then as he was coming up to the surface Operator1’s PWC (V1) struck Victim in the mouth at approximately 1530 hours. They went back to the dock, Wakezone Inc., and then straight to the Fisherman’s Community Hospital. She advised they could not perform all the testing at Fisherman’s Community Hospital and air lifted him to Kendall Regional Medical Center Miami, Florida.

On June 23rd, 2020, at approximately 1719, I spoke with Operator2 on a follow-up telephone call. She advised her stepson Victim did not have any life altering injuries and he did not have any deformities from the accident. She advised me that he will be meeting with an oral surgeon for his missing teeth and broken jaw. She said he is expected to make a full recovery.; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0431
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-01-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:24:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 2nd, 2020, at approximately 1124 hours, a boating incident occurred in Monroe County, Florida. The incident involved a single personal watercraft (PWC) with Florida registration number FL0745RW. The PWC (V1) was operating near Boca Chica, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico, within the waters of the State of Florida. The PWC had two occupants.

At some point during their voyage, the operator of V1 accelerated away from the group and turned the vessel toward a fixed concrete post, causing an allision. The PWC struck a fixed concrete post near to center of the bow. As a result, the operator of V1 struck the concrete post after being ejected from the vessel. 

The occupant was also ejected but sustained only minor injuries. Their tour guide witnessed the incident and removed the unconscious and unresponsive operator from the water. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers took the operator to Sunset Marina, Stock Island, FL. Key West Fire Rescue (KWFR) arrived within a few minutes and pronounced the operator deceased at 1148 hours. Injured victim was transported to Lower Keys Medical Center, and subsequently air lifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH) in Miami, Florida where she was admitted for treatment.

For full investigative report see FWC Incident Summary Report number ISR060270.

The Monroe County Medical Examiner’s report revealed deceased’s cause of death was due to blunt force head injury. The medical examiner also found the following: Head: A 1-inch L-shaped laceration in in the left side of the forehead. Multiple red abrasions are in the left side of the head and neck. The entire skull has an extensive number of fractures. Diffuse subgaleal scalp hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage and subdural hematoma is seen. The cerebral contents are fragmented.  	Torso: A 3x1 inch red abrasion is in the mid chest. A 2-1/2 x 3-inch area of red abrasions in the right side of the lower aspect of the abdomen. 	 	Upper Extremities: Multiple red abrasions are in the lateral aspect of the left upper extremity. A 1-inch linear red abrasion is in the left triceps.  	Lower Extremities: A 10x8 inch area of red abrasions is in the medial aspect of the right thigh. A 12x5 inch area of red abrasions is in the lateral aspect of the left calf. A 10x8 inch area of red abrasions is in the ventral surface of the left thigh.


BARDID: FL-2020-0432
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel Cajun Queen struck the reef at Cheeca Rocks in Islamorada, Florida. The vessel destroyed a coral head as well as the starboard propeller.

On July 4th, 2020, documented vessel DO 1214591 Cajun Queen was operating in the area of Cheeca Rocks, a reef near Islamorada, Florida, Monroe County. 

The vessel struck the reef and damaged one of the propellers thus disabling the vessel. The Cajun Queen called out for help from a dive boat on VHF channel 16, however never notified USCG of the vessel crash nor any police agency or FWC. Cajun Queen failed to report the boating accident. It was later discovered that the Cajun Queen lost one of its propeller blades in the reef. Investigator discovered the blade embedded in the reef and took the blade into the FWC evidence facility.


BARDID: FL-2020-0433
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel capsized from water intrusion while at anchor, fishing near French Reef.

According to interviews and witness statements, at approximately 1100, the owner/operator of the capsized vessel departed from John Pennekamp State Marina and went oceanside to the area of French Reef. The captain anchored the vessel and they began fishing. 

At approximately 1500 hours, the occupants noticed that there was more water than normal inside the boat. The captain inspected the bilge and battery compartments and noticed that compartments were full of water. The vessel had then lost power and the captain was unable to start the boat as more water was entering the boat. The occupants on board managed to call for assistance by cellphone as the captain attempted to use signal flares to gain attention of any nearby vessels. 

The POB explained that they began to put on their personal floatation devices and that with approximately ten to fifteen minutes later the vessel pitched to the side and capsized with the hull protruding from water. They climbed onto the hull and waited for recovery response. Within approximately thirty minutes a USCG and Tow Boat US vessel arrived at the capsized vessel and began recovering the vessel occupants. All people recovered were uninjured and refused any medical assistance.

The owner of the vessel arranged with Tow Boat captain to recover the vessel. The vessel was found while still capsized and at anchor, recovered, and towed to John Pennekamp State Park marina at approximately 2100 hours. The Tow Boat captain assisted owner in getting the vessel put on a trailer and retrieved from the water.


BARDID: FL-2020-0434
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Meloy Channel
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 lost power to engine and drifted into V2 that was docked on a lift at Miami Beach Marina.

Operator1 advised that his vessel was facing west on the north side of the MacArthur Bridge with when his vessel lost power. The vessel drifted underneath the bridge making no contact with any pilings. The vessel then drifted towards V2. 

V2 was docked on a lift at Miami Beach Marina on the far north side not protected by seawall in slip A-22. The anchor of V2 attached on the bow (front) of the vessel struck the glass windshield of V1 causing it to shatter. 

The collision subsequently pushed V2 to the left, causing damage to the lift railing supporting the vessel and to the left guide pole on the lift. Possible damage was done to V2 on the port (left) side as there are markings, but it is unknown at this time if this was pre-existing damage or a result of the vessel shifting. V1 also had damage to the port (left) side railing and along the gunwale (top left side) from the collision. 

After the collision Operator1 was able to get one engine started where he was able to navigate V1 away and back to dock off NE 10th St in Miami on the north side of MacArthur Bridge.


BARDID: FL-2020-0435
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Chico
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was traveling south in the canal at Marine Max. Vessel 2 bow struck vessel 1 port stern and motor causing fiberglass damage and cowling damage on vessel 1. 

Witnesses advised Vessel 2 was operating south at a slow speed at which time it collided with the dock. 

After striking the dock with her vessel, she accelerated, and her bow collided with vessel 1 which was unmanned tied of to the dock.  The impact with vessel 1 caused her to fall in the boat. The boat was now heading east towards the covered slips. She was able to put the vessel in neutral preventing her from colliding with any other objects.


BARDID: FL-2020-0436
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLEBURG
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 entered the no wake zone near Main Street Boat Ramp on plane.  Multiple vessels were stationary in the zone waiting to recover their vessels at the ramp.  

V2 had just dropped passengers at the dock and was one of the idle vessels.  

V1 came around the corner at a high rate of speed and saw the stopped vessels.  He placed the outboard motor in reverse in an attempt to stop.  The operator of V2 saw V1 approaching on a collision course and took evasive action by going forward.  This caused V1 to strike V2 in the stern rather than midship.  V1 operator was found to be impaired beyond the legal limit.


BARDID: FL-2020-0437
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was thrown from a PWC at a high rate of speed during a PWC tour in Key West resulting in a right shoulder injury. 

	At approximately 1430 hours, Officers met the injured party at Lower Keys Medical Center. According to Operator1’s statement, he was thrown from the PWC at a high rate of speed (35 to 45 miles per hour). Operator1 stated that he landed on his back in the water and the impact caused his right shoulder to become dislocated. Operator1 stated that that he did not hit any solid object in the water. Operator1 received an X-ray at Lower Keys Medical Center, confirming the dislocated right shoulder. The doctor corrected the dislocation and Operator1 was directed to see an orthopedist soon to make sure there was no other damage.


BARDID: FL-2020-0438
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS  On Saturday July 25th 2020 at approximately 0800 hours a commercial tug vessel was engaged in pushing a 60’x36’ barge south in the area of Lake Placid.  The spud well located on the port stern of the barge being pushed, struck a private boat lift occupied by a 31’ vessel on the east side of the channel.  The lift was damaged severely causing the 31’ vessel on the lift to come partially off the lift.  Most of the bow of the 31’ vessel was submerged in the water.  There were no fatalities or injuries. 


INTERVIEWS  
•	Operator of V1 stated the south end of the anchored barge swayed to the east causing the gap between the barge and private docks to become narrower. 
•	Upon approach of the same route operator of V1 has taken for weeks prior, he becomes aware that the gap is too narrow for the 60’x36’ barge to fit 
•	Operator of V1 stated he attempted to reverse to avoid a collision 

ACCIDENT SCENE DESCRIPTION  The water way currently has multiple anchored barges and is approximately 400’ to 500’  wide.  The depth of the water varies.  Private docks, boat lifts, and seawalls cover the east and west side of the waterway.  

Vessel Damage: 

Vessel 1:  Reported no damage
Vessel 2:  Water damage to interior from being submerged 


Injuries:  No injuries sustained in accident 

ACCIDENT ANALYSIS


BARDID: FL-2020-0439
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne
NearestCityorTown: CUTLER RIDGE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
While a vessel was towing a wake board, The wake board was dragged under a wave which cause it to descend to the surface rapidly. The occupant of the waveband held on while this was occurring at which point the wave board  struck him on the right side of the head causing minor damages. Victim sustained a 4" laceration to top right side of head.


BARDID: FL-2020-0440
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel at anchor, overwhelmed by large wave over the stern. Vessel was swamped and sank.

At approximately 1345, Officer and I arrived. I interviewed Operator and obtained the registration for the vessel (FL 0556 HG). A records check would reveal Operator as the registered owner of the vessel. I asked Operator to describe what happened, to which he stated the following, Operator was at anchor and fishing with three children onboard. Operator noticed that the wind and waves were beginning to pick up. 

Operator tried to retrieve his anchor when the vessel took a large wave over the stern. Operator stated that he engaged the bilge pumps and was trying to head back to shore, but the vessel was disabled due to the amount of water on the vessel. 

Operator stated the vessel took more waves, causing it to sink.  Operator stated that he used four flares and an airhorn as the vessel was sinking. Operator stated that he was assisted by a good Samaritan, who took him and the three children back ashore. Operator stated that he observed the vessel go underwater as he was being assisted by the good Samaritan. There were no injuries in this accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0441
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC vs. center console motorboat collision without injuries. Op V1 was travelling about 25 mph northbound in the ICW when he suddenly noticed a boat coming towards him and he tried to maneuver away from the boat. However, it happened too fast and the boat hit him.

According to an occupant of V2, they were travelling southbound in the channel just out of Haulover marina, when V1 struck his boat on the port side. The operator of the PWC was not paying attention and did not hear the passengers on V2 scream so the operator also honked his horn. The horn grabbed operator1's attention but it was too late and he struck the port side of the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2020-0442
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Card Sound
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of Vessel 1(V1) was northbound in the ICW just north of the Card Sound Road bridge when the bow collided with an unknown floating object.  The object struck at and just below the waterline of V1 bow.  The unknown object then moved along the port side of V1 and caused damage around a side window that was approximately 3 feet above the waterline.  

V1 operator tried to fend off the object after colliding with it and jammed his right, middle finger not requiring any medical treatment.  

V1 started sinking at the bow but commercial salvage was able to pump the water out.  V1 was able to motor under own power to ship yard in Miami for repairs.  It is unknown what was struck.  For contributing causes to this accident, both vision obstructed and hazardous waters were selected.  

Operator was operating the vessel from the starboard helm station that would have reduced his visibility of an item floating in the water that eventually passed on the port side. The hazardous waters were created by a difficult to observe object in the water.  The skies were overcast and rain and storms were in the immediate area.


BARDID: FL-2020-0443
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PIERSON
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/18/2020, at approximately 1546 hours, V1, a single vessel allision occurred within the St. John’s River, Astor, Volusia County, Florida. V1 is a 24 foot Everglades center console (FL9667MM), powered by a single outboard motor.  V2 was an unknown length vessel. V1 was operated by an adult female and had 7 occupants.

V1 was underway and travelling south on the St. Johns River near Blue Island Channel Marker 24. V1 was navigating a left turn around a bend in the river. V2 was travelling south bound in proximity of V1. As both vessels began negotiating a left hand turn V2 allegedly turned in front of V1 causing V1 to swerve towards the shoreline. V1 subsequently allided with a low hanging tree branch from the eastern bank. V2 continued south bound on the St. John’s River. V1's raised T-Top struck the tree causing V1 to come to a stop. The sudden stop caused Subjects to be thrown forward from their seated position in front of the console. Both Subjects struck their heads on the raised bow platform in V1. Subject1 suffered from a contusion above her left eye. Subject2 suffered from a laceration above his right eye. Both Subjects were transported to the hospital via EVAC in stable condition. V1 sustained approximately $5,000 in damages and was towed by Tow Boat US.

From evidence and statements gathered to date, I conclude the following:
1.	operator was operating V1 at the time of the accident.
2.	The river conditions were calm.
3.	V2 was travelling southbound in the proximity of V1.
4.	V2 cut in front of V1.

V1’s allision with the tree was a result of V1 attempting to avoid a collision with V2.

I was later notified by Operator that her husband went to the hospital after the incident and was diagnosed with several broken ribs. I was not advised of any claims of injury made by subject3 prior to being contacted by Operator.

Subject2 suffered from a laceration above his right eye. Subject2 was treated by EMS and transported to the hospital in stable condition.

Subject1 suffered from a contusion above her left eye. Subject1 was treated onscene by EMS and transported to the hospital in stable condition.


BARDID: FL-2020-0444
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: NORTH PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Juvenile***
On 7/18/20 I, Officer (FWC) responded to a boating accident in North Palm Beach in the ICW.  Based on statements and evidence from the scene, the accident occurred as follows:

V2 (23' center console) was southbound at safe speed in marked ICW channel
V1 (PWC) was operating at speed in the idle speed zone west of the marked ICW channel
V1 made a sudden course change and cut in front of V2, crossing from right to left in front of V2
Operator of V2 attempted to avoid a collision by turning sharply to port and pulling throttle to neutral
V1 and V2 impacted on starboard bow of V2, striking and ejecting both occupants of V1
V2's propeller then impacted port bow of V1

Operator of V2 has over 1000 hours of experience boating in the area.  Operator and passenger of V1 were 15 and 14 years old respectively, and had just completed their temporary boater education to operate the PWC that afternoon.

Operator of V1 violated Rule 5 (Proper Look Out) as well as the Idle Speed Zone west of the marked channel.

Operator1 sustained a laceration to her left elbow approximately 2 inches requiring stitches to close.  Also sustained a sprain/strain to her left wrist and contusions to her right hip area.; Occupant on v1 sustained an undetermined injury to her left arm.  Possible fracture.


BARDID: FL-2020-0445
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:06:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pond
NearestCityorTown: CENTURY
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/30/2020 two subjects were fishing from a 10-foot Jon boat on a pond in Bluff Springs Escambia County, Florida. The Jon boat was being paddled by Victim, he was sitting on a folding/lawn chair. Both occupants were fishing from the boat when the incident occurred. the vessel was slowly taking on water due to leaks in the hull. There were no safety equipment on the vessel.  Victim could not swim. Two witnesses attempted to save Victim but were unsuccessful. The weather was clear and there were no waves on the pond. 
                                                                                   Conclusion
Due to uneven weight distribution, and compromised hull integrity, the boat became unstable and listed to starboard causing the occupants to fall into the water; 


BARDID: FL-2020-0446
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHARLOTEE HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: ST. JAMES CITY
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 had a total steering loss causing an abrupt sharp turn. Operator and occupant were ejected. Vessel capsized due to the sharp turn. 

Operator informed us that at the time of the accident he was cruising at approximately 35 miles per hour when his boat suddenly turned sharply, causing the vessel to capsize and ejecting himself and occupant. Operator explained that he did not believe he hit anything, just that the boat suddenly turned on its own.

At approximately 8:30 pm myself and Officer went to Tow Boat US’s property, where the vessel was being held in order to inspect the vessel. While there I took several pictures of the vessel. I observed, that the center console of the vessel was ripped up no longer attached to the deck of the vessel. Additionally, The T-top was completely separated from the vessel. On the starboard side of the vessel at approximately midship there is an approximate 6-foot-long crack in the deck. Additionally, on the starboard side of the bottom of the hull there is multiple scratches in the hull that appear to be recent. Also, the rub rail is torn of the on the starboard side of the vessel. Additionally, a portion of the skeg of the vessel appears to have been broken off. I also observed that the outboard motor was not connected to the vessel’s hydraulic steering mechanism.


BARDID: FL-2020-0447
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PALESTINE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAKE BUTLER
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, April 17, 2020 at approximately 2034 hours, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was alerted by the Union County Sheriff Office, of a single vessel incident involving two individuals who were ejected from a vessel.  

Operator1 was operating his 14-foot, stick steering vessel at full throttle on Palestine Lake when the vessel suddenly turned hard toward starboard (right) ejecting the operator immediately.  The passenger was also ejected after she could no longer stay within the vessel due to the centrifugal force caused by the tight turns from the vessel as it continued to travel in circles.  

A “Good Samaritan” vessel was able to recover both occupants and transport them to the boat ramp to receive medical attention.  The operator, Operator1’s injuries consisted of a soft tissue laceration overlying the vertex of the skull, thigh area of his right leg and inner part of his left leg (calf).  There was no evidence of a traumatic injuries and/or minor injuries in reference to the passenger.  As of April 18, 2020, at approximately 0330 hours, FWC was unable to get an update in reference to Operator1’s injuries and/or status, because Hospitals are restricting access in reference to the concerns with COVID 19.  The incident is being investigated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Investigations Section.  


BARDID: FL-2020-0455
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lemon Bay
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was a 17 foot skiff that was in the process of being reconstructed. The helm and seat were placed in the vessel but not permanently affixed to the vessel. 

V1 was traveling on full plane North out of Chadwick Cove when it made a sharp left turn. The turn caused the helm and seat to suddenly shift and in turn caused the operator to be ejected from the vessel. 

V1 spun in circles before glancing off a nearby anchored sailboat V2. It then crashed into a nearby mangrove island and became lodged in thick vegetation. 

Minor scuffs were found on V2. V1 sustained major hull damage from the collision with mangrove vegetation. No injuries were reported. 

Operator turns the corner of the mangrove island, he sees a mooring line in the water and makes a sharp left turn to avoid it. Due to his rate of speed and the angle of the turn, the helm/console and the seat Operator  is sitting on become detached from the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2020-0456
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26th, 2020, at approximately 5:20 PM, V-1 (PWC) was traveling westbound just outside Long Boat Pass. 

V-1 was occupied by two juveniles wearing PFD’s. V-1 struck a wave approximately 3 feet in height causing both occupants to be thrown off the starboard side of the PWC. 

The passenger of V-1 received an injury to her right ankle (broken). The operator of V-1 recovered the passenger of V-1 and transported the passenger of V-1 to land. EMS (Medic 4) arrived on scene and transported the passenger of V-1 to Blake Hospital for further medical treatment.  


BARDID: FL-2020-0457
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were traveling northwest at approximately 30MPH with V2 slightly ahead of V1. V2 turned sharply to the port side in front of V1 causing V1 to ramp off of V2. O2 suffered a contusion to his left leg. V2 sustained approximately $350 of fiberglass damages.

operator2 turned sharply in front of V1 causing the vessel to hit his leg and ramp off of his jet ski. He suffered a contusion to his left calf muscle which was determined by x-rays at Fort Walton Medical Center.


BARDID: FL-2020-0458
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CINCO BAYOU
NearestCityorTown: CINCO BAYOU
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was transiting under the Cinco Bayou bridge, from east to west, at slow speed.  

V1 departed from the south shoreline, west of the Seaway boat ramp heading out of the bayou.  V1 was attempting to transit under the Cinco Bayou bridge through the same span as V2. 

V1 attempted to avoid a collision by placing the motors in reverse and turning hard to port (left).  As V1 turned hard to port, the starboard (right) side bow of V1 struck the pulpit of V2, and V1 then struck the concrete piling of the bridge.


BARDID: FL-2020-0459
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 and V02 were traveling east just north of the 49 mile marker, Marathon. V01 changed course and did not see V02. V01's bow collided with V02's starboard side.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived on scene at approximately 1930 hours and stabilized Operator2. EMS advised that Operator2 needed to be airlifted to Jackson South Trauma Medical Center to be further evaluated and treated for a possible broken Femur. 

After Operator2 was taken by EMS, we spoke with Operator1 to determine how the accident occurred. Operator1 stated her and her fiancé (Operator2) were traveling at approximately 40 miles per hour when she decided to “do a 360-degree” turn and collided with Operator2 directly on his right leg.

Operator2 suffered a broken right Femur.


BARDID: FL-2020-0460
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Inlet
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/8/20 at approximately 1210 pm Operator1 on his Personal Watercraft (PWC) (FL 6998 RW) was cruising east of the New Smyrna Beach Jetty in the Atlantic Ocean.   Operator1 stated that he was traveling east at approximately 10-15 mph when his PWC hit a ground swell and came to a stop.  

Operator1 doesn’t recall if he was turning right or left when he struck the swell.  Upon hitting the swell Operator1 stated that he was ejected from PWC and his right leg got stuck in the foot well of the PWC.  Operator1s right leg suffered a broken right ankle and a broken tibia/fibula break.  

After being ejected from the PWC, Operator1 was assisted by Volusia County Beach patrol to the New Smyrna Beach jetty.  Beach patrol contacted fire rescue who transported him to Halifax hospital in Daytona Beach.  Beach patrol released the PWC to his wife who transported the vessel back to the boat ramp.  Upon my arrival both Operator1 and his vessel had already been removed from the area.


BARDID: FL-2020-0461
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf Of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: HUDSON
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8th, 2020, vessel one ran aground on a shoal located north of the Hudson creek Channel (N 28’22.1148 W 82’42.8010). No one on board was injured in the vessel crash. The crash caused damaged to both pontoons, skeg, lower unit, and propeller of the vessel. Vessel one was able to return to Skeleton Key Marina without further incident. The operator of the vessel stated that she was unfamiliar with the waters of the area, and that she was unaware there was a shoal where the vessel ran aground. 

**End of Report**


BARDID: FL-2020-0462
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1720Hrs on August 8th, 2020 a guided jet ski tour was taking place in the vicinity of Man O’ War Harbor and Pearl Bank, just west of Fleming Key in the surrounding waters of Key West, State of Florida (See Diagram). 

At approximately 1725hrs, V1 operated by Operator1 struck V2 operated by Operator2. The accident occurred as Operator2 made an abrupt turn to starboard. The strike occurred approximately midship of V2 where Operator2 was sitting. 

When the strike occurred, both Operator2 and Operator1 were ejected from their jet ski’s as V2 ramped over top of V2. 

Operator1 was uninjured during the accident and Operator2 received lacerations to his right lower leg. 

Operator2 was picked up and rushed to USCG Sector Key West to an awaiting ambulance and transported to Lower Keys Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. Operator1 was also picked up and transported back to the Galleon Report where the tour had departed from.  


BARDID: FL-2020-0463
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityorTown: madeira beach
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
v2 was approaching Johns pass bridge traveling eastbound at approximately 4 knots when v1 struck the transom of v2.  Operator of v1 upon noticing he was going to impact the stern of v2, released the throttle and lost ability to maneuver, v1 impacted the stern of v2 and ramped up damaging rear railings and rigging.  Op and occ of v1 were ejected at impact but were uninjured.


BARDID: FL-2020-0464
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was Southbound ICW Jupiter near marker 15 when the operator took control of the vessel from another passenger. The passenger was occupied with children that were on board. The operator took control of V1 but was distracted and not maintaining a proper lookout. During this time V1 was heading outside the channel toward a Jetty. When Operator noticed that she was heading towards the Jetty it was too late to correct. V1 struck the Jetty and was grounded on the rocks.

	 No parties reported any injuries. The vessel received damage to the pontoons from striking the rocks. Operator of V1 did not maintain a proper lookout which is a violation of navigational rule 5 and was the main contributing factor to the accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0465
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay Meloy Ch. near re
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 21st, 2020, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a call from my dispatch regarding a single vessel boating accident with one occupant injured. 

We immediately responded to the scene which was near Channel Marker 14 in the Meloy Channel. Miami Beach Police Marine Patrol was already onscene when we arrived and advised us that the vessel involved was a yellow and white personal watercraft and that one occupant had sustained a broken femur during the accident. The vessel involved was not onscene when we arrived and we were not provided any information on its ownership or whereabouts. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue advised that they transported the injured occupant to Ryder Trauma Center for evaluation. 

The causes of this accident were determined to be a sharp turn at a high rate of speed, and operator inexperience. Operator1 advised Lt that he was ejected from the personal watercraft he was operating when he attempted a 360 degree spin manuever. Operator1 stated that the personal watercraft involved in the accident belonged to a friend of a friend and he was not able to provide any information about its registration numbers or the registered owner. There was no reported damage on the personal watercraft involved. 

The weather conditions at the time of the accident were clear skies, good visibility, calm waves, light winds and uncongested waters.

Subject sustained a fractured left femur during the accident


BARDID: FL-2020-0466
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Conway
NearestCityorTown: BELLE ISLE
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS


On Thursday, June 11, 2020 at approximately 1646 hours, Boating Accident # FWNE-20-OFF-010891 was reported to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This incident transpired on May 31, 2020 around 1600 hours near the sandbar on Lake Conway, Florida (Orange County). The approximate GPS location is, Latitude N28’28.185’, Longitude W081’20.626’.

This is a single vessel incident with one person requiring assistance beyond first aid. Vessel one (V1) was in low gear while a swimmer was attempting to board from the stern. The swimmer was injured when her right foot came into contact with a running propeller. The swimmer was wearing a type III personal flotation device during the incident.

ACCIDENT ANALYSIS

PRE-ACCIDENT

Operator1 launched from Randolph Ave Boat Ramp around 1:30 pm for an evening of recreation on the Conway Chain of Lakes. His convoy included three PWCs and one vessel. He met up with several friends, including Victim, and they navigated out to the sandbar. Later that evening, Victim was operating a PWC when she debarked and swam towards V1 to board. 

ACCIDENT

Victim swam towards the stern of V1 and when she attempted to board, her right foot was deeply cut by the propeller. 

POST-ACCIDENT

Victim cried out when she felt her foot get cut open. The occupants of V1 wrapped her foot in a towel, helped her get onboard a PWC and drove her to the shore. Operator1 then drove Victim to Orlando Regional Medical Center where she stayed overnight and received emergency surgery.

Victim suffered a laceration to her distal right lateral leg which broke a bone and severed a tendon. She was admitted to the hospital were she received surgery to repair the tendon.


BARDID: FL-2020-0467
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: intracoastal
NearestCityorTown: TREASURE ISLAND
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Personal water craft vs. personal water craft.  


At approximately 1000 hours V1 hit a wake causing the vessel to suddenly turn and slow.  Operator1 let off the throttle and realized that V2 was going to impact his vessel.  

Operator1 Jumped off the vessel and was uninjured.  V2 impacted V1 with an approximately head on angle slightly to the port side of V1.  V2 rode up the bow of V1 and down the port side.  Areas of damage on V1 include: bow hatch, handlebars and controls, mirror, and gunwale.  V2 sustained no damage.


BARDID: FL-2020-0468
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK POINT CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 10th, 2020, at approximately 1820 hours, Officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a call from dispatch regarding a boating accident that had just occurred in the Black Point Marina Channel. We immediately responded to the scene. 

When we arrived on scene at Black Point Marina, we found the involved vessel halfway submerged with both outboard engines completely submerged, tied to the dock just south of the boat ramp.

We made contact with the operator of the vessel. Operator1 advised that his vessel began taking on water while he was idling out of the Black Point Channel due to a crack in the hull below the water line. 

The accident was deemed to be a result of hull failure. The total damages from the accident exceeded $2,000.00. There were no reported injuries as a result of this accident.


BARDID: FL-2020-0469
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cloud Lake
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were traveling north parallel at approximately 30+ mph, V2 lost control and made an abrupt turn to his port side colliding with V1 on the Starboard side. Both operators were ejected. 

Collision resulted in major damage to V1 including cracks, scrapes and holes to the hull and starboard side. V2 had minor damage on the port side including scrapes and fragments of V1 lodged in the side of the vessel.


