# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: FL-2017-0191
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA FE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: GILCHRIST
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, April 14, 2017, a Ranger Bass was traveling down river, on the Santa Fe, in the area of Ellie Ray’s Boat Ramp. This area of the river is a slow speed zone due to the boat ramp, mooring dock and swimming area. 

A Bass Tracker was just leaving Ellie Ray’s mooring dock heading down river. 

The two vessels reached the west boundary of the slow speed zone and both vessels proceeded down river on plane.  As the two vessels proceeded west around a bend in the river the operator of the Ranger Bass Boat observed a small vessel with two people aboard paddling upriver along the south bank. The operator of the Ranger Bass Boat slowed down (off plane) to see if the two individuals needed any assistance. The operator of the following Bass Tracker attempted to pass the Ranger Bass Boat on the left (Port) side. The operator of the Bass Tracker hit the slowing vessels wake, lost control and hit the small vessel that was traveling upriver. 

The front passenger of the small vessel was able to jump from the vessel as the Bass Tracker impacted. The rear passenger was struck by the Bass Tracker as it went across the top of their vessel ejecting him from the vessel. The operator and passenger of the Ranger Bass boat assisted the two injured and transported them to Ellie Ray’s Boat ramp where EMS treated and transported both to Shands in Gainesville for further treatment. The operator and passengers of the Bass Tracker pulled the two victims small vessel to Ellie Ray’s Boat Ramp. injuries were contusions and complaints of back pain.

Operator2:Sustained contusions to the right ribs, right arm, and complaints of neck and shoulder injuries.  ; v2 oCcupant:Sustained cuts and deep muscle contusions to his left leg.


BARDID: FL-2017-0192
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a recreational vessel, was operating Gulf side near channel marker seventeen in Calda channel with two persons bow riding.  The vessel encountered some chop and the individual on the starboard bow, slipped and departed the vessel head first into the water and had both of his legs injured by the propellers.

From the statements of all involved, the vessel was returning from the Gulf of Mexico heading north in Calda Channel near marker 17.  It appears Victim was seated on starboard bow of the vessel when the boat encountered some chop and he lost his balance and went over the front of the vessel head first. At some point, subject pulled back the throttles and looked back to see Victim in the boat's wake.  The crew then proceeded to recover Victim and provide triage to his wounds. They called the USCG and headed in the direction of Key West.  A USCG vessel met the boat and transported Victim to Lower Keys Medical Center for treatment.

	Weather and sea conditions were not  a contributing factor to this accident.  The wind was light and variable and sea conditions were calm. Member was admitted to Lower Keys Medical Center for surgery with lacerations to both legs. Two on the left leg and one on the right leg. The injury was mostly soft tissue/muscle damage. He spent two nights in the hospital.  He received stitches to both legs and is expected to make a full recovery.  As of 5/17/2017, he was able to walk and was healing as expected.


BARDID: FL-2017-0193
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: BOCA CHICA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a recreational fishing vessel, was operating at approximately 31 mph ocean side near channel markers six and seven in the Boca Chica channel when the vessel's starboard hull dug in.  

The operator then pulled back the throttles and the vessel rolled to port capsizing in approximately nine feet of water.

The operator stated in his sworn statement that the starboard hull of the catamaran “dug in” while entering the channel.  While speaking with him he also added that he had been manipulating the engine trim switches and when he felt it was getting worse, he pulled back both engine throttles to neutral and the boat rolled to port with the gunwale being overcome with water and the boat capsizing to port.  The picture of the vessel’s engines while capsized after it was towed to Robbie’s Marina show a major difference in the engine trim levels of the outboard motors.

No electronic evidence was collected due to the vessel being under water.  Weather and sea conditions were not a contributing factor to this accident.  The sea condition were slightly choppy at the entrance to the channel, but not a factor. The wind was around 10 MPH from the south east.

The vessel was completely sunk upon my arrival. The top was torn off during recovery and the hatches were open and the entire vessel was full of water. The condition of the vessel made it imposable to determine if there was a breach in the hull or flooding prior to the accident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0195
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 is a rental PWC.  Operator stated he was in the gulf a couple hundered yards from the jetty and was going over waves.  Operator stated when he came off the third wave he fell off the PWC.   The PWC tumbled in the air, then landed on his leg causing an open fracture.


BARDID: FL-2017-0196
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Owner awoke choking due to on board fire.  Vessel had been at anchor for 4+ hours at night.  Aux. generator on aft deck was running with power cable plugged in to shore power outlet.  Only items energized by said generator and/or on board batteries were a boat battery charger and a 12 volt ice box.  Owner jumped overboard and climbed in to a drifting inflatable dingy where he called 911 and where a Good Samaritan came to his rescue.  Vessel later sunk while fire was being fought by responders.   Owner was treated at a local hospital for smoke inhalation and later released.  36 hours after the fire he was still suffering from difficulty breathing, a scratchy throat, and then reported back pains possible caused when jumping off the burning boat, swimming to the dingy, or when boarding the dingy.  


BARDID: FL-2017-0197
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. ANDREWS PASS
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29, 2017, Officer and I responded to a boating accident at St. Andrews State Park on the jetty.  When we arrived on-scene, I saw 5 subjects walking on the rocks wearing life jackets. 

Operator advised us that they were over at shell island in an area known as the kiddie pool.  He said he started the vessel and they were heading back to Adventures At Sea.  While navigating across St. Andrews Pass, he advised the engine shut off.  He called Adventures at Sea and advised them that they were broke down.  During that time, the wind and sea conditions were rough and essentially pushed the vessel into the rocks.

	He said when the vessel crashed into the rock, he and all the individuals jumped onto the rocks.


BARDID: FL-2017-0199
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-04-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCHLOCKONEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LIBERTY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/19/17 I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a call of an individual stranded on the Ochlockonee River as a result of his vessel sinking. 

It was determined that two individuals were present aboard the vessel when it capsized and both individuals were unharmed in the incident. The vessel was not recovered from the location where it sank. See detailed narrative for further.  

Neither subject aboard the vessel prior to the vessel sinking sustained any injuries relating to the event. Operator told me that he was operating the vessel, which was described to me as a 12 foot homemade vessel, downriver with the current on a bend in the river. While traveling with the current and experiencing reduced steerage of the vessel, the vessel's bow encountered and became stuck on top of a partially submerged tree in the river. 

The stern of the vessel was then pushed by the strong current against the submerged tree. The current then began pushing on the vessel against the beam of the small vessel. The force of the current pushed water over the gunwale of the vessel and the vessel sank. 

Both Operator and Occupant were evaluated by EMS and were unharmed by the incident. Occupant's vessel was not recovered from the river and due to several factors including the remoteness of the location, depth of the water, presence of numerous submerged objects, and the swiftness of the current recovery of the vessel would be impractical. On 4/28/17 I spoke toOccupant on the phone and Occupant advised me that several individuals had attempted to locate and remove the vessel on several occasions but at this time are still unable to locate the vessel. This concludes all action taken by myself regarding this incident at this time.


BARDID: FL-2017-0200
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BUTTONWOOD SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #2 (FL9034RA) was drifting after the engine on the PWC shut down. Vessel #1 (FL9035RA) was following Vessel #2. Vessel #2 was unable to stop on time thus colliding with vessel #1.


BARDID: FL-2017-0201
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: HOMESTEAD
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was anchored a few miles east of Ocean Reef in approximately 35 feet of water.  When the captain attempted to pull anchor, V-1 began taking water in from the transom.  

V-1 became partially submerged forcing the crew to get out of the vessel and into the water.  V-1 called Tow Boat US and requested to be rescued.  Tow Boat US relayed the information to other agencies and at approximately 12:00pm the victims were located and rescued.


BARDID: FL-2017-0202
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAINT JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling southbound on the St. Johns River in the vicinity of Metropolitan Park and the Jacksonville Shipyards at approximately 12:30 AM on 5/13/17 . V1 attempted to moor at the Metropolitan Park Marina, but decided to continue heading south due to currents. V1 was traveling on the west side of the river, in the slow speed manatee zone at idle speed. The tide was incoming at the time. 

V1 had two people on board and at the time of the accident. V1 struck a fixed object and then the people on board assessed the damage from the impact. V1 continued heading south on the river after the accident. it was determined that he struck a Jacksonville Shipyards mooring dock. There was no damage to the mooring dock.


BARDID: FL-2017-0203
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1, a live aboard vessel transiting the Gulf of Mexico from Port of the Islands Marina to Englewood had an engine failure and began taking on water in the area of Caxambas Pass. 

The captain of the vessel with advice from the United States Coast Guard via VHF turned towards shore where he ran his vessel aground. The water level inside the vessel came up to the lower cabins, engine room, and galley. Sea tow was called as the owner was a member and the water was pumped out of the lower levels of the vessel and the vessel was towed to Rose Marina in Marco Island, FL.


BARDID: FL-2017-0204
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: MARY ESTHER
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Boating accident involving one jet ski and one vessel in the Santa Rosa Sound near Marker 31. Jet ski lost control and collided with port stern of vessel throwing operator into water.  Operator was injured and treated at Destin ER.  Operator was released with a total of 12 stitches to laceration on right shoulder area. 


Operator1 stated while his vessel was at idle speed four jet skis approached his vessel, three jet skis passed on his starboard side and one jet ski, red and black in color, drove around the bow of his vessel.  The Jet Ski that drove around the bow of the vessel continued to accelerate and colliding with the port stern of his vessel causing the operator of the Jet Ski to be thrown off the Jet Ski and into the water.  

Operator1 then stated they helped Operator2 out of the water and noticed blood coming through his shirt. The other three Jet Ski’s came back to the accident site and left with Operator2 after providing a phone number to Operator1.  Operator1 then contacted FWC dispatch to report the accident.

Operator2 sustained an abrasion to the right side of his face and a laceration to his right shoulder area.  Operator2 received a total of 12 stitches, 6 underneath the skin and 6 on the skin.


BARDID: FL-2017-0205
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-01-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GORDONS PASS
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was traveling west in Gordons Pass approaching red day marker 18. The day marker is in the south side of the channel. Captain stated he slowed down to idle speed because the two vessel were exchanging bait in the middle of the channel with no one at the helm. 

It also appeared that the vessel did not have anyone as a lookout. As he approached the vessels he had to move to the south side of the channel where it was becoming shallow. As the other vessels drifted south the vessel two hit the port side aft rail. Causing damage to the rail. Captain of vessel two then climbed to the helm to take control of his vessel. As words were exchanged vessel two came up on plane and headed offshore. 

The Captain of vessel one attempted to contact the Captain of vessel two via radio but he did not answer. While in transit the Captain of vessel one contacted USCG to report the incident. I also talked to the Captain of vessel two. The Captain stated that he did not know why vessel one was passing on the south side of the channel. The Captain of vessel couldn't believe that vessel one used its bow thruster causing vessel one to hit his vessel. Based on the statements given, I was unable to determine who was at fault for the collision.


BARDID: FL-2017-0206
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CRESCENT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CRESCENT CITY
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was operating his vessel on Crescent Lake when his daughter was struck by the propeller on her left foot while climbing back into the vessel after tubing. Engines were still running and the operator believed it was in neutral.  injuries were broken bones and lacerations to foot. She was admitted and her 9 inch laceration was sutured on 5/17/17.  She underwent surgery on 5/18/17 to repair several broken bones in her left foot.


BARDID: FL-2017-0207
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NILES CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
 (V01)  was headed south at about 24 knots to pick up clients for fishing at Bahia Honda when he struck V02 in the rear Starboard side of vessel while it was anchored in Niles channel. 

OPERATOR1 (V01) vessel was severely damaged and taking on water at which point he returned to his lift to remove it from the water. Damage to his vessel is mostly along the port side consisting of a 7 foot hole down the side at about the waterline, the rub rail , and damage to the port motor . minor damage to the custom center console and the rear bait well broke loose . Operator1 reported pain to his left shoulder and said he was going to get a ride to receive medical attention.  Operator1 stated that he was running along and didn't see the anchored vessel due to their being no navigation lights on at the time. He took a picture at 0614 of the struck vessel with no anchor light on. It is unknown if the struck vessel had an anchor light on or not at the time of accident.

 (V02) vessel was anchored at North 2439.015 West 8125.701 and subject was sleeping in bunkhouse when it was struck by Operator1. Damage to his vessel was to the starboard rear where it was damaged through the fiberglass to the engine room , and some damage to the paint and rub rail area. He was uninjured in the event and told me he was not sure if his light was on or not but was sure it worked.  The anchor light was on when I arrived on scene.


BARDID: FL-2017-0208
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: OSPREY
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were three miles north of Venice inlet and one mile west of Casey Key. V1 was cruising at approximately 30 knots while V2 was drifting. V1 struck V2 on aft starboard side. V2 hit V1 low midship port side.  


V2 are residents of the UK. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0209
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CANAVERAL
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Other
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vessel equipm
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 2, 2017, at approximately 2:30 P.M., a commercial vessel (Documentation number 1022458) was traveling from open waters towards Port Canaveral within Brevard County.  At this time, the vessel's outrigger struck an anchored recreational vessel (Florida registration FL-5297-EW) approximately 1.7 miles off of the Port Canaveral entrance/exit in the Atlantic Ocean.  The three persons aboard the commercial vessel were uninjured.  Of the four persons aboard the recreational vessel, three were injured.  

operator of vessel 2, injuries:  fracture of right humerus, upper extremity sprains, lacerations on chin requiring stitches, laceration on forehead

passenger of vessel 2, injuries:  fracture on lumbar spine (without cord 
injury), contusion on back, back and neck complications since crash

2nd passenger of vessel 2, injuries:  left arm contusion, sprain/strain on left wrist

Operator1 of commercial fishing vessel, 
-	Cruising in towards Port Canaveral after completing commercial fishing trip
-	Cruising using auto pilot, radar, and plotters
-	Heading towards sunlight; sun shield/visor was placed over windshield by Operator1 to reduce the heat on the vessel’s electronics
-	Saw a vessel appear near his bow at which time it proceeded to make contact with his vessel’s deployed outrigger (port side)
-	Had put vessel engine in neutral, then reverse to possibly avoid collision
-	Noticed the t-top and center console of the vessel removed from its deck
-	Hailed USCG immediately and awaited response by them and FWC

Operator2 of recreational vessel, 
-	He was fishing when he noticed a vessel approaching and not changing direction
-	He attempted to maneuver his vessel out of the way, but it was anchored
-	He did not have enough time to pull the anchor to avoid the collision
-	He advised no one was at the wheel of the other vessel
-	T-top fell on him and one occupant.  
-	He felt his arm break
-	Center console landed on occupant;


BARDID: FL-2017-0210
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND LAGOON ST. ANDREW BAY
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 17, 2017, a vessel fire occurred at Treasure Island Marina fuel dock involving a single vessel with three occupants.  

Vessel one (V1) a 1998 23' Chapparal I/O open runabout, was completing the refueling process, taking on approximately 46 gallons of gasoline. The operator switched on the ventilating blower and started the engine ignition almost simultaneously, (possibly less than 30 second delay). The vapor contained in and around the engine compartment and passenger cockpit flash ignited and injured all three occupants, as well as set the vessel on fire. The marina fuel attendant removed the three occupants and set the vessel free of its mooring to create distance from the fuel pumps. 

Operator suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns on exposed extremities due to fuel vapor explosion. He was flown to burn center in Atlanta, Georgia.  Victim2 suffered 2nd degree burns on exposed extremities. She was transported to local hospital via Ambulance.  Victim3 suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns over exposed extremities. He was flown to burn center in Atlanta, Georgia.


BARDID: FL-2017-0211
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GOVERNMENT CUT (NORTH JETTY)
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 24, 2017 at approximately 2050 hours while on water patrol with Officer in the vicinity of Watson Island in Miami Dade County, FL, I of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a boating accident located at Miami Beach Marina. We proceeded to run emergency code to the location, arriving at Miami Beach Marina at approximately 2057 hours. As we arrived, we noticed Miami Beach Police Department units were already at the location along with various rescue units from Miami Beach Fire Department. As we docked our patrol vessel in front of the vessel involved in the boating accident, we were advised by Miami Beach Police Department unit that there was only one vessel involved in the incident and that the vessel struck the north jetty of Government Cut. 

Two of the three victims involved in the accident would be transported to the hospital, the other victim received minor treatment for minor lacerations sustained in the event but would accompany the operator to the Ryder Trauma Center. The female victim was transported to Mount Sinai Medical Center. The Miami Beach Police Department alarm number is 17-50554 and the Miami Beach Fire Department alarm number is 17-8066.

After the victims were transported to the hospital(s), Officer and Investigator interviewed and took statements from Victim2 and Victim3, respectively. Both statements confirmed that Victim1 was operating the vessel (he is a hired captain by the owner of the vessel who was in Turkey at the time of the incident). Officer and myself documented and photographed the vessel which was tied up at Miami Beach Marina. The vessel sustained damage under the hull which was photographed while the vessel was still in the water. After the vessel was photographed, the vessel was salvaged by Towboat US to prevent further damage to the vessel and the dock it was tied to due to the damage being below the waterline. It was subsequently taken to the Towboat US Miami River compound.

On April 25, 2016, I spoke to the operator, Victim1 over the phone because he called our dispatch center for information about where the vessel was stored and he spontaneously stated that he was the captain, operating the vessel at the time and impacted the north jetty at Government Cut a few minutes prior to the call being dispatched and he also requested to come and take custody of the vessel. I advised him that the vessel was salvaged to prevent possible further damage to the vessel itself and the dock as a precautionary measure and was not in the custody of the FWC so he could come to the Towboat US compound where they would advise him of the procedures necessary for them to release the boat to him. I also advised him that we would meet and he would have the option of providing a statement if he wanted and he advised me that he wanted to provide a statement to “do the right thing”. He was very eager to provide me with further details regarding the event and I told him to get rest and that we would arrange a time and place so that he could provide a sworn statement if he still wanted to.

On May 9, 2017, I met with Victim1 at the FWC Miami Regional Office. I again reiterated that the statement was completely voluntary and he insisted in providing a statement. I verbally provided Victim1 with his Miranda Rights and also had him read and sign the Miranda warning (Miranda Rights) sworn written statement and he consented to speaking to me and providing a sworn written statement with Miranda Rights advised. 

As, I spoke to him, he advised me that after they proceeded east out of the Bakers Haulover Inlet, they turned south and made their way along the beach staying beyond the swim zone buoy


BARDID: FL-2017-0212
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW NORTH OF VENETIAN CSW WEST
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
118 ft. motor yacht crashed into ICW marker #49 at slow speed. High winds, vessel design and operator inexperience operating this specific type vessel were contributing factors. 

Vessel 1, a 118 ft. motor yacht, "Jetsetter," was traveling northbound in the intercoastal waterway in the vicinity of Sea Isle Marina. After passing through the Venetian Causeway West, the captain of the vessel turned the vessel to starboard in order to navigate east through Sunset Channel. 

While trying to maneuver, high winds contributed to Operator losing control of the vessel which collided with ICW marker 49 at slow speed. The damage caused by the accident consisted of glass damage to the port side of the vessel as well as damage to the ICW marker (see report photographs). 

Operator stated that the vessel was a new design/build by the company "Dynamiq." The vessel in question was not of US manufacture and did not have a HIN number. As part of the design, the hull has a shallow draft, flat bottom, with two "pods" protruding from the bottom; each pod having in-line counter-rotating propellers. 

It should be noted that vessels designed for stability in rough conditions generally have a hull with a "deep V" that increases stability; vessels with a flat planing hull are not typically well suited for stability in open seas and rough conditions. On the day of the accident, winds up to 20 knots led to small craft advisories for the area. Operator, although a licensed captain, also stated that he had less than 30hrs operating this vessel or a vessel of this design.


BARDID: FL-2017-0213
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY/ CANAL
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was struck by a vessel wake that caused it to hit the dock. V1 had damage to the stern. The owner of V1 provided an appraisal with approximately 18,000 dollars worth of damage. No vessel information was gathered on the vessel that reportedly caused the wake.  Investigating officer was unable to substantiate that another vessel's wake caused damage to the vessel. 
 
V-1 was not in motion at the time of the accident. Subject made the statements in reference to the other vessel causing the wake damage although no information on the other vessel was gathered. There was no independent witnesses who could identify the other vessel involved. Subject also stated that he took his vessel out on Tuesday night after the accident but did not notice the damage that night. He stated that was the reason he waited to report it until Friday, that was when he noticed the damage. Subject provided me with an estimate of damage on his vessel. The estimate he provided he did himself, it was not done by an independent appraiser. No citations were issued.


BARDID: FL-2017-0216
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 9th, 2017, vessel one (V1) with one occupant on board, struck a swimmer inside of the swim zone on the south west side of the Courtney Campbell Bridge in Pinellas County. V1 was being operated in a reckless manner, moving at a high rate of speed in and out of the swim zone. The operator of V1 attempted to change direction at the last minute to avoid the collision, however was unable to do so because of off throttle steering. The operator of V1 fled the scene before Law Enforcement Officers arrived. The victim was transported to All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg with lacerations and contusions to their face.
She was treated at All Childrens Hospital in St. Petersburg and released later that night.


BARDID: FL-2017-0217
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 27, 2017, I, Officer was notified via FWC dispatch and United States Coast Guard of a vessel that had sunk near Crab Island in Choctawhatchee Bay at approximately 11:30 AM.

Investigator and I launched my vessel from the US Coast Guard Station and found the sunken vessel nearly 100% submerged on the north side of Crab Island. All occupants were removed from the water with no injuries and accounted for. 

The boat owner said that they had just launched from Joe's Bayou Boat Ramp about 15 minutes prior to the boat sinking. He said that as they came in to the Idle Speed/No Wake Zone the boat started taking on water extremely quick and within a matter of minutes it was underwater and had turned over. Owner said that he remembers putting the plug in the boat before they left the house that morning. However, his girlfriend said she seemed to remember seeing it in the cup holder after they had already put the boat in the water.

The vessel was later removed from the water by Tow Boat US.


BARDID: FL-2017-0218
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was trying to anchor his vessel near the reef line, south of Marathon, Florida.  According to statements, the anchor line wrapped around one of the outboard engines and because of the wind and tidal current, overturned the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0219
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PORT SUTTON / EAST BAY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was idling in the East Bay Channel when female occupant fell overboard.  Occupant was recovered by two people. Hillsborough County fire rescue provided first aid and transported to Tampa General hospital, she received treatment for lacerations to her leg from the vessel propeller.  Victim and operator were unwilling to provide detailed information to the officer on the cause of her falling overboard, cause undetermined. 

Occupant was admitted to Tampa General Hospital with severe laceration to upper right thigh. She was treated for injury with sutures, held overnight and released Sunday May 21st approximately 12:30pm


BARDID: FL-2017-0220
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CLINCH
NearestCityorTown: FROSTPROOF
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, April 30th, 2017, at approximately 8:40 pm, Boating Accident #FWSW17OFF007070 occurred on Lake Clinch, Polk County, Florida.  The collision occurred at Latitude N27° 44.2240’, Longitude W81° 32.4222’.  This location is approximately 50 yards west of the Lake Clinch boat ramp located at 303 Clinch Lake Blvd S in Frostproof, Florida.  

Vessel 1 (V1) was a 1997 9 foot Artic Cat personal watercraft (PWC) occupied by one adult male and a child.  Vessel 2 (V2) was a 2003 17 foot Tracker Marine boat occupied by one male. 

V2 was traveling east at idle speed and was preparing to dock at the boat ramp.  V1 was traveling south on plane.  V1 collided with the rearward portion of the port side of V2.  Both occupants of V1 were ejected into the water.  The operators of V1 and V2 were uninjured.


BARDID: FL-2017-0221
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 9, 2017, a personal watercraft (PWC) with two persons onboard, was traveling northeast, and exiting the idle speed zone of Crab Island, Choctawhatchee Bay, Okaloosa County.  The operator, suddenly increased the speed to go over a wake which caused both the operator and passenger to fall overboard.

The operator sustained injuries that required beyond basic first aid, and was transported to the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, where she was admitted.  The passenger was transported by ambulance to the hospital for back pain, but was later discharged without injury.   

The operator sustained a lacerated liver and 2-3 cracked ribs over the liver.  

There was no visible damage to the PWC.  There were no independent witnesses to the incident. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0222
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HURRICANE PASS
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: hatch seal
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While on patrol by Keewaydin Beach I noticed the vessel’s stern was sitting low into the water.  Once near the vessel and talking to the operator I was notified they had a faulty bilge pump.  Operator had contacted Sea Tow commercial tow for assistance.  Sea Tow was unsuccessful to pump out the water in time. The occupants of the vessel tried leveling out the vessel to slow the water flow but made it worse.

Later the next day, Operator contacted a family friend with a large vessel to lift the stern and tow the vessel back to the boat ramp.  It was then brought to Sawyer’s Marine mechanic shop for further inspection and to find the cause of the problem.     

According to inspection and further investigation, it has been concluded that Operator’s stern hatch had a bad seal and was not sealed properly.  The amount of water inside the hull caused the bilge pump to stop working.


BARDID: FL-2017-0223
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FREEPORT
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 made a sharp left turn to avoid running into another vessel. A subject standing in the vessel was ejected over the right side of the vessel. When the subject went into the water he injured his left shoulder when it hit a stump that was in the water. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0224
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PUNTA GORDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling in a Southeast direction from Grassy Point towards Colony Point.  The operator said it felt like the V1 hit something underwater and when he took the sails down V1 was not moving.  V1 began taking on water and completely sank.  

	The keel was no longer connected to V1. The winch cable that operates the keel broke. The thru-hull rigging tube was broken.  V1 filled with water through the broken rigging tube.

   The operator and passenger put on pfd's when they realized V1 was taking on water.   No other vessels were involved and there were no injuries.


BARDID: FL-2017-0225
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYSIDE WHALE HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May, 21, 2017 at about 2:20 PM, V1 was travelling west through a narrow wheel ditch/cut, through the mangroves, south of Cotton Key, adjacent to the northeast end of Upper Matecumbe Key.

Subjects were on a guided PWC tour that left from Spray Watersports near the Whale Harbor Bridge on the ocean side. The tour only comprised of the tour guide and the customers.

	The tour left from Spray watersports, went under Whale Harbor Bridge, and then travelled northwest towards the narrow mangrove cut. Once inside the cut, V1 crashed into the mangroves, ejecting both occupants into the mangroves. 

	Guide was able to go back to the Whale Harbor Bridge for help where he found a Sherriff’s Deputy Marine Unit. The MCSO Deputy followed Guide back to the crash site. With the help of some people who were part of a separate tour (See witness statements attached) Subjects were loaded onto the MCSO boat and transported to the FWC Whale Harbor Station where EMS was standing by.

Operator suffered a laceration to the head, a contusion to the top of the left foot, and a large contusion/scrape to the upper left arm and shoulder. He was transported by ambulance to Mariner’s Hospital.

Occupant suffered a head injury and had no recollection of the crash while being assessed by EMS personnel. She was airlifted to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami.


BARDID: FL-2017-0226
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL ONE WAS TRAVILING NORTH ON THE ST JOHNS RIVER AT APPROXMATELY 12:00 AM AT NIGHT.   VESSEL ONE  HIT THE DOCK AND TOOK OUT A WHOLE SECTION OF THE DOCK AND DESTROYED THE FRONT END OF THE BOAT.  

NO REPORT WAS GIVEN AND operator STATED THAT HE WAS NOT GOING TO REPORT THE CRASH.  Dock owner FOUND A PIECE OF THE BOAT THAT HAD THE FL NUMBERS ON IT AT THE CRASH SITE THAT BELONGED TO VESSEL ONE OWNER.


BARDID: FL-2017-0227
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEBASTIAN INLET
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 7 2017 I Officer responded to a call of a capsized vessel in Sebastian inlet that had been swept out to sea in the outgoing tide. Two occupants were transported to Sebastian river medical center for observation, when I arrived both subjects were conscious and doing well. 

After collecting statement from them I met the owner/operator of the vessel at the ramp in order to photograph the vessel and any damage, along with collecting a statement. After completing the investigation, I determined that the vessel capsized due to a lack of experience and knowledge both on the vessel and with the strong currents of the inlet.  

they anchored near the bridge with the intent to fish however the current was so strong that the water began to come over the back of the boat and after the passing of other vessels and their wake, the water was too much and the vessel capsized. 

After inspecting the boat I found that all safety gear except the fire extinguisher was onboard (operator informed me that the extinguisher fell out of the boat when it capsized) I did not observe any alcohol on the vessel nor did any of the occupants appear to be impaired in anyway. 

Upon farther inspecting I noticed a rope that was tied to the stern on the port side, when asked the operator informed me that is where he had the anchor tied and that it was cut after the boat capsized. With this information I came to the conclusion that the accident was caused by a lack of knowledge and experience and that it could have been avoided had the vessel been properly anchored.


BARDID: FL-2017-0228
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MELBOURNE BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis
On May 2rnd, 2017 at approximately 2105 hours, a recreational vessel (sail boat) with two people on board was involved in a collision with the Sebastian Inlet bridge. The collision occurred in the Sebastian Inlet on the north side in Brevard County. The collision did not result in injuries to any of the occupants. Vessel was damaged with an estimated amount of $5,000. Subject stated, 
 
·	He was on his boat, eastbound towards the Sebastian Inlet Bridge
·	He did not know how much clearance the bridge had
·	Once he realized the bridge was too low he put the vessel in reverse
·	Vessel went towards the north side shoreline
·	Vessel became grounded temporary approximately 75 feet west of bridge
·	Outgoing tide ungrounded vessel
·	He attempted to pilot vessel away from bridge but ended up striking it
·	Vessel became stuck against bridge with outgoing tide


BARDID: FL-2017-0229
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 13, 2017, at approximately 1720 hours , I was dispatched to a boating accident at south of Venetian Causeway and Meloy Channel. Upon arrival, Miami Beach Officer was on scene with the two PWC's. Both operators were at Jackson Ryder Memorial Hospital. The PWC's were rented from BJM Rentals LLC. V2 was stopped just at the above location. V1 was slowing down and accidentally throttled instead of breaking. V1 struck V2.  Operator2 sustained a minor contusion as well as water in his lungs due to a near drowning. 


Minor injuries were sustained. Vessel damages were reported to be estimated above $2000.


BARDID: FL-2017-0230
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 ( 20ft Rhino aluminum skiff ) was moored to a Barge installing a dock in the ICW.

The vessel was just north of the bridge of Lions next to Channel marker #5. V1 (approximately 42 ft Yacht) traveling northbound in ICW in the channel. V1 left large wake causing V2 to strike the barge. The impact caused a pneumatic hammer to fall in the water and break.  Additionally V2 was dented and scratched  along its port side and port bow.


BARDID: FL-2017-0231
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SARASOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA INC
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was cruising in Sarasota Bay near Ringling Museum. V1 took on water and capsized. The operator on board jumped into the water without sustaining any injuries.

The operator of the vessel stated he turned his trim tabs down and put the vessel in gear and proceeded to go forward. With the rough water conditions, water went over the transom and continued to fill up the vessel. The operator jumped out of the vessel without injury while the boat turned on it's port side and capsized. The two other juveniles were already in the water fishing.


BARDID: FL-2017-0232
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel two(V-2) with one person on board was traveling south from a cove off the Courtney Campbell Causeway into Tampa Bay when it was struck by vessel one(V-1), which also was occupied by one person.  The collision caused leg and foot injuries to the operator of V-2.

 Operator1 stated that he was the operator of V-1 and while he was operating in the cove, V-2 came into his path and he was unable to turn out of the way before they collided.  Operator1 filled out a statement(see attached).  

Witness stated
-That Operator2 was operating out of the cove she was operating at a slow speed when V-1 struck V-2, injuring Operator2.

Operator2 stated:
-While operating the PWC, she observed other PWC's doing circles and various speeds.
-Was struck by V-1 and was ejected and had a broken foot.


BARDID: FL-2017-0233
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CRYSTAL RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 10, 2017 officers received a report of a vessel that had struck channel marker 24 in Crystal River. Upon arrival of the scene the boat had already left and the channel marker was pushed into the water just above the waterline. 

The reporting citizen had written down the FL registration number and we followed up with the owner/operator at his home where the violation was documented with a Uniform Boating Citation. Based off of this information we were able to identify the registered owner. 

After reading Operator his Miranda warning off of an agency prepared text we questioned him on his involvement with the vessel accident. Operator admitted to operating the vessel as well as having knowledge of his vessel striking Marker 24 in Crystal River. Operator stated that while operating his vessel and traveling east on the Crystal River he turned the vessel to port while crossing a wake made by a passing vessel. 

The motion caused by wake of the passing vessel threw his passenger out of the starboard side of the vessel. After Occupant was thrown out of the vessel Operator was thrown out of the vessel as well. Operator was not wearing the vessel kill lanyard and the boat continued to travel without anyone on board.  

The vessel then began to make circular motions in the water eventually colliding with Marker 24. Shortly after impact with the channel marker the vessel shut off and came to rest approximately 100 yards South East of marker 24.  At this point the two individuals in the water were picked up by good Samaritan who transported  them back to their vessel. After returning to their vessel Operator and Occupant left the scene and returned to their residence.


BARDID: FL-2017-0234
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GOVERNMENT CUT
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Boating accident on May 5th, 2017 at approximately 1500 hours, in Miami Dade county, at Government Cut channel. PWC vs wake. Broken leg. Both the operator and the passenger stated that an unidentified vessel created a wake that caused Subject to maneuver over it and land with strong pressure on his left leg causing the injury. The wake and the maneuvering caused both the operator and passenger to fall into the water. 

The passenger stated that the operator complained about being unable to swim due to pain on his leg. The passenger then helped the operator back on the personal water craft and Miami Ocean Rescue who was nearby helped them dock the water craft at Miami Beach Marina. Miami Fire rescue then transported the operator to Rayder Trauma Center. The was no vessel or property damage reported.; Subject suffered a broken Tibia on the left leg.


BARDID: FL-2017-0235
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KEYSTONE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday May 13th, 2017 at approximately 1559 hours, subject stated that she was in her residence at approximately 11:30am and witnessed the Tarzan Party Boat driving extremely close to the vessels along the canal. At which point the Tarzan Party Boat struck the left side of their Boston Whaler causing damage to the left side of their vessel, the Bimini top and ladder. subject made contact with the company and they admitted to hitting their Boston Whaler (V2) and informed subject that they would come to their house by land since there was no place for them to safely dock their boat.

On Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 I met with operator1 at his residence, where he provided me with a sworn written statement. Operator1 stated that morning there was a strong south wind and he drove carefully along the right side of the canal.  When he neared the victim’s house the wind unexpectedly changed directions and his boat touched the small boat docked at the house. Operator1 stated he could not safely dock his vessel so he continued down the canal at which point subject made contact with him via cellphone. Operator1 arrived at the subject’s residence later that evening to exchange information. Operator1 also stated that he paid for all damages to the subject’s vessel.

Operator1 was cited under state statute 327.33(2) for careless operation of his vessel by violating US Coast Guard Navigation Rules 5, 6, & 8. 

Navigation Rule 5 - Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.

Navigation Rule 6 - Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

Navigation Rule 8 - Any action taken to avoid collision shall be taken in accordance with the Rules and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship.


BARDID: FL-2017-0236
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
This report details a boating accident on 6/1/2017 for an overturned vessel with FL markings of FL2820EY with 3 people on board. On 6/1/2017 at approximately 6:11 P:M, I was on duty in Monroe County State of Florida. I was on patrol in uniform, in a marked vessel when I was dispatched to a call of multiple men in the water after a boat had sank. I rode to the scene, with the local USCG Marathon response team, and arrived on scene approximately twenty minutes later. 

The owner was at anchor when a wave came over the stern and caused the batteries and bilge to fail. Once the boat was swamped it slowly took on more water which caused it to sink. 

Operator spoke with a recovery company, and it was determined that it would be recovered the next day. The owner and his friends were returned to shore, and were released to make preparations to retrieve the boat the next day. Due to the vessel being a total loss this boating accident form was filled, it should also be noted that the vessel was not insured. At the time of this report this is all the information available to me.


BARDID: FL-2017-0237
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. MARYS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator did not appear to be impaired and agreed to fill out a statement. After receiving the statement, I asked Operator if there was any damage to his vessel. He said he didn’t think there was but that he may have damaged the prop which would cost $300.00. Operator stated he is an experienced vessel operator but hasn't been in the eastern St. Mary’s River in about two years. Operator stated the accident occurred around 1605 and the conditions were windy and very choppy with white caps. Operator stated he was in the channel of the St. Mary’s River, headed in the direction of the ocean, passing green marker three on his right. Following this he veered slightly more right, believing himself to be in good water and ran aground. After realizing Occupant1 was hurt, he immediately attempted to render aid.

Occupant1 suffered a laceration to her scalp from impacting the vessel console, she received stitches.  Occupant1 was sitting in the back of V01, on a bench affixed to the deck. Upon V01 making contact with a sandbar and running aground which made for an abrupt stop, Occupant1 was lunged forward toward the center console and her head made contact with a fishing rod holder which was affixed to the center console seat. Occupant1 received a laceration on her head, which was unable to be photo documented due to her hair.  Occupant1 was immediately rendered aid consisting of an ice pack. A good sam in another vessel, whom could not be identified, stopped and assisted. When I made contact with Occupant1 at the hospital, she was awake, conscious and spoke with me. She complained of head pain and couldn't state or identify any other injuries. I spoke with her doctor, whom told me she would be given a CAT scan and likely receive a few stitches (the doctor did not specify exactly how many stitches).


The other female occupant expressed back pains and was being checked out by hospital staff.  She was sitting on a cooler directly behind the center console on V01. When V01 hit a sandbar and abruptly stopped and according to her statement, she flew forward approximately five feet and hit her chin. She had a small abrasion and contusion on her chin. She complained also of her back being sore between her shoulder blades.  When I encountered her at the hospital, she was awake, alert and standing. She didn't receive any treatment from EMS, however she indicated to me, she would like to be seen by the hospital, however she stated she was at the bottom of the list.; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0238
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ESCAMBIA BAY
NearestCityorTown: PACE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was fishing, in Escambia Bay just north of Archie Glover boat ramp, when a rope was caught in the propeller, stalling the engine. A thunderstorm approached and the vessel was swamped, causing it to sink. The operator swam to shore without further incident. There were not any injuries reported nor any witnesses of the accident. The damage of the vessel was estimated at $3,000. The reporting of the accident was delayed. 

Operator reported on 04/24/2017, he was in the vessel crabbing, in Escambia Bay just north of Archie Glover boat ramp, when some severe weather approached. A rope got caught in the propeller, causing the engine to stall. According to Operator, the seas were 2 - 3 foot and his boat was swamped, causing it to sink. 

Operator stated once the vessel sank, he swam to the island just north of Archie Glover boat ramp and called his father to come and pick him up. When asked, Operator stated he did not have any intentions of recovering the vessel because he thought it sank to the bottom of the bay. When questioned about failure to report a boating accident, he stated he was not aware the incident should of been reported. 

Nothing further


BARDID: FL-2017-0239
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY SEDDON CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one, a 23 foot open motorboat with 5 individuals on board, was heading south into Tampa Bay just east of Davis Island.  

Vessel one had mechanical issues and attempted to anchor during high winds and waves.  The anchor dragged and vessel one struck the rocks on the west side of the Port of Tampa.  Vessel one had hull damage and was taking on water.  Vessel one was tied to a concrete dock at the Port of Tampa until it was removed the following day.


BARDID: FL-2017-0240
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ORTEGA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I, Officer of the Flordia Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was dispatched to a boating accident involving subject and an unknown vessel (V2). Subject was on board his vessel (V1) moored at Lambs Yacht Center in the Ortega River at the time of the accident. The incident took place within a slow speed manatee zone near the Ortega River railroad bridge.

Subject was on board V1 when V2 was traveling outbound out of the Oretega River. V2 caused a large enough wake to knock Subject off of the starboard side of his vessel and into the edge of the adjacent dock. Subject suffered from a laceration on his lower left leg, an abrasion on his right knee, and several bruises. Subject went to the St. Vincent's Hospital emergency room and received medical attention for his injuries.  Subject was then released from the hospital after receiving stitches for his laceration, and several bandages for his other injuries.


BARDID: FL-2017-0241
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRA COASTAL
NearestCityorTown: PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed southbound in the ICW. Flagler Memorial bridge open only one side of the bridge due to construction. Only the west side of the bridge opened. V1 got its mast stuck on the west side navigational light hanging down from the bridge. V1 gave the bridge tender his documentation number over VHF radio and did not receive any damage to his vessel. 

An hour after the accident dispatch was contacted and I was dispatched to the scene. On scene i spoke with the bridge tender. She was unsure if any damage was done to the bridge but was told the boat got tangled up in the navigational light hanging down from the span. I asked if they needed any paperwork or any other information from the boat and she advised she did not.

Officer was on the water and was able to make contact with the boat and provide me with a name and phone number to contact the operator. 

I inspected the bridge and noticed the west sides navigational light had been bent slightly toward the south.

Officer advised there was no damage to the vessel.

I believed that the light could be bent back or left as it was it was closed out as No Action. 
I was contacted by subject that said the light and housing needed to be replaced. He advised that was going to be a $2,000 -$3,000 dollar job. At that time, about 5/19/17 it was changed into a boating accident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0244
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling west on the Atlantic Ocean preparing to enter Boynton Inlet. Vessel 1 was over taken by a large wave causing the vessel to quickly capsize. As a result of Vessel 1 capsizing, all three persons on board were ejected into the water. 

The operator and occupant sustained injuries. Occupant1 was transported by Fire Rescue to Bethesda East Hospital. The operator stated he later went to Bethesda East Hospital in reference to his injuries. The third occupant was not injured. Vessel 1 ended on shore on the beach due to the damages. Damages to Vessel 1 was estimated at $50,000.  
Occupant1 BROKE HIS LEFT ARM WHILE VESSEL WAS CAPSIZED AND ALSO RECEIVED CUTS.

Operator broke his rib on the left side of the body. Refused treatment on scene. Later went to Bethesda hospital where he was informed he broke a rib.


BARDID: FL-2017-0245
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OLD TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 JET SKI APPROACHED BUSY BEACH AREA SHORELINE WITHOUT POWER LOOSING STEERING STRIKING FOUR PEOPLE STANDING IN WATER CAUSING MINOR INJURIES. 

Victim1:LACERATION BACK OF HEAD REQUIRING 3 STITCHES AT ST JOSEPH'S HOSPITAL; victim2:checked out for ingestion of water after being submerged for a short time


BARDID: FL-2017-0247
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OSBORNE
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WORTH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was cruising south bound near other jet skis which were pulled onshore. V2 was unoccupied, pulled onto the shoreline. V1 then ramped over V2 rear, landed on its side and ejected the operator. 

Operator of. V1 was pulled to shore by a witness and was unconscious for several minutes. Upon my arrival operator was conscience, and talking. Palm Beach Fire Rescue transported him to JFK Medical Center (See Run #17-042375) I spoke to Operator of V1 who told me he does not remember much, but complained of pain from his left shoulder, arm and side. Broken left clavicle. Owner of V2 was on scene, and made arraignments to remove his vessel which had heavy damage to its rear area. Operator of V1 had a friend on scene that removed his vessel. ;


BARDID: FL-2017-0248
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling southbound on the Intracoastal Waterway south of the Camino Real Bridge with an outgoing tidal current. The personal watercraft went over a wake and lost control causing subject to be ejected and break her left forearm. It is unclear what Subject made contact with to cause the injury. The personal watercraft had minor damage to the bow. There were no witnesses to the crash and both occupants had conflicting stories to who was operating the PWC at the crash. Subject was transported to Boca ER by BRED for treatment. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0249
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was attempting to make way through the South Fork Of The St. Lucie River near 675 SW Rustic Circle Stuart FL. 34997. 
Vessel I has fly by wire steering and throttles. The Captain of vessel I stated that he had lost all electronics, shifting and steering. He stated that he was able to re-boot the system and get the shifting and steering back on line. During the time that vessel l's electronics were down, it struck the dock causing the boat lift to be knocked into the water. There were also two outer poles that were knocked away during the incident. It also appears that the some of the dock boards were loose during inspection. The damages to the dock are estimated at $ 3500.00. 

The vessel "Calypso " appeared to have damage to the starboard bow and near the rear of the starboard side. The damage is estimated at $ 3000.00. 
Nothing further at this time.


BARDID: FL-2017-0250
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One = Wave runner
Vessel Two = Sailboat

Vessel One was headed west bound through Grand Lagoon following the tour guides vessel. Vessel One had fallen behind and was attempting to catch up to the tour guide. Vessel One hit the wake of a passing vessel which launched Vessel One into the air and into the remainder of the wake. Once vessel one landed, the passenger on vessel one realized impact with Vessel Two was immanent and threw himself and the operator of vessel One into the water. 

Vessel One continued on path and collided with Vessel Two near its stern. Vessel two was docked and not moving. 

Vessel One sustained major internal damage.

Vessel Two sustained damage to the stern. 

Pictures of damage included.


BARDID: FL-2017-0252
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KINGSLEY LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLEBURG
County: CLAY
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: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/29/2017, I, FWC Officer was on water patrol on Kingsley Lake in Starke, FL when I received a call regarding two jet skis involved in a boating accident.  I arrived at the pavilion area just west of Kingsley Lake Boat Ramp and met with the the owner of the jet skis involved in the accident.  Owner stated his friends were operating his jet skis when they were involved in the accident in which Operator1 sustained injuries to his leg and hip.  Operator1 was in the process of being prepared for transport to St. Vincent Hospital in Middleburg by Clay County Emergency Medical Services for treatment of his injuries.

I met with Operator2 who rendered a sworn written statement detailing the events of the accident.  In Operator2’s statement, he stated he and Operator1 were traveling head on toward each other offset to each other’s left when he made an immediate right turn in an attempt to jump Operator1’s wake.  Operator2 misjudged the turn by turning too soon and collided with Operator1.  The bow of Operator2’s vessel impacted the starboard side of Operator1’s vessel, causing damage to the helm and seat portion of Operator1’s vessel and ejecting Operator1 into the water.  Operator2 retrieved Operator1 from the water and transported him to Kingsley Lake Boat Ramp where he was able to obtain medical support.  

After Operator2 completed the sworn written statement, I advised him I had concluded my boating accident investigation and was initiating a criminal investigation regarding possible violations in boating and/or navigational rules.  I advised Operator2 of his Miranda Rights which he waived and rendered a sworn statement admitting to operating his vessel in a careless manner resulting in the injuries sustained to Operator1.

Officer met with Operator1 at St. Vincent Hospital in Middleburg and obtained a sworn written statement detailing the events of the accident.  Operator1 stated he was operating a jet ski on Kingsley Lake when Operator2 collided with the starboard side of his vessel causing injuries to his right side and right hand.

Officer was able to obtain a status of injuries from the physician treating Operator1’s injuries.  According to the physician, it appeared Operator1 suffered a fractured right hip, lacerations to his right leg and possibly a sprained right hand.   

Upon inspection of FL4030RH (Operator #1), I discovered and photographed a cracked helm with damage to the underside of the seating portion of the Jet Ski.  

Upon inspection of FL9377PW (Operator #2), I discovered deep scratches on the underside of the Jet Ski running almost the entire length of the jet vessel.  I spoke with the vessel owner in regards to previous damage and/or wear and tear to the jet skis.  He stated both vessels were in excellent condition prior to the accident and the scratches on the bottom of FL9377PW were the result of the boating accident and not a previously there. 

Operator2 was issued Warning for careless operation of a vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0253
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BUTTONWOOD SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a Personal Water Craft (PWC), occupied times three(3) with a minor child in the middle seat between two adults, traveling north northeast on Buttonwood Sound was jettisoned into the air after hitting a large wake.  All three passengers were ejected.  The minor child suffered a laceration above his left eye.  The injury occurred when the child collided with the PWC during his ejection.  The laceration required 15 stitches. The child was treated and released from the hospital the same day.  No other injuries nor property damaged.


BARDID: FL-2017-0254
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OYSTER BAY
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel V-1 was traveling north up Cedar Creek into Oyster Bay.  V-1 was occupied by 5 people. When in Oyster bay V-1 struck a submerged oyster bar and stopped immediately. Upon impact a passenger in the bow of the vessel, who was standing up at the time, was thrown out of V-1 and landed on the oyster bar on her left side.

The victim was picked up by a fisherman who was passing by after the accident occurred. The victim was taken to JB's Fish Camp where Fire Rescue treated her and EVAC transported her to Halifax Hospital in Daytona beach.

The other occupants of V-1 were transported to JBs Fish Camp by a Park Ranger from Canaveral National Sea Shore. They had no reported injuries. The victim received multiple lacerations on her left buttock and both hands and feet. She was transported to Halifax hospital in Daytona Beach. She received 100+ stitches to close her wounds. the victim was admitted to the hospital and released the next day


BARDID: FL-2017-0255
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KEYSTONE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LUTZ
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 28, 2017, at approximately 1930 hours boating accident # FWSW-17-OFF-009007 occurred on Keystone Lake, Hillsborough County. The location of this accident is a medium sized lake, surrounded by private residences. The recorded air temperature at the time of the accident was approximately 81°F. The water temperature at the time of the accident was approximately 80°F. 

Vessel one (V01), a 20' Mastercraft, was heading north on the lake towing a tube. The vessel was travelling at approximately 15 knots. The vessels bow was high out of the water due to the number of people on board. V01 did not see V02, a 21' Bayline, floating with engine off in the middle of the lake. V01 port side bow struck V02's port side stern. V01 sustained minimal fiberglass, paint damage. V02 sustained fiberglass damage and engine damage. 

No individuals on either vessel were wearing life vests. No injuries were reported on either vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0256
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALAFIA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: RIVERVIEW
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, May 28, 2017, at approximately 17:53 local time.  I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on water patrol on the Alafia River East of the Riverview Civic Center in Hillsborough County. While traveling upstream on the Alafia River, I observed a vessel heading downstream on a full plane, violating marked speed and wake restrictions. We then activated our emergency blue lights on our marked patrol vessel to signal the vessel to stop. 

Upon making contact with the vessel (later identified as a 19-foot, 2007 Tracker Florida with registration number FL0149NL) I observed a white male later in direct control of the vessel. There were also four other passengers. Subject had lacerations to his hands and blood on his clothing. 

I observed a large dent and gash along the starboard side of the vessel and a large amount of dirt and tree branches inside the vessel. Upon contact, Subject said that “we hit a tree, my wife broke her hand”. Subject explained that they were headed East at an idle on the Alafia River when he increased the speed in violation of the marked speed and wake restrictions and collided with a tree stump which sent the vessel into the trees along the bank of the river. Subject repeatedly apologized for causing the accident saying, “I’m so stupid this is all my fault, I can’t believe I am so stupid”. 

I observed that Victim2 had blood matted hair and a laceration to her head. Victim2 also had an open fracture to her right hand and lacerations along her right arm. Victim2 complained of severe pain in her right hand and wanted to know if her daughter was okay. Victim3 was seated next to Victim2 and was complaining of head pain and said she could feel a large lump where her head had made contact with the vessel during the collision. 

Officers then secured the damaged vessel to our patrol vessel and both vessels were docked at the Riverview Civic Center located. Officer provided first aid to Victims until Hillsborough County Fire Rescue arrived and assumed medical care.

Victim was issued a written warning for the idle speed zone violation.

Victim2 was thrown forward in the boat and struck her head. Victim2 was unconscious immediately after the impact. Victim2 regained consciosness moments later and was driven by operator of V1 to nearest boat ramp. Victim2 had a cut and swelling on the top of her head and two of her fingers were also believed to be broken. Victim2 was transported to Tampa General Hospital in stable condition.; Victim3 was riding in the front of the vessel. She struck her head upon impact with the tree. She had a large lump on the side of her head. She was transported to Tampa General Hospital for a "routine check up".


BARDID: FL-2017-0257
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #2 WAS PROPERLY DOCKED (OCCUPIED AND FACING EASTBOUND) IN THE LAGOON AREA ON THE WEST SIDE OF PEANUT ISLAND. THE LAGOON IS A SMALL OR CONFINED AREA WITH FLOATING DOCKS ON ALL SIDE AND ONE ENTRANCE/EXIT. 

VESSEL #1 WAS LEAVING THE DOCK FROM DIRECTLY BEHIND VESSEL #2. VESSEL #1 BEGAN A LEFT TURN IN ORDER TO LEAVE OR EXIT THE LAGOON. DURING THIS TIGHT LEFT TURN, VESSEL #1 SPUN TOO FAST AND IMPACTED WITH VESSEL #2. DAMAGE TO VESSEL #1 WAS ESTIMATED AT $500. DAMAGE TO VESSEL #2 WAS ESTIMATED AT $2000. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AS A RESULT OF THE BOATING ACCIDENT.


BARDID: FL-2017-0259
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: CAPTIVA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 2 COLLIDED WITH VESSEL 1 WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TURN AROUND IN A MARINA BASIN AT JENSON'S MARINA. VESSEL 2 DAMAGED THE MOTOR COWLING AND MIDSECTION.  V-1 was departing from the Jensen’s Marina docks from a moored position.  V-1 operator stated that the vessel had been moored with bow inward in the outboard slip at the southern end of the first T-dock closest to shore.  V-2 was moored starboard side to the dock on the outside of the same T-dock immediately adjacent to V-1 (see accident diagram).  It was reported that there were no occupants aboard V-2 at time of collision. 
 
V-1 operator stated that he backed vessel out of slip (see "A" in accident diagram) in a northerly direction.  The operator further stated that as he attempted to maneuver vessel in a forward motion, the force of the prevailing easterly winds pushed V-1 into the stern area of V-2, with the starboard quarter of V-1 contacting the starboard outboard engine cowling of V-2 (see "B" in accident diagram).  The vessel was traveling at approximately clutch (idle) speed at the time of impact.  Following impact, the occupants of V-1 attempted to fend off from V-2 while the operator of V-1 continued to steer the vessel on a southerly course away from marina docks.    

Upon V-1’s departure from the scene, an employee of the marina reportedly made contact with the operator and informed him of the need to return to the marina in order for the collision to be properly reported to law enforcement.  The operator of V-1 complied with the request.


BARDID: FL-2017-0260
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
BOTH VESSEL # 1 AND VESSEL # 2 WERE LINING UP THEMSELVES TO DOCK AND GET FUEL. 

VESSEL # 1 WAS NEAR THE DOCK WHEN VESSEL # 2 APPROACHED HIM. VESSEL # 2'S CAPTAIN LEFT THE CONTROLS AND STARTED TO ARGUE WITH VESSEL # I'S CAPTAIN REFERENCE FUEL APPOINTMENTS TIMES. 

VESSEL # 2 KEPT FORWARD MOMENTUM AND MADE CONTACT WITH VESSEL # 1 CAUSING SOME DAMAGE TO VESSEL #1'S PORT SIDE. DUE TO VESSEL # 2'S CONTACT WITH VESSEL # 1, HE CONSEQUENTLY MADE CONTACT WITH THE DOCK CAUSING DAMAGES TO VESSEL # 1' STARBOARD SIDE, THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. 

NOTE: VESSEL # 2'S CAPTAIN DENIED EVER STRIKING VESSEL # 1. INDEPENDENCE WITNESS STATED THE SAME ACCOUNT AS VESSEL # 1'S CAPTAIN,


BARDID: FL-2017-0262
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 and V-2 were traveling northbound parallel to Clam Pass Beach.  V-2 was decelerating speed to around 7 miles per hour and turned to the operator’s starboard side, V-1 also decelerating speed to around 7 miles per hour and struck V-2’s starboard side.

Both of the captain’s had rented two PWC’s from Naples Jet Ski Rental previously that day.  The Gentlemen stated that their speeds were around 20-25 mph traveling northbound parallel to Clam Pass Beach. Vessel #2 (V-2) was confused on their whereabouts and let off the throttle to ask his Uncle where they were headed.  When Operator2 came to slow speed his PWC had drifted to the right.  

Operator1 also had decelerated his speed to slow speed and struck Operator2’s starboard side of the PWC. Operator1 did not realize a PWC needs throttle to make precise turns. 

Both vessel captain’s mentioned that they tried to steer away from each other to avoid collision but due to lack of time and inexperience on a personal water craft boat PWC’s were unable to.  Both captain’s were uninjured and unharmed.


BARDID: FL-2017-0264
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIAM BEACH
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/11/17, at approximately 16:44 hours, while on land based water patrol, I was dispatched to a boating accident in the vicinity of 46th st on Miami Beach. I arrived by vessel and Lt. arrived by land. The victim was a black female passenger of a Yamaha personal watercraft driven by a black female operator. 

According to their verbal statements, they were cruising in the ocean when they made a maneuver and the passenger was ejected. During the fall, her face made contact with the jet ski and it caused an abrasion to her forehead. Miami Beach Ocean Rescue and Miami Beach PD responded to the scene. The victim was admitted to Mt. Sinai hospital for her injuries. They were visiting from Texas and rented jet skis for recreational use. No citations were issued.

Victim had a small one inch laceration to left side of forehead


BARDID: FL-2017-0265
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: BIG PINE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident. V1, "DO696381", was traveling westbound from Marathon to Big Pine Key. V1 attempted to take a non-USCG Marked cut primarily used by smaller vessels with local knowledge. V1 ran aground when attempting to enter the cut.


BARDID: FL-2017-0266
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARNES SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: line
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
a boat was stuck on the sandbar and another boat was trying to help them get off. The victim was standing between the boats trying to help when a line broke and hit him in the right thigh causing a deep laceration.; The subject was then airlifted to Jackson Trauma South where he underwent surgery.


BARDID: FL-2017-0267
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KINGSLEY LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLEBURG
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/30/2017, I, FWC Officera call regarding two jet skis involved in a boating accident on Kingsley Lake in Starke, FL.  I arrived and met with the owner of the jet skis involved in the accident.  Owner stated Operator #1, Occupant #1, and Operator #2 were operating his jet skis when they were involved in an accident in which V1 occupant sustained injuries to his left leg.  V1 occupant was transported to Shands Hospital in Gainesville for treatment of his injuries.

I met with Operator1 who rendered a sworn statement wherein he stated he was the operator of FL0457PT with V1 occupant as his passenger.  Operator1 stated he and V1 occupant had just climbed aboard their vessel after swimming when Operator2 approached their port side.  Operator1 stated the waves were rough at the time and Operator2’s vessel swung in an arch to the right causing Operator2s port quarter to strike Operator1’s starboard side injuring V1 occupant leg and ejecting him into the water.  Operator1 retrieved V1 occupant from the water and upon discovering his injuries, transported him where he could seek medical aid.  

I met with Operator2 who rendered a sworn statement wherein he stated he was the operator of FL0454PT when he noticed Operator1 and V1 occupant climbing back on their vessel after swimming and approached them at a 90 degree angle and turned to the right to get parallel when the waves caused the stern of his vessel to swing around and strike Operator1’s Vessels port side injuring V1 occupant and ejecting him into the water.  Operator2 described the weather at the time as raining heavily and windy with 1 - 2 foot waves.
After Operator2 completed the sworn written statement, I advised him and his mother I had concluded my boating accident investigation and was initiating a criminal investigation regarding possible violations in boating and/or navigational rules.  I advised Operator2 in the presence of his mother his Miranda Rights which he waived and rendered a verbal statement admitting to operating his vessel in a manner that resulted in an accident with injuries sustained.

Officer met with V1 occupant at Shands Hospital in Gainesville and obtained a sworn written statement detailing the events of the accident.  V1 occupant stated he was passenger on a jet ski on Kingsley Lake when Operator2 collided with the port side of his vessel causing injuries to his left leg.
Officer was able to obtain a status of injuries from the physician treating V1 occupant injuries.  According to the physician, it appeared V1 occupant left leg was broken.   

Upon inspection of FL0457PT (Operator #1), I was not able to identify any visible damage.  
Upon inspection of FL0454PT (Operator #2), I discovered minor scratches to the port quarter side of the vessel. 

Operator2 was issued Warning # for careless operation of a vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0268
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 broke from its mooring line to another anchored vessel and was drifting, unlit, in the Choctawhatchee Bay on the north side of Crab Island when it was struck by V1. V1 impacted V2 at the starboard bow which caused V1 to ramp over V2.

V1 operator was arrested for BUI, owner of V2 cited for no nav lights


BARDID: FL-2017-0269
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
49’ Rybovich “Miss Budweiser” (DO285082) caught on fire, starting in the engine room. 3 subjects onboard. No injuries. Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1 mile south of 7 mile bridge. 

Occupant stated he was operating the vessel at the helm and observed the starboard engine RPMs decrease. Occupant then pulled back on both engine throttles. At that time, Subject1 was in the vessel salon, felt the vessel slow down and proceeded out towards the cockpit. Once outside, he observed smoke coming out of the engine room. Subject1 then alerted Occupant and subject2 of the smoke. subject2 was in the rest room (head), came out and observed smoke coming out of the engine room. A short time later, there were flames coming out of the engine room. At that time, the subjects began to retrieve safety equipment and Occupant called “May Day” on VHF Channel 16.

	At that time, subjects onboard the 25’ Parker observed the smoke and quickly approached the “Miss Budweiser” for assistance. Subject4 then boarded “Miss Budweiser” to attempt to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher. Once realizing the fire was too large to contain, all subjects got onto the 25’ Parker.

	While on scene, we observed “Miss Budweiser” on fire. The vessel then began to sink and submerged at latitude/longitude N24 40.924, W081 07.210. The submerged vessel was marked with an anchored “Danger - Submerged Object” buoy.


BARDID: FL-2017-0270
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PALM BAY
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 4, 2017, an airboat (FL 5285 PZ) with five occupants onboard was heading northbound in a canal just south of the Thomas Lawon boat ramp when it struck a tree limb damaging the motor cage and the propeller. An occupant's arm was also injured from the tree limb. The injured party was transported to Holmes Regional once back at the boat ramp. operator/owner of the vessel. 

He advised there had been five occupants onboard at the time of the accident.  He said that he was driving northbound in a narrow canal around 10-15 miles per hour when he steered the vessel towards the east to avoid a tree limb that was protruding out from the west side of the canal. When he did this the starboard (east) side of the vessel struck an object underneath the water line pushing the vessel back towards the west and directly into the tree limb. 

The tree limb struck Occupant1 who was sitting in the rear port side seat, lacerating his left arm. The tree limb also struck the airboat’s motor cage causing damage. One of the blades of the propeller was also damaged due to either the tree limb or the pieces of the damaged cage. The boat was able to be driven at idle speed back to the ramp where emergency personnel were standing by to treat Occupant1. Once at the ramp, Occupant1 was transported to Holmes Regional Medical Center where he received two staples. ; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0271
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
vessel ran over wake of passing vessel, lost control and crashed into the mangroves.

Vessel 1(V1) was 

underway Eastbound in Tarpon Creek at it's Position 1 (P1). V2 was underway Westbound in Tarpon Creek at it's P1. Both vessels gave way to starboard in this head on situation, came to idle speed, passed each other at (P2) and then accelerated back to cruising speed. 

V1 hit the wake left behind by V2, lost control, veered to starboard, applied more throttle in an attempt to regain control and ran up into the mangroves at it's (P3). 

No person on board was injured. The vessel sustained approximately $ 2000.00 in damage. Tarpon Creek is a very narrow channel with strong tidal current.


BARDID: FL-2017-0272
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pulling anchor when the operator left the helm with the vessel still in reverse, therefore causing a collision with V2 and V3 that were moored behind V1. 

V1 was trying to anchor and went to unlock the bolt on the anchor. Operator did not realize that the boat was in reverse. He descended from the helm and could not control it from the cabin because they were locked on the fly bridge. He started towards the ladder on the fly bridge when his boat hit the boat behind. He then climbed up to the fly bridge and put the boat in forward again. V1 tied up at another mooring ball and waited for Coast Guard.


BARDID: FL-2017-0274
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GROUPER CREEK
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1550 hours, we arrived at the Ranger Station and Operator's care was turned over to Key Largo EMS Rescue 23. As EMS monitored Operator's vitals, I asked permission to ask Operator a few questions. Both EMS and Operator consented. I asked Operator if he had remembered what had happened. Operator stated he was traveling about 25 mph when he had to turn hard to prevent colliding with another vessel. He stated the steering stuck and he just went into the mangroves. I asked Operator if he remembered what happened to his head. Operator stated he struck it on the center console. I asked Operator if he knew what he was going to do with the vessel. I advised Operator that it was approximately 50 feet deep into the mangroves, and it would more than likely require a professional salvage. Operator stated he did not know what he was going to do. I advised him of Sea Tow and Tow Boat US as a starting point. I then asked Operator if there was anything on board that he absolutely needed or was in fear of losing. Operator then stated that his dog, "(dog’s name)" was still on board. Operator stated that his keys were also on board with his wallet. Operator asked if we could locate his dog, to grab his keys and wallet and put them in his camper at Coral Sands Campground. EMS transported Operator to Mariner's Hospital, in Tavernier. Officer and I returned to the scene of the crash. 

   At approximately 1630, Officer and I arrived back on scene of the crash. We nosed our patrol vessel up to the mangroves and I began to call out for "(dog’s name)". After a minute or two I removed my boots and duty belt and began to climb back through the mangroves to vessel. At this time, Everglades National Park Rangers arrived on scene as well. As I approached the vessel, I was able to see a dog carrier under the center console. A small dog poked his head up from the carrier. With the assistance of a Park Ranger, we were able to recover (dog’s name) and Operator's wallet and keys. I was able to better photograph the vessel, damage to the mangroves and document the pathway the vessel entered into the mangroves. Freshly snapped mangroves along with blue hull paint transfer were indicative of the crash.  I was also able to confirm the vessel as the same one from the morning prior, bearing FL 0495 GA. 

   At approximately 1745 hours, I arrived at Mariner's Hospital in Tavernier. With permission from the emergency room staff, (dog’s name) was turned over to Operator in the ER. Operator's wallet and keys were also returned to him. Operator had received stitches to the laceration above his right eyebrow.


BARDID: FL-2017-0275
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/27/17, V1 was occupied by four adults and four juveniles while pulling two juveniles on a tube in the ICW, St. Johns County. The two juveniles on the tube fell off and the operator was returning at an idle speed to pick them up when a six year old female stepped up from her seat located at the stern, port side of V1.  As the six year old female was standing, her feet slipped out from under her causing her to fall into the water from the stern of V1. This action caused her to be struck by the outboard motor's propeller on her right foot and ankle area. The injured juvenile was transported to Shands Hospital in Duval County for treatment. ;

The six year old female underwent surgery for a fracture and to repair tendons for her lower right leg and foot.


BARDID: FL-2017-0276
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE ISIS
NearestCityorTown: AVON PARK
County: HIGHLANDS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 28, 2017, at around 4:45 p.m., I responded to a boating accident with minor injuries involving a 10’ Yamaha PWC (V01) and a 10’ Sea-Doo PWC (V02).  The accident occurred on Lake Isis near 1311 N. Lake Isis Drive in Avon Park.    At around 5:30 p.m., I received a written statement from Operator1, who was the operator of the Yamaha at the time of the accident.  In his statement he explained while riding the Yamaha he noticed the Sea-Doo on the far southwest corner of the lake. His daughter, who was riding with him as a passenger, asked him if he could make some waves.  He proceeded to make several doughnut maneuvers and on his 5th turn, he noticed the bow of the Sea-Doo headed directly toward them at a 45-degree angle.  He reached back with his right arm and pushed his daughter into the water as he was knocked into the water as well.  He stated that he observed the Sea-Doo going over the top of the Yamaha.  He located his daughter, who was a short distance away and they were helped back to shore by family members. 

At around 6:30 p.m., I received a written statement form Operator2, who was the operator of the Sea-Doo at the time of the accident.  Operator2 is a juvenile and her aunt was present during the interview.  In her statement, Operator2 explained that she observed the operator of the Yamaha making a turn and guessed that he did not see her.  She stated that she accidentally crashed into him and observed the passenger on the Yamaha being pushed off by the operator.  She stated that the operator of the Yamaha was hurt

V1 occupant- the inside of her right knee (kneecap) and the inside of her right ankle had been bruised.  ; Operator1- his liver and right lung had been bruised.


BARDID: FL-2017-0277
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST LAKE TOHO
NearestCityorTown: KISSIMMEE
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/13/2017, I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), responded to a boating accident on West Lake Toho. There I met an individual who was the friend of the registered owner’s boat, that was submerged in West Lake Toho. FWC and Osceola County Sheriff’s Office towed the vessel to Big Toho Marina and the vessel was recovered. There were no injuries, damage, or charges. 

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, the accident occurred due to holes located on the bottom of the hull. Operator had taken the his vessel to West Lake to test it on the water and throughout the day the boat had slowly filled with water towards the rear storage compartments. When Operator realized the water inside the vessel, it was too late to try to drive away because of the amount of weight from the water. The vessel submerged approximately 100 yards East of the mouth of Shingle Creek and Operator and occupant swam to the closest shoreline outside Shingle Creek.


BARDID: FL-2017-0278
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityorTown: DEERFIELD
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 STRUCK VESSEL 2 WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DOCK. VESSEL 2 WAS DOCKED AND UNOCCUPIED AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT. NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED WHILE ON THE SCENE. 

THE ANCHOR FROM VESSEL 1 STRUCK THE STARBOARD SIDE OF VESSEL 2 CAUSING LONG DEEP FIBERGLASS GAUGES TO THE GEL COAT. THE BIMINI TOP WAS ALSO DAMAGED WHEN VESSEL 2 WAS PUSHED UP AGAINST THE DOCK. OWNER OF VESSEL 2 ALSO CLAIMS THE ACCIDENT CAUSED STRESS CRACKS ALONG THE STARBOARD SIDE GUNNEL. NOTHING FURTHER AT THIS TIME.


BARDID: FL-2017-0279
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: SARSOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL OPERATOR OF V1 STATED HE WAS OPERATING HIS VESSEL A FEW HUNDRED YARDS OFF SIESTA KEY BEACH WHEN HE BEGAN TAKING ON WATER. THE VESSEL BEGAN BEING SWAMPED BY WATER WHILE IT WAS NEARING A SANDBAR. OFFICERS WERE ON PATROL AND HAPPENED TO BE IN THE AREA AND OBSERVED THE VESSEL IN DISTRESS. OCCUPANTS WERE PULLED ONTO POLICE BOATS AND TRANSPORTED TO SAFETY. NO INJURIES REPORTED. VESSEL WAS SWAMPED AND REMOVED BY BOAT US.


BARDID: FL-2017-0280
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: SEBASTIAN
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 11 June 2017 I, Officer, responded to a boating accident on the Indian River in Indian River County with Officers.  I arrived at Main Street Boat Ramp at approximately 11:50.  EMS was on scene tending to victim.  EMS informed me that the towed tuber (Victim) had a broken arm and transported him to Sebastian Hospital.  I made contact with operator of vessel and received information about the accident.  Operator informed me that he was operation the vessel and doing figure eights so that the tuber (Victim) would have to go over the boats wakes.  He also stated that he was going approximately 20-25 mph.  After (victim's mother) noticed that Victim fell off the tube they turned around and noticed Victim's arm was abnormal.  Operator pulled victim into the boat and called 911.   
No citations were issued.
Victim broke his left arm.


BARDID: FL-2017-0281
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARRIS
NearestCityorTown: YAHALA
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the date of 5/27/17 I was dispatched to a hit and run boating accident. The accident occurred at approximately 11:18 pm on 5/26/17.

I arrived on scene and met with the homeowner. Homeowner showed me the damaged dock, which had extensive damage (see pictures). I was also able to find a front anchor hatch from a boat, that was left at the scene. Homeowner said that they heard the crash but did not see the vessel.

The person who called 911, said he was fishing on a boat dock when he heard a boat traveling at a high rate of speed heading toward the shoreline it was too dark to see but he could hear several people on the boat possibly 2 males and 2 females. Witness1 said he then heard the boat crash into the dock. Witness1 said there was about a minute of silence and then the boat started up and headed to the northeast at a high rate of speed.

I checked Leesburg Regional and Waterman Hospitals and they had no one checked in with injuries consistent with a boating accident. Several boats from our agency and the Sheriff’s Department searched the Harris Chain for any boats with damage consistent with a boating accident with negative results.

On 6/10/17 I checked local boat repair shops to look for boats with damage consistent with a boating accident with negative results.

Homeowner got an estimate for $4,000 to repair the dock.

This case will be closed all leads exhausted unless more information comes forward.


BARDID: FL-2017-0282
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GOODLAND BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The operators V1 and V2 were involved in a head-on crossing situation.  V1 attempted to pass V2 on her starboard side.  V2 attempted to pass V1 on her port side.  The vessels collided.

Two subjects were injured on V2 and transported to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries.  One subject on V1 flown to the hospital with a head injury.  All subjects survived.  

Operator1 stated that his boat (Vessel 1) was traveling southeast in the center of the channel from Marco Island.  When he saw Vessel 2 approaching he maintained course because he expected Vessel 2 to pass on the starboard side. 

Operator1 stated that he then altered course of Vessel 1 to starboard after he realized that Vessel 2 was attempting to pass on his port side.  While Operator1 was attempting to avoid the collision by turning Vessel 1 starboard, Vessel 2 also changed course to port in an attempt to avoid the collision, and then the two vessels struck.  

Vessel Occupant/Injury Assessment

V1 subject: Head lacerations (required stitches) and a concussion
V2: operator suffered Bruising to his left leg and cuts to his left arm and leg.  Occupant suffered Bruised ribs on his left side.


BARDID: FL-2017-0283
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. LUCIE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20, 2017, Operator1 and passenger were traversing the Saint Lucie River, North Fork, St. Lucie County, Port Saint Lucie, Florida.  While in a turn, the vessel collided with a tree, causing the operator to be ejected. 

Operator1 sustained injuries to include seven fractured ribs, a fractured scapula, sinus bone fracture, right leg laceration and a facial laceration.  Operator1 was admitted to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center as a trauma alert and received treatment beyond first aid.

Operator1 was located by Occupant, floating face down in the water.  Occupant had to establish an airway, at which time Operator1 became conscious.    

Occupant was sitting in the passenger seat directly in front of and lower than the operator. Upon vessel crash, Occupant advised he was thrown onto the vessel hull.  Due to the vessel crash, Occupant sustained a lacerated right ear lobe, a small laceration above his left eye, and friction burns to his left and right arms. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0284
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TURNBULL CREEK
NearestCityorTown: OAK HILL
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was cruising south west towards US 1. V1 operator stated his vessel was approximately 3 feet from the shoreline. Victim/occupant was sitting on the bow deck( not a designated seat) facing towards the operator. V1 came to a sharp turn in the creek and collided with V2.

V2 was cruising north east on Turnbull Creek headed towards V2 occupants residence. V2 operator stated he was on the eastern shoreline. V2 operator came to the sharp turn in the creek and collided with V1. V2 operator immediately engaged the throttle to neutral in an attempt to stop the vessel. 

The bow of V1 impacted V2 on its starboard bow/keel. V1 bow went under V2 due to the different vessel designs. When the collision occurred it caused the occupant/victim of V1 to be pushed(V2 bow/keel struck victim on right side of her body) overboard. Once both vessels settled, V1 operator and V2 occupant got in the water to locate V1 occupant/victim.  Victim was located under vessels and brought into V2. V2 then transported victim to boat ramp.(US 1/Turnbull Creek) 

V2 left the ramp once onshore and returned to V2 occupants house. V1 operator proceeded to ramp and transported victim to Fish Memorial Hospital in Orange City. Received four broken ribs and a collapsed lung.  

V1 sustained damage to the bow.
V2 sustained minor scuffing along the starboard keel, close to the water line. 

Both operators were not in sight of each other until seconds before incident. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0285
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 23, 2017 at approximately 10:28 a.m two subjects rented a PWC bearing FL1209PX from All Island Water Sports located at 3534 Heritage LN Fort Myers, FL. 33908. Only a few minutes into renting the PWC, they were idling away from the shore line traveling at approximately 5 mph. Due to the wind and weather factors, they were idling through rough and choppy seas. Wave heights on this day were about 4 to 5 feet. 

As they approached a large wave Operator told Occupant to “Hold on”. When they contacted the wave on the PWC, Occupant’s body came up and off the seat then quickly back down on the seat. When Operator asked if Occupant was okay, Occupant began to complain of severe back pain.  Operator then turned the PWC around and idled back to the shore line of the rental company. EMS was contacted by the Liveries employee. Occupant was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital located at 2776 Cleveland Ave Fort Myers FL. 33901 by ambulance. A cat scan at the hospital revealed that Occupant had a compression fracture in her upper back between shoulder blades. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0286
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ANNA MARIA
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel collision with channel marker 49A in ICW; no injuries.  The three subjects were actively participating in the Bradenton Yacht Club Fire Charity Fishing Tournament.  At the time of the accident, they were changing fishing spots, moving from Palma Sola Bay and heading South in the ICW.  While approaching the Cortez Bridge, there was a shrimping vessel in the middle of the channel.  

Operator came down off the throttle and steered to starboard to go around the shrimping vessel and over the wake.  While doing such, his vision was obstructed from both Subject1 sitting in front of him, as well as, the bow of the boat raised high.  Operator was also distracted from a conversation he was having with Subject1.  Subject2, seated on the starboard side of the vessel, first saw that they were on a collision course with green channel marker 49A; he yelled out for Operator to avoided it.  Operator steered the boat back to port as quickly as he could, and he described also steering back to starboard in hopes the stern of the vessel would miss.  Instead, the starboard bow struck the channel marker and they came to an abrupt stop.  At the time of the collision they estimated their speed to be under 15 mph.  The channel marker was broken in half, but still attached.  They immediately called their father, who notified the vessel's owner.  They then headed directly back to the Kingfish Boat Ramp.  
	No one was ejected, and there were no injuries to report.  Damage appeared to be isolated at the point of impact, but there were stress fractures towards the stern in the fiberglass.


BARDID: FL-2017-0287
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WEIR
NearestCityorTown: BELLEVIEW
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 11, 2017 at approximately 1445 hours, a boating accident occurred in Sunset Harbor on Lake Weir located within Marion County, Florida.  The nearest town is Ocklawaha.

operator was operating a 1987 Larson vessel with 5 year old as the only passenger onboard.  They were pulling a tube occupied by 2 skiers.  

Both skiers fell off the tube, so Operator turned the vessel hard port (left) to go retrieve them.  The vessel struck an “awkward” wake while turning. Operator exited the vessel.  The vessel began turning in tight left circles on full plane with 5-year old as the only occupant.

Operator was struck by the propeller of his vessel causing severe lacerations on his right arm from his shoulder to his elbow.  He also received three (3) severe lacerations to his right leg from his thigh to his ankle.  The passenger was able to shut the vessel off. 

Operator was loaded onto a good Samaritan vessel and transported to the Carney Island Boat Ramp to awaiting EMS.  He was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Operator sustained lacerations to his upper right arm tricep and bicep area.  He also sustained two 8"-10" lacerations on his right leg.


BARDID: FL-2017-0288
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:10:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 5, 2017 at 11:29 PM Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission received a complaint from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami in reference to a Personal Watercraft (PWC) found drifting in the area of the Intracoastal Waterways (ICW) and the Julia Tuttle Bridge. When the PWC was first observed by a Tow Boat US Captain the vessel exhibited extensive damage to its port side and bow. Additionally, floating debris still surrounded the vessel. A Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) boat responded to the scene and initiated search patterns in the vicinity of the bridge. Within a short period of time MDFR recovered the body of a Hispanic male near the drifting vessel. It was later confirmed that he was the only person on board. 

The victim was identified. An autopsy completed at the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner Department determined that the cause of death was blunt force head injury with terminal submersion in water. Additionally, the toxicology report revealed that Operator had an ethanol concentration of 0.160% (blood) and 0.183% (ocular) as well as 0.488 mg/L of cocaine (blood). 

On February 5, 2017 Operator left Pelican Harbor Boat Ramp shortly before the accident in an effort to contact his friends (who were underway on a separate boat). Operator intended to recover his car keys and wallet. Operator and his girlfriend had spent the day in the water together. But, upon returning to the boat ramp, already after sunset, (sunset time: 6:08 PM)  both realized that their car keys and wallets were forgotten on their friend's boat. According to Girlfriend, she asked Operator not to return to the water and gave him different options but since he was unable to make contact with his friends, he insisted and got underway from the boat ramp. This occurred a few minutes before 10:00 PM. See attached sworn written statement provided by Girlfriend. 

An extensive search of the area was conducted in an effort to located the exact point of impact. All day beacons/markers within close proximity of the bridge were inspected as well as a closely located "Slow Speed Manatee Zone" sign. We search for any marks or indications of impact with negative results. However, due to the close proximity of the PWC to the bridge at the time that it was found and the immediacy of the debris to the floating vessel, it is possible that the impact occurred near the span of the bridge positioned directly west of the ICW, where the vessel was initially observed drifting. 

The operator of the Personal Watercraft (PWC) involved in the accident suffered the following fatal injuries after a collision with an unknown fixed object at a high rate of speed on February 5, 2017 at approximately 10:00PM:  Blunt injuries of head and neck: Abrasions of face and neck; laceration of face; subscalpular hemorrhage and subdural and subarachnoid hemorrhage.   Blunt injuries of torso: Abrasions of chest and abdomen; right rib fractures; bilateral hemothoraces and small lacerations of liver.   Blunt injuries of extremities: Abrasions and lacerations; fractures of left distal femur; fractures of left tibial head.   Froth in mouth and trachea; bilateral pulmonary edema and fluid in sphenoid sinus.   This information was obtained from the autopsy report completed by the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner Department. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0289
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OKEECHOBEE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CLEWISTON
County: HENDRY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Struck a submerged rock and ejected both the operator and occupant. Cause of accident submerged object.

On 06/11/2017 at approximate 2000 hours, officers were dispatched to a  boating accident at the Clewiston public boat ramp. Dispatch advised us that is was an airboat with two subjects on board that had rolled it over and that one of the subjects’ had been transported to the Hendry Regional Medical Center.

We arrived at the Hendry Regional Medical Center at approximately 2030 hours and made contact with the occupants of the vessel who was returning from a CAT scan. I observed him to have a laceration to his head above his eye and shoulder from being ejected and hitting rocks. He advised that his son was operating the airboat and would be arriving shortly. 

Once Operator arrived at the hospital, he advised us that they and some friends had been at Observation Island cleaning up the camp. Operator advised me they left the island and traveled south down a trail for approximately 300 yards. Operator advised as they was traveling in the trail, they struck a submerged rock on the left side of the airboat which caused it to spin out of control. Operator advised that upon hitting the rock, he and victim were ejected out of the vessel. Operator advised that upon begin ejected out of the vessel, he swam to victim and was able to get him onto the deck of the boat. Victim sustained a laceration to the right shoulder and a laceration to the right side of the head above his eye.


BARDID: FL-2017-0291
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 a 2011 15ft GEN3 Jon boat bearing registration FL 2551 RA was west bound crossing the ICW channel at 2400 N Flagler DR without navigation lights in the dark. 

V2 a 2007 22ft Angler CC bearing registration # FL 8401 NM was north bound in the 1CW channel with navigation lights on. 

V1 crossed in front of V2 causing V2 to strike the rear of V1. The impact caused the engine of V1 to break off the transom. V2 operator advised he never saw V1 cross in front of his vessel because V2 did not have proper navigation lights on. V1 Operator  was arrested for BUI reference PBSO case #17-073961. V1 was towed by Sisters Towing and no injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2017-0292
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: TIERRA VERDE
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one prior to entering the canal switched the controls over to a yacht controller. Upon attempting to enter the canal the vessel was placed in forward gear. As the operator attempted to switch the vessel out of gear and into reverse the controller didn't respond with the vessel and vessel one crashed into vessel two which was docked on its lift-on the water. 

Vessel one completely submerged vessel two and engine and broke the lift. Vessel one operator advised after the crash the vessel was turned off and placed on the outside dock of the owner of vessel two. Upon starting up the vessel it started in gear and proceeded forward causing dock damage. 

It is unknown why the vessel responded this way.


BARDID: FL-2017-0293
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: SUNNY ISLE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF VESSEL ADVISED THAT THE ANCHOR LINE WRAPPED AROUND THE ENGINE PROPELLER AND THAT WHILE HE WAS TRYING TO UNWRAP IT THE VESSEL BEGAN TO TAKE ON WATER CAUSING IT TO CAPSIZE. MDR FIRE BOAT 21 RESPONDED AND TREAT ALL PERSONS ON BOARD.


BARDID: FL-2017-0294
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INLET
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/30/17 at approximately 09:36 hours, Vessel #1 was cruising out of the Hillsboro Inlet attempting to venture out to open water: The conditions were very rough with estimated six foot seas and wind speeds of approximately 15 to 20 miles per hour. V #1 hit a large wave causing him to fall off his PWC and into the water. 

V #1 operator created distance between himself and his PWC and was able to swim to shore. V #1 was repeatedly slammed into the large rocks by the waves causing heavy fiberglass damage. I was able to secure V #1 to my boat and keep it from sinking. I then recovered V #1 operator and transported them to the safety of the Alsdorf Park Boat Ramps located at 2901 NE 14th Street in the City of Pompano Beach. NFI


BARDID: FL-2017-0295
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS NORTHBOUND OFFSHORE TRAVELING IN THE ATLANTIC OCEAN APPROXIMATELY ONE QUARTER MILE SOUTH OF THE BOCA RATON INLET. THE OPERATOR OF V1 STATED SHE LOST POWER TO THE VESSELS ENGINE AND DISCOVERED SHE WAS OUT OF FUEL. LARGE WAVES STRUCK THE VESSEL BROADSIDE CAUSING THE VESSEL TO BE PUSHED INTO THE SHORE BREAK WHERE WAVES CAUSED V1 TO CAPSIZE, EJECTING ALL FOUR OCCUPANTS. THE CAPSIZED VESSEL WAS PUSHED ASHORE IN THE AREA OF 1500 SOUTH OCEAN BLVD. ALL FOUR OCCUPANTS ALSO SWAM TO SHORE. NO INJURIES REPORTED.


BARDID: FL-2017-0296
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE ANNIE
NearestCityorTown: DUNDEE
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: drain plug
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel bilge was flooding from hole behind stern transducer and leaking drain plug. Captain attempted to load vessel on trailer and pulled vessel back off trailer. While reversing away from the trailer the vessel took on water over transom, swamping vessel. The captain recovered stowed life jacket for the passenger. Passenger took off the life jacket and jumped overboard. The vessel capsized and captain went overboard without life jacket. Captain attempted to swim to shore, once surfaced from under vessel, captain drowned short distance away from vessel. Vessel was located capsized bow above water and stern below water. Fuse to bilge pump was blown and bilge not operating. Captain had a minor abrasion left forearm and right calf. Medical examiner advised cause of death was freshwater drowning.


BARDID: FL-2017-0297
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: DEERFIELD BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 14, 2017 at approximately 1515 hrs, myself and Deputy, responded to a call for help on the VHF marine radio of a capsized vessel with five people in the water. The location provided via the VHF radio was off-shore Deerfield Beach in approximately 190 ft of water. We located the capsized vessel, and observed two people in the water clinging to the bow eye of the vessel which was protruding from the water. 
I maneuvered our BSO patrol vessel into position, as Dep. lowered the dive door, which is located on the starboard side of the vessel. Dep. was able to reach out and grab the operator, by his right wrist and attempted to pull him into our patrol vessel. The operator appeared to be distraught, and did not responded to several verbal commands to release his grip on the bow eye., I was able to reach down and pull his left hand from the bow eye, allowing Dep. and I to pull the w/m into our patrol vessel. We also Made contact with the occupant still in the water also clinging to the bow of the vessel. She appeared calm, and responded to our verbal commands to grab onto the dive door of our vessel. Dep. was then able to assist her into our vessel. 
We made contact with recreational boater on scene. Subject stated that he made the call on the VHF marine radio channel 16 when he came across the capsized vessel. Subject stated that as he approached the vessel, he observed five people in the water. Subject was able to recover three of the vessel's passengers from the water prior to our arrival.  
All five of the capsized vessel's occupants were in good condition, and did not require any medical attention. Dep. and I transported the five vessel occupants to Alsdorf park located at 2901 NE 14 St. Pompano Beach, FL. I interviewed the operator of the capsized vessel. 
Operator stated that they were heading towards Hillsboro Inlet from Boca Inlet, approximately a mile and a half off-shore. Operator further stated that due to the rough conditions he attempted to slow the vessel down by pulling back on the throttle. As the vessel's speed decreased, a wave came over the stern filling the cockpit of the vessel with water. Operator advised that the vessel filled with water in a matter of seconds causing it to capsize. Operator and occupant1 were tossed into the water, while three people were trapped under the vessel as it capsized. The three passengers that were trapped under the vessel were able to swim to the surface. Operator stated that they were floating in the water hanging on to the capsized vessel for approximately ten minutes when they were able to signal Good Samaritan Subject for assistance. Sea Tow recovered the vessel and towed in to Alsdorf Park. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0298
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS SOUTHBOUND APPROACHING MARKER 29 WITH LACK OF FUEL. OPERATOR STOPPED TO ADD FUEL WHEN UNKNOWN LARGE CABIN VESSEL 2 CARELESSLY PASSED, NORTHBOUND WITH LARGE WAKE. 

VESSEL 1 TOOK THE FIRST WAKE OVER THE RANSOM AND THE SECOND WAKE CAUSED VESSEL 1 TO BECOME SUBMERGED. VESSEL 1 WAS DRIFTING TO THE EAST AND ITS OPERATOR WAS ABLE TO JUMP ONTO THE DOCK PRIOR TO IT ROLLING OVER.


BARDID: FL-2017-0299
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: FREEPORT
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 9, 2017 at approximately 6:30PM I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a single vessel boating accident with no injuries.  The operator of the vessel struck an unknown object at or below the water line and returned to shore due to his vessel taking on water.  Once his vessel was trailered he observed the damage and contacted FWC dispatch.


BARDID: FL-2017-0300
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE JIM CUT
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1, a 1995 18' Pursuit struck V2, a 2004 27' Hells Bay Boatworks at Stan Blum boat ramp. Operator1 stated that his vessel, V1 had been towed into the boat ramp and that he outboard motor was not working. 

After he was towed into the ramp and was disconnected from the tow vessel at the dock, operator1 stated that "his vessels stern drifted away from the dock and his outboard which was trimmed out of the water struck the side of vessel, V2. The skeg of V1 punctured the side of V2 near midway down the length of V2 on the starboard hull side. The hole in V2's hull penetrated the outer hull fiberglass but did not penetrate the cap of the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0301
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: APALACHICOLA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: APALACHICOLA
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 5, 2017 at approximately 4:30 p.m., V1 OPERATOR and OCCUPANT on V1 were traveling north up the Apalachicola River at approximately 30 MPH. Operator1 changed direction of travel and entered the southeast corner of the North Channel, at that time, V2 OPERATOR and OCCUPANT D on V2 were traveling west at approximately 15 MPH alongside the south side of the North Channel, when V1 struck the stern of V2, ejecting both v2 subjects into the water. V2 took on a tremendous amount of water soon after the impact and eventually sunk in the Apalachicola River, just south of the east entrance of the North Channel (N 29 43.385 W 084 58.717). 

Operator1 and V1 occupant advised they were traveling north up the Apalachicola River at approximately 30 MPH in a posted Minimum Wake Zone, while maintaining his speed, Operator1 said he changed his direction of travel and proceeded to make the turn at the entrance of North Channel. At the time of making the turn to his starboard side, an Airboat (V2) appeared out of nowhere, traveling west out of the North Channel along the south side near the marsh grass. Operator1 said V2 took a hard right turn in attempt to avoid the collision, but unfortunately V1 struck V2 in the rear port stern. Operator1 was able to maneuver V1 back to Ten Foot Hole Boat Ramp in Apalachicola. V1 occupant  was admitted to Weems Memorial Hospital where he received medical treatment on a deep laceration to his left knee. V1 displayed majority of the damage at the bow and HULL. The standing platform at the bow of V1 was ripped off, along with minor fiberglass damage to the front deck and hatches. According to Operator1 V1 was also experiencing motor problems during the post collision. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0302
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERNANDO BEACH CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: HERNANDO BEACH
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was cruising outbound at approximately 8 knots in the Hernando Beach channel near marker 47 . Vessel 2 was cruising behind vessel 1 and approached the port side stern of vessel 1 at a high rate of speed in an attempt to pass vessel 1. 

The operator of vessel 2 jumped off the vessel before Vessel 2 collided with vessel 1. Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 at the port side stern of vessel 1. Vessel 1 sustained significant hull damage at the point of collision. Vessel 2 sustained extreme hull damage on it's starboard bow. There were no injuries to either operators. The operator of Vessel 1 stopped to render aid to the Operator of Vessel 2.

During my interview Operator1 advised me that he was cruising outbound in the Hernando Beach channel at approximately 8 knots. Operator1 said that he observed two jet skis enter the channel from the flats to the south. Operator1 advised that both vessels past him on his starboard side. Operator1 observed one Jet Ski jump his wake. 

Operator1 advised me that he did not see the second Jet ski after it passed him. This Jet ski was operated by Operator2. Operator1 stated that he heard and felt a collision at the stern of his vessel. Operator1 advised me that he observed a brown haired boy in the water behind his vessel and that the Jet Ski had floated off to the south side of the channel. Operator1 stopped to render aide and advised me that operator2 gave him a "thumbs up", that he was not injured. Operator1 then continued to the Gulf of Mexico and anchored outside the channel in the flats and contacted the Sheriffs department.


BARDID: FL-2017-0303
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Two Pwc's were on a tour in Florida bay. The guide slowed down the tour group. V-2 slowed down after seeing the guide put his hand up in a stop motion. V-1 slowed down too late and collided with V-2.


The accident had occurred at around 4:15 PM and I was dispatched to Postcard Inn at around 7 PM. I spoke to the rental company and asked why they hadn't reported it sooner. The rental attendant stated that they were really busy and the person self transported to the hospital, no one thought the injury was very bad. I arrived to find the man had a brace on his right leg. I asked him what happened and he said the guide was out by an area near Cotton Key. The guide held up his hand to stop the group. 

Vessel 2 came to a stop, Vessel 1 (operator2’s wife) was following behind the group. Vessel 1 decelerated, however it did not stop in time due to operator inexperience and off throttle steering.  Vessel 1 struck the 
starboard corner of Vessel 2 which in turn caused Vessel 1 to roll up and strike the leg of vessel 2 operator. Vessel 2 operator did not think that his injury was serious, but he was experiencing some pain. Once they returned to the dock he self transported to Mariner's hospital. The impact of the ski caused a fracture in his right leg in the tibia bone.. Vessel 1 operator was written a written warning for careless operation.; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0304
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 16, 2016, a boating accident occurred southeast of SR 50 near the St. John's River. The operator of the vessel lost control of his vessel and it collided with a cabbage palm ejecting all three occupants and injuring two. 

Operator was operating the vessel. The group was headed northwest on the river towards Midway at SR 50 where they had launched from. They were returning from Paw Paw Mound, located near the east shoreline of the river when Operator saw the eyes of a deer glowing in a cow pasture. The deer began running north towards the tree line and Operator pulled off the river and onto the pasture and began to chase it with his airboat. 

When they neared the tree line the deer took a turn towards the east and Operator did the same. This action caused Operator to lose control of the airboat due to it sliding sideways towards the west. This caused the vessel to collide with a group of cabbage palm trees. The vessel made impact on its rear port side. This caused all three occupants to be ejected from the vessel. 

The vessel is a front drive vessel so Operator was seating in the front, Occupant2 was seated on the rear starboard side and Occupant1 was seated on the rear port side. According to the occupants, Operator and Occupant1 were ejected out of the port side of the vessel andoccupant3 was ejected out of the starboard side. Occupant1 advised that he landed about 30 feet from the vessel. 

Operator then called 911. I asked Operator how fast he was going when the accident occurred and he told me around 40 mph. The pasture where the vessel was being operated was flooded in some areas with a thin layer of water. Airboat operation in these conditions cause airboats to slide. Operator’s statement (see attached) says that he saw eyes and took off chasing them. He says he did not know whether they were the eyes a deer, hog or what. The vessel sustained damage to its hull, cage and prop. 

The hull sustained a large, vertical crack and a gash on its rear port side. The cage sustained a large hole in its port side webbing and the outer ends of the prop were severed. Operator estimated the damage to be around $2,500.00. Operator was able to call some friends to help them retrieve the vessel. After taking care of the vessel he went to the hospital to have his arm checked out. 

The next day I called Operator to get an update on him and Occupant1’s injuries. Operator had broken his forearm two inches above the wrist. He received corrective surgery the next day where he received a metal plate and several screws in his wrist and forearm.  No other injuries to report for Operator.  Occupant1 had fractured the seventh vertebra down on his back and was still at Holmes Regional Medical Center. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0305
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-01-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE ISTOKPOGA
NearestCityorTown: SEBRING
County: HIGHLANDS
WaterConditions: Rough
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:
On Friday, January 20, 2017 at approximately 1800 hours two vessels were operating on Lake Istokpoga, located in Highlands County.  Vessel one (V1), Gambler collided with vessel two (V2), Key Largo.  The operator and passenger of the Key Largo were both struck by the Gambler and ejected, resulting in two fatalities.  The operator and passenger of the Gambler were both ejected, resulting in minor injuries.     

On Friday, January 20, 2017 at approximately 18:00 hrs. Highlands County Sheriff's Office and FWC Officers responded to a boating accident at Lake Istokpoga, located in Highlands County.  A 19 foot Gambler bass boat and passenger was being operated on plane, at an unknown speed.  

A 15 foot Key Largo center console with operator and passenger was being operated on plane, at an unknown speed in the same area.  The Gambler had departed the north shoreline of Big Island and was heading east toward Trails End Fish Camp and the Key Largo was heading north, in the same general location.  Both vessels were being operated toward one another approximately 1/4 mile from s

hore and half way between Big Island and The Grassy Point located on the east shoreline of the lake.    Based on fiberglass analysis and damage assessment, the Gambler’s bow struck the Key Largo’s port beam and ramped up and over the port side of the Key Largo.  

OPERATOR2 and V2 OCCUPANT were both struck by the Gambler resulting in blunt force trauma and were subsequently ejected.  The Gambler crossed over top of the Key Largo.  Witnesses on vessels in the area and immediately responded to render aid.  According to WITNESS1’s statement, he observed the Gambler as it was “airborne” ramping over top of the Key Largo and immediately notified 911.  The Gambler circled for several minutes while unmanned, before proceeding in a northerly direction.  The Key Largo drifted toward the weed line while unmanned, until the outboard motor drug on the bottom of the lake, causing it to become anchored.  

V1 subjects were assisted out of the water and into Witness2’s vessel, where they were both transported to HCEMS located at Trails End Fish Camp.  OPERATOR2 was found floating face down and unconscious by FWC.  He was provided CPR and transported to HCEMS that were standing by at Istokpoga Park.  Once at Istokpoga Park, he was provided ALS before he was pronounced deceased.  V2 OCCUPANT was found submerged at the bottom of the lake by FWC divers on 1-21-17.


V1 occupant was located (seated) in the passenger (starboard side) seat at the time of the accident.  He received several scratches and bruises on his body and arms.  He also received a laceration on his right arm and an injury to his right shoulder. The injuries were consistent with him colliding with the console of the Gambler as he was ejected.  He was found in the water and conscious after the accident.  He was treated for the injuries at Highlands Regional Medical Center.  He was not wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the accident.  He advised that he knew how to swim. 

OPERATOR2, owner / operator, was found floating face down in the water and unconscious after the accident.  CPR and ALS were provided by HCEMS and he was pronounced dead at 1941 hrs.  He was not wearing a personal floatation device and the engine cut off safety lanyard was not attached to OPERATOR2 at the time of the accident.  OPERATOR2’s next of kin advised that he had over 100 hours total vessel operating experience in this specific vessel and that he knew how to swim.  He was operating the Key Largo from behind the console, on the port side at the time of the accident.  He sustained an abrated laceration to the left side of his head (2.2 cm in length), scolara hemorrhage to his left eye, multiple fractures to his ribs, frontal


BARDID: FL-2017-0306
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INLET
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: natural phenomena
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6-18-17 Operator was operating a 18' open motor boat heading west near St. lucie inlet at approximately 20mph. On board he had his son and wife. While operating the vessel Operator was struck in the head by an unknown fish or marine animal. It jumped out of the water striking him in the head and caused him to fall against the vessels motor. It caused a head injury so his wife and son took him to sandsprit boat ramp where medical help was called. Operator was transported to Martin Medical South for his injuries. 

Wife was not able to provide much information of the accident while on scene and the operator was released from the hospital before more details were gathered. Neither the operator nor the owner of the boat returned phone calls to gather more details of the accident. no visible damage was caused to the boat and Operator was released from the hospital after treatment; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0307
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was attempting to exit Smugglers Cove Marina when she collided with vessel #2 that was moored to the dock.


BARDID: FL-2017-0308
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATTLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Boating accident caught on tape. On May 22, 2017 at approximately 1100. I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), received a call from dispatch stating there was a boating accident in the vicinity of Port Largo.

 I arrived to Garden Cove Marina and asked Subject to recap what happened. Subject stated he takes care of a property and two boats.  The boating accident happened May 14th, 2017 at 0944. The security camera at the property captured the accident. The only identifier on the striking vessel was the name "Cami" on the stern of the vessel. I searched through every canal in the vicinity of Port Largo with no vessel matching the description of the striking vessel. I reached out to the Coast Guard to be on the lookout for the striking vessel. Unfortunately the striking vessel was never found. Photos were attached of the struck vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0309
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF F MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 exited Big Carlos Pass in Fort Myers Beach, FL. The vessel exited the channel, Operator turned off the vessel and left it adrift, all occupants jumped into the water to swim. The depth in this location was between 4.7 feet and 6.7 feet at the time of the accident. Operator did a backwards dive off the stern of V1, straight down into the water, striking the bottom.  His spinal cord was severed, causing death nearly instantly.


BARDID: FL-2017-0310
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARGE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: MERRITT ISLAND
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
CASE SUMMARY SYNOPSIS	

On May 24th, 2017 at approximately 1245 hours, I Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commision (FWC) responded to a boating incident involving multiple vessels at Harbor Town Marina in Merritt Island, Florida. There were three USCG documented vessels involved. When the incident occurred V-2 and V-3 were securely docked in their slips. V-1 was attempting to undock and pull out of the marina. The operator of V-1 lost control of the vessel causing the bow of V-1 to strike the bow of V-2. After striking V-2 the operator of V-1 attempted to take corrective actions in order to prevent another collision. The operator of V-1’s attempt to take corrective actions was unsuccessful and the bow of V-1 then struck the stern of V-3. The operator of V-1 then left the marina in order to prevent any further damage. 

VESSEL DAMAGE

V-1:
Scuffs and paint damage to the port side of the bow, as well as, damage to the clear coat on the port stern.

V-2: 
Minor fiberglass stress cracks around the bow and anchor, as well as, a slightly bent bow railing. 

V-3: 
Damage to the entire teak railing around the stern of the vessel. 



WEATHER

	     The weather conditions reported for the area on the day of the incident stated an air temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind out of the Southwest at 18 miles per hour. Gusts were reported up to 40 miles per hour. The visibility was clear. Sunrise was at 0627 hours and sunset was at 2010 hours. Information was obtained from Weather Underground website. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0311
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS RETURNING FROM THE FLORIDA KEYS WHEN THE WIND PICKED UP AND SHIFTED DIRECTIONS. THE VESSEL TOOK WAKE OVER THE BOW, THAT FILLED THE SKI LOCKER THAT IS CUT IN THE CENTER PONTOON. ONCE THE WATER FILLED THE LOCKER, THE BILGE PUMP COULD NOT PUMP OUT THE WATER, MAKING THE BOAT SIT LOWER IN THE WATER WHERE THE DECK WAS BELOW THE WATER LINE. ONCE ON DRY LAND, THE PONTOONS WERE INSPECTED AND NO BREACH WAS LOCATED IN ANY OF THE HAULS.


BARDID: FL-2017-0312
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: HORSESHOE BEACH
County: DIXIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25, 2017 at approximately 2100 hours, officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission received a call from FWC dispatch about a boat accident on Grassy Island near Pepperfish in Dixie County. Airboat was heading north along the west side of grassy island just south east of Pepperfish Island.  Operator explained that he could not see the rocks because they were flush with the top of the water.  He explained by the time he seen the rocks he was already on top of them.  He stated that everyone was ejected from airboat and the only severe injury happened to victim with his face and nose being cut from the rocks. Vessel had damage to bottom and side of Hull from the rocks, and visible damage to the rigging inside of vessel (bent rigging).  Owner states that his estimated damage is approximately $8,000.00 for a new Hull and stainless rigging.

Victim had facial injuries (nose cut open) from impact with rocks and bruise on forehead, superficial scratches on lower right back and shin and superficial scratches on right forearm.


BARDID: FL-2017-0313
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:44:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUWANNEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LAFAYETTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 12, 2017 at approximately 1310 hours, Operator was seen by witnesses traveling up the Suwannee River in an attempt to run accumulated water out of his vessel. Operator was seen attempting to leave the vessel’s helm while the vessel was underway and pull the plug.  Due to the vessel being equipped with cable steering, the vessel would immediately pull hard right (Starboard) causing Operator to have to grab the steering wheel to regain control of his vessel. 

Witnesses reported last seeing Operator in his vessel on plane traveling up river.  A short time later, Operator vessel was seen traveling back down river under power, unoccupied, and turning hard to the right causing the vessel to go in circles crashing into the river embankment.  The unoccupied vessel continued down river for a few hundred yards where it became lodged on a tree in the river.  A search for Operator was conducted by his friends, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).  

On March 14, 2017, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Dive Team located Operator body. The body was recovered at approximately 2022 hours. He had trauma to the head, face, and left arm. He was also found to have abrasions along on his torso. The observed injuries are indicative of multiple propeller strikes.

See ISR029663 for complete investigative report and findings.


BARDID: FL-2017-0314
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FORT PIERCE CITY MARINA
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Hatteras motor yacht struck PWC and Piling while attempting to dock at Fort Pierce City Marina. The dock master described the incident to me as follows: The 1989 40 foot long Hatteras motor yacht was inbound to "B dock" to dock at his assigned slip. As the Hatteras was approaching "B dock", he struck a docked PWC moored on the end of "C dock" 

The Hatteras then continued past his assigned slip and struck a marina piling, breaking a cleat affixed to the piling. The Hatteras appeared to have difficulty negotiating the marina and mooring in his assigned slip according to the dock master, having to proceed beyond his assigned slip to an open area at the western end of "B Dock" to turn his vessel around and attempt mooring from the opposite direction. The dock master was able to get the Hatteras moored once the vessel returned to his assigned slip.


BARDID: FL-2017-0315
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Officer (FWC) was first on scene. I arrived approximately twenty minutes later. I observed one person still in the water with the swamped vessel. A good "SAM" was using his boat in a stern tow to pull the swamped vessel in an attempt to remove the water from inside the vessel. I observed the vessel undertow before it sank again. The good "SAM" managed to get the boat up and planned off. He towed the vessel to Shoreline boat ramp where a truck and trailer were waiting. When the momentum of the towing vessel slowed down the swamped vessel quickly filled up again and sank behind the trailer at the boat ramp for a third time.

With the vessel crew and assistance from others at the ramp, they loaded the vessel on the trailer and pulled it from the water. While on the trailer I observed an eighteen inch long by one inch wide crack in one of the port lifting strakes forward of the middle of the vessel. Water was pouring back out of the compromised hull.

The operator of the vessel stated that he noticed some water on the deck after they stopped at a restaurant and were out of the vessel. Before loading back in the vessel he used the electric bilge pump to remove the water. Then the group of four spent a half hour tubing behind the vessel at Quietwater Beach before heading home. 

With four persons onboard they were making way in the Intracoastal waterway near the Bob Sikes Bridge headed in a westerly direction. He stated that the motor started sputtering and he noticed more water on the deck. He tried to pump it out with the bilge pump but the electric bilge pump quit working. 

With more water in the hull and the stability of the vessel decreasing, he ran the boat toward shore until it ran aground in water less than three feet deep. Everyone got out the vessel without injury and dragged the vessel as far as they could toward the beach. 

Two good "SAM'S" from shore assisted everyone in an attempt the get the water out when FWC arrived on scene. 

Subject stated that the vessel was not his but belonged to his brother.  He stated that they bought the boat without the engine for 300.00 and repaired several areas of the hull. The patch work was apparent (see photo).  The compromised area was an area that had been previously repaired.


BARDID: FL-2017-0316
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: EASTPOINT
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 was at anchor fishing on "King Rock" when vessel 1 who was also engaged in fishing collided with vessel 2.  The captain of vessel 1 was distracted landing fish when his port bow struck the port stern of vessel 2. Impact caused damage to both motors on vessel 2 as well as fiberglass damage to the port side of the vessel. Vessel 1 also had damage to the port side of his vessel as well as his port side outrigger broken off during the crash.


BARDID: FL-2017-0317
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS EASTBOUND ABOUT TWO MILES OFFSHORE COMING BACK IN FROM FISHING WHEN VESSEL 1 STARTED TAKING ON WATER. VESSEL 1 RECENTLY HAD A NEW 225 HP 4 STROKE ENGINE MOUNTED TO THE TRANSOM WHICH MAY HAVE CAUSED THE VESSELS' TRANSOM TO CRACK AND BEGIN TO TAKE ON WATER. VESSEL 1 EVENTUALLY WENT UNDER AND CAPSIZED. ALL PERSONS ON BOARD WERE EQUIPPED WITH PFD'S AND WERE WEARING THEM WHEN ARRIVING ON SCENE. VESSEL 1'S PASSENGERS WERE PICKED UP BY A GOOD SAMARITAN. USCG WAS NOTIFIED OF VESSEL HAZARD.


BARDID: FL-2017-0318
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: INDIAN HARBOUR BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 29, 2017, at approximately 6:00 A.M., a vessel at anchor in the Indian River near Dragon Point, Brevard County, experienced an equipment failure with water lines resulting in the flooding of the vessel.  

Both subjects onboard exited the vessel and swam to the shoreline.  Both were uninjured during the incident.  The vessel remained in an anchored and flooded condition until it was removed later that week.


BARDID: FL-2017-0320
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2017 at approximately 17:47 I was dispatched to a boating accident that occurred. My initial reports were that a vessel struck a dock and that Jacksonville Fire and Rescue was on scene and rendering first aid to a 6yo W/F with a laceration above her left eye. 

     	While en route a Jacksonville Sheriff's Officer came up behind me, flagged me down and asked if I was heading to the boating accident scene and I told him I was. Upon my arrival there was already a JSO officer on scene and he had gathered up everyone's identifications. I spoke to the vessel operator and he told me that they were pulling up to the dock to pick up another passenger when a wake from an unknown origin rocked the boat just as he was pulling up causing him to temporarily lose control of his vessel. The vessel continued on a course, bobbing up and down, directly into a wooden beam (bunk) that was part of a boat lift attached to the dock. 	

The initial impact occurred to the passenger, 6 year old who was sitting in front of the center console. She was struck in the forehead area above her left eye, causing a deep laceration. The vessel continued forward and made contact with the wooden beam, shattering the center console windshield. The operator left the helm to attend to the injured. When doing so, he leaned against the folded bow seat, breaking it off at the mount. The third passenger was standing to the right of the center console at the time of the impact. 

	At approximately 20:15 I followed up with the injured girl. She was transported to Baptist Downtown Jacksonville and received sutures for her injuries. I spoke to her father who said that she seemed like she was in good spirits and is going to recover just fine. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0321
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOSEPH SOUND
NearestCityorTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling north in St Joseph Sound on the east side of Honeymoon Island State Park.  V-1 was traveling in shallow waters and in a posted "no internal combustion motors" zone.  V-1 operator estimated speed between 10-20 mph.  V-1 turned left unexpectedly and went into mangroves at Honeymoon Island State Park.  V-1's bow was approximately 45' into the mangroves V-1 operator was not ejected, but sustained a cut to his lip.  V-1 occupant 1 was ejected from V-1 and sustained contusion and laceration injuries.


BARDID: FL-2017-0322
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY SIDE OF TAVERNIER CREEK
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1920 hours, the reporting and injured party arrived at Tavernier Marina. Once the vessel was docked, I made contact with the individuals onboard. Victim was sitting on the stern with a towel pressed to the left side of his head. I asked the occupants onboard what had happened. Subject1 advised that the vessel was moving fast when (Victim) stood up to get water and slipped and fell and hit his head. She stated Victim lost consciousness for approximately thirty seconds. 

At approximately 1930 hours Victim arrived at Mariner's Emergency Room. Victim was admitted for his injuries. Subject1 was also there, and was able to provide me with a sworn-written statement.

Victim sustained approximately a two inch laceration to the back of his head on his left side which was treated with stitches. Victim also sustained a concussion. ; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0323
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GOVERMENT CUT
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 13, 2017, at 9:16 am, Coast Guard received a call of a boat that was taking on water and sinking eat of Government Cut. When I arrived on scene, Coast Guard had already picked up the occupants and took them to Watson Island. After taking photos of the half-submerged vessel, I proceeded to Watson Island to obtain witness statements. 

According to the witness statements, the 4 occupants were drift fishing off Government Cut. The wind speed this day was approximately 15-20 knots. This wind speed made for rough sea conditions, especially in the cut. As they were fishing, they saw that the boat was filling up with water. When they tried to turn on the bilge pump, it was not working.


BARDID: FL-2017-0325
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAINT JOSEPH SOUND
NearestCityorTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Jet ski steered to avoid collision with another vessel, released the throttle to come down in speed. As a result of restricted maneuverability without propulsion, and the wake from other vessels in the area, the jet ski hit a channel marker. No major injuries. Channel marker was split just above the waterline, USCG was notified.


BARDID: FL-2017-0326
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERNANDO BEACH CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: HERNANDO BEACH
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 crossed the Hernando Beach Channel several times to jump the wakes of passing vessels. Vessel 1 attempted to spray two persons engaged in wade fishing near the channel. Vessel 1 attempted to spray other personal watercrafts that were operating with the group. Vessel 1 made numerous quick 180 degree turns at a high rate of speed outside of the channel. The operator of vessel 1 was thrown from the vessel numerous times during these maneuvers. 

The Operator of Vessel 1 had visible injuries to his head and face area at the time of my stop. The Operator refused medical treatment on scene. The operator was treated at Oak Hill hospital later that day for injuries to his leg and head.;

On scene, I observed fresh bruising around his right eye and fresh blood on his upper lip below his nose. I asked him if he wanted medical attention and he refused to be treated at that time, approximately 1500 hours. No other injuries were observed by me or brought to my attention on scene.  On Monday May 29, 2017 I arrived at Victim's residence to return his boaters identification card which I forgot to return to him on scene. I observed that Victim was limping and that his right calf was freshly wrapped with medical gauze wrapping. Victim advised me that after my contact with him he approached two Hernando County Deputies to advise them that I had his Boaters I.D. Card. The deputies observed that his  leg was injured and suggested that he be treated at a medical facility. Victim advised me that the leg injury occurred at the same time the head injuries occurred. The physicians treated him and released him. The results were a contusion to the calf muscle as well as the facial injuries.


BARDID: FL-2017-0327
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MELOY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Boating accident on April, 8th 2017. The parties involved made contact with FWC the day after the accident. The parties involved submitted statements, I FWC officer took pictures of the vessels the day after the accident. The pictures where taken at the respective residences.

The vessels involved were a 2016 Yamaha, bearing registration number FL4994RD, and a 2008 Mako, bearing registration number FL2115RH.

The parties involved reported that on April 8th, 2017 at approximately 1500, both vessels were heading North West between Hibiscus and Star island, in the vicinity of Monument island. At some point both vessels collided due to failure to maintain proper look out causing some of the occupants to fall in the water. All the occupants were accounted for. There were no injuries reported.

The damage noticed on the 2016 Yamaha, bearing registration number FL4994RD starts from the mid ship port side to the stern. The damage noticed on the 2008 Mako, bearing registration number FL2115RH starts from the midship star board side to the stern.


BARDID: FL-2017-0328
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was attempting to set their anchor when the vessel got caught by the current and drifted into the port side of V-2, which was anchored at the time of the collision. 

V-1's starboard quarter collided with V-2's port side rub rail in three different locations, causing approximately $3,500 in fiberglass damages. After speaking with the operator of V-1, I determined the primary cause of the accident was the operator's inexperience operating a vessel in waters affected by tidal current. There were no injuries reported in result of this incident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0329
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was docking his vessel (FL3267RE) at Yacht Club of America, on Stock Island, in Monroe County, Florida.  He struck an unoccupied vessel (DO1206559)

While preparing my patrol vessel for water patrol at Yacht Club of America (YCOA), on Stock Island,  I observed a man trying to dock his vessel.  I watched him back his vessel half way into a slip, heard a loud crash, then heard the man yelling.  I drove my patrol truck over to the dock where the subject tied his vessel up.  I asked for his driver license and vessel registration.  The operator of the vessel (FL3267RE) was identified l.  I asked him what had happened and he stated that he was trying to dock his vessel, while he was in reverse and looking backwards, the front port side of his vessel struck another docked vessel (DO1206559).  The struck vessel was unoccupied.

Operator1's vessel (FL3267RE) had a three to four inch hole in the port side of his vessel and some minor scratches to the gel coat.  The vessel (DO1206559) had large cracks on the bow of the vessel, where the anchor brackets are mounted.


BARDID: FL-2017-0331
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COMPASS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: ALFORD
County: JACKSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/23/2017 a vessel collision occurred in the water of Compass Lake at approximately 1445 hours. Operator1 was traveling East and Operator2 was traveling North before the collision occurred. When both vessels got too close Operator1 turned her vessel hard to the left and Operator2 turned his vessel hard to the right, both in an attempt to avoid the collision. 

When Operator1 turned her vessel hard to the left it caused the rear starboard (right) portion of her vessel to collide with Operator2's vessel and punctured through the fiberglass hull mid-way on Operator2 vessel on his port (left) side. The damage on Operator2 vessel was estimated to be over $2,000. There were no injuries at the time of the collision. During the investigation it was found that Operator1 was the give-way vessel and Operator2 was the stand-on vessel according to coast guard regulations.


BARDID: FL-2017-0332
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017, at approximately 2:30 PM, a boating accident was reported just outside of the North Channel in Choctawhatchee Bay. Three teenage boys on Personal Watercraft saw a 60' Hattaras fishing vessel driving and attempted to jump the boats wake. One of the PWC's hit the wake and caused the operator to hit his face on the handlebars of the PWC and received a small laceration around his left eye. He received two stitches.


BARDID: FL-2017-0334
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WAUCHULA
County: HARDEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel-1 was headed north on the Peace River just north of Heard Bridge Rd in Hardee County.  The operator of Vessel-1 turned the vessel to the right to head south. A dog on the front of the vessel slid from the right side to the left side, causing the port side gunwale of the vessel to dip down. Vessel-1 overturned to the left, capsizing the vessel.  The vessel floated south down the Peace River as it sank.


BARDID: FL-2017-0335
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2017, at approximately 6:15 pm, Vessel-1 (V1) was underway on Choctawhatchee Bay. There were no other occupants on board V1. V1 was on plane, traveling at approximately 20-35 mph. Due to operator inexperience and inattention, the operator failed to navigate V1 safely and struck a wave with the occupants striking each other’s heads on themselves. Subject1 sustained a head injury with amnesia of the event. Subject2 sustained a head injury along with facial bruising, lung inflammation due to water and amnesia of the event. It could not be determined who was operating the vessel at the time of the accident due to no witnesses to the event and memory loss by the operator/occupant. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0336
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYPORT CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6th 2017 at approximately 10:50 A.M. a 19 foot 1981 Hurricane boat, Florida Registration FL 7829 GS, was taking on water while underway heading east in the Bayport channel.  Operator1 stated that the vessel was almost immediately not handling properly. He stated that after the vessel had been underway for a few minutes he noticed it was listing to the port side. Operator1 then checked to ensure the drain plug was secured. He informed me that the drain plug was properly inserted. At approximately 11:00 A.M. the vessel capsized and came to a final rest just outside of the channel near marker 30 (N 28.32.022 W 82.38.830). Operator1 was able to remove the 19’ Hurricane from the water without further incident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0337
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/1/2017 at approximately 7:29 p.m. the Jacksonville Communication Center received a call of a S4B with people in the water. Inv. and myself arrived on scene to find a capsized vessel. We received word the occupants of the vessel swam to shore where they were picked up. Inv. and myself assisted JFRD in towing the vessel to Rivercity Boat Ramp. On 7/2/2017 Officer and myself found where the owner/operator of the vessel lives. We made contact with operator who was issued two misdemeanors for F.S. 327.30(5) which reads leaving the scene of a boating accident and F.S. 823.11(2) which reads it is unlawful for any person, firm, or cooperation to store, leave, or abandon any derelict vessel.

Operator/owner stated the vessel took water over the bow from a wave and eventually capsized the vessel.  He did not notify authorities or attempt to remove the vessel until contacted by LE.


BARDID: FL-2017-0338
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW, OFF 64 ISLAND ESTATE PKWY
NearestCityorTown: PALM COAST
County: FLAGLER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Seat broke loose
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 4th, 2017 at approximately 1530 hrs. a single vessel accident occurred on the Intracoastal Waterway, Palm Coast, Flagler Co. FL.  V1 was a 1996 23 ft. Checkmate I/O 500 hp. occupied by two adult white males.  V1 was northbound on plane and tried crossing the wake of a southbound vessel and lost control, struck a dock with the starboard stern causing V1 to change direction and collide bow first into another dock.  V1 was wedged between the dock and the shallow bottom.  V1 operator and occupant refused medical aid on scene and neither occupant had a PFD on at the time of accident. 

They stated that they were traveling north bound on the ICW and that a bigger blue vessel traveling south bound threw a huge wake and did not come down for them as they were crossing paths.  Operator stated that he was only going about 30 mph and the wake was so big it broke his pedestal seat (driver’s seat) and threw him backwards so that he was no longer in control of the vessel.  He stated that at that point he was out of reach of the throttle and the steering wheel but was able to lean forward enough to jerk the wheel to the left at the last minute.  Operator stated this caused him to hit the first dock with the aft starboard side of the boat.  He said upon hitting the first dock the force of the impact switched the vessel’s direction which caused him to run under the second dock.  Both occupants also filled out sworn written statements as to what caused the accident.  

Upon arrival on scene the throttle had already been pulled back to neutral so I was unable to see how fast the vessel could have been going.  Operator seemed pretty adamant that he thought the bigger vessel should have come down for him and that its big wake was what caused the accident.  No one on scene nor any of the witnesses were able to get a positive identification of the passing vessel other than the fact that it was a bigger, either center console offshore boat or a cabin boat.  I was able to attain witness statements from three juveniles; two of whom were on a vessel knee boarding not far from the accident and one that was south of the accident but still said he observed it.  Two of the juveniles that tried to help Operator get his vessel off of the dock stated that he would pay them to get him home and his vessel unstuck before law enforcement got there.  Another witness who owned the dock nearby stated that she was in her back yard when she heard Operator’s vessel go by.  She said Operator was, “very close to the docks and was moving at a high rate of speed northbound.”  

After making contact with Operator and Occupant two days after the accident, Occupant stated that both he and Operator had gone to the hospital the day after the accident with complaints of similar injuries.  He said they both had aches around their right shoulder area and a few contusions and abrasions from hitting the side of the vessel.  It seems that the injuries came from the first impact with dock as the two occupants were thrown inside of the vessel.  

After talking with Operator he told me that he attempted to tow his vessel home the night of the accident with assistance of a friend’s vessel and on the way it capsized after taking on water.  The vessel was then tied to a seawall in Palm Coast main canal on property belonging to The Landings at Marina Cove.  USCG contacted me the morning after the accident on the 5th and stated that they were going to be doing a pollutant discharge investigation that happened after the vessel had capsized.  Operator was able to get his vessel out of the area a few days later with assistance from Sea Tow.  Operator stated that Sea Tow had towed the vessel to St. Augustine and that the vessel was probably a loss


BARDID: FL-2017-0339
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 southbound in Destin Pass, after exiting No Wake, Idle Speed Zone. Near green buoy 11, V2 stopped and turned eastward. V1 following too close and V1 bow struck V2 in port forward bow. V1 ramped over V2; injured and ejected V2 operator. V2 operator sustained lacerations to left leg; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0340
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALAFIA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR she explained that she had been operating the vessel on the ALAFIA RIVER heading upriver (East) and lost control of the watercraft and collided with a dock and was thrown from the watercraft. SUBJECT then explained that OPERATOR was operating the watercraft when she lost control of the vessel. SUBJECT who was seated behind OPERATOR reached forward trying to manipulate the throttle and steer away from the dock. None of the actions corrected the direction of the vessel and the vessel collided with a dock. The two were ejected upon impact, Operator was uninjured, Subject had lacerations that were bandaged by EMS and minor cuts to the temple of his head. He complained of a severe headache but refused further treatment by EMS or transport to a hospital. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0341
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOW CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This call is in reference to a boat that had capsized in Bow Channel. No injuries were reported and no one was reported missing. 

Owner/operator stated to me, that during his vessel operation of his 20ft off white Wellcraft Marine center console, he attempted to reverse away from shallow water in Bow Key channel near channel marker 10. During this reversing action he put his stern into the oncoming waves and wind and took a few waves into his vessel which swamped and shorted out his bilge pumps. The subject went onto state, that his boat slowly started to capsize and he was able to get his life jacket on as well as his girlfriend’s jacket on. The two subjects were able to get away from the craft as it capsized and rolled over. 

	The subjects were rescued from the water by a good samaritan who brought them to the K.O.A marina located on Sugar Loaf Key.


BARDID: FL-2017-0342
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: HERNANDO BEACH
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2017 an outbound vessel (21' skiff) struck a channel marker in the Hernando Beach Channel (green #35).  The vessel was occupied by a man and young child there were no injuries.  The marker was snapped and recovered.  The vessel received damage to the starboard bow and deck.	

OPERATOR1 advised me that while he was headed out of the channel he looked down to scold his grandson and when he looked up he saw he was going to hit the channel marker.  OPERATOR1 stated that he was able to pull the throttle back to neutral before striking the marker.  OPERATOR1 estimated his speed to be around 18 mph when he was running.  OPERATOR1 said when his vessel struck the marker the marker kart wheeled back through his vessel and out the starboard side.  OPERATOR1 said the broken end of the marker ended up next to his vessel when he came to rest.  OPERATOR1 secured the broken marker in his vessel and returned toward Hernando Beach to try and make contact with FWC.


BARDID: FL-2017-0343
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One was operating Northbound in the Intra coastal Waterway, in the area of the 235 Channel Marker in the Crossroads, in Martin County, Florida. Vessel One was traveling behind a larger sport fish vessel on plane and attempted to cross over the other vessel's wake. Vessel One approached the large wake on plane at approximately a 90 degree angle. Vessel One's bow pitched and then went under the next wake, causing the vessel to fill up with water. Vessel One then pitched a second time on the next wake, and the operator jumped off the vessel. The two other occupants onboard were ejected. One of the occupants onboard hit their head on the vessel right before they were ejected.


BARDID: FL-2017-0344
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person strikes boat
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: bystander behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1, 22' SeaHunt flats boat, was being operated back to the boat ramp at Burt Reynolds Park East.  As they passed under the US1 bridge on the north side of Burt Reynolds Park, victim jumped off the bridge and landed on the bow of the vessel before falling into the water.  Subject jumped into the water and pulled Victim onto the vessel and his passenger called 911.  Victim was breathing when they reached the dock, but was trauma hawked to St. Mary's hospital with internal injuries.; Victim:Ruptured right kidney, brain trauma, water in lungs, fractured vertebrae, fractured eye socket, Right side facial fractures


BARDID: FL-2017-0345
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: ANNA MARIA
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 10:00am on 7/2/17, I responded to a report of a boating accident in which a single vessel struck a stationary boat dock.  The vessel had two persons on board.  One occupant sustained injuries to his leg.  The operator sustained injuries to his right abdomen/ribs.

Both men mentioned in their statements they were returning on plane (at speed) from Anna Maria Sound when they noticed an unsecured bucket in the rear of the boat.  

Operator asked Occupant to go back and secure the bucket.  Operator turned around to check on Occupant’s status with the bucket and turned forward just as their boat struck the dock.  Both men were thrown forward within the boat from the impact of the boat with the dock. The boat snapped at least one dock piling and continued with forward momentum over top of the northwest portion of the “L-shaped” dock which collapsed upon impact.  The vessel then continued towards the seawall before Operator throttled down the motor and put the vessel in neutral.  Occupant sustained a 3-5” laceration to his left shin in the process. It is unknown whether part of the dock or something within the vessel caused the laceration.  Occupant received several sutures and steri-strips at the medical center to address his injury. Operator sustained a fracture to his ribs on his right side.;


BARDID: FL-2017-0346
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MARY ESTHER
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 24, 2017 I, Officer, was dispatched to a single vessel boating accident with injuries at Liza Jackson Park in Mary Esther, Okaloosa County, FL.

The vessel, 8 ft PWC, left Liza Jackson Park at a high speed and struck a nearby dock causing the operator to fall of the PWC.  The operator suffered injuries and was transported to the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center.  At FWB Medical Center I met the operator and photographed her injuries, hematoma to head and spiral fracture to tibia and fibula midshaft.  

FWC Officers were on water patrol and arrived at the scene and photographed the damage to the jet ski and dock.  Officers also received a sworn written statement from a wheel witness. 

At approximately 6:14PM I arrived at the FWBMC and identified the subject involved in the accident as Victim.  Two Okaloosa EMS EMT’s provided Victim’s name and date of birth.  They also stated they were told by Victim and witnesses at the scene that the accident occurred when Victim was operating a jet-ski near Liza Jackson Park and struck a dock causing her to flip over the handlebars and land on the dock.  They also stated when they arrived at the scene Victim was laying on the dock with an obvious deformity to her lower left leg and a hematoma on the right side of her forehead. Both Okaloosa EMS EMT’s stated Victim had a strong odor of an unknown alcoholic beverage, coming from her breath, while in the ambulance enroute to FWBMC.  

After the doctors and nurses had provided care to Victim I asked her if she had any identification and she stated no.  I then asked for her name and date of birth and she provided it. When I asked Victim how the accident occurred she stated she was operating a jet-ski at Liza Jackson Park and hit a dock causing her to flip over the handle bars and land on the dock. While identifying Victim and her explaining how the accident occurred I detected a very strong odor of an unknown alcoholic beverage coming from her breath and her eyes were dilated and extremely bloodshot. Victim also slurred words while speaking. Nurses in the room with Victim also stated they detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from her.  Victim was admitted to the hospital with a large hematoma (subarachnoid bleeding) and a spiral fracture midshaft to her left tibia and fibula.; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0347
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 19, 2017 at approximately 5:34 PM a jet ski tour from Islamorada Watersports was headed north in Robbie's Wheel Ditch. The group consisted of the tour guide and four additional jet skis which followed behind in a single row. As the group headed north through the narrow waterway, the second ski lost control and struck the mangroves on the north-west side of the channel. 

Subject sustained injuries to his head and left arm and ejected both himself and his passenger of the jet ski. The jet ski received damage to the front end as well as the steering column. Subject was flown to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami due to the injuries he received to his head. He had multiple abrasions to the scalp and left hand injures. He was responsive and in critical/stable condition..


BARDID: FL-2017-0349
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA BAYOU
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 11,2017 at approximately 1615 hours a 16 Ft vessel (FL3859PH) was seeking shelter from a thunderstorm in a boathouse. The storm caused large waves to enter the boat house area. One of the waves crashed over the gunnel of the vessel swamping it, causing it to begin sinking. Operator helped his grandson off of the vessel on to the dock and eventually ended up in the water. After salvaging several items (gas can, cooler etc.) Operator  climbed back onto the boat and then onto the dock. The boat was then tied to the dock. 

The vessel is mostly submerged including the motor and various electronics.


BARDID: FL-2017-0350
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 10, 2017, three women from Louisiana were riding on a Personal Watercraft (PWC) together in the Choctawhatchee Bay. The PWC hit a wake causing all 3 occupants to fall off into the water. During the fall, the occupant in the middle seat broke her leg below the knee. The three women were able to swim to a nearby dock where they were able to call for help and be transported to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center by Okaloosa County EMS.


BARDID: FL-2017-0351
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KEYSTONE CANALS
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/03/17 at 16:31, I was dispatched to respond to a hit and run boating accident. The reporting party had his boat, a 15 ft Boston Whaler on a lift in the canal behind his residence. One of his neighbors noticed damage to his vessels portside which was facing away from the house. 

There was damage to the portside which is presumed to be cause by a hit and run. The fiberglass had a deep crack and dent at the point of impact. The owner advised it would be possibly $26,000 (total loss) in damage due to Boston Whaler no longer guarantee its seaworthiness to their standard. I issued him a FWC case number card.There were no occupants or injuries. No citations were issued.


BARDID: FL-2017-0352
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25th, 2017 at 1615 hours a call came into the FWC dispatch center for a vessel accident at Whiskey Joe’s in Tampa, Florida. FWC dispatch relayed the accident information to officers in the area. Offices responded by vessel from Philippe Park in Safety Harbor. At approximately 1640 hours we arrived at Whiskey Joe’s.

We located vessel (V2) FL 8151 RH subjects and spoke to them about what happened. I asked Operator2 if he would write down what happened on a sworn written statement and he said “Yes”. Neither occupants aboard this vessel were injured. 

Officers arrived to assist and located the other vessel involved (V1) FL 8151 RH.  Officer obtained a sworn written statement from Operator1 and spoke to the other occupant about the accident. Operator1 was treated for a laceration to her head and leg and refused transport by EMS. 

Both operators gave the same direction of travel for their respective vessels. V1 was traveling eastbound on the south side of Whiskey Joes and V2 was traveling southbound. V2 was idling south when V1 struck the starboard side of V2 at approximately 25 mph. This caused Operator1 to be thrown from V1 into the side of V2 and landing in the water, while the passenger remained on the jet ski.

Operator2 then jumped into the water with a PFD to assist Operator1. With the help of V1 occupant and a bystander, they were able to get her back to shore. Both vessels returned to Whiskey Joe's. 

In talking to Operator2 and Operator1, it is my opinion that Operator1 was possibly racing another jet ski and was not paying attention to Operator2's vessel. Once she did realize the immediate danger, it was too late and her jet ski ran into the pontoon boat. I am citing Operator1 for failure to maintain proper lookout (33CFR 83.05).

Upon further follow up of the investigation, I was told by Operator1 that she was admitted to the hospital days later due to contusions to her ovaries. She was released days later and was told to rest and the contusions would take time to heal. Operator1 did tell me she was able to return to work.


BARDID: FL-2017-0353
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHARLOTTE HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: PORT CHARLOTTE
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-7-2017, I was called to assist in the investigation of a hit and run vessel accident. The accident involved a large vessel (DO# 929314) versus boat lift. Owner rents a boat slip to the vessel (V1) owner and is known to him. The owner/operator was reported to us as Operator1 and was later identified.

The dock owner described witnessing V1 attempting to undock and leave. However, as the owner untied V1, the current was moving swiftly and pushed the vessel towards the docks boat lift. While this was happening, the only occupant, Operator1 was climbing up the cabin ladder and was unaware of his vessels' drift. Operator1 eventually made it to the controls and throttled forward but not in time to avoid a collision. V1 slammed into the boat lift on the corner of its starboard-side and the stern. (see diagram)

Owner attempted to wave Operator1 back to dock but was ignored. Owner then called Operator1 by phone. Operator1 denied hitting anything and refused to return to the accident scene. Owner photographed V1 as it left the scene of the accident.

V1 was located at anchor just outside of Alligator Bay with one occupant on board, later identified as Operator1. Operator1 denied hitting anything but fresh damage was found at the starboard-stern of the vessel with pieces of wood imbedded into the rub rail screws. Damage to V1 was consistent with eye witness accounts of the accident. (see pictures)

V1 has minor damage to the starboard-stern corner of the fiberglass hull and rub rail. The boat lift piling is damaged below the waterline and will probably need to be replaced.

Operator1 was also found to be intoxicated and was subsequently arrested for Boating Under the Influence and Leaving the Scene of an accident. Operator1 was also cited for USCG Rule 5 failure to maintain proper lookout and for Expired registration for his vessel. (see attached Incident Report)


BARDID: FL-2017-0354
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTTSBURG CREEK
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 (PWC) traveling east on Pottsburg Creek. V1 being operated by victim. V1 struck Dock. 
No witnesses to accident. Home owners heard impact and looked out at their dock and saw V1 drifting away from dock and victim face down in the water, they called 911. Victim's Son in law (on separate PWC)  came back west on Pottsburg creek looking for V1 and found victim face down in the water. Victim and V1 were recovered from water and victim was transported to Memorial Hospital. Victim sustained serious/critical head injuries and water in lungs.
Subject was placed on ventilator in ICU. Subject was taken off ventilator and moved to regular room for recovery.


BARDID: FL-2017-0355
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH SOUND CREEK
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 left the Caribbean Club boat ramp with one operator and eight passengers headed towards the Oceanside of John Pennekamp. V1 was at idle speed while approaching Red Channel Marker #12 in South Sound Creek. V1 reports being closer to the channel marker then the mangroves while navigating in a southerly direction. V1 operator states he saw V2 approaching, but did not know which side of the marker V2 would go, therefore he did not attempt evasive movements.

V2, with one operator and two passengers, was returning from fishing and heading back to the Caribbean Club boat ramp. V2 was on plane while approaching Red Channel Marker #12 in South Sound Creek. V2 was navigating in a northerly direction.

V2 navigated between V1 and Red Channel Marker #12 keeping V1 on his port side and the channel marker on his starboard side. As V2 made the turn, the port mid and stern of his vessel collided with the port bow to midship portion of V1. 

The port side of V1 sustained fiberglass fractures without separation, transfer marks and the rub rail is partially detached. V2 sustained transfer marks and damage to the port stern corner of the rub rail. No persons were ejected or sustained injuries. Neither vessel has insurance. No persons were wearing life jackets.


BARDID: FL-2017-0356
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUNSET HARBOUR YACHT CLUB
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 24, 2017, at approximately 2227 hours, vessel #1 (V#1) bearing FL 7683 PT was attempting to dock at Sunset Harbour Yacht Club. As V#1 was approaching the dock/slip, the captain went to engage the bow thrusters but experienced a mechanical failure. Due to the bow thruster's mechanical failure and wind conditions, V#1's port stern collided with vessel #2's (V#2) starboard bow and vessel #3's (V#3) pulpit.


BARDID: FL-2017-0358
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:01:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAROUSEL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 11th, 2017, at approximately 1823 hours, a single vessel (PWC) accident occurred on a small lake in Cape Coral. The vessel was traveling on pOperator, towing a passenger on an inflatable (tube like) device.  The passenger fell off of the tube shortly before the vessel and operator collided with a fixed object. The operator was unresponsive and taken to Cape Coral Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Operator was operating the PWC and Subject was riding on the tube like inflatable device.  Operator had just completed a left turn and was heading west along the shoreline. As the two passed the Syracuse Canal, Operator accelerated rapidly. This rapid acceleration sprayed water onto Subject’s face and he fell off of the tube device. When Subject surfaced he noticed that the PWC was in the bushes and he could not see his brother, Operator. 

Subject started looking around for Operator, he was 10 to 15 yards away from the PWC. As Subject started to swim towards the PWC he noticed Operator under the dock. Subject immediately swam to Operator, turned him over, put Operator on his chest, keeping his head above water and yelled for help. Subject stated he had no idea what to do. Subject stated that EMS and the police arrived quickly.

 Subject stated that neither he nor operator were drinking prior to the accident. Operator was traveling approximately 35 to 40 miles per hour. Operator has over 100 hours of experience operating that PWC. They can both swim well and were wearing their life jackets. The weather was calm and sunny. There were no mechanical issues with the PWC and it was running well; 

Lee County medical examiner’s report for the victim listed cause of death as “Basilar skull fractures with laceration of brainstem due to blunt impact to the head”.  Manner of death is listed as “Accident”.  Medical examiners toxicology results also showed the victim tested positive for having Cannabinoids in his urine. Other injuries listed on the medical examiner’s report include:  “Lacerations of face, subdural hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, rib fractures, lacerations of liver, abrasions of skin to torso and extremities.”


BARDID: FL-2017-0359
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: HUDSON
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Airboat propeller shattered, causing vessel to come to abrupt stop and ejected operator. 

The operator had a laceration to his left elbow area and an additional laceration to his left kneecap.  

He was travelling north from the area of Signal Cove at approximately thirty-five to forty miles per hour.
The propeller to his airboat had come off of his motor and shattered into pieces.
A piece of the propeller had struck him in the arm, causing the laceration.
One of the blades went through the hull of the vessel, which caused him to be ejected from the vessel.   
He thinks he cut his knee on the airboat when he was ejected.   
The vessel ran over-top of him with no further injury.    
The vessel sank.
He was seated in the front seat of the vessel, while occupant1 was seated in the left rear and occupant2 was seated beside occupant1 on the right.  
Two people fell to the deck of the vessel from their seats when the vessel stopped abruptly.

Operator received eight stitches to the inside of his left elbow and seven stitches to his left kneecap.


BARDID: FL-2017-0360
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WEIR
NearestCityorTown: WEIRSDALE
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2017 at approximately 1900 hours a vessel accident occurred on Lake Weir involving two personal watercrafts. V1 and V2 were traveling parallel to each other heading in a northern direction. V1 and V2 turned towards each other and V1 struck V2 on the starboard side. 

Both operators were ejected from the PWC's after impact. Neither operator sustained any injuries from the accident. V1 had minor damage to the front. V2 had significant damage to the hull on the starboard side.


BARDID: FL-2017-0361
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel incident resulting in a fatality. Vessel 1 collided with a fixed object, Tea Table Channel Bridge. Vessel 1 had one operator and three passengers. One passenger was sitting/standing in the fly-bridge. Vessel 1 collided with Tea Table Channel Bridge and the passenger in the fly-bridge was severely injured. She was transported  by helicopter to Ryder Trauma Hospital and died several hours later.  She suffered severe facial trauma. Her face collided with the bridge and many facial bones were broken.. She was originally treated at Mariners Hospital and then flown to Ryder Hospital for treatment where she died.


BARDID: FL-2017-0362
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 26, 2017 at approximately 4:45pm, in the area of Santa Rosa Sound, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, a personal watercraft (PWC) was traveling south toward the shoreline of Marler Park.  There were three swimmers in the water, near the shore, an adult and two young children, ages 7 and 4 years old.  

The operator of the PWC came into close vicinity of the swimmers while operating above idle speed.  The operator turned his vessel to the left in an attempt  to avoid hitting the three swimmers.  The operator hit the three swimmers.  The adult was hit in the left arm, but did not sustain any injuries.  The two children were hit by the PWC on the left side of their heads. 

The four year old was transported by EMS for a head injury, and because he went unconscious briefly.  The seven year old was taken to the hospital by a family member, where it was determined he had also sustained a head injury.  Both children were cleared of any serious injury, and were released from the hospital on the same day.

There was no damage to the PWC.  The PWC is not insured. 

7-year old victim was struck by a PWC and sustained a contusion over his left eyebrow.  He did not lose consciousness, and was transported by family to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Emergency Room to be evaluated.  After hours of observation, he was discharged. ; 

4-year old victim was struck by a PWC, and sustained a contusion over the left eyebrow.  He lost consciousness briefly, and was transported by EMS to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Emergency Room to be evaluated.   He was not admitted to the hospital, and was sent home after hours of observation.


BARDID: FL-2017-0363
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were recreational cruising at night across the Choctawhatchee Bay on an intersecting collision course. When V1 failed to yield to V2 in a crossing situation, in which V-2 was the stand on vessel, a collision occurred between the two vessels.

When the two vessels collided, V-2's port quarter struck V-1's starboard beam causing one of the passengers from V-2's vessel to be ejected into the water. The passenger was recovered from the water and admitted to a local hospital where it was determined she only had minor injuries (small lacerations and some bruising to her legs) and was released. The operator of V-1 was cited for violation of Navigation Rule 15 "Crossing Situation". 


BARDID: FL-2017-0364
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MANATEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PALMETTO
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6, 2017 at approximately 0830hrs, I Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission received a boating accident call from Tampa Bay Regional Communication Center (TBRCC) that occurred on July 4, 2017 at approximately 1800hrs near the US 41 bridge crossing the Manatee River. There were no injuries, and only one occupant involved. 

operator2 was operating a jet ski (FL7093NR Vessel 2) she borrowed. operator2 was headed back to shore, and let off the throttle as she was headed towards vessel (FL9284RB Vessel 1). Steering was lost when operator2 let off the throttle of V2, and she struck V1 mid ship causing damage to the starboard side of V1 and the bow of V2.


BARDID: FL-2017-0365
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NO. NEW RIVER, G15 CANAL
NearestCityorTown: SUNRISE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
	On 07/02/2017 at approximately 3:19 pm I, Officer a duly sworn Law enforcement Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was dispatched to a boating accident by FWC dispatch. FWC dispatch advised that Sunrise Police Department was on scene at Markham Park with the passenger of the PWC that was involved in the boating accident and  the operator of the personal water craft (PWC) was taken to the Cleveland Clinic hospital treated for multiple broken bones in his right foot, and lacerations to Left thigh, right foot, and abrasion to his left elbow.
 
	Upon arrival at Markham park I observed a white and red PWC floating in the canal approximately 75 yards east of the bridge at the entrance to Markham park. I made contact with Officer with the Sunrise Police Department who was with the passenger/ registered owner of the PWC. Officer1 with the Sunrise Police department acted as an interpreter as I asked Victim2 about the accident. Victim2 advised his cousin Operator was operating the PWC at approximately 20 to 30 mph as they approached the bridge at the entrance to Markham Park. As they approached the bridge Operator let off the throttle trying to clear the center part of the bridge and he lost control. When he lost control they hit the center of the bridge on the right side of the PWC. Victim2 provided a sworn written statement about the accident.

	Officer and Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission launched an air boat at the Markham park South boat ramp and retrieved the PWC. At approximately 4:00 pm Officer dropped the PWC off at the Markham park South boat ramp and we loaded the damaged PWC onto Victim2's trailer. I then photographed the damage to the PWC and the injuries to Victim2. After i ran the PWC and Victim2 through FWC dispatch I released the PWC to Victim2.

	At approximately 4:41 PM I arrived at the Cleveland Clinic hospital. Officers conducted an audio recorded interviewed with the operator of the PWC in the emergency room at bed #13. The operator of the PWC advised that while he was operating the PWC he headed west bound from the boat ramp and made one pass under the bridge at the entrance to Markham park. He turned around and started to come back under the bridge when he released the throttle and lost control of the PWC. When he lost control he hit the piling of the bridge.  

Operator of the vessel was admitted to Cleveland clinic and treated for multiple broken bones in his right foot, and lacerations to Left thigh, right foot, and abrasion to his left elbow.; 

The passenger of the PWC sustained lacerations to his right foot, right elbow, right ankle, and right knee. His injuries were not beyond first aid.


BARDID: FL-2017-0366
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 15, 2017, I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on state water patrol in Monroe County, Florida. At approximately 1400 hours the FWC Miami Regional Dispatch Center received a call of a capsized vessel just south of Alligator Reef Lighthouse on the Atlantic Ocean side of Monroe County, Florida. 

FWC dispatch center advised that there was five people in the water and that there was no other injuries.  I arrived on scene at approximately 1430 hours, US Coast Guard was on scene when I arrived and had all the people onboard their vessel. I then followed the US Coast Guard to Kon Tiki Resort where the vessel left from to gather more information.

 At the Kon Tiki Resort I identified the owner/operator. I also interviewed all the occupants onboard and they stated to me that they were anchored up fishing and that is when a wave came over the transom of the vessel and the vessel started to take on water. 

The vessels bilge pump could not keep up with the intake of water and the occupants tried to get as much water out as they could by hand but did not do so successfully. All the persons on board decided to put life jackets on and call for help. They then got into the water and waited for help to arrive. No one was hurt during the capsizing of the vessel and they did not request for EMS. TowBoat US recovered the vessel and brought it back to Kon Tiki resort and that is when I identified the vessel as FL 4871 GW. There was no other damage on the vessel. No further action is taken at this time.


BARDID: FL-2017-0367
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER (ICW) PABLO CRE
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 19 June 2017 I, Officer with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was on patrol in Indian River County when dispatch advised of an accident that had happened in May.  After receiving the contact information I called the operator of the vessel.  

Operator told me that on 06 May 2017 at approximately 0645 hours while leaving Beach Marine in Jacksonville Beach he struck two crab pots. There was a slight vibration when underway so Operator slowed the boat and the vibration went away after a short while.

On 07 May 2017 while transiting from Hammock Resort in Palm Coast, FL to Halifax Harbor in Daytona, FL the vibration returned.  While at Halifax Harbor Operator had a diver check the bottom of the boat.  The diver found line around the starboard shaft and cut it free.

On 08 May 2017 while transiting to Titusville Municipal Marina the vibration continued.  Operator contacted Boaters Edge for advice, in which he suggested a sea trial.  On 9 May 2017 a sea trial was conducted and subject confirmed that it was the port shaft that was bent.

At the time of my investigation the vessel had already been repaired.  Once Operator received the final invoice it was over $2,000.00.  Operator completed a US Coast Guard Boating Accident Form and contacted FWC to complete appropriate forms.


BARDID: FL-2017-0368
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOMOSASSA
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb tangled in vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2017 at approximately 1700 hours, Vessel 1 (V1) was underway along the Homosassa River in the Blue waters area. V1 was occupied by five people including two juveniles. While underway, Operator and Occupant1 were trying to retract the power pole that was left down when they first began moving. Occupant1 who was at the rear starboard side pulled on the power pole manually while Operator operated the electrical control. The power pole finally began to close and pinched the end of Occupant1’s left middle finger, resulting in a large laceration around the last joint of the finger. V1 was escorted by marked patrol vessels to Macrae's Boat Ramp in Homosassa.  Occupant1 was then transported by Operator to the Oak Hill Hospital for further medical treatment.  

Victim sustained a laceration to the left middle finger attempting to put up a power pole.


BARDID: FL-2017-0369
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARRIS
NearestCityorTown: LEESBURG
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 had been drifting and the people onboard fishing. 

Vessle 1 started taking on water from the left rear. The operator attempted to start the vessel to run the water out of it, but it capsized before he could. 
Vessel 1 was towed into thecloset dock.

No one was injured. Operator estimated the vessel's damages to be $2,500.


BARDID: FL-2017-0370
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE TARPON
NearestCityorTown: PALM HARBOR
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2017, A collision occurred between two vessels, One vessel was moored at a dock, the other struck it while attempting to turn around at the terminal end of a canal off of lake tarpon in Palm Harbor, in Pinellas County FL.

Operator2 said that he had taken his boat out with two friends, and that they had been out on the lake and had gone back into the canals off the lake, to look at houses. He had reached the end of one of the canals, and had attempted to turn around.  

He had thought he was going to clear the vessel at the dock, but his starboard corner rub rail had hit against the vessel.  He said that he then doubled back around to look at the damage to the vessel, he thought it was only superficial.  He said that the neighbors began to shout at him, and that he approached them to try and obtain paper to write a note and requested to know what the location was.  

He stated that he began to feel unsafe because there were multiple people that seemed agitated and he did not know where he was.  He stated that he left because he was worried that the situation would escalate.  Operator2 then showed us his vessel, and where he had struck the other vessel. I took photos of the damage. Operator2 was cooperative and non-evasive through the entire interview.  Operator2 also complied with our request to give the subjects his name and telephone number.


BARDID: FL-2017-0371
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OKEECHOBEE
NearestCityorTown: MOORE HAVEN
County: GLADES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was pushed into the shore from a large wake from V2. Two occupants of V1 sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital (contusions, sprains). V1 sustained damage to the vessel from striking a rock in the shallow water.

Victim2 was thrown to the deck of the vessel when it hit the shore line and large wake. She was taken by ambulance to the Hendry Regional Medical Center for possible neck injuries.

Victim1 was thrown overboard when the vessel hit a large wake and struck the shore line. She was transported to the Hendry County Regional Medical Center. I responded to the hospital and spoke with she who advised me that she has a possible broken wrist, injured lower back and sprained right foot.


BARDID: FL-2017-0372
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLEARWATER HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were on a Jet Ski rental tour, being operated by the business employee (H2O Jet Ski Rentals) tour guide. The tour was operating in the area just west of the ICW and just outside Clearwater Harbor Marina, located about 1/2 mile north of the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge. The tour participants were given the opportunity for "fun play time" by tour operator.

During the "fun play time", with V2 traveling in a straight path and running parallel to V1, around 35 mph, V1 attempted to make a 360 degree turn to his port side, in front of the path of V2, who was maintaining course and speed. V1 made a sharp turn to port which placed the port side of his PWC directly in the path of V2. V2 had no time to avoid the collision and V2's PWC hit Operator1's PWC mid port, causing the two operators to be ejected from each of their vessels.

The impact of V2 that struck V1 (while making a sharp turn to port) caused extensive damage to the port side hull of V1, causing Operator1's PWC to become partially submerged. The hull of V1 was split apart below the waterline and as a result the vessel engine compartment was flooded. V1 was subsequently towed to a nearby island, where it was secured and later photographed by FWC Officer.

V2 sustained significant damage to the bumper and underlying fiberglass structure on the port bow side of the vessel, as a result of the impact from striking V1 broadside. V2 was brought back to the Jet Ski rental facility where it was later photographed by FWC Officer.

Both subjects, while ejected from their vessels as a result of the collision where brought back to the Jet Ski rental facility where they reported no injuries and refused medical treatment.


BARDID: FL-2017-0373
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One was anchored outside the channel in the St Lucie Inlet. Two large vessels were traveling East out of the Inlet in the channel. 

Vessel One had two anchors out, one off the stern of the vessel, and one off the bow of the vessel, both off of the vessel's port side. The wakes impacted Vessel One's port side and caused the gunwale of the vessel to go under water. The vessel filled up with water and capsized. Other vessels were not identified or located.


BARDID: FL-2017-0374
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS SOUTH ON THE ICW FROM DRYMARKER 233. AT MARKER 235 V1 STRUCK THE DRY MARKER 235, MARKER WAS DAMAGED PRIOR TO THIS CRASH AND WAS JUST UNDER THE WATER LINE (APRX 6 IN). V1 STARBOARD FORWARD STRUCK THE DRYMARKER EJECTING THE CAPTAIN (ONLY PERSON ON BOARD) KILL SWITCH STOPPED THE MOTOR AND CAPTAIN SWAM 30 YARDS TO REBOARD THE VESSEL. 

CAPTAIN HAD VERY MINOR INJURIES TO HIS LEFT THIGH FROM HTTING THE HELM. REUSED FIRE RESCUE. NO PFD WORN AT THE TIME OF CRASH. USCG NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT AND A WR BACK WAS PLACED AT THE SIGHT.


BARDID: FL-2017-0375
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: HOMESTEAD
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated while underway he noticed the vessel was taking on water, he increased speed in an effort to drain the water but was unsuccesful.  He slowed the vessel and it then capsized.  The operator sat on the overturned vessel and awaited rescue.  He did not suffer any injury


BARDID: FL-2017-0376
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HATCHINEHA
NearestCityorTown: POINCIANA PLACE
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While the operator of the airboat was maneuvering around a sunken vessel, a patch came loose on the hull of the boat causing the boat to hook to the left.  A passenger was ejected to the right of the boat in less than two feet of water.  The passenger was immediately picked up and taken to the hospital with minor injuries. A ruptured left ear drum and contusions to his right thigh and back.  Victim was admitted to the hospital and observed and given pain medications for his injuries.  He was released from the hospital at approximately 0500 on July 17.


BARDID: FL-2017-0377
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE SARSOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: OSPREY
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 traveling side by side, south in the ICW in Little Sarasota Bay.  V2 turns sharply to the right, into the path of V1.  V1 struck V2 bow to bow.  Both operators were ejected into the water. 

Operator1 advised that at approximately 1215 hours, he and his grandmother were heading south in the ICW nearing the Blackburn Point Bridge.  Both vessels were operating at approximately 10-15 MPH and were side by side when vessel two (driven by Operator2) made a sharp right turn into the path of vessel one (driven by Operator1).  

Both vessels collided at their bows and both operators were ejected from their skis into the water.  Operator1 advised me that he sustained no injuries but found that his grandmother was complaining of severe hip pain.  Operator1 was able to help his grandmother back onto her ski and then flagged down a passing boater to assist.  That boater (unidentified) was able to operate Operator2's ski with her aboard, back to the dock where EMS was called.   

After speaking with Operator2 briefly about the event, she verbally relayed a similar account which corroborated the version her grandson gave.  Given her condition, she was unable to give a written statement.  After reviewing the photographs of the two vessels, the damage to each ski was consistent with the accounts given by both operators    

Operator2 sustained a fractured right pelvis and a fractured right hip.  She also had internal bleeding which required her admittance into the ICU before she could have surgery.


BARDID: FL-2017-0378
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PALM HARBOR
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30th 2017, at approximately 7:55 am a vessel incident occurred in the gulf of Mexico, approximately 11 west of Palm Harbor in Pinellas County.  A vessel, occupied four times, was struck in the bow by a vessel, occupied one time.  The striking vessel impacted on its port bow.  No persons were injured during this incident. 

At approximately 9:30 am, I met with the complainant at Indian Springs Marina.  I received statements from the occupants aboard the complainant vessel and photographed the damage.  

The complainant stated he and 3 other occupants were aboard his vessel anchored facing north and bottom fishing at a location known as “Veterans Reef”.  At approximately 7:55 am Subject and the other occupants observed a vessel traveling west towards their location. 

Operator1 continued to operate his vessel toward the starboard mid ship of Subject’s vessel.  Fearing Operator1 was going to strike Subject’s vessel, the occupants on Subject’s vessel began to scream and wave their arms at Operator1 in efforts to alert him.  

Operator1 adjusted his course just prior to impact turning right.  The port bow of Operator1’s vessel struck the bow and windless of Subject’s vessel.  This caused fiberglass damage to the bow, bending and shearing the windless from its mounting location, and scuffing the starboard side of Subject’s vessel.  Subject showed me cell phone pictures identifying the suspect vessel and operator as well as damage to the suspect vessel.  Operator1’s vessel suffered gel coat removal to the bow keel and additional scuffs and scratches (approx. 8” in diameter). 

A brief search was successful in locating the subject and vessel returning from the Gulf of Mexico at Clearwater Pass.  Officer photographed the damage on Operator1’s vessel and obtained a written statement from Operator1.  Officers observed no signs of impairment and Operator1 stated he was not having any medical issues.

Operator1 stated that he was trolling west prior to the time of impact.  He stated that a wave knocked his glasses off of his face.  Due to sweat and sea water he was unable to see clearly.  Operator1 stated that he knew the vessel was there and the subjects were screaming but didn’t adjust his course because he was going to miss them.  

Operator1 stated that he wiped his face with a towel and observed he was going to make impact with the starboard mid ship of Subject’s vessel.  Operator1 stated he turned hard right and put his vessel in neutral.  Operator1 stated that he believed the vessels didn’t directly touch and that only the anchors touched, not causing any damage.  Operator1 continued to state that he moved away from the vessel.  At that time, Subject operated his vessel over to Operator1 and informed him that there was a collision.  Operator1 stated that he informed Subject that he had insurance and waited for him to come talk to him.  Operator1 continued to state that Subject operated his vessel in a circle around his vessel and then left the scene.


BARDID: FL-2017-0379
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: WEEKI WACHEE
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 16, 2017 at approximately 2:53 PM, a vessel barring Florida registration number (FL3059NN) owned and operated was traveling south in the Gulf of Mexico. The vessel was attempting to enter the Bayport Boat Channel near marker # 1 and struck a rock. The impact punctured the hull and damaged the outdrives. The vessel began to take on water.  It was towed back to the Bayport Boat Ramp by a good Samaritan. There were no injuries or ejections.


BARDID: FL-2017-0380
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/19/17 at approximately 1200 hours a single vessel accident occurred in Tampa Bay. A vessel operating at slow speed with 7 people on board struck an underwater rock pile South (of the Pinellas County side) of the Gandy Bridge Causeway. Four of the occupants were standing at the bow posing for a photo at the time of the impact.

The collision caused 3 subjects to fall off the bow, and the vessel continued forward causing a propeller injury to one of the subjects that fell off.

The victim was struck by the propeller on her left leg resulting in deep lacerations and contusions. She was transported to Bayfront Hospital where she received treatment that included stitches to the lacerations.


BARDID: FL-2017-0382
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ESTERO BAY
NearestCityorTown: BONITA SPRINGS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25, 2017 at approximately 1700 hours (operator/owner) and  (passenger) were traveling north inside the channel, just outside Carol Johnson boat ramp. 

As they traveled, they heard a loud bang come from the vessel and operator attempted to power down but was unable to manipulate the throttle controls to do so. He began to maneuver the vessel into shallower waters, just outside the channel, when his port side pontoon became completely detached from the vessel causing the vessel to submerged and lay sideways in the water. 

As is started to submerge sideways both passenger and operator were ejected from the vessel. They grabbed life jackets and were pick up by a Good Sam vessel passing by.


BARDID: FL-2017-0383
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY NEAR STAR ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday July 10th, 2017 at approximately 1415 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Dispatch Center received a complaint in reference to a vessel accident on the northwest side of Star Island in Miami Dade County, Florida. The vessel accident occurred on Saturday July 8th, 2017 between 1930 hrs and 2030 hrs.  The striking vessel (V1) is a documented commercial charter vessel designed to look like a pirate ship called El Loro (DO1030562) and was occupied by  operator1 who was operating the vessel with approximately 40 passengers onboard. The vessel (V2) that was struck is a documented 26’ Sea Ray (DO1260887) called Fara Serio and was anchored with the occupants of the vessel swimming alongside of the vessel. There were no injuries reported and V2 had estimated damages over $2,000 dollars.

Investigation:
On Monday July 10th, 2017, I made contact with he owner of V2, who contacted FWC to report the accident.  V2 owner informed me that his vessel was being stored at Miami Marine Stadium in slip C5.  At approximately 1525 hrs, I arrived at Miami Marine Stadium Marina to photograph the damage done to the stern of V2.

At approximately 1557 hrs., I met with Operator1 at Bayside Marina where the El Loro Pirate Ship is moored.  Operator1 provided me with a sworn written statement.  Operator1 stated that at approximately 8:20pm he was coasting at 5 knots near Star Island approaching the garden/property t on the northwest side of the island.  Operator1 stated he was driving from a seated position and felt a bump and he “pulled reverse right away, stood and looked and there was a small boat at my bow”.  Operator1 stated there was no one on the boat but there were a few people in the water on the side of the boat.  Operator1 then stopped his vessel and talked to the people in the water and exchanged names and phone numbers in order to meet and resolve the damage at a later time.  Operator1 then continued on with the remainder of his trip.

At approximately 1753 hrs., I met with Subject at his residence where he provided me with a sworn written statement.  Subject stated that at approximately 7:30pm his boat was anchored near Star Island with him and his passengers floating/swimming in the water near the side of the boat.  He stated that he saw the El Loro heading slowly toward the stern of his boat and tried to whistle/signal the vessel captain prior to the collision but could not get the oncoming vessel captain’s attention.  The El Loro pirate ship hit the dive platform at the stern of his vessel.  Subject stated to me that the pirate ship then stopped and he exchanged contact information with the captain.  Subject stated he then returned to his marina as quickly as he could for safety reasons.

Operator1 was cited (Citation) under state statute 327.33(3)(b) for not maintaining a proper look-out by violating US Coast Guard Navigation Rule 5. 

Navigation Rule 5 - Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.


BARDID: FL-2017-0384
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MADIERA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling at less than 5 knots inbound johns pass bridge from the gulf of mexico. Vessel 1 was under power not sail. 

Vessel 1 operator stated that the weather was making him nervous as his two young sons were also on board. Operator did not radio the bridge tender to have the bridge open and as a result struck the northwest red and blue navigation light on the bridge. The top of the vessel's mast is what collided with the light. No damage to mast could be seen. The damaged light on the bridge was estimated at $3060.03. Operator was given a uniform boating citation for violation of navigation rule-failure to avoid collision under so17-224320.


BARDID: FL-2017-0385
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling at a high rate of speed and turned into a wave causing both operator and occupant to be ejected. The operator did not suffer from any injuries and the occupant was transported to Lower Keys Medical Center by EMS.  After x-rays the prognosis was contusions and bruising to the abdomen. The occupant was released from the hospital will minor injuries. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0386
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: SARASOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was being operated in moderate chop. V1 hit several waves while making a turn causing both POBs to be ejected. The operator attempted to swim back to V1 and was overcome by the water resulting in a fatality. The other occupant was able to swim back to shore without injury. 

At approximately 1800 hrs the operator of V1, and the only other occupant, launched from 10th Street Boat Ramp to test a demo vessel. Operator operated on Sarasota Bay for approximately a half hour testing a change that had been made to the fuel pickup in the fuel tank. He turned back north in moderate chop and wind and was cruising north. V1 crossed two bigger wakes and made an abrupt turn to port ejecting both the operator and the occupant. The kill switch stopped the motor and the vessel was floating freely in the bay. 

After the accident, V1 was disabled and both occupants were in the water. Occupant swam to shore while Operator swam back to the vessel. Upon reaching the shore Occupant was no longer able to see Operator. A bystander called 911 and Operator was found a few hours later, floating face down.  Operator had been consuming alcohol prior to accident. The Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy and found the cause of death as drowning with a contributory cause of hypertensive heart disease and obesity. Manner of death was listed as accident (drowned in bay after boating accident while intoxicated)


BARDID: FL-2017-0387
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: CORAL GABLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 05, 2017, approximately 1535 his, Vessel #2 was following another vessel north in Biscayne Bay towards Old Cutler Bay. 

Vessel #1 was traveling in a northwesterly direction towards Gables by The Sea. 

The captain of Vessel #2 stated that he saw the vessel in front of vessel #1 and was going to cut behind it; however, he failed to see Vessel #2 due to an object on his dashboard that blocked his view.

 At the last minute, the captain of Vessel #1 saw Vessel #2 and immediately pulled back on the throttles, but it was too late and he collided with Vessel #2 on its starboard side. The Captain of Vessel#2 stated that she saw Vessel #1 bearing down on her just before they collided. She accelerated in an attempt to avoid a collision. 

Nevertheless, The action of both captains's mitigated the accident. Due to conflicting statements I was unable to determine who was at fault. All parties involved advised they did not suffer any injuries in the accident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0388
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SWIMMING PEN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE PARK
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Brief Synopsis:
Operator of V-1 was attempting to dock V-1 at Whitey’s Fish Camp. Intoxicated passenger jumped overboard and was swimming around the stern area of V-1 when Operator of V-1 maneuvered the throttle of V-1 into astern propulsion causing the propeller of V-1 to strike the left leg of the swimmer.

Pre- Accident:
Investigation revealed that V-1 was approaching the docks at Whitey’s Fish Camp and was maneuvering V-1 towards the dock. Witnesses both on board V-1 and on shore described how Victim had jumped out of V-1 several times during the docking process. At some point Victim swam around the stern of V-1 and was hanging on to the stern of V-1.

At Accident:
Operator, knowing that Victim was astern of V-1 placed the throttle into astern propulsion causing the propeller of V-1 to strike the left leg of Victim. Victim was helped to the shore by several people. Victim suffered two lacerations on his upper left leg. Victim was transported to Orange Park Medical Center by Clay County Fire Rescue. 

I I asked Operator to tell me what happened. He told me that his friend was drunk and kept jumping out of the boat while he was trying to dock. He said he told his friend several times to stay in the boat but he would not listen. He went on to say that he told his friend “Ok, if you stay back there in the water then you got what’s coming to you”. He said the next thing he knew his friend had been struck by the prop. I asked Operator if he had been drinking. He said “No, I don’t drink because I’m on probation”.

Passenger  statement was consistent with other occupants.


BARDID: FL-2017-0389
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHARLOTTE HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: BOKEELIA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling southbound in Charlotte Harbor approximately one mile South of channel marker 6. V-1 had the engine overheat and shut off. Due to the high winds and sea conditions, the vessel took on water and capsized. The two occupants of the vessel downed their personal flotation device and became separated from the vessel. Both occupants floated in the water for approximately three hours, before they were recovered by Tow Boat US Charlotte Harbor. Neither subject was injured during this incident and they were transported Barrancus Boat ramp in Bokeelia, Florida. The vessel was towed in by Tow Boat US.


BARDID: FL-2017-0390
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Pre- accident:
The operator of V-1 had met passengers at Knights Boat Ramp. The three of them boarded V-1 and proceeded approximately 2 ½ to 3 miles west on Black Creek from Knight’s Boat Ramp. According to the operator of V-1, V-1 was travelling about 41 mph. The operator was seated forward, Occupant2 was seated in the middle and Occupant1 was seated on the rear position. All were facing forward.

At accident: 
V-1 began overtaking another vessel. The second vessel was a slow moving inboard waterski boat making a large wake while towing a wake surfer. That activity is typically conducted at 12 – 15 mph, so there was almost certainly a large speed differential between the two vessels. Upon encountering the wake while overtaking the ski vessel on the ski vessel’s port side, V-1’s speed and bearing caused it to eject all three occupants into the water off its port side. 

V-1’s port bow struck the wake and V-1 rapidly pitched forward, rotated to port and yawed to starboard. Operator was ejected over the handlebars. Occupant2 was ejected over the port bow, her right ear striking the port side mirror enroute. Occupant1 was ejected off the aft port side. According to Operator and Occupant1, Occupant2 was face down in the water and was righted by Operator. Occupant2 was bleeding from a head wound.

Post-accident:
Occupant2 was pulled from the water by the crew of the ski boat and taken to Knight’s Boat Ramp. V-1 was recovered by Operator and he followed on V-1 to Knight’s Boat Ramp. Occupant1’s accompanied the crew of the ski boat crew with Occupant2.

Preliminary Investigation:
I interviewed the following witnesses at Knights Boat Ramp immediately after the accident. All witnesses had been aboard the ski boat and witnessed the accident:

Subject1 stated that he saw V-1 approaching the stern of his vessel. He stated that V-1 was going fast and hit their wake. He stated that V-1 was passing on the left hand side of his vessel. He stated that the occupants of V-1 hit the water very hard.

Subject2  identified the operator of V-1 as having a blue bathing suit and a cut above his right eye. This matched the description of Operator. He said he saw V-1 jump the wake of his vessel and the occupants went flying in the air.

Subject3 stated that he was the wake surfer behind the ski boat. He stated that V-1 hit the wake of his vessel and the occupants went flying. He stated that he thought the occupants of V-1 went off the left side of V-1.
I obtained a written statement from each witness.

I then interviewed Occupant1 (passenger of V-1). Occupant1 stated that he and Occupant2 met with Operator at Knight’s Boat Ramp. He told me that he had been hanging out with Occupant2 earlier in the day. He said that he and Occupant2 boarded V-1 and proceeded westward on V-1 with Operator operating. He said he was on the back of V-1 and Occupant2 was in the middle position. He said that sometime after passing Jessie Island they hit a wake of a boat and stated that V-1 “tilted right sending us left”. He said that they hit the water very hard and thought that Occupant2 was knocked unconscious, face down in the water. He


BARDID: FL-2017-0391
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was anchored 50 to 75 feet off of residence beach unloading passengers to meet other family members on the beach, At the time a thunder shower was coming ashore and the winds blew up to 25 or 30 miles per hour and the sea's went from 3 foot white caps to over 5 or 6 foot. 

The anchor at this time broke lose and the boat immediately turned 180 degrees because of the wind and the anchor line wrapped around the lower unit of the outboard motor. With the line around the motor the tall waves broke over the transom sinking the vessel quickly and at the same time the line came lose from the motor and the boat capsized rolling over on it's top with the bottom pointing up. 

While waiting for Tow boat U.S. to arrive the boat started taking on sand inside the boat and the tide was a falling tide about half finished with around 3 hours to go. The boat took a beating while rising and falling back onto the sand bottom because of the waves causing much more damage.


BARDID: FL-2017-0392
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINE ISLAND SOUND
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, July 26, 2017 at approximately 1640 hours, a single vessel boating accident occurred in Pine Island Sound near Useppa Island, in Lee County, FL. The accident occurred east of ICW Channel Occupant1er 58, at coordinates N26° 39.1197 W81° 12.7126. V-1 was headed SSW when it ran aground on the north edge of the Useppa Oyster Bar. The impact resulted in one occupant being ejected, causing injuries.

At the time of the accident, Operator was operating the boat. Occupant1 was seated in the front-left seat on the boat. Just prior to the accident he had asked Operator “Operator, what’s the depth?”. Prior to the accident he had been leaning forward to look over the boat and see how deep the water was. The boat came to a stop, at which time Occupant1 lost his balance and fell over the front of the boat. After he hit the water/bottom, he felt the weight of the boat roll over his left shoulder. His wife entered the water to assist him. As a result of the crash he sustained the following injuries: lacerations to head, small cuts throughout body, fractured sternum.


Occupant1 received the following injuries as a result of being ejected from V-1: fractured sternum, lacerations to top of head, abrasions throughout body from contact with oysters, small lacerations to bottom of feet as the result of standing on oysters. He was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital immediately following the accident. When interviewed on the date of the accident (2040 hrs.), he was alert and speaking, and advised that his injuries could heal on their own, or he could elect to have minor surgery to repair the fractured sternum.

Occupant2 received lacerations to the bottom of her feet while giving aid to her husband, Occupant1, who was ejected from V-1. The lacerations were caused by the oyster bar that V-1 struck. She was transported to Lee Memorial hospital with him immediately following the accident. When interviewed on the day of the accident (2040 hrs.), she had already been treated for her injuries with minor first aid.


BARDID: FL-2017-0393
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MARCO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling from Goodland, FL to Marco Island, FL on the Marco River. The vessel operator was new to the area, looked down at his GPS to help gather where he was and ran aground approximately 1 mile east of the Jolly Bridge. The victim fell into the forward cabin area and sustained multiple rib fractures. Sea Tow Naples was called and advised that the tide needed to be higher to pulled off. Vessel sustained no damage.


BARDID: FL-2017-0394
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2nd 2017, at approximately 1200 hours, I, Officer of the Florida fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a boating accident, involving 2 vessels, in Martin County. The accident occurred approximately 6 miles SE of the St. Lucie Inlet. Vessel 1, 31 ft. Bateram, (FL3274AY) was underway going approximately 4 mph when colliding into Vessel 2. Vessel 2, 22 ft. Boston Whaler, (FL6212AN) was drifting at idle. The cause of the accident was due to Vessel 1 operator inattention and failure to maintain a proper lookout.

There were no injuries associated with this accident.

V2 was drifting while occupants were fishing for Cobia off the stern of the vessel. All occupants of V2 were looking off the stern. Operator2 was not at the helm of V2 before impact. V1 was trolling at an approximate speed of 4 miles per hour. Operator1 left the helm while is vessel was underway.
While fishing Operator2 looked towards the front of his vessel at saw V1 approximately 10 feet away heading directly towards his vessel. Operator2 was unable to react in time as his vessel was stuck by V1. The impact caused V2 to be pushed back and damage to the fiberglass hull. Operator1 shortly realized after impact that he had stuck Operator2’s vessel and was able to take his motors out of gear. Both vessels were able to be driven back to the boat ramp.


BARDID: FL-2017-0396
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE KISSIMMEE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel boating accident, driver ejected.

On 7/22/17 at approximately 3:00pm I met with victim at his residence. He seemed to be walking and talking with little to no pain. His left shoulder was in a sling but he stated he could write a statement. As he wrote the statement we spoke of the accident. 

Victim stated he had been at the milk bus pavilion when he decided to meet some friends at the swimming hole by the Hatchineha canal. He headed west, out of the main channel to avoid traffic. He stated he was cruising at around 45-50mph in a straight line when he hit a line of grass. The grass pushed the front of the boat up causing it to catch air and veer to his left. Victim tried to hold on to the rudder stick which wrenched his shoulder. It also caused the vessel to veer violently to the right and throw him out of the vessel. The vessel did a 180 degree turn. Landed rear first in the water, which stopped it and caused the rudder, prop and cage damage. When the vessel stopped it was floating up right facing east.   

He stated that he had thousands of hours and 25 years’ experience on airboats. Victim stated he had a previous back injury and that the accident agitated it. He was diagnosed with a lower back compression, a dislocated left shoulder and released from the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2017-0397
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLEARWATER HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
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: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 and V-2 were next to each other in Clearwater Harbor.  V-1 accelerated and made a right turn.  V-2 accelerated in a straight line.   V-2 struck V-1 on the mid starboard side.  Both operators were ejected from the vessels.  V-2's operator was uninjured.  V-1's operator sustained a fibula fracture, right toe fracture and a possible slight ankle fracture.  Operator of V2 stated that water spray from V1 got in his face and he was unaware that V1 made the turn as he accelerated.


BARDID: FL-2017-0398
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ESCAMBIA BAY
NearestCityorTown: MILTON
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday 07/08/17 at approximately 1436 hours FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) received a call in reference to a Vessel (V1) 1994 Celebrity vessel being capsized in Escambia Bay south of the I10 Bridge. 

V1 was having mechanical problems and one of the occupants called seatow and seatow told them to put anchor out. While they were anchored a storm came over them and caused large waves to go over the bow of the boat and eventually into the stern causing the vessel to start sinking. Coast Guard later came and picked up all five passengers and took them to shore.


BARDID: FL-2017-0399
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 and Vessel #2 were both involved with a jet ski tour in Grand Lagoon.  The guide of the tour was the first jet ski in line and stopped to observe and show the other members in the tour some dolphins.  

The 2nd, 3rd and 4th jet skis in the tour line stopped and were floating near the dolphins.  Vessel #2, the 5th jet ski in line, did not stop and swerved around the 4th jet ski in line.  After swerving around the 4th jet ski in line, vessel #2 then struck the right rear corner of vessel #1, the 3rd jet ski in line, with the front of vessel #2.  

Both the operator and passenger of vessel #1 were ejected from their jet ski.  The operator of vessel #1 received a minor laceration to his right leg and the passenger of vessel #1 received a large laceration and broken bones to the right leg.  The injured occupants received medical attention by EMS.  The passenger of vessel #1 was transported to the Gulf Coast Emergency Room by EMS. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0400
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: RUSKIN
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/25/17 a single vessel boating accident occured in Hillsborough County in Tampa Bay.  V1 was capsized with three people on board at the time of the incident.  It was later determined that the vessel capsized due to water swamping the stern of the vessel. V1 was running on plane.  When V1 came off plane, it took on water from the stern of the vessel.  Due to the V1 swamping, the occupants tried to run to the bow, but when they did the vessel rolled over to the starboard and capsized.  The accident was caused by overloading the stern of the vessel and operator inexperience.


BARDID: FL-2017-0401
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017 at approximately 1000 hours subject1 was inside his 34 ft. vessel Liquid Logistics, Cape Coral FL as well as subjec2 being inside his 34 ft. vessel Miss Ann, Cape Coral FL anchored in the Caloosahatchee River. 

They had tied up/rafted up to one another the night before on the 4th of July to watch the fireworks on the river. They were still in the same location south of the Cape Coral Bridge just outside the ICW channel. 

As they were eating breakfast getting ready to make voyage and drive home a large motor yacht traveling at speeds of approximately 25 MPH, operating in the channel, passed by causing a large wake. The large wake initiated Miss Ann and Liquid Logistics to rock side to side causing the two top fly bridges to make contact resulting in damages to both vessels. They attempted to locate and obtain information on the large motor yacht but were unable to locate.


BARDID: FL-2017-0402
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel boating accident, PWC hit wake at high speed and lost control throwing subjects off PWC, with injury to one subject (broken right shoulder)

 I asked Subject how the accident occurred and he stated he was going pretty fast when he hit a wake causing him to lose control of the PWC and throw himself and his wife off the PWC.  Subject then stated Victim hit the PWC with her right shoulder when she fell off the PWC. Victim fractured the surgical neck of her right humerus (broken right shoulder). Victim was admitted to the hospital, xrays were taken, and received treatment.


BARDID: FL-2017-0403
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PENSACOLA PASS
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
While on vessel patrol in Santa Rosa sound, dispatch notified me of a PWC accident with injuries near the Fort Pickens fishing pier and that USCG was towing the PWC to their station on Naval Air Station Pensacola. When I arrived at the CG station I saw two PWCs moored to the dock and EMS personnel loading an injured male into an ambulance.  The victim had facial injuries and a severed lip with blood and bruising. The witness to the accident, was on the dock and I interviewed him regarding the accident.  Witness told me the following:

*The victim was his brother-in-law, and the two men were each riding a PWC that Victim owned.
*The men had just toured the Pensacola Pass area and were back inside the ICW heading back to Navarre
*Witness was approximately 50 yards behind Victim.  They were traveling at a high rate of speed and he saw Victim jump a very large wake from another vessel.  
*Victim's PWC traveled at least 10' straight up in the air off the crest of a large wave.  When the PWC came back down, Victim was ejected and sustained severe injuries from the PWC.  Both men were wearing their PFDs.
*He helped Victim out of the water and onto his PWC and then a good Samaritan came by and transported Victim to the CG station.
*Sea Tow, who happened to be in the area, retrieved Victim's PWC and brought it to the CG station and Witness followed in behind the good Samaritan.

After Victim was inside the ambulance, I quickly interviewed him about the accident and he provided me the same information as Witness.  Although in pain and obviously bruised and cut, Victim was very coherent and told me that he never lost consciousness, and that he just got caught off-guard by this rogue wave.  I did not detect any signs of impairment on Victim, who was alert and very cooperative.  I informed Victim and Witness that another officer would meet them at the hospital to obtain written statements from the men, and then allowed the ambulance to depart the scene.   FWC Officer met the two men at the hospital and obtained written statements from them.

I inspected both of the PWCs at the dock.  Neither had any apparent signs of physical damage.  I looked at the PWC Victim was operating closely for any signs of blood or equipment malfunction and did not observe any.  Both of the PWCs had up to date registration, a 2017 safety sticker issued by USCG, and all required safety equipment.  

The following day, 21 July, I visited Victim at his home in order to obtain additional information for this report.  He was walking around outside his home talking with a neighbor when I arrived and only had a band aid across his lip.  He informed me that his shoulder had been dislocated, but the hospital staff set it back in place.  Victim also brought me to his PWC parked in his yard and described the accident in detail to me.  He told me that he was traveling approximately 45MPH when he hit the wave and that his PWC traveled 10 - 15 feet in the air.  When it began its descent, he fell forward and his face hit the top of the PWC dislodging some teeth and cutting his lip.  He continued to fall forward and off the PWC, which subsequently struck his left shoulder and dislocated it.  As soon as Victim surfaced, with the aid of his PFD, he retrieved his whistle and began to blow it until his brother in law came to help him out of the water.

I explained to Victim that he would receive a written warning for violating USCG Navigation Rules:  

Rule 6 - Safe Speed 
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those taken into account:
(a) By all vessels:
(i) The state of visibility;
(ii) The traffic density including concentrations of f


BARDID: FL-2017-0404
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, July 26, 2017, at approximately 2:50 PM a single Jet ski strikes a swimmer in the Gulf of Mexico behind 3290 Scenic Highway 98, Destin. One person was injured and taken to Destin ER then transported to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center for further observations and monitoring.

Operator stated in his sworn statement that he was travelling west along the 2nd sandbar heading back towards the livery location, when a swimmer popped up from underneath the water.  Operator stated that Victim was in front of him to the right and attempted to avoid striking Victim by swerving to the left. Operator stated that he released the throttle and he noticed the jet ski started drifting towards Victim.  Operator was afraid of the rear of the jet ski striking him so he attempted to change directions again.  Operator stated that the jet ski made contact with Victim and he got off of it and entered the water. Operator stated that after a few moments, with assistance from other people, they placed Victim onto the jet ski.  Operator stated that he did not know how to restart the ski.  Operator stated that the livery employees swam out to the jet ski and took possession of it while he swam back to shore.

Victim was admitted to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center for a sub dermal hematoma to the brain, where minor bleeding was discovered on the first CAT scan. Victim was given anti-seizure medicine during the night as a precaution.  Victim also suffered a face laceration, where it was closed with Steri-Strips in lieu of stitches due to the jagged edges of the wound. The second CAT scan showed no new areas with blood visible in the brain. Victim was released from the hospital on July 27, 2017.

Victim appeared to have all his normal facilities / functions and did not seem to be in too much pain as he picked up a small child and tossed her into the air and caught her.  Victim was speaking clearly and appeared to walk around the house without any issues.


BARDID: FL-2017-0405
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: NORTH BAY VILLAGE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28, 2017 while on patrol in the vicinity of North Miami in Miami Dade County in a marked patrol vehicle, I, of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a vessel fire within the anchorage north of the Pelican Harbor at approximately 1345 hours. As I proceeded to the location, I was advised that Miami Dade Police Department (MDPD) Marine Patrol, Miami Dade Fire Department marine response vessels, and City of Miami Fire Department were all at the location stabilizing the situation. I was also advised that there was no one onboard the burning vessel (identified as a large 30ft catamaran and later identified as DO127648) and the registration numbers of the vessel could not be seen due to the fire.
I arrived at approximately 1430 hours at Pelican Harbor boat ramp where I came in contact with a MDPD vessel and the officers onboard it advised me that the fire was already extinguished and the situation was stable with all units departing the area. They also advised me that the vessel was secured in the anchorage but it was burned to the waterline and there was no way to identify the vessel registration and, in turn,  no way to contact the owner of the vessel. 
On July 05, 2017, Dispatch advised me via email that the owner of the vessel had been advised of the incident and I made contact with him over the phone. He advised me that he was a resident out of state and that the vessel was a documented vessel, although it was too old to have a HIN and several other details regarding the manufacturer of the vessel remained unknown. I requested he send me a certificate of documentation via email which he did. 
On July 06, 2017, I went on a marked patrol vessel and proceeded to Pelican Harbor to photograph and document the vessel. Upon arriving at the location, I found the vessel submerged, with only the twin hulls visible from the water. Extensive burn damage could be seen even through the water. 
I advised him that the submerged vessel was a hazard to navigation and needed to be removed immediately and that he could do so with any of the various marine salvage companies in the area over the phone and later via email on July 20, 2017. On July 24, 2017, while obtaining more information for the report from the owner, he advised me that arrangements had already been made to remove the vessel so that it would not pose a navigation hazard and danger to marine traffic. This concludes the boating accident investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.


BARDID: FL-2017-0406
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRA-COASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07-23-2017, at approximately 1850 hours, I was on state water patrol in Miami-Dade County near 79th St boat ramp, located South inside the Intra Coastal Waterway (ICW). I responded to a vessel accident at Pace Picnic Island involving an injury on a personal watercraft (PWC). 

The pwc was a white and red 2016 Yamaha. The operator on the pwc was the only person involved in the accident. 

As I arrived on scene, I made contact with fire rescue (Fire Boat 73) that was giving medical care to the injured victim. The operator suffered from a broken leg though there was no damage to the pwc. I spoke to the reporting party and was updated on what occurred. He advised, he saw the victim fall off the pwc and failed to come up from the water. He then, called for help and advised a guy to jump on a pwc and rescue the victim. 

I then, spoke to witness who also filled out a sworn statement. He stated, he saw a guy flip off his pwc. When he went to check if he was okay, he realized his foot was broken and brought him back to the island. Fire rescue was the first to arrive on scene and transported operator to Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH).  

I then, took all information down as well as pictures of the damages to vessel. 

CAD notes and sworn statements are attached to this report.


BARDID: FL-2017-0407
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: LAYTON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 28, 2017 at approximately 10:24 AM, the operator of vessel 1 deployed his anchor. The anchor line became entangled in the engine propeller and the vessel turned allowing waves to enter. The vessel subsequently flooded and over turned.


BARDID: FL-2017-0408
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BUTLER
NearestCityorTown: WINDERMERE
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator said his son, who is 28 years old wanted to go swimming. His son said he was going to dive into the water and before he did he said that the boat is drifting so leave it in "idle speed reverse gear". He said he did that and then his son jumped into the water from the back of the boat. He said the engine cut out immediately. He said his son came back up from under the water on the driver's side where he observed blood from the large cut on his son's chest area and his son said "dad I am sorry". He said he pulled his son on board his boat from the driver's side. He stated his daughter called 911 as they drove back to his dock on Lake Louise. He said the 911 operator told them to leave him in the boat till rescue arrived on scene. He stated rescue arrived on scene and said he would be ok. He said they transported him to ORMC. 

'The injuries that the victim sustained were deep sternal laceration, left upper quadrant laceration and a left forearm laceration. The right pictorials needed major repair. The victim was released from the hospital the following day with no other complications.


BARDID: FL-2017-0409
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: ST AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
I responded to the area of St Augustine Inlet in-reference to a possible jet ski accident. While en route to the scene I was informed by SJSO Air unit that one subject was in the water being recovered by a second ski operator. 

Once on scene my investigation revealed the operator of V1 was in State waters Northeast of the St Augustine Inlet, Atlantic Ocean, jumping waves in the shoaling area which, is inherently dangerous. The operator of V1 proceeded to jump a wave on his stand up jet ski when he turned hard to the port causing his cowling to break off of the ski, causing him to fall off into the water and the ski flipping upside down. 

The operator of Vi attempted to get a line on the ski to tow it to shore however was unsuccessful before Vi sank. A canvas of the area by Air unit and Sheriffs Office vessel's received negative results in locating I informed the operator/owner he was still responsible for the recovery of V1 which would turn into a derelict vessel if not located and recovered. After speaking with the operator of V1. I determined him to be in violation of Navigation Rule 2 "Responsibility" knowingly jumping waves in hazardous waters of shoaling, is inherently dangerous. Rule 6 "Safe Speed" operating outside of safe speed maneuvers to keep him and his vessel in a safe condition. At this time V1 is considered a total loss and missing at sea. USCG sector Jacksonville was notified and briefed on potential pollution issue and environmental danger to sea life.


BARDID: FL-2017-0410
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: JUNO BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading South bound, approximately one mile off shore near the Juno Beach pier with 19 passengers, when the boats captain stated that the vessel lost all power. He then began to investigate the problem, when he spotted smoke coming from the engine compartment. The captain stated that when he opened the engine compartment, smoke and flames began bellowing out. He grabbed the boats fire extinguisher and instructed everyone to grab life vests, in case they needed to abandon the vessel. The captain was able to control the flames with the boats on-board fire extinguisher, but the engine room continued to smoke. 
A passing vessel, stopped to pick up the disabled vessel's passengers. PBC Sheriffs Marine Unit arrived on scene with Fire Rescue. All passengers stated that they had suffered no injuries and did not require medical attention. 
Fire Rescue Station #68 boarded the vessel, deeming it safe to be towed back into port. The vessel was also towed back by Tow Boat US to New Port Cove with extensive engine damage. Exhaust system believed to be the ignition source.


BARDID: FL-2017-0411
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: LAKE PARK
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELLING SOUTHBOUND IN THE INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY. VESSEL 1 STRUCK AN OBJECT (PALM TREE TRUNK) FLOATING JUST UNDER THE SURFACE. THE IMPACT CAUSED EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE TRANSOM OF VESSEL 1 ESTIMATED AT $4000. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AS RESULT OF THE BOATING ACCIDENT.


BARDID: FL-2017-0412
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALIBAN CANAL
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/12/17 I responded to the Residence in reference to a delayed boating accident. Upon arrival I met with the caller who advised of the following. Caller stated that her 1987, 29 foot Black Fin cabin boat had been hit by another boat yesterday 3/11/17 while properly docked behind her house. Caller stated that the other boater encountered mechanical problems causing him to back into her boat. Caller advised that the said boater stopped and provided her with his information. Caller listed the boat damage as scratches and scrapes to the bow area from the anchor to below the water line, starboard side rub rail damage, and a bent skeg on starboard motor's lower unit. in addition to the damage to Caller's boat, a wooden pilling was also struck causing it to lean over.

 I then traveled to the Hidden Harbor Marina located at 315 NE 15th St, Pompano Beach in order to inspect the damage to the second boat. The 38 foot Chris Craft cabin boat had heavy damage to the stern / dive platform area of the boat which would be consistent with the damage at the Caller residence. Lastly I made phone contact with the owner of the Chris Craft vessel, who advised of the following. Owner stated that his boat had just recently been repaired by a repair shop (Fast Boats .Com). He stated that he was pleasure cruising through the canal in route to the ICW when he encountered electrical issues on-board. Owner stated that he decided to turn back and head for the safety of the marina when his electronic throttles malfunctioned causing his boat to crash into Barbara Caller's boat. Owner advised that no one was injured and provided me with the necessary information for the boating accident report. Both parties involved were told that a report would be generated and were issued case numbers. NFI


BARDID: FL-2017-0413
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MILLER CANAL
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was facing north bound in the Miller Canal near the weir at 98th Ave in Picayune Strand State Forest. While fishing an occupant hooked an unknown object near the weir. The occupant continued to reel and the vessel was picked up in the current where it was brought closer to the weir. V1 hit the weir and began taking on water. V1 then capsized throwing three occupants into the water. All occupants made their way to shore. One occupant was injured from the prop of the motor. 

Once at the weir a fishing line got caught on an unknown object near the weir. Operator advised that they were outside of the orange boundary markers when this happened and the motor was in neutral. The occupant that was stuck continued to reel his line in and it brought the vessel across the boundary markers. The vessel got caught in the current and continued moving north towards the weir. Operator put the vessel in reverse right when the bow of the vessel hit the weir and began taking on water. 

At this point, Operator fell overboard while the vessel was in gear. He advised that he was able to grab on to the starboard side of the vessel, and he felt his jeans get caught in the prop. He advised that his left leg began getting struck by the prop. Operator then took off his jeans while still in the water causing the prop to get bound up, stalling the motor. Operator explained that the boat flipped over causing all the occupants to fall overboard. 

While all the occupants were in the water, Occupant1 was taken into the current near the weir where he was having trouble swimming. Operator was able to grab Occupant1 and lead him away from the weir. All of the occupants then made it to shore on the east bank of the canal. Operator advised that he saw his wounds for the first time and saw that he had been cut several times from the prop. 

Occupant1 and Occupant2 headed south down the bank to Stewart Blvd in order to get help. Operator said approximately 45 minutes went by until Occupant1 was able to flag down a vehicle on Stewart Blvd. The Good Samaritan, followed Occupant1 back to Operator’s location, where they helped bring Operator back down to Stewart Blvd to the Good Samaritan’s vehicle. Operator, Occupant1 and Occupant2 all entered the Good Samaritan’s vehicle and were brought to the hospital to have Operator’s injuries tended too. Operator advised that he was released from the hospital that evening after receiving stitches. 

Operator obtained several lacerations to the outer thigh and knee area of his left leg. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0414
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. JOHN
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2017, at 15:30, I Officer, of The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, herein FWC, was dispatched to a report of a vessel on the Indian River, Brevard County, that had struck a submerged object, that was taking on water. The vessel was able to make it back to the Sunset Lakes community dock, where all occupants of the vessel were able to disembark safely. The vessel was later towed to Harbor Town Marina, where it was lifted out of the water and placed on a dry dock due to the damage.
End of Synopsis. 
At this time I asked Operator to explain to me what happened leading up to the accident. He advised me that they left Harbor Town Marina around 13:30 and were heading North on the Indian River. Upon reaching the area of red channel marker 42, around 14:00, their vessel struck a submerged object. 
Operator advised me that they were traveling around 15 mph. Upon impact with the submerged object the vessel came to an abrupt halt. At this time Operator and Subject1 assessed the damage and made the decision to try and make it back to Harbor Town Marina. It was at this time that they made contact with the Brevard County Sheriffs Office to report the accident. Operator advised that they were only able to get as far as the Sunset Lakes Dock safely traveling at about 10 MPH but at a much higher RPM. Operator and Subject1 indicated that at the time of the accident they were about 10-15 yards away from the red channel marker, and did not see the green channel marker in the area. They suspected that it was submerged.
	At this time the damage was not visible due to the starboard side pontoon being submerged, I used my state issued camera to take photos to document the vessel, FL 4187 ND, listing. It appeared that the submerged object had caused a hole about the size of a basket ball, and tore the pontoon metal away. 
	Officer was able to find the submerged object which was located at N 28.54513, W -80.76943. Officer advised FWC Orlando Dispatch to make contact with U.S. Coast Guard to notify them of the navigational hazard. U.S. Coast Guard advised that they would be marking the submerged object, and were able to confirm that it was in fact green channel marker 42.


BARDID: FL-2017-0415
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements and operator, they were heading out of Government cut when they hit a large wake causing the passengers seated in the front to lose their balance and hitting the bench in front of the console. two occupants were injured from impact with the bench, receiving back/spine injuries, facial fractures, lacerations.

Victim1: Laceration to the face, had Facial Reconstruction -C4 & C5 Fractured.  Victim2: Burst fracture on vertebrae


BARDID: FL-2017-0416
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/10/2017, approximately at 1630 hours, sailing vessel “Southern Cross” hit the Flagler Memorial Bridge damaging the bridge light, railing and locking mechanism. Sailing vessel broke its mast, and damaged the swimming platform, stairs and davit on the stern. 
I spoke with the Captain of the vessel, and asked him what occurred.  He told me, that he called for the bridge opening and when the bridge opened he was too close to the east fender line where the construction barge was docked. Strong tidal current pushed him into the fenders where he hit the clearance height marker breaking it.  

Next, the vessel struck the construction barge with its starboard side leaving scuff marks on the vessel.  There was no damage to the construction barge.  Next, the mast of the sailing vessel struck the east side of the drawbridge, damaging the red/green light, bending the railing on top of the bridge and bending housing of a locking mechanism on top of the bridge.  Line from the mast which got tangled in the railing on top of the bridge, caused the vessel yaw to the west.  The stern of the vessel hit the barge and broke the swimming platform and bend the gaft.  The lines from the mast had to be cut by the construction workers to free up the sailing vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0417
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOMOSASSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA SPRINGS
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS TRAVELLING OUTBOUND IN THE HOMOSASSA RIVER NEAR MARKER 57A AT APPROX 20 MPH.  THERE WAS NO WIND AND SEAS WERE CALM.

V1 PROCEEDED ON THE WRONG SIDE OF MARKER #57A AND STRUCK A SUBMERGED ROCK, CAUSING V1 TO TAKE ON WATER.  THE OPERATOR AND OCCUPANT ATTEMPTED TO BAIL THE WATER OUT BUT IT WAS COMING IN TOO FAST. THE OCCUPANT CALLED 911 FOR HELP, WHICH WAS RELAYED TO FWC.  A GOOD SAMARITAIN HELPED THE OPERATOR AND OCCUPANT BACK TO MACRAE'S BOAT RAMP.

NEITHER THE OPERATOR OR THE OCCUPANT REPORTED INJURIES.


BARDID: FL-2017-0418
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOGGY BAYOU
NearestCityorTown: VALPARAISO
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 PWC southerly course, stand on vessel. V2 PWC south - southwest course, at speed. V2 starboard bow struck V1 port bow, ejecting both operators. 

 According to the forthright and plainspoken operator interviews, the three were returning southbound to Postil Point marina in Boggy Bayou. All three stated a small 'skiff' boat was ahead of them, southbound, at approximately 150-200', leaving a small wake. SUBJECT stated he crossed through the wake from port to starboard, then stopped to idle speed, waiting for his friends to catch up.

OPERATOR1 kept to the right of the skiff's wake, on a southerly course. OPERATOR1 stated he was at full throttle, estimated at near 40 mph. He turned his head to the right, looking for SUBJECT, whom he passed.

OPERATOR2 approached the wake similar to SUBJECT, behind OPERATOR1. Crossing at near right angle to OPERATOR1 and at full throttle. OPERATOR1 did not see OPERATOR2 approach his left. OPERATOR2 stated his attention was to his port, watching the distance to the skiff. He then realized his rate of approach was too great, let off the throttle and struck OPERATOR1 on the port side. OPERATOR2 was ejected and OPERATOR1 rolled off the starboard side of his Sea Doo.

Op V1 received a sprained ankle, no treatment given.  Op V2 received a crushed ankle, requiring surgery; Shattered right tibia/fibia above ankle. Triaged, expect surgery within week.


BARDID: FL-2017-0420
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOMOSASSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 16th 2017 at approximately 6:02 pm, I, FWC Officer  was approached by a vessel in the Homosassa River and was advised by the operator that his vessel (V1), had been struck by another vessel (V2) in the Homosassa River. V1 operator advised that V2 had left the scene of the accident. I was unable to locate V2. The damage to V1 was estimated to be $5081.49. No further action was taken.


BARDID: FL-2017-0421
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:27:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: DINNER LAKE
NearestCityorTown: SEBRING
County: HIGHLANDS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at approximately 10:27 hrs. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a vessel accident at Dinner Lake, located in Highlands County. A 2014, 19 foot Legend was located under power with only a dog on board. The operator was discovered deceased floating face down in the lake nearby, without a life jacket.

According to a friend, at approximately 0730 hrs. Operator1’s vessel departed the boat ramp under the power of an outboard motor and headed out into Dinner Lake.  The operator was participating in a bass fishing tournament.  

Some time prior to 0930 hrs. Operator1 was operating the Legend by use of the outboard motor at an unknown speed.  For unknown reasons, he fell overboard and the Legend continued on its course until it came to rest in the weed line behind the residence in Sebring.  

Subject was standing on shore and observed the Legend headed toward the shoreline at an idle speed, from across the lake and did not see anyone on board.   Subject observed the vessel as it was wedged into the thick vegetation and pointing toward the shoreline.  The motor was still running and he could only see a dog onboard.  He immediately notified the Sebring Police Department.  

Sebring Fire Department and Highlands County Emergency Management Services (HCEMS) also responded.  Operator1 was later discovered floating face down on the east side of the lake near the weed line.  His body was recovered by Sebring Fire Department.  He was provided ALS by HCEMS, and pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Preliminary cause of death was drowning with contributing cause as heart disease. No sign of injuries.


BARDID: FL-2017-0422
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CEDAR RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/21/20017 at approximately 12:00 AM a single vessel accident occurred on Cedar River at the S.R. 21 Bridge. V1 was traveling west on Cedar River returning to the public boat ramp on San Juan Ave. V1 struck a concrete bridge support piling while on full plane. The impact was at the bow area of the vessel. Three of the four occupants were ejected from the vessel. One occupant sustained serious injuries resulting from the crash- crushed hip and broken leg. All other occupants and operator received lacerations, contusions and abrasions.

On May 10, 2017 Investigator advised that FDLE had completed the Toxicology test on two people. The results showed that Operator Blood Alcohol was 0.059 and 0.060 at the time of the blood draw at the hospital.


Victim4 sustained minor injuries. He had bumps and scrapes. He was treated and released.

Operator was treated for a laceration to the lower front portion of his right leg. He received stitches and was released from hospital. Two days later Operator was re admitted to the hospital for infection of the wound.

 Victim2 sustained the most serious of injuries. She fractured her left pelvis, dislocated her left hip, and had an avulsion to lower left leg exposing the bone. She was taken into surgery and admitted to the hospital.;

 Victim3 was struck in the head causing a large bump. She was treated and released from hospital.


BARDID: FL-2017-0423
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: DANIA BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling north bound on the ICW passing the Sheridan Bridge. The Operator of the PWC advised me he was travelling less than 5 mph when he turned left against the current to head back south on the ICW. Once he turned left the PWC capsized tossing himself and passenger into the ICW.

 Both operator and passenger tried to flip the PWC upright but were unsuccessful. The PWC sank underneath the Sheridan Bridge and ICW.  A witness to the incident was able to pick up both the operator and passenger from the ICW and transport them to a nearby dock. The operator stated it was his first time operating a PWC. The PWC was a rental out of Miami (Aqua MIA Water Sports, LLC). The rental company was able to send a representative to the scene and advised Fast Response Towing will be doing the recovery.


BARDID: FL-2017-0424
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30, 2017 at approximately 13:30 hours, we received a report of a vessel taking on water in the area South of Broad Causeway near the ICW. The POB's were being pulled from the water by United States Coast Guard, Fire Rescue Station 21, and Aventura Marine Patrol. I arrived to assist at 13:52. All the persons originally aboard the boat were accounted for and safely aboard with Fire Rescue. There were no injuries. There were eight persons on board total. The vessel was completely sunken. Fast Response towboat salvaged the boat and brought it to 2033 Calis St. in Miami Beach. According to a sworn written statement administered by. 

Subject, himself, six more adults and two children were anchored and eating a light meal. They were North of the Broad Causeway bridge and the ICW. Approximately one hour after unloading their vessel into the water at Haulover Boat Ramp, the accident occurred. While they were anchored, the vessel began to take on water from the stern and the engine/bilge pump would not stay on. The boat listed to the portside and sunk. Everyone on board put their lifejacket on while water was accumulating. Subject shot two flares and used the horn for help. A good samaritan called for help. 

Fireboat Station 21 Alarm #: 7164906
The value of the vessel is estimated at $3000-4000.


BARDID: FL-2017-0425
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: COCONUT GROVE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/28/16, at approximately 2:15pm a vessel accident occurred between two vessel, south of the Rickenbacker Causeway in Miami-Dade County on Biscayne Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). No injuries were reported. 

At approximately 2:30pm, officers arrived south of the reported accident scene and located a blue sailing vessel named "DayDream" (V2) (DO694914). Operator2, stated he was involved in an accident and there are no injuries involved. He stated that a white sailing vessel struck his starboard stern side causing damage. I took down contact information and vessel registration. The vessel was photographed on scene where the impact had occurred. There were a total of 9 persons on board at the time of the accident 5 adults and 4 juvenile. Operator2pointed in the direction of the striking vessel. 

We were able to locate the second vessel involved in the accident. The vessel white in color named "ACE" (V1) (DO1077488). V1 operator stated he was involved in an accident and there were no injuries. He stated a blue vessel named Daydream was ahead of him turned starboard (right) and cut him off damaging his bow railing. The vessel was photographed on scene where the impact had occurred. There were a total of 10 persons on board at the time of the accident.

During the course of this investigation, I was able to locate one independent witness to the accident. Witness stated he was behind V1 "ACE"  when he observed the vessel change direction while traveling under the William Powell bridge. V1 struck the starboard side stern of V2 causing damage. His statement is attached to this report. 

On 05/30/17, I met with operator1 and issued a non-criminal citation for navigation rule violation #9 (e)(i) 
Rule 9 - Narrow Channels 

(e) (i) In a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking [can take place only if the vessel to be overtaken has to take action to permit safe passing, the vessel intending to overtake | the, power-driven vessel intending to overtake another power-driven vessel] shall indicate her intention by sounding the appropriate signal.

This concludes Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission report on this accident.


BARDID: FL-2017-0426
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HIAWASSEE
NearestCityorTown: ORLANDO
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 9, 2017, at approximately 1642 hrs., the Orange County Marine unit was requested to respond to Lake Hiawassee by the Orlando Police Department in reference to missing boater/fisherman. Upon my arrival at approximately 1800 hrs., the Orlando Fire Department had already deployed boats and had rescue divers searching the area where the canoe was found capsized. The canoe was in the northern part of the lake, near the middle portion (GPS coordinates Latitude 28.525299 Longitude 81.479846) Once on the scene, I launched a personal watercraft and began to help search for the missing boaters by idling along the shorelines. At approximately 1900 hrs., the Orlando Fire Department personnel terminated their search with negative results. I also terminated my search. The Orlando Police Department had originally received the call at 1552 hrs. The call came in from a citizen who saw the capsized vessel in the middle of the lake. The caller never saw any occupants in the canoe. 

At approximately 1930 hrs., the Orange County Marine unit deployed a sonar equipped pontoon boat and started a search operation for the missing occupant(s). We concentrated our search effort in the area where the canoe was found capsized. The Orlando Fire Department personnel said they found the canoe floating vertically in the water, with approximately 1 foot of the front of the canoe sticking up out of the water. Fire Department personnel said that when they uprighted the canoe they recovered a wallet. There were also several fish (large mouth bass) on a stringer that was tied to the middle aluminum support beam. There were also two fishing rods in the boat. We conducted the sonar search until approximate 2145 hrs., with negative results. A large portion of the lake bottom was heavily covered in hydrilla and aquatic weeds which limited the sonars ability. 

While I was on scene the Orlando Police Department discovered that there were apparently two occupants in the boat. Family members were contacted and they told OPD that Occupant had left the house at approximately 0730 hrs,, on July 09, 2017, to go fishing with his friend Operator. Operator's Chevrolet truck was located near the southern part of the lake, where the canoe was launched from. The truck was parked in a grassy field approximately 100 ft. from the lake. 

On 07/10/2017, at 0700 hrs., the Orange County Marine unit resumed it search again using sonar with neagative results. Both bodies ended up floating to the surface very near the area of where the canoe was found capsized. Occupant surfaced at approximately 1315 hrs., at GPS coordinates N28.31527 W081*28775. Operator surfaced at approximately 1530 hrs., GPS coordinates N28 31.516 W081 *28,748. Both bodies were recovered from the water by The Orlando Fire Department, The Orange County Medical Examiner was also present when the bodies were recovered. Photos and measurements were taken by The Orlando Police Department Forensics Unit. 

The investigation reveals that the two subjects went fishing on Lake Hiawassee at approximately 0730 hrs. At some time during the fishing trip the boat apparently capsized for some unknown reason and the two subjects ended up in the water. Both subjects then drowned. A reporter who lives on the lake saw the capsized canoe at approximately 1552 hrs., and notified the Orlando Police Department. The canoe was 16 ft in length (make Indian River) and was equipped with a Minkota trolling motor. The canoe had one PFD on board that was snapped to the front support Carry bar.There were two fishing rods that were also on board. The canoe was in good condition and had no structural damage. No mechanical issues were found either. According to family members both subjects were experienced fisherman and both were good swimmers. I contacted the Medical Examiners office on 07/13/2017, and was advised both Operator And


BARDID: FL-2017-0427
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAN CARLOS BAY
NearestCityorTown: PUNTA RASA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/8/17, subject was reported missing after taking his kayak out fishing the night before.  He was located, deceased, on Sunday, 4/9/17.  This is an ongoing boating accident investigation.  

On April 7th 2017, at approximately 2300 hrs. Operator left from the approximate location of N26°29'5.10 W82° 0'21.09 off the Sanibel Causeway operating V1. Operator was in possession of a fishing pole,  bottle of vodka and the paddle belonging to V1. Operator would yodel as a form of communication between himself and Subject1 and the last time Subject1 remembers hearing a yodel was between 2330 and 0000 hrs. 

Subject1 fell asleep at approximately 0100 hrs. on 4/8/17 and woke up at approximately 0830 hrs. Subject1 could not locate Operator after waking up and subsequently called 911 at approximately 0900 hrs. A search and rescue operation for Operator continued until 4/9/17 and was conducted by FWC, USCG and Lee County Sheriff’s Office. On 4/8/17 at approximately 0900 hrs. 

V1 was located at the approximate location of N26’ 27 15.4 W81’ 59 06.1. On 4/8/17 at approximately 1536 hrs. the paddle belonging to V1 was picked up from Sanibel Marina where an unknown individual dropped it off stating that he found it floating in the bay not far from   Sanibel Marina. On 4/9/17 Operator was located deceased in approximately 5 ft. of water at the approximate location of N26’ 29.029 W82’ 00.574. Operator was found approximately 1,259 ft. away from where he had launched while V1 was found approximately 13,008 ft. away. 

Based on the information gathered there is no definitive explanation as to the events leading to Operators death and according to the medical examiner’s report his death is listed as an accidental drowning. 

The report also listed contributing conditions as acute cocaine and ethanol toxicity. End of report no further action taken.   Elevated ethanol concentrations:  postmortem iliac blood (0.438g/dl), vitreous (0.402 g/dl), urine (0.374 g/dl).  Postmortem iliac blood positive for:  Cocaine (0.026 mg/l), cocaethylene (0.085 mg/l), and benzoylecgonine (0.717 mg/l) and ecgonine methyl ester (0.347 mg/l) metabolites.


BARDID: FL-2017-0428
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Responded to a boating accident involving 2 jets skis.  Jet skis were following each other staggered when the lead jet ski made a right turn causing the jet ski who was following to collide with the lead jet ski.  

At the time one person was transported to Bay Medical/Sacred Heart.  After arriving at Bay Medical/Sacred Heart, the family brought the other injured party to the ER for treatment.  2 warnings were issued to both operators of the jet skis. 

Operator2:Doctor suspected the injured party had a broken or dislocated shoulder, bruising and a laceration to his back.; V1 subject:Doctor suspected possible broken ribs as well as bruising to the right side of rib and back.


BARDID: FL-2017-0429
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:29:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MONROE
NearestCityorTown: DELTONA
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 01 (V01) was adrift with the motor running on Lake Monroe approximately 0.75 miles from the north shore. The operator of V01 stated that he was sitting at the helm looking ahead and that his hands were not on any of V01's controls. All other occupants were seated in the vessel except subject who was seated on an inflatable raft attached to V01. 

 Swimmer 01 (S01) entered the water from the stern of V01 and began swimming. Several minutes later V01 operator stated that he heard a loud "thud" and S01 stating he hurt his foot. The occupants of V01 then assisted S01 into the vessel and transported him to a nearby boat ramp.

 EMS was called and responded to the boat ramp, S01 was then transported to the Halifax Health emergency room. S01 was interviewed by this investigator at the hospital, S01 stated that as he was swimming near V01 when he kicked the propeller/ skeg.

 Based off of the information and physical evidence collected there was no violation of the law.

Victim suffered two lacerations to left foot. First laceration approximately two inches long on top of foot. Second laceration approximately one inch long on bottom of heel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0430
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25, 2017, at approximately 5:09 PM, two PWC's were involved in an accident with injuries.  The collision occurred East of Bear Cut off of Key Biscayne. The striking PWC was later identified as a 2016, 11'6” Kawasaki, displaying FL registration number FL 0271 RD. The struck PWC was later identified as a 2017, 10'9” Yamaha,  displaying FL registration number FL 2543 SK. Operator/Victim of V-2 had a collapsed lung and fractured ribs. 

At approximately 7:30 PM, I went to Crandon Marina in Key Biscayne where I met with Investigator who determined that V-1 was traveling East out of the east side of Bear Cut on plane around 30 MPH. Operator1 states he was aware of V-2 traveling north east on his starboard side. Operator1 describes V-2 making a sharp left turn towards the bow of his PWC which resulted in collision.  At that point the operator of V-1 and V-2 were ejected and landed in the water. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0432
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAFE HARBOR CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident. Vessel 1 had just fueled up and was traveling south in the Safe Harbor Channel toward the Atlantic Ocean. An explosion took place on Vessel 1. The explosion burned Occupant 1 and the Operator. Occupant 1 received second and third degree burns on 10%-15% of his body. The Operator received first and second degree burns on 5% of his body. 

As V1 was traveling down the channel Victim3 opened the door to the cuddy cabin and stuck his head in to get out of the wind so he could light a cigar. Victim3 struck his lighter and ignited fuel vapors that had been trapped in the cabin from the recent fuel up. The vapors traveled through an open hole next to the sink and into the wall of the cuddy cabin. The ignition continued inside the wall down into the decking of the vessel just above the fuel tanks causing a large explosion onboard the vessel. 

The explosion removed the fiberglass decking from the floor and threw it out of the vessel to the port side. The force of the explosion knocked Victim2 off balance and into the water on the starboard side. As the flames exited the cuddy cabin they engulfed Victim3 and reached Operator burning both men severely and knocking Victim3 backward on top of the now exposed fuel tanks. 

Operator quickly acted and grabbed his two fire extinguishers as most of the fire was gone but a small flame still burned on top of the port tank from Victim3's burning hat and was able to extinguish the flame. A good Samaritan vessel was cruising by and pulled Victim2 from the water. They then retrieved Operator, Victim3, and victim2 from the vessel and took them back to Stock Island Village Marina. FWC arrived on scene, secured the adrift vessel and towed it to  the marina the men were at. 

EMS arrived on scene and transported Victim3 and Operator to the Lower Keys Medical Center. ; OPERATOR:First and second degree burns across five percent of his body.  VICTIM2:Minor blisters to the back of his knees. VICTIM3:Second and third degree burns across ten to fifteen percent of his body.


BARDID: FL-2017-0433
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Flooded vessel in White Banks Reef with three persons in the water.

 the vessel was anchored on a mooring buoy while all three swimmers were diving. The vessel started taking on water due to hazardous seas and the bilge pump was not able to pump the water out. I transported all swimmers to land with no incidents.

Photos were taken of the vessel.

Towboat US was able to tow the vessel to shore.


BARDID: FL-2017-0434
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MAGDALENE
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/16/17 at approximately 1900 hours, V1 a 2003 22 feet in length Ranger flats boat bearing registration FL 9828 NK, struck V2 a 12 foot aluminum Jon boat, on its starboard side.  V1 was traveling South in Lake Magdalene when it struck V2 and was occupied by one individual.  

V2 was stationary facing to the West occupied by 2 individuals when it was struck by V1 midship starboard side.  Both individuals onboard V2 jumped off of the vessel into the lake to avoid contact with V1.  No injuries were sustained to anyone aboard V2 or V1 as a result of the collision.  

The operator of V1 recovered both individuals from the water as well as V2 and transported to his residence. The operator of V1 was charged with violation of a navigational rule resulting in an accident not resulting in injuries and was issued a non criminal infraction for no proper lookout.


BARDID: FL-2017-0435
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/27/17 a vessel accident without any injuries occurred in Boca Ciega Bay when the mast of sailboat struck a drawbridge. The sailboat was being towed by a powerboat. The drawbridge was damaged upon impact, Knocking a light fixture off of the bridge, and also causing minor damage to the sailboat.

The sailboat (later identified as a 1973 45' Columbia, Documentation # DO553296 was being hip towed by a smaller powerboat  (A 2007 21' Clearwater registration # FL 1948 NJ, that he had rented from Tierra Verde Marina). 

Operator1 stated that he was tied off to the side of his sailboat with the rented powerboat, towing it to a shipyard for repairs. On board the sailboat was one person to tend the lines as Operator1 towed the vessel.

At approximately 1300 hours Operator1 had called for a bridge (Structure "E") opening for around 1330. Operator1 continued toward Structure "E" and approached it to await the opening. As Operator1 neared the drawbridge he stated that he had become caught in the strong tidal current and could no longer control his vessels. The bridge tender( who provided an attached written report) noticed this and began to open the bridge, even though he was not able to contact Operator1 on his Marine radio for the opening which is standard. 

Caught in the current pulling him under the bridge, the mast of Operator1's sailboat struck the drawbridge, damaging the mast, and knocking a large navigation light and metal housing off of the bridge which then landed on Operator1's sailboat.


BARDID: FL-2017-0436
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of vessel 02 stated they were making way, at approximately 7 knots, towards the headpin of Snake Creek when they observed a white center console (vessel 01) coming into the channel. The center console made several erratic maneuvers and collided with the port bow of vessel 02. I identified the operator of vessel 02. The owner of vessel 02 was not onboard the vessel. I asked all occupants of vessel 02 to provide a sworn written statement.

I made contact with the operator and occupant of vessel 01 and asked him to explain what had happened. The operator stated he was heading into Snake Creek Channel at approximately 20-30 miles per hour, when he observed a blue vessel (vessel 02) on the side of the channel. The blue vessel (vessel 02) then made a sharp turn and hit their vessel (vessel 01). his vessel (vessel 01) was struck on the port side by vessel 02's starboard bow. I asked both occupants of vessel 01 to provide a sworn written statement.

I took photos of both vessels and the damage caused by the collision.

The damage on vessel 01 was located on the port beam of the vessel just above the waterline. The damage to vessel 02 was located on the port bow just above the gunnels. Vessel 01's damage was consistent with a vessel turning hard to starboard with the momentum of the vessel gliding through the water and striking an object. Vessel 02's damage was consistent with an object striking the port bow of the vessel on an angle and not dead on. 

In addition, due to vessel 02 only making 5-8 knots and the vessel being a high displacement vessel. It is highly improbable, vessel 02 was able to make a sharp turn and come up on a plane to strike vessel 01.


BARDID: FL-2017-0437
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLEMING KEY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident resulting in an injury beyond the care of first aid. Vessel 1 collided with a fixed object, Fleming Key Channel Bridge. Vessel 1 had one operator and one passenger, both were sitting down on the vessel. Vessel 1 collided with the Fleming Key Channel Bridge and the operator sustained an injury to her wrist, the passenger was uninjured. Both operator and passenger were transported to Lower Keys Hospital and were released later that day. 

On July 23, 2017 at approximately 1445 hours, V1 with operator and passenger departed from Barefoot Billy's in Key West. They were part of a guided jet ski tour with several other jet ski's. The jet ski tour entered the Fleming Key Channel traveling from west to east, going against the current. 

V1 approached the Fleming Key bridge traveling around ten to fifteen miles per hour. V1 began heading toward the concrete bridge supports and Operator let off the throttle and turned away from the structure. V1 collided with the concrete bridge support head on. When V1 made contact Operator felt her left wrist crack and swell as she was holding onto the handle bars. Operator and Occupant fell from the jet ski into the water. The impact caused the motor to break free from the jet drive and become inoperable.

After the collision, the operator of the jet ski following behind Operator pulled up to her and Occupant and was able to get the attention of the lead tour guide. The guide pulled Operator onto his jet ski and got her safely to shore. He then returned for Occupant and was able to get her safely to shore. 

EMS arrived on scene and transported Operator and Occupant to Lower Keys Medical Center. Operator was diagnosed with a broken wrist and Occupant was uninjured.


BARDID: FL-2017-0438
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MARCO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling north in the Marco River. As V-1 passed under the Jolly bridge at approximately 20 MPH, the operator observed dolphins swimming near the vessel on the port side. The operator turned the steering wheel sharply to avoid them, this motion caused the passenger to fall onto the throttle and increase the speed of the vessel rapidly. 

As a result the operator and the passenger were thrown off of the vessel's port side. As the passenger was falling off of the vessel, her left ankle/foot caught the rear cleat. The passenger's ankle was punctured by the cleat and it ripped her skin open down the outside of her foot to her toe. 

A good Samaritan stopped and pulled them onto their boat. CCSO marine unit responded and was able to stop the vessel and shut off the engine. The victim was transported to the Snook Inn restaurant, where EMS and Paramedics were waiting to treat her injuries. The victim was transported to NCH downtown and admitted for treatment. The doctors at NCH downtown referred to her injury as an "open fracture of left foot and ankle".


BARDID: FL-2017-0439
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel struck the coral reef in Looe Key

he had been fishing during the day and on his run back in he mistook a red channel marker at the reef as one that was further into the channel, once he realized his mistake he turned and killed his throttle but that he had struck something on the reef and feared he had sheered his props off of the vessel. 

He went onto say that he knew he had made a mistake by hitting the reef, but that he had tried to avoid it once he realized his error. He went onto say that they had been drifting for thirty minutes and was not sure of where he exactly had hit the coral reef.


BARDID: FL-2017-0441
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARRON RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EVERGLADES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-2 was traveling at approximately 20 MPH around a curve. V-2 was to the right of the channel, with the mangroves to the vessel's starboard side. As v-2 was rounding the curve, V-1 appeared directly in front of them. 

V-2 turned to the left in order to avoid the mangroves and the vessel, however V-1 made the same evasive maneuver. V-2 swerved back in an attempt to avoid collision, but V-1 turned back as well. 

As a result, V-2's bow struck the starboard side of V-1 approximately 3 feet from the stern. V-2 ramped V-1 and the keel struck the operator of V-1 then struck the outboard motor and deflected off. 

The starboard side of V-2 scraped the starboard side of V-1, then continued into the mangroves. The operator of V-1 was knocked into the water and received a head injury. The victim was pulled from the water and taken to the dock where EMS was called. his injury consisted of a depressed skull fracture and an epidural brain bleed.


BARDID: FL-2017-0442
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PENSACOLA BAY
NearestCityorTown: MYRTLE GROVE
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-9-17 at approximately 2045, operator was operating his fathers Sundance Skiff (FL 5572 NE) with three other persons onboard. While traveling in a westerly direction at approximately 20 mph in the marked entrance channel of Bayou Grande, Operator struck a fixed channel marker (Red Marker 2A).

Operator stated that he was utilizing a spotlight intermittently while in the channel. At the last second Operator saw the pole of the marker and turned to port (left). The vessel made glancing contact with the starboard (right) side of the bow (front). Operator struck the handrail above the windshield with his lower lip causing it to split open. The occupants onboard were thrown to the deck without injury.

Operator used a T-shirt to control the bleeding and continued to Navy Point boat ramp where I made initial contact after observing the vessel entering the restricted area at a high speed. After my initial observations it was apparent that Operator was involved in a boating accident and needed medical attention. He stated that he would go to Baptist Hospital ER. I took pictures of the vessel and gathered pertinent information to complete the report and indicated to Operator that I would see him at the hospital. 

Officer went to Baptist Hospital while I operated the patrol boat back to Rook's Marina and secured and took pictures of the broken channel marker. 

I waited at the Baptist Hospital until midnight for Operator.  Days later I was able to make contact with Operator. He stated that he ended up going to Sacred Heart Hospital for treatment. Operator stated that he received 5-6 stitches but was unsure of the exact amount

Upon conclusion of the investigation Operator was issued a citation for improper look out.


BARDID: FL-2017-0443
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 (PWC) was operating offshore of Pompano Beach when it collided with V2 (Wellcraft) ejecting the operator and passenger of V1 (PWC). The operator of V2 (Wellcraft) remained on the scene and pulled both occupants of V1 (PWC) from the water and transported them to Hillsboro inlet Park, where they were turned over to Emergency Medical Services. The operator of V1(PWC) is listed in critical condition with serious bodily injury to the head area. The passenger of V1 (PWC) sustained non-life threatening injuries and the operator of V2 (Wellcraft) was uninjured.

Operator1 stated that he observed a vessel in the distance coming from the North.  Operator1 stated they crossed in front of the vessel in an east bound direction and decided to make a U-turn back to the west to avoid the path of the vessel.  The PWC was struck on the starboard rear side of the vessel.  The wounds suffered by Operator1 and the passenger are consistent to the recount of direction of travel. 

 The Operator2 stated in his sworn recorded statement that he was headed south bound and observed two jetski’s coming from the west heading to the east.  They crossed his path very close approximately 50 yards ahead of him and one jetski with two occupants made a quick maneuver U-turn and turned directly under the front of his vessel and he ran them completely over.  He stated he stopped immediately.    

Operator1 and occupant both were recovered from the water by the operator of V2.  Operator1 was pulled on board and transported from the scene and back to the Hillsboro Inlet docks. They were transported by fire rescue to North Broward General Hospital.  

V1 occupant:Subject received lacerations to wrist, buttocks and leg; Operator1:Subject received severe trauma to the right side of the head.  Severe laceration to the facial area.  Broken right arm


BARDID: FL-2017-0444
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO / FLORIDA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC was going in circles (ie donuts) when it hit a wake from a passing distant vessel.  Impact with wave ejected both operator and passenger in to the water.  Operator landed on back injuring it.  Passenger injured his left ankle.  Operator transported to hospital for further treatment.   Operator transported to hospital for further treatment.  X-rays revealed several fractures that will require extensive, delicate surgeries.  The chance of paralysis is significant per hospital staff.  Operator was flown to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami for advanced treatment and surgeries. ; 

Operator:Subject was doing donuts while operating a PWC.  He was ejected off of the left/port side of the PWC and landed on his back.  Subject advised at hospital that the area around his butt was hurting the most but call came in with possible back injuries.  After X-rays it was determined that he had multiple fractures along his left side and would need advanced treatment in Miami.  Passenger was ejected from the PWC and hurt his left ankle.  He was icing it when I arrived on scene and refused to be transported to the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2017-0445
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:01:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 5, 2017 at approximately 21:50 hours, a vessel accident where a vessel sank that occurred on the Atlantic Ocean on the west side of Ft. Lauderdale Beach, approximately 1.5 miles off shore, GPS coordinates 26 06.0 N 080 05.2 W.  

Vessel 1 (V1), a 22-foot Bayliner Marine, center console with six (6) occupants on board was anchored.  While recreational fishing for approximately 45 minutes, V1 started taking on water quickly and all the occupants on board jumped off.  According to the witnesses, the vessel sank pretty quickly and did not have anything to hang on to and had to tread water.  Due to victim’s inability to swim and not wearing a PFD, he subsequently drowned.


BARDID: FL-2017-0446
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-01-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: HOLIDAY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, January 15, 2017, at approximately 1810 hours a Boating Accident occurred in the Anclote River, west of Anclote River Park in Pasco County, Florida. This accident occurred near/at Channel Marker 12. This location is approximately .53 miles west of the Anclote River Park Boat Ramp. A 2002, 15ft, multicolored Gheenoe with three people on board was traveling in a northeasterly direction towards the Anclote River Park Boat Ramp. The Gheenoe struck channel marker #12. The operator, Operator sustained injuries to his face. The occupants, Occupant1 (6 year old child), sustained a fractured hand, and Occupant2 sustained multiple injuries, which resulted in his death shortly after arriving at the hospital. 

V-1 struck channel marker “12”, located in the Anclote River. Channel Marker “12” is made-up of a steel I-beam with a red triangle day board constructed of plywood with the number “12” attached to it. The impact causes V-1 to roll / pitch towards starboard, resulting in numerous gouges and scratches in the fiberglass on the port side of V-1 from the bow to the stern. 
During the collision, Operator was ejected from V-1 (unknown as to which side of V-1 he was ejected), and Occupant2, with his back toward the front of the vessel, possibly struck the steel beam of the channel marker causing him to fall on the deck of V-1. This resulted in his injuries. 

Occupant1 (who was seated on Occupant2's lap) was shielded from coming into direct contact with the channel marker however; he too fell on the deck of V-1 with Occupant2. Both Occupant2 and Occupant1 struck the fishing rods that were in the fishing rod holders prior to falling on the deck of V-1.

After the collision, V-1 remained in gear, traveling in circles (clockwise), with both Occupant2 and Occupant1 onboard. Operator stated he immediately swam to V-1, and pulled the lanyard out from the outboard, to stop the motor. The Dolphin Watch Tour Boat was just on their way back to their dock, which is located in Tarpon Springs, when the Captain of the tour boat observed Operator attempting to board V-1.

Tour boat operator approached V-1, in an attempt to see if they needed assistance. As Tour boat operator got closer to V-1, he saw Occupant2 stretched-out on the rear deck of V-1. Tour boat operator stated they threw a rope to Operator and pulled V-1 from the shallow waters. Tour boat operator stated they grabbed Occupant1 and placed him inside their vessel. 

Tour boat operator stated he was in contact with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) throughout this incident. Tour boat operator then towed V-1 with Operator and Occupant2 onboard to the Anclote River Park Boat Ramp, where both a Pasco County Sheriff Deputy and FWC/DLE Officers were waiting.  

Upon the arrival of the emergency medical services (Pasco County Fire Rescue), all three subjects were transported to the Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point Hospital, to be treated for their injuries.

As a result of the accident, Occupant2 sustained blunt head trauma, which resulted in his death. Operator sustained head trauma, bleeding on the brain, and abrasions on both of his knees, and Occupant1 sustained a fracture in his left hand / middle finger. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0447
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACKWATER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MILTON
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the witness statements and the sequence of events given, I believe the crash is a result of unsafe speed. Operator was traveling down, or south, the river toward the Little Eddie. Traveling down the river at that point, the river curves to the right making the Little Eddie sand bar to the operator’s right. As Operator approached the curve, he was unable to see the vessel, traveling down river, as it went around the curve of the Little Eddie. 

When Operator saw the vessel he let off the throttle completely, trying to turn the PWC to the left, then to the right. The PWC continued traveling somewhat straight toward the outside, or left, of the river.  A PWC has no off-throttle steering, if the throttle is not engaged, the PWC will continue somewhat on its present course, turning neither left nor right. Unable to turn the PWC to the right and continue down the river, the PWC crashed into the base of a tree on the far shoreline, bringing the vessel to a complete stop. he operator, Operator had sustained a laceration/puncture type wound to his left elbow along with a laceration to his head


BARDID: FL-2017-0448
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALHOUN CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: EAST NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was on plane, traveling NW through Calhoun Channel, an unidentified V-2 was also traveling NW approximately one hundred fifty yards off V-1’s port bow.  V-1 hit V-2’s wake and ejected V-1’s occupants from the vessel.  The operator of V-1 attempted to board the non-occupied moving circling vessel.  

The operator of V-1 sustained injury to himself from the side hull.  Operator received treatment for a superficial laceration on his right shoulder, an abrasion on his left tricep, and a laceration on his head.  The laceration on his head required medical staples to close the wound.  Operator was released from the hospital later that day.
Nothing further


BARDID: FL-2017-0449
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: MARY ESTHER
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 westbound at idle speed in Santa Rosa Sound. V2 trailing and plowing (bow up). V2 starboard bow struck V1 port stern and traveled over, ejecting V1 occupant without injuries.

The SC registered 35' Fountain vessel (V1) was west bound with four people on board. V1 Operator  stated vessel had engine/warning alarm after receiving a card at the Mary Esther stop. Fountain boat was at idle speed with crew investigating an alarm.

  KY registered 36' Cigarette vessel (V2) leaving westbound from the designated stop. Trailing behind V1, operator (HOUSE) throttled to plowing speed with bow up, horizon and forward view was obscured. After making course adjustments ('steering turns' as described post-accident), V2 operator asked crew if all was clear. 

V2 operator steered onto a westerly course and struck V1 on it's port stern. V2 continued over the stern, as evidenced by the accident damage to both vessels. The port aft occupant onboard V1 rolled off V1 into the water on the starboard side (uninjured). He was wearing his life jacket.


BARDID: FL-2017-0450
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULFOF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 8, 2017, at approximately 3:00 PM. Vessel 1 (V1), 30 ft. Boston Whaler (Alabama Registration AL0245RG), endeavoring to anchor struck anchored Vessel 2 (V2) a 49 ft. East Bay Boatworks yacht (DOC-1194354). 

V1 impacted V2 in several places on the port side amidship. V1’S anchor also damaged the teak bow pulpit of V2. V2 owner attempting to prevent vessel impact placed his right hand between the hulls of V1 and V2. Victim’s hand was crushed and received lacerations. The sustained injury required medical attention. V1 owner Victim prior to leaving the scene to obtained medical treatment provided a contact phone number. V2 owner Victim received medical treatment at Sacred Heart Health Emerald Coast. Medical treatment reportedly entailed 15 stitches on his right little finger (fifth digit). 


BARDID: FL-2017-0451
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAPRI PASS
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At the aforementioned date and time, V1 was pushed onto a shoal near green marker 7 in Capri Pass in Collier County, FL.  The owner was driving the boat while the occupants got out of the vessel to free it.  After the vessel was pushed free of the shoal, the females boarded the vessel.  The vessel was being pushed back onto the shoal by the current, so Operator placed the vessel in gear forward to keep it from becoming fouled again.  

Victim attempted to board the vessel while the vessel was in gear.  While boarding, Victim was struck in the lower right leg by the propeller.  He suffered multiple lacerations and a broken leg.  Victim was transported to Naples Community Heath (NCH) downtown hospital by ambulance.  He was stable and alert throughout transport.  Medical staff indicated that his prognosis was restored function of the limb. 

During the intial investigation, Operator admitted to drinking earlier in the day and officers detected the odor of an alcoholic substance about him.  He consented to FSTs.  Operator's performances during FSTs indicated that he was NOT IMPAIRED at the time of FSTs.;

The victim suffered a partial amputation of the right foot, including serious lacerations and broken bones.


BARDID: FL-2017-0452
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAR CUT
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, August 6 2017 at approximately 2:34 PM Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) dispatch was notified that a Personal Watercraft (PWC) accident occurred in the area of Virginia Beach, FL. Officer and I responded to the scene arriving at 2:37 PM. 

A Hispanic male was operating his son's PWC approximately 500 feet  east of the Bear Cut Bridge when a large wake caused him to hit the handle bar with his chin. Operator was subsequently ejected from the PWC and remained face down on the water for a few seconds. His brother in law assisted Operator and brought him to shore. City of Miami Fire Rescue responded to the scene and transported the victim to Jackson Memorial Hospital Ryder Trauma Center for treatment. Operator was diagnosed with an acute pulmonary edema and was released on August 10, 2017 after receiving medical treatment. Victim was released from the hospital four days later after making a full recovery. Victim received stitches to his chin.


BARDID: FL-2017-0453
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOMOSASSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling east in the homosassa river when the operator traveled outside of the marked channel..

The operator took corrective action to reenter the navigational channel and collided with red marker 58a on the starboard mid ship of the vessel.

Four of the six passengers were ejected into the water,
 
One person was injured beyond first aid, subject was treated for broken ribs and released from the hospital
 
No persons were wearing pfd's, 
 
 all required safety equipment was onboard the vessel at time of inspection.


BARDID: FL-2017-0454
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was traveling on a plane, west in the St Johns River and struck the southeast portion of the Main St Bridge wood fender structure with the center of the bow.  Operator was believed to have alcoholic beverages prior to the accident. He refused to provide a sample for analysis.  Both operator and occupant sustained lacerations requiring stitches, also contusions and abrasions.; 


BARDID: FL-2017-0455
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CRYSTAL RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/31/2017 at approximately 1100 hours V2 (FL4018PT) launched from the Days Inn boat ramp.  They were underway in the Crystal River Channel near marker 2 heading South West towards the scallop grounds. As they were exiting the channel a larger vessel V1 described as a 30ft vessel, passed at a close proximity and high rate of speed. Approximately 2 minutes after passing the large wake from V1 came over the bow of V2 causing it to roll and capsize leaving all passengers in the water. Two Good Samaritan vessels recovered all passengers from the water and transported back to the Days Inn boat ramp. There was no serious bodily injury or fatalities. They were unable to describe V1 or get any identifying marks to help locate the vessel. V1's overloading and improper loading, in conjunction with the wake were listed as causes.

Victim suffered a cervical sprain after she was ejected from the vessel.  The sudden impact with the water caused her head to snap backwards resulting in a cervical sprain.


BARDID: FL-2017-0456
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8, 2017, at approximately 3:20 pm, I was notified of a single capsized vessel in the Santa Rosa Sound adjacent to Liza Jackson Park. There were two reported people on board, who made it back to shore with the assistance of a good Samaritan vessel, prior to it capsizing completely. There were no reported injuries.

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, with the proper installation of the drain plug and with no obvious signs of damage to the hull, the vessel’s hull had an unknown critical failure, which could not support the internal integrity of the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2017-0457
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MARCO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1915 hours on April 28, 2017, a 10 foot Polaris Personal Watercraft (PWC) with Florida Registration number FL3982KB was being towed behind a deck boat in the Marco River in Collier County, FL.  The PWC was having mechanical issues.

The water conditions were choppy, so victim boarded the PWC in order to see if he could start it and drive it.  When he activated the ignition, the vessel exploded, burning his face and arm and ejecting him into the water.

victim  was transported to shore in Isle of Capri and then driven by a friend to Capri Fire Station, and was then flown to the Burn Unit at Tampa General Hospital.Victim suffered 2nd degree burns to his left forearm and hand and burns to his face.


BARDID: FL-2017-0458
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: GOLDEN GATE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1615 hours on April 28, 2017, A 15' Carolina Skiff was traveling at approximately 20 mph eastbound in the east-west running Golden Gate Canal in Naples, FL.  

V1 made a sharp turn to port to enter a north-south running finger canal.  When it did so, two subjects were ejected to starboard.  The propeller and skeg of V1 struck the occupant, killing him. He had a contusion on his left wrist. He had a linear contusion running diagonally accross his chest.  The chest contusion started by his lower left ribs and ended near his rght clavicle. He had a deep laceration into his nose, face, and lower right eye, and 2 more additional deep lacerations to the right side of his head, penetrating through his skull.  He had a chipped front tooth.


BARDID: FL-2017-0459
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was following behind V-2 during the tour.  V-1 collided with V-2 left-of-center at the stern of the vessel and partially ramped V-2, scraping the passenger grab handle and striking the operator on his back.  

Damage to V-1 was a crack on the hull approximately 24 inches in length; V-1 sank on-scene and was recovered and put on a trailer by Fury Water Adventures employee. operator of V-2 suffered a broken rib, and he was bruised and sore on his left side.
	


BARDID: FL-2017-0460
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel incident. Vessel 1 came off a plane, victim slipped off bow of boat. Victim was struck by propeller causing injuries to head and arm.

Accident
	V-1 approached the slow speed zone on the bayside of Snake Creek. Operator brought the boat down from being on a plane. He then left the helm and went to the front of the boat in order to take a picture. The vessel was left in gear and at low forward idle. It had just recently rained and the deck of the vessel was wet. The front hatch or door of the pontoon boat was broken and/or missing. Operator slipped off the front of the vessel and fell into the water. V-1 had no operator at the helm when Operator fell into the water. He went under the boat and dove down. He was struck by the vessel propeller in the left side of the head and left arm. He was picked up by a Good Samaritan vessel and brought into USCG station Islamorada.

Post-Accident
	After Operator was struck by the propeller he was brought into USCG station Islamorada. He was then met and transported by Islamorada Fire Rescue. He was transported to Mariners Hospital for treatment. Head injury required 13 staples in order to reattach the skin back together. Cut above the eye was also glued together using surgical glue. Arm injury treated with bandages.  Both of these injuries are consistent with a moving vessel propeller.


BARDID: FL-2017-0461
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 13, 2017, at 1750 hours, a boating accident involving one vessel that struck a vessel lift/dock on the Meloy Channel just north of the 79th Street Causeway. Of nine occupants, four were injured including one who was ejected from the vessel. These four injured occupants were transported to Jackson Ryder Trauma Center Emergency Room, two of whom were juvenilles. 

One adult female remained in critical condition overnight and was later released in stable condition. The second adult female sustained serious facial injuries and was later released in stable condition. One juvenile sustained a head injury and was released in stable condition. The second juvenile was immediately released with minor injuries. 

On Sunday, May 13th, 2017 a vessel allision occurred involving one vessel that crashed into a vessel lift at 2410 North Shore Terrace, on the Meloy Channel to the north of the 79th Street Causeway. The vessel was a 26 foot Carrera center console with nine occupants on board. The vessel, V-1, had been travelling at an unknown rate of speed when it allided into an empty vessel lift in an attempted to avoid collision with an oncoming vessel. Two occupants sustained serious bodily injuries, one of whom was ejected from V-1. Two additional occupants were treated for minor injuries. An interview with the operator of V-1 revealed no indicators of impairment. 

A thorough boating accident investigation concluded that the operator of the vessel violated multiple US Coast Guard Navigational Rules resulting in a boating accident with serious bodily injury. The operator was cited for these violations. ;

 Victim2 was sitting in the front center console seat with a subject in her lap. Upon impact her face hit the back of subject’s head. She sustained several facial lacerations and fractures. ; 

Victim1 was sitting in the middle on the front console seat. Upon impact she was ejected from the vessel, possible striking the vessel gunnel prior to entering the water. She sustained a collapsed lung, grade 4 liver lacerations, 4-5 lateral rib fractures, L1 and L2 right transverse distal fractures.


BARDID: FL-2017-0462
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCYANE BAY
NearestCityorTown: HOMESTEAD
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Single Vessel Incident - Fuel Vapor Flash Explosion in engine compartment.
Vessel Location - Black Point Marina Canal - Outbound, approx. 1000 yards south of boat launch area.

While leaving the Black Point Marina boat launch area, at idle speed approx. 1000 yards south of the ramp, there was a fuel vapor explosion inside of the engine compartment of the vessel in this report. Vessel was being piloted by the owner.

The explosion blew open the engine compartment cover where the three (3) youngest children were sitting, throwing them forward toward the middle of the passenger compartment of the vessel.  The fifth juvenile was near the engine compartment area and was also hit with the flash vapor explosion.  All four (4) youths were transported to Jackson/Ryder Trauma Center with burns to their faces and arms totaling 2-4% of their body (concentrated in their face and arms) per the hospital staff doctors.  None of the injuries were life threatening but subject near the engine compartment did suffer from anxiety and breathing issues and was treated in the intensive care unit initially. 

The operator, and two other passengers were unhurt and did not require medical treatment.

A good Samaritan heard the explosion and assisted in towing the vessel back to the dock at Black Point Marina where EMS was called.

EMS responded and the four patients were transported to Jackson/Ryder Trauma Center for treatment.

Vessel was towed to Miami Office Compound for storage and evidence collection.


BARDID: FL-2017-0463
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 31, 2017 while camping with family members at St. Andrew's State Park in Panama City, Florida, three adult male family members departed the boat basin ramp for a day of fishing in St. Andrew's Bay and Gulf of Mexico.  Borrowing a relatives 16' open motorboat, the trio conducted some trolling techniques for mackerel and bonita.
During the trip, they proceeded out into the Gulf and followed a tide / weedline searching for fish. As the trip progressed, they boated several fish. During one such hook up, while reducing trolling speed, they took a wave over the stern and swamped the aft cockpit. 
The engine stalled, and in the rush to get the boat back in forward motion to drain water, they pitched the boat directly vertical. This action caused an overload and instability condition and the boat fully submerged. The three occupants grabbed PFD's and a handheld VHF radio prior to entering the water and watched the boat sink beneath them. They initiated a "mayday" distress call and the radio traffic was overheard by USCG sector Mobile, AL., and good samaritan vessel "North Star Express".  Responding  watercraft were diverted to assist in the rescue of the three men. USCG cutter "Kingfisher" as well as patrol boat 24513 along with SeaTow PC proceeded to the location. The three men were retrieved alive without incident. No injuries occurred, and the victims were taken back to their hailing port.


BARDID: FL-2017-0464
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PORT ANTIGUA CANAL
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb tangled in vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel accident with no property/vessel damage and 1 occupant injured.

On 07/26/2017 at approximately 1320 hours operator was operating/docking his vessel (DO11594410) behind his residence. Operator had several occupants assist in securing the vessel to his dockage including his daughter and the only injured party, Victim. Operator was pulling up to his dockage on the starboard side of his vessel at less than idle speed and victim was at the starboard bow cleat. Victim retrieved a dock line and pulled it through the cleat. As Operator put the vessel in reverse to maneuver the stern closer to the dock, Victim was holding the line with her right middle finger which was against the cleat which resulted in her middle finger being severed just before the first knuckle. Emergency Medical Services were contacted and she was transported to Kendall Regional Medical Center along with the severed finger.


BARDID: FL-2017-0465
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling southbound from bay to ocean following another vessel also traveling the same direction. Vessel 1 making a tight turn around a narrow corner. Vessel 1 hit a wake, ramped the wake and crashed into the mangroves.


BARDID: FL-2017-0466
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE CREEK CANAL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 30, 2017 at approximately 6:11 PM Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) dispatch was contacted in reference to a boating accident that took place in the area of Snake Creek Canal and NW 2nd Ave Miami, FL 33169 in Miami-Dade County.

 A Personal Watercraft (PWC) was cruising eastbound on Snake Creek Canal with two people on board when the operator made a sudden U-turn causing the PWC to list to one side. Both occupants were ejected from the PWC. 

The operator was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital North and was later released with no injuries. The passenger was also transported to Jackson North but was later relocated to Jackson Memorial Hospital Pediatric Center. The passenger sank to the bottom of the lake and was submerged for an unknown period of time (possibly over 20 minutes) until he was recovered by Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue divers. 

Victim was resuscitated at Jackson North and spontaneous circulation occurred. However, the passenger was declared brain dead on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 12:12 PM. Victim was subsequently disconnected from life support. None of the occupants was wearing a personal floatation devices at the time of the accident. 


BARDID: FL-2017-0467
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was operating south bound in the Atlantic Ocean, in the area of the Sandpile, approximately three miles Northeast of the St. Lucie Inlet. The vessel had an electrical malfunction and ignited the engine compartment. The owner of the vessel activated the vessel's fire system and attempted to put the fire out with fire extinguishers. The vessel became completely engulfed in flames and the two occupants on board left the vessel on a tender. The occupants were uninjured and the vessel sunk.


BARDID: FL-2017-0468
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO/FLORIDA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel crash which resulted in serious bodily injury. Vessel 1 collided with a fixed object, ICW Channel Marker 65. Vessel 1 had one person on board. Vessel 1 operator was flown by air to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami. 

Accident
V-1 approached the intra-coastal waterway marker 65. His approximate speed was 29 MPH.  V-1 operator did not see the channel marker. V-1 crashed into the I beam of channel Marker 65 striking it with its port side mid bow. The vessel engines were idling after the strike and the boat was moving in a slow circle.  The vessel was found drifting just outside the intra Coastal waterway channel.

Post Accident
After the collision the vessel was approached by Good Samaritan and his family (See attached witness statement). Good sam called out to the circling boat. No one answered. He saw V-1 operator climbing towards the helm with blood coming from his head and arm. Good Samaritan tried to determine if others were on board. USCG small boat crew arrived on scene to render aid. FWC officers arrived shortly after USCG. Operator was transported to shore at nearby Mangrove Marina. Once on shore it was determined by EMS he would be life flighted to Ryder Trauma due to nature of injuries;

Subject suffered a laceration to the head and left arm as well as a cut on the right leg. He also suffered a C-2 Dens fracture, L1 to L5 Transverse Process fracture, T6 to L2 Spinal Fracture. He was taken by air to Ryder Trauma Center.


BARDID: FL-2017-0469
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWATER
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 9, 2017 at approximately 2300 hours a boating incident involving two vessels occurred near channel marker 57 on the ICW in Edgewater, within Volusia County. 
 
V1 (FL 5828 LF; 14 foot aluminum tiller vessel) occupied by two adult individuals.
V2 (FL 9916 JH; 17 foot aluminum side console) occupied by two adult individuals and one juvenile. 

V1 was cruising north on the east side of the ICW. V1 operator stated neither he or his brother(occupant) saw the other vessel. Occupant was seated on the bow seat,facing forward. V1 did not see V2 until directly before the collision.

V2 was cruising south on the west side of the ICW. V2 operator stated he was on the western shoreline and saw V1. V2 began to try to stay out of V1s operating course. V2 operator stated the victim/occupant had been seated on the bow deck facing towards the operator. The juvenile was seated next to the operator. 

Note: Operator stated he had turned on inside deck lights to help the victim see to tie fishing lines. 
Nav lights were operational and on in both vessels.   

The bow of V1 impacted V2 on its port bow. V1 went over V2 bow striking the victim in the back of the head. Victim was pushed onto the floor of V2 as V1 came across. V1 struck the steering console causing V2 operator to be ejected. 

At the time of the collision V2's trolling motor(mounted on bow/ see attached images) was not collapsed completely. V1 hit the trolling motor (damaging it), appearing to cause V1 to launch over V2 riding across V1 striking the steering console and damaging the rear all around white light. (see attached images) Both the operator and occupant of V1 were ejected. V1 continued on its path, throttle engaged operating in circles on the east side of the ICW. 

V2 operator made his way back to his vessel and re boarded. At this time he assisted both V1 occupants into his vessel. V1 occupant advised V2 operator he was a nurse and attempted to assess the injuries to all parties involved. At this time V2 adult occupant was unconscious. V2 operator notified emergency services and proceeded back to Kennedy Park Boat Ramp(located in Edgewater) to meet with EMS. 

V1 occupant/victim, was transported to Florida Hospital in New Smyrna Beach. V1 operator and his nephew(juvenile occupant) transported themselves after the situation had cleared. 

V1 sustained damage to the bow and port side keel.
V2 sustained damage to the port bow, bow mounted trolling motor, starboard steering console and starboard all around white light attachment. 

V2 operator stated he had seen V1 and attempted to steer out of its path.
V1 operator and occupant stated they did not see V2 until seconds before incident.

Due to the circumstances and results of this incident V1 was in violation of the following Inland Navigation Rules: 
1. Rule #7 Risk of Collision
2. Rule #6 Safe Speed
3. Rule #5 Look Out

V2 was in violation of the following Inland Navigational Rules:
1. Rule #6 Safe Speed
2. Rule #8 Action to Avoid Collision

Life jackets were not used. (proper amount available)

Operator2: Individual refused medical treatment while EMS was on scene. After incident had calmed down (operator) towed vessel to residence and transported himself to the hospital. Individual was advised by doctors he had sustained a severe contusion inside his shoulder. Operator2 was released. ; Victim3 on v2:Diagnosed with severe concussion. Treated and released from hospital. Victim2 on v2:Minor head injury. Examined and cleared at hospital.


BARDID: FL-2017-0470
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LONGBOAT PASS
NearestCityorTown: ANNA MARIA
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, August 8, 2017, at approximately 1853 (6:53PM) I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on patrol in Manatee County with FWC Officer when we were dispatched to a boating accident that occurred near Longboat Pass. 

Upon arrival to 4110 127th St W, Cortez, FL 34215 we made contact with the operators.  I asked OPERATOR1 what happened and he said, “Man we just hit each that’s all no one is hurt.” I asked OPERATOR1 how the collision occurred and he explained that OPERATOR2 and himself had just passed under GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE in LONGBOAT PASS headed west towards the GULF OF MEXICO when OPERATOR2 went over a large wave and stopped accelerating. Subject went on to explain that he did not see OPERATOR2 stop and as he accelerated over the top of the wave he was unable to avoid colliding with OPERATOR2’S personal watercraft. 

I then asked OPERATOR2 what how the collision occurred and OPERATOR2 explained that he had lost sight of Subject and stopped accelerating and steering and let the vessel come to a rest at the bottom of a wave. OPERATOR2 said that it was when the vessel came to rest that he heard and saw Subject approaching at a high rate of speed on his PORT (LEFT) SIDE. OPERATOR2 went on to say that he had just enough time to move his body out of the way to avoid Subject’s personal watercraft from colliding with his body. 

The vessels were rented from the livery located at 4110 127th St W, Cortez, FL 34215, H20 Water Sportz. The vessels (later identified by Florida Registration Numbers FL 2065 PW and FL 9522 PX both 11ft 2015 Multi-Color Yamaha Personal Watercrafts) were located on a dry dock and photographed by Officer. Vessel FL 2065 PW had damage to the rear starboard side with an approximate 5-inch fiberglass gash as well as paint transfer and fiberglass cracks around the gash. There was also an approximately 13-inch long fiberglass tear running vertically from the operator’s seat to the feet rest located at the bottom of the vessel. 

After photographs of both vessels involved in the collision were taken I then collected written statements from both OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2. OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2 were issued warnings for unsafe speed and failure to avoid collision. 

END OF REPORT NO FURTHER ACTION TAKEN.


BARDID: FL-2017-0471
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ESCAMBIA BAY
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was northbound west of the Garson Point Bridge when operator stated that he heard an alarm.  He then noticed that the boat was settling in the water.  He continued until the motor stopped due being submerged.  He said that he put out an anchor from the bow and that the boat settled to the bottom in about 10 minutes.

 spoke with subject on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017.  The boat had been re floated and moved to a dock at the Garson Point Boat Ramp.  It should be noted that the boat originally had two inboard engines and it is now powered by an outboard engine.  He said that when the boat was dewatered that he found that the propeller shaft through holes had been filled with caulk.  He said that one of the plugs of caulk came out allowing the boat to flood.  He said that he also found that the exhaust stacks were cut off and capped with plastic caps that were secured with tape.  He said that during the dewatering process one of the caps came off and began additional flooding which he was able to stop.


BARDID: FL-2017-0472
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:36:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: MATANZAS PASS
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 16, 2017, a single vessel accident occurred near Bowditch Point in Lee County, FL.  The body  was located in the water with a red personal flotation device (PFD) on his arm.  A short time later, victim’s vessel (V1) was located approximately ½ mile away.    Medical Examiner’s Office.  listed the cause of death as drowning with contributing conditions of diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic and hypertensive heart disease.  Victim also had a blood alcohol level of 0.276 g/dL and cannabinoids in his system at the time of his death.


It is assumed that the victim fell overboard due to his alcohol use.


BARDID: FL-2017-0473
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-25-17 I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, responded to Loggerhead Marina in reference to a vessel accident. The accident occurred at Loggerhead Marina 955NW Flagler Ave Stuart, FL 34994. 
	I was dispatched to Loggerhead Marina and arrived at approximately 0950 hours. Upon arrival, I met with the captain of the vessel. 
	The vessel was docked at Loggerhead Marina. Subject and his crew were taking the vessel out on a test drive to test the throttles. The throttles recently had work done to them. Subject and his crew left the dock and proceeded to leave the marina. Subject tried to throttle down to make a turn and the throttle was stuck in gear. Subject tried multiple times to get the vessel out of gear. Subject was unable to get the vessel out of gear due to a malfunction in the electric shifters. The vessel collided into the dock, breaking pilings. There was damage to the dock, electric boxes and electric pipes that were attached to the dock.


BARDID: FL-2017-0474
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/06/17 at approximately 1550 hours, V1 a 1987, 13 feet in length Glasstream vessel bearing FL 8357 FV, took on water causing it to capsize near Marker 8 Marina in Dunedin, FL.  V1 was occupied by 2 individuals and both went into the water uninjured upon capsizing.  V1 was traveling eastbound towards Marker 8 Marina attempting to return before the vessel filled with water then capsized.  A good Samaritan vessel retrieved both occupants from the water and transported back to shore.  V1 was flipped upright and secured to a spoil island on the Southeast side of the Dunedin Causeway.  The owner of V1 was able to recover the vessel the following day on 08/07/17.  Damages to V1 are estimated to be approximately $3,000.  vessel low gunwale combined with wave action contributed to the flooding of the vessel


