# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: GA-2014-0016
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LINCOLNTON
County: LINCOLN
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 5th at 1600hrs, I was contacted by Lincoln County Dispatch in reference to a boating incident.  I responded to 1026 Pistol Creek Extension off of Newford Creek on Clarks Hill Lake.  Upon arrival at the scene, I met with the operator of the vessel involved in the boating incident.  Operator explained that he was operating his vessel as part of an annual camp event.  Operator stated that he used his vessel to tow children on ski tubes in Newford Creek just out from the camp's dock.  He stated that he was towing the last group of children for the day. He stated that he was  traveling about 25 miles per hour when the four children being towed flipped off the tube(see persons section).  He circled back to pickup the four children in the water.  It was at this time he realized that one of the children was injured.  Operator explained that after placing the injured child in his vessel, it was discovered that he had hurt his upper right leg and hip.  Operator stated that all four of the children collided with each other when the tube flipped and this is how he foresaw this injury occurring.  victim was transported to the bank and EMS was contacted.  The injured skier was transported to Doctors Hospital in Augusta by Wilkes County EMS where he was treated for his injuries.


BARDID: GA-2014-0017
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NOTTELY
NearestCityorTown: BLAIRSVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 20, 2014 at approximately 18:35 two bass boats collided on Nottely Lake in the area of Point 5.Vessel A was jumping wakes / turning circles from a vessel that was not involved in the incident. Vessel B was following approximately 500 yards (traveling South West)  behind the uninvolved vessel and made a slight left turn to cross some wakes and avoid Vessel A that was actively turning circles. Vessel A straightened up traveling south east and the operator of Vessel A was watching the wake and did not see Vessel B until the operator of Vessel B yelled at him. 

Both vessels made evasive moves to avoid a collision, but still collided. Vessel A sustained damage to the port side and Vessel B sustained damage to the starboard side. A Lowrance GPS was taken from Vessel B with the owners consent for evidence. See witness statements, pictures of Vessel A, pictures of Vessel B, Lowrance Elite 4 GPS information, 156 VIDMIC April 2014 and 162 VIDMIC April 2014.Based on the evidence, interviews and witness statements the facts show that on April 20th 2014 at approximately 18:35, the operator of Vessel A did operate the vessel in a reckless manner when actively turning circles in the vessel then steer the vessel in a straight direction while watching the on coming wakes. He did not look in the direction he was traveling for other vessels. This report is based solely on the information made available to me at the time I received it and the results may be changed or modified with the discovery of new information.


BARDID: GA-2014-0018
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 24, 2014 at approximately 1430 hours,  I was dispatched to a call of a boating incident in Shoal Creek on Lake Lanier.  I arrived on scene and located a white Sea Ray and a Red Bombardier pulled along the shore.  The Bombardier had minor crush damage to the bow and the Sea Ray had an extensive hole in the port side hull.

Investigation revealed that the operator of vessel 1 was traveling into Shoal Creek from the Gwinnett County side of the lake.  Vessel 1 was jumping wakes of other vessels and the operator was not paying close attention to his surroundings.  He jumped the wake of another vessel and did not see vessel 2 traveling west bound in Shoal Creek.  The operator of vessel 1 drove straight into the port side rear of vessel 2 and was ejected over the top of vessel 2.  A very large hole was knocked into vessel 2 causing extensive damage.


BARDID: GA-2014-0019
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20, 2014 at approximately 1900 hours I received a call in reference to a boating incident in Hall County. Hall 911 stated that EMS was on the way to Lazy Days Marina to meet with the persons involved. While on the phone with them they stated that the injury that was sustained was minor and the person may not be transported. I advised them to notify me back if he was transported. On May 21, 2014 I called the complainant, who was an occupant in the vessel. He stated to me that the victim, was transported to NEGA Medical Center where he was treated and released. I traveled to the hospital and confirmed that victim was treated for a dislocated left shoulder and a hairline fracture to his upper left arm. Upon questioning operator I determined that victim was surfing behind the vessel. He was a beginner at this type of activity. As he was surfing he attempted to come back to the boat and fell while doing this. When he fell he struck the stern of the boat, causing injury to his left arm and shoulder.


BARDID: GA-2014-0020
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 25, 2014 I responded to a boating incident at approximately 1515 hours on Lake Lanier, in the area of Chestnut Ridge Park. Once on scene I interviewed the boat operator, and another witness. At this time two females were being treated by Hall County Fire, and were transported to NEGA Medical Center. After interviewing all persons involved it was determined that operator was operating the PWC and attempting to pull it up on the shore. As he got close to shore he released the throttle and lost control of the steering. This caused him to hit the two females that were wading in the water. Both females were treated and released by NEGA Medical center for contusions to the left leg, and one subject was also treated for contusions to her face.


BARDID: GA-2014-0021
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: DAWSONVILLE
County: DAWSON
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon approaching the vessel Operator advised there was a medical emergency on the vessel.  Operator advised that is son possibly had a broke his right leg.  Sgt. and I advised Operator to travel to Toto Creek Boat Ramp where we would follow them there and have emergency medical personal en route as well.  

After arriving at Toto Creek Boat Ramp I spoke with the injured son age 15.  Victim advised he had accidentally fallen overboard while attempting to assist his brother who was swimming beside the pontoon boat.   During the fall Victim had struck his right leg against an unknown part on the pontoon boat.  Victim leg was swollen below the knee and had a noticeable indention in the shin.  Victim was evaluated by Dawson County Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Personnel onboard the pontoon boat.  Victim was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville for further evaluation. 

At approximately 2050 hours I made contact with Operator and he advised that his son was treated and released by medical personnel at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.  Operator advised that his son’s leg was not broken as suspected on scene.  The doctors had advised the injury was a deep bruise.


BARDID: GA-2014-0023
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I was told that a man had broken his leg while wake boarding and was at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. I then drove to the medical center and spoke with the victim. Victim stated that his friend was driving the boat and his other friend was observing him wake board behind the vessel. According to Victim when he tried to stand up on the board his leg broke and he fell back into the water. When I got statements from the other witnesses they both matched Victim's statement. My conclusion is that when Victim tried to stand up on the wake board he broke his leg and fell back into the water. There was no fault on the operator or the observer in this incident.


BARDID: GA-2014-0025
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CARTERS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: EAST ELLIJAY
County: GILMER
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject informed me that his brother-in-law had damaged his vessel while fishing a night tournament on Carters Lake.  Subject informed me that no one was injured but Operator's vessel was damaged as he hit a drifting log while motoring down the lake.  I received Operator's information and phone number and advised Subject to tell Operator that I would come to his house later in the morning and inspect the damage.
     At approximately 1100 hours I contacted Operator and met him at his residence and inspected his vessel to see if it met the $2,000 requirement for a report. Operator's vessel was a 2008 model, 20 foot, red in color, Triton Tr-200.  The vessel was powered by a 225 horse power Mercury Optimax outboard motor.
     Upon inspection of the vessel I observed that the transom was cracked from stern to port side with loose fiberglass showing.  The steel transom plate was also broken.  The callon (motor cover) was busted on the front portion from top to bottom.  
     Operator informed me that at approximately 2240 hours he was traveling to the Dam Site boat ramp from the river.  Operator then stated that when he reached the area of the lake between Doll Mt. boat ramp and Whorley Creek cove his vessel hit a submerged log.  Operator stated that the bow of the vessel elevated and he felt the log going down the bottom of the vessel when it hit the motor.  The motor kicked up causing the callon to strike the transom plate.  I located wood debris in the foot of the motor.  The speedometer was stuck on 45 mph.  Operator informed me that there was some mist on the water at the time of the incident.
     End of report.


BARDID: GA-2014-0026
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
The victim was attempting to wake board behind a white Chapparal vessel with registration GA6117VE.  Victim advised that he thought that he may have hit something in the water while attempting to wake board.  Victim was injured from the incident sustaining a possible broken femur bone in his right leg.  Victim was transported by Bartow County EMS to Kennestone Hospital in Cobb County.


BARDID: GA-2014-0028
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: WHITE PLAINS
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/08/2014 at 1708 hours, I responded to the area of  Rocky Creek (Lake Oconee, Georgia) in reference to a boating incident. Upon my arrival, I spoke to the driver of vessel one who advised as he was operating his Sea Ray south bound in Richland Creek (towards Wallace Dam) his vessel struck a tree top causing damage to his boat. Due to concerns of his vessel taking on water, he operated the vessel over to a beach area off the shore line of Oconee Landing Subdivision. No occupants of the Sea Ray reported any injuries. Once the Sea Ray was loaded onto the trailer, I observed fiberglass damage to the hull. 
   My investigation revealed, due to operator’s lack of knowledge of this area of Lake Oconee, he failed to operate around the standing timber (which was marked with fish attractor buoys) and instead operated his vessel through the standing timber.


BARDID: GA-2014-0029
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE OCMULGEE STATE PARK
NearestCityorTown: GLENWOOD
County: WHEELER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I was informed of a boating incident at Little Ocmulgee State Park Lake in Wheeler County, Georgia. I arrived on scene at approximately 1800 hours.  We photographed the evidence items recovered from the vessel and pieces of the vessel that were removed from the dam structure. I inventoried and maintained custody of all evidence items recovered. 
	Injured told me that she and her husband, Deceased, were fishing on the bank of the dam; their vessel was tied off. At approximately 1000 hours, they boarded their vessel and released from the dam structure. Injured said the vessel was drifting and Deceased lowered a trolling motor; Injured said she thought Deceased was trolling backwards.  The vessel was pulled astern toward the dam by the current of water draining from the open gates. The vessel collided with the dam gates, capsized and submerged. Injured said that Deceased pushed her to safety.  Injured said she was able to climb onto the bank of the dam and called out for help. Injured told me, Deceased was an experienced boat operator and that he maintained all safety equipment on board. Neither Deceased, nor Injured were wearing personal floatation devices at the time of the incident. Injured was very emotional; I concluded the interview and agreed to meet with her again at a later date, for a more detailed statement. 	
	The vessel was located wedged between two of the open dam gates. Efforts were made to remove the vessel, but where unsuccessful. A construction crew working on the dam offered their assistance with construction machinery. The construction machinery was able to remove three pieces of the vessel. At approximately 1655 hours, the body of Deceased was located in Gum Swamp. DNR Rangers recovered Deceased and released Deceased to the Wheeler County coroner.  Blood alcohol analysis tests were requested by RFC Horne. The GBI report is pending at this time.


BARDID: GA-2014-0031
State: GA
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel had struck the wave break damaging the steel supports, the wood wave break, and the idle speed sign.  subject advised us of an estimated $1000 in damage to the wave break.  subject advised that he had assisted the vessel by removing it from the lake and parking it behind a secured fence area of Park Marina.  

Cpl. and I went to locate Operator and interview him about the incident.  We located Operator on his house boat docked on Dock 11.  Operator advised that he and five other children under the age of 13 had just left the idle speed area of Park Marina and was going to the gas dock to fuel up their vessel.  He advised that one of the children was trying to crawl from the front to the back of the vessel when he attempted to help the child.  He advised that he took his eyes off the direction he was going to help the child.  When he looked back up, he was headed straight towards the wave break at approximately 15-20 mph.  Operator collided head on with the wave break.  After the collision, he advised that four of the kids jumped into the water.  Another passing vessel came to assist by getting all the children out of the water.  There were no injuries from the incident.

The vessel, a 2005 runabout Sea Ray Sport 180, had major damage to the bow fiberglass at the bow eye.  Starboard side damage from the first chine to the keel.  The lower unit and prop had damage.  Interior damage at the bow.  The binnimi top was also damaged.  Operator advised that the vessel would most likely be totalled.

Operator was charged for violating the 100 foot law under rules of the road violation.


BARDID: GA-2014-0032
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
I met with Operator1 and he stated that he was  fishing in a bass tournament in the Narrows area traveling to the Iron Hill area to fish the right bank entering the cove. Operator1 stated that as he rounded the point he hit a small wake and saw a spotlight directly in front of his boat.  Operator1 stated he quickly turned hard right and struck another boat.  Operator1 stated that he never saw the boat until the last moment.  Operator1 stated that he hit the right side of a Bass Tracker boat with a male and female onboard.  Operator1 stated he turned his boat around and asked if the passengers on the boat were OK.  He stated they said that they were OK.  At this time Operator1 stated his boat's bilge pump came on and he realized he was taking on water.  He stated that another boat in the area was towing the Bass Tracker to the Blockhouse boat ramp.  Operator1 stated at that time he returned to Gatewood Park and called 911.  Operator1 stated that he did not see a stern light on the Bass Tracker, but did see a front light after he turned around to check on the other passengers.  Operator1' Ranger Bass boat had major fiberglass damage to the hull on the port side of the vessel.  Operator1 vessel had damage at the chine and rub rail.  Operator1 and his passenger both gave written statements on the details of the incident.
	 At this time I obtained information for Operator1 and occupant and responded to the Blockhouse boat ramp to meet with RFC.  Upon arrival RFC informed me that the operator of the Bass Tracker, stated that he has just stopped his vessel in the area of Iron Hill to fish the right hand bank.  He stated that his boat was still moving when he looked up and saw the Ranger bass boat coming right at him.  Operator2 stated that is when his wife shined the spotlight.  Operator2 stated that his boat was struck on the starboard side and he fell over onto his wife. Operator2 stated that the other boat turned around and asked if they were OK.  At this time he stated the other boat left and he was towed back to the blockhouse by a fishermen in the area.  RFC advised that Operator2 was aware that his stern light was not working.  Operator2's vessel sustained damage to the hull on the starboard side and major damage to the console, steering wheel area, and throttle controls.  Operator2 complained of pain in his right shoulder and upper back.  Operator2 refused to have EMS respond for treatment.  Operator2 was issued a citation for operating a vessel without a stern light.


BARDID: GA-2014-0033
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WHITE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 21, 2014 at 1352 hours I received a call from Bartow County SO in reference to a boat incident on Allatoona Lake at Upper Stamp Creek.  Dispatch advised that a vessel was struck by a PWC and both parties were at campsite #18.  I immediately responded with Bartow County unit #938.  I located operator2, he advised that he and his wife were traveling downstream near the swimming area and saw a blue PWC coming straight at them.  Operator2 stated that the Hispanic male operator did not look up until the last second.  Operator2 stated he sped up in an effort to get out of the way of the oncoming vessel, but the PWC hit his boat near the rear on the port side.  There was major fiberglass damage at the rub rail area of Operator2's vessel.  He advised that it appeared that no one was injured in the incident. I located the operator of the PWC.  Operator1 did not speak English very well.  Operator1 stated he was traveling upstream and could not stop in time to miss the other boat, driven by Operator2.  Both parties involved pointed out the area of the incident.  The location was just downstream of the swimming and beach area at the campground.  There is a small island in the area that creates a blind point.  Based on statements from both parties Operator1 came around the blind point on the left side of the channel and struck Operator2's vessel.  I checked the equipment on both vessels.  Operator2's vessel was in compliance. The PWC operated by Operator1 was found to be unregistered and did not have a fire extinguisher onboard.  All parties involved gave written statements.  I issued Operator1 citations for operating a vessel without registration and Violation Rules of the Road.


BARDID: GA-2014-0034
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CANTON
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2014, I was dispatched to the Atlanta Yacht Club in Cherokee County in reference to a personal watercraft incident.  Upon arriving at the scene, the Cherokee County EMTs had the injured in stable condition.  I interviewed the brother.  He stated that he and his brother were returning from the fuel docks and when they got back to the no-wake zone there was a miscommunication on the direction of travel.  Operator1 made a sharp turn to the right to remain in the main body of the lake when Operator2 continued on into the no-wake zone.  Operator2 stated that he noticed Operator1 make the turn, but did not have enough time to avoid a collision with his brother's personal watercraft.  After the collision, Operator1 was knocked from his vessel and laid unconscious in the water.  Operator2 immediately jumped in to assist with the injuries of his brother until the EMTs arrived on the scene.  Operator1 is still at Kennestone Hospital in the Intensive Care Unit recovering from his first surgery and waiting for a second surgery after he becomes more stable.         

*** I, DNR Sgt., went to Kennestone Hospital to check on the injured parties.  I spoke with Operator2 who was one of the operators.  He stated that he and his Brother had stopped to talk near the no wake area.  He stated when they started back up, they both increased speed fast.  He stated his Brother turned in front of him and he hit him in the side of the PWC.  He stated he went over the PWC knocking his Brother into the water.  He stated he also came off his PWC.  He stated his Brother was face down in the water and had his PFD on.  He stated he turned his Brother over and assisted him.

I also checked with medical personnel.  They stated he had a broken femur bone and pelvis bone and internal bleeding.  They stated they were attempting to stabilize him for further medical treatment.

I saw not indications of alcohol use during the interview.


BARDID: GA-2014-0035
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE ALLATOONA
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arrival, I located three (3) subjects that were involved with the incident. There was one Asian male and two Asian females. The subjects spoke very little to no English. I was able to learn the male was the operator of a personal watercraft (PWC) involved in the incident. I learned from Operator2, through hand gestures and broken English, that the other PWC had turned into his path and there was a collision. I did not smell any alcoholic beverage odor coming from Operator2. I performed a HGN exercise on Operator2 and did not observe any clues of impairment. I asked Operator2 if he would submit to a breath test on my hand-held FST and he consented. Operator2 tested negative for alcohol. Bartow Fire personnel arrived on scene at the same time and checked the subjects for injuries. Operator2 had a large contusion and swelling on his right shin and indicated pain in his right shoulder. One female had a laceration approximately 2 inches long on her right leg below the knee and indicated pain in her right shoulder. The other female was not involved in the incident. All subjects refused medical treatment on scene. Bartow Sheriff's deputies escorted the subjects to Blockhouse Boat Ramp by vehicle. I also went to the Blockhouse Boat Ramp.
	The operator of the other PWC had been flown to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, GA. Cpl. told me Operator1's left leg was partially amputated below the knee. Cpl. told me Operator1's PWC was secured by an Army Corp of Engineers officer on the bank near the ramp. According to Cpl., Operator1's father, was leaving and going to Grady Hospital. Cpl. Young and I attempted to interview the Asian subjects but could not communicate well due to the language barrier. RFC and I attempted to locate an interpreter. RFC was able to connect with the Language Line through Bartow County 911.
	According to the interviews, Operator2 was operating PWC. Operator1 was in the area and doing "figure 8's" and circles. Operator2 told me he was driving his PWC in a straight direction and there was a yellow PWC (Operator1) traveling in the same direction parallel to him at about his "2 o'clock". He said there was a distance of about "4 trucks" between his PWC and the other PWC. Operator2 said the yellow PWC turned quickly to the left and passed in front of him. Operator2 said the PWCs collided and he and occupant were thrown from their PWC. He saw the yellow PWC turn into the path of Operator2's PWC as if he was doing another circle. Operator2 stated that he recovered ocucpant and they remounted the PWC. Operator2 and v2 occupant both said Operator2 went to Operator1 and pulled him over to his PWC so that he could hold on while they went to get help.


BARDID: GA-2014-0036
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL
NearestCityorTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 21, 2014 at approximately 16:15 hours a boating incident occurred at Wildwood Park in Keg Creek. A boat was towing two people on a tube. Both subjects were thrown from the tube. One of the tubers, began to pull himself toward the boat by the tow rope. The operator was unaware victim was coming to the boat. Operator put the boat into gear in order to go pick up the tubers. When he did the tow rope got caught in the prop and it pulled victim into it. Victim’s right thigh was lacerated by the prop. The laceration was six inches long and to the bone. Victim was transported to Georgia Regent’s University Hospital for treatment. He was released two days later. The wound required 20 stitches.


BARDID: GA-2014-0037
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: activity equipment failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2014 at approximately 15:45 pm  operator was towing his wife, (skier) behind his vessel on Lake Oconee. They were in the area between Greatwaters Marina and the No Ski Cove in the open water. victim was skiing when her ski came off and struck her in the left side of her forehead. The ski caused a laceration approximately two inches,  located just below the hairline. She was driven by her husband to St. Mary's hospital ( Greensboro / Hwy. 44) for medical treatment.


BARDID: GA-2014-0039
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday June 9, 2013 at 20:52 hours I, Ranger received a call from Baldwin County Emergency Operations advising me that I needed to respond to the Emergency Room at Oconee Regional Medical Center in Milledgeville. I was told a subject was at the hospital because he was there getting treated for a laceration on his foot that he received from a boat propeller. Once there I learned that the victim told me that him and his buddies had been tubing on Lake Sinclair all afternoon and that around 19:15 hours they were headed in to the boat ramp at Little River Park in Baldwin County. Victim said that he and one other had gotten off the tube and were holding onto the side of the 17 foot Bass Tracker boat. One person was still on the tube behind the boat. The boat at the time of the incident was in gear and Operator1 was attempting to drag the swimmers to the dock while they were holding onto the side of the boat.  Victim lost his grip on the boat and went under water and his left foot was struck with the propeller of the 50 horsepower Mercury Outboard Motor. Victim sustained an injury of a 3-4 inch laceration on the outside of his left foot. His friends drove him to Oconee Regional Medical Center where he was treated for the laceration on his foot and was released. While at the Hospital I obtained written witness statements from the victim and all three witnesses that were with the boat at the time of the incident. I called SOC at 22:44 hours and advised them that I was working a boating incident. I also photographed the victim’s injuries and I took photographs of the 17 Foot Bass Tracker boat that was involved in the incident.


BARDID: GA-2014-0040
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
NearestCityorTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 22:00 hours both vessels were traveling on Lake Sinclair near the junction. Vessel 1 was travelling east towards Sinclair Dam at approximately 8 mph. Vessel 2 was traveling west towards highway 441 bridge at a faster rate of speed. The two boats had a head on collision. Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on the port side of the bow causing moderate damage to vessel 1. There was no visible damage to vessel 2. All witnesses said that both vessels were displaying the proper navigation lights.


BARDID: GA-2014-0041
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6, 2014 at approximately 12:55 hours two people were each riding a jet ski in the Rooty Creek area of Lake Sinclair. Operator1 was operating a 2012 Red Yamaha Wave Runner, from this point forward known as “personal watercraft 1” and operator2 was operating a 2010 Black Yamaha Wave Runner, from this point forward known as “personal watercraft 2” 

Personal water craft 1 was traveling straight and personal watercraft 2 was attempting to come in from the starboard side and make a turn to travel alongside personal water craft 1. When Personal water craft 2 came in to make the right hand turn and travel alongside personal water craft 1, the vessels got closer than anticipated and both operators panicked and let off the throttle. When they did this personal watercraft 2 impacted personal watercraft 1 on the starboard foot rail of the jet ski, personal watercraft 2 then slid off of personal watercraft 1. After the impact both operators drove their vessels back to their dock located. 

At 13:07 hours I, Rgr. responded. Once on scene we began gathering information and taking photographs. We also advised Putnam County EMS to be en route to transport victim to the hospital to get her back injury checked out. Once EMS arrived we assisted them with getting victim placed onto a back board. victim was transported to Oconee Regional Medical Center where she was treated for a sprained back. A witness statement was collected from operator2. 

Both personal water craft involved in the incident were rented from Jere Shai LakeSide.  

Once On Scene investigation was completed I notified SOC at 14:30 hours.


BARDID: GA-2014-0042
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE/BEAVER DAM CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2014 at approximately 1530 hrs I received a call in reference to a boating incident in Beaver Dam Creek on Lake Oconee in Greene County, Georgia.  I responded to Granite Shoals boat ramp in reference to a wake boarding incident. Upon arrival to Granite Shoals, EMS had a white male in the back of the squad.  I spoke to Victim and he complained of a sprained neck and weakness in his right arm.  Victim was wake boarding when he hit the water- face first.  He was going approximately 20mph.  He was taken to Athens Regional for medical treatment.  While at Athens Regional he was diagnosed with a strained spinal column and weakness in his right arm.  He was released on 7-2-14.  

The operator of the pontoon vessel (GA 6243PZ) said that Victim was pulling the wake board as far left as he could before the front of the wake board dipped and Victim went face first and did a body slam on the water.  He provided a witness statement.  There were six persons on board at the time of the incident.  Nothing further at this time.


BARDID: GA-2014-0043
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating a red in color, Kawasaki PWC with Georgia registration number GA 0222KC.  Operator1 said she and her sister, Operator2, were cruising and looking at the houses when Operator2 suddenly turned to the right.  Operator1 said she wasn’t moving fast but she tried to turn and avoid Operator2 but hit Operator2 in the knee with the front of her PWC.  Operator1 said they were between the Hwy 44 Bridge and Sebastian Cove on Lake Oconee.  She said they were closer to the bridge than the cove.  While interviewing Operator1 there was no indication of alcohol use.  (See attached written statement and video.)
Next, I interviewed operator of Vessel 2, Operator2.  Operator2 said she turned and stopped to see where Operator1 was and Operator1 hit her right knee.  Operator2 was operating a yellow in color, SEADOO PWC with Georgia registration number GA 0886BL.  Operator2 sustained a one inch laceration on her right knee cap.  While interviewing Operator2 there was no indication of alcohol use.  (See attached written statement and video.)
Next, RFC and I photographed the PWC’s.  White and red transfer marks were photographed on the starboard side of Vessel 2.  A black transfer mark was photographed on the hull/keel of Vessel 1.  (See photographs)
Based on written statements and the evidence available, Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were traveling North when Vessel 2 turned right and decreased speed to locate Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 decreased speed and attempted to turn to avoid a collision but failed.  This resulted in Vessel 1 striking Vessel 2 on the starboard side.  
In my opinion, due to the minor injury sustained by Operator2 and minimal vessel damage the vessels were not moving at a high rate of speed.  However, due to operator inexperience and operator inattention the collision was not avoided.


BARDID: GA-2014-0044
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BLACKSHEAR
NearestCityorTown: CORDELE
County: CRISP
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by towed individ
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator said that they were towing subject on a wake board behind the vessel.  As victim stood up in the back of the vessel to fix the tow rope he fell overboard. victim was struck in the head by wake board. They saw a large amount of blood coming from head and called 911.  he was transported to Crisp Regional Hospital by ambulance.  He had a laceration on the left side of his head approximately 5 inches long. He was treated and released.

	 The vessel was a 24 foot black and white Chaparral with a hull ID number of: FGB30751E607. The wake board that stuck victim was located in the vessel. On the wake board I found tissue and blood on the front left side of the board. All the evidence was photographed. At 2100 hours I concluded the investigation.


BARDID: GA-2014-0045
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLINT RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I was advised by the operator of the vessel, that no one was injured. Operator, stated "that they were towing his father-in-law in to the landing due to motor trouble. After getting his father-in-laws boat loaded, everyone got off of his boat at the landing, Operator started to crank the boat and back up, when the motor back fired and caught on fire. He stated that he tried to put it out with a fire extinguisher, but it would not go out.  He stated that he was the only one on the boat when it happened.
Witnesses advised they heard it backfire and saw Operator trying to put the fire out. They advised, when he saw he could not put it out, he put on a PFD and jumped off the vessel. The vessel is a silver and white 21 foot Sun Tracker Pontoon boat, with a 90 horse power Mercury outboard motor. The registration numbers displayed on the vessel is GA6077UG, with a valid GA 2017 registration sticker. The H.I.N. of the vessel is BUJ48291L293. 

In summary, the incident occurred  due to fuel catching on fire after the motor backfired when  Operator, started the motor to back out from the landing. The fire started inside the motor under the cover of the motor.  Operator could not put the fire out with the fire extinguisher. He grabbed a PFD and put it on and jump out of the vessel to get to the land. The vessel was docked next to the landing where the fire was put out by Decatur County Fire.


BARDID: GA-2014-0046
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARTWELL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: HARTWELL
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 22, 2014 I met with Victim and got the details of the incident.  operator stated that around 4:00 PM on June 20, 2014, himself, and two others were wake boarding around the Carter's Ferry Ramp area.  He stated that they had made two to three runs before the incident.  He stated that he had got Victim almost on plane when Victim tried to jump off the wake board.  He stated that his feet never left the board and it flipped up and hit him in the back of the head.  He stated then that he took Victim to Ty Cobb where he received four staples to secure the cut.  I asked Victim was he wearing a PFD and he stated yes.


BARDID: GA-2014-0047
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: DAWSONVILLE
County: DAWSON
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Witnesses stated they were all inside the boat when the inner tube in the boat was caught by the wind.  The operator stated he was bringing the boat up to speed when the wind caught the inner tube.  They stated the rope attached to the inner tube got wrapped around victim and jerked her up out of her seat and onto the ski deck.  She suffered injuries to her neck, left side, and left leg.  She was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville by Dawson County EMS personnel to be checked out.  Subject stated victim was doing fine and had just suffered some bruising from the incident.


BARDID: GA-2014-0048
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER SIX MILE CREEK
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I noticed a white adult male subject standing on the bank at the bow on the starboard side.  I then noticed under the tree limbs a subject holding a map and placing it over an object in the boat.  As we came closer to the boat I then observed a black adult male subject sitting in the driver’s seat.  The black male got up and walked to the bow of the boat as we pulled up.  I then boarded the vessel and asked both subjects if they were ok and they stated “YES”.   After determining that neither subject was injured I asked who was operating the vessel.  The subject identified said that he was operating.  I could smell a strong odor of alcohol coming from his persons.  At this time I started the BUI screening process.

On July 14, 2014, I contacted Manager at Paradise Rental Boats at Port Royale Marina in Gainesville, Georgia.  I asked Manager if Operator had taken the Boating Safety on line course prior to renting the vessel.  Manager told me that Operator not only took the Power Boat Safety course (PB00049062) but the PWC Safety course (WR00049062) as well and passed both courses.  I asked Manager if he could email a copy of the courses Operator passed and he said “YES”.  I received by email a copy of both courses showing completed on July 7, 2014.

On July 18, 2014, I contacted Operator by phone and told him that I needed to meet with him to get a statement on the boat accident from July 12, 2014.  I asked him where we could meet and he requested to meet at the Georgia Perimeter Mall in DeKalb County.  I told him that I would meet him and his friend at the parking lot of the Cheese Cake Factory around 1200 noon on July 21, 2014.

On July 21, 2014, at 1200, I met with Operator and his father Attorney in the parking lot of the Cheese Cake Factory.  I read Operator the Miranda Warning and asked him if he would give me a statement of the event that took place on July 12, 2014.  He looked at pop and he stated that operator did should not make any statements at this time.  We had a casual talk about what happened and that at this time no more charges will be filed.  He (attorney) said sorry that I had to come out here for nothing.  I told him that was ok.  This was recorded on my State Vid-Mic.

On July 21, 2014, I contacted Port Royale Marina and left him a message by phone and sent email that I had talked with Operator and for him to proceed with their actions in getting the vessel repaired.  It is assumed vessel grounded because of alcohol use and inexperience.


BARDID: GA-2014-0049
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May, 30 2014 at approximately 2200 hours, vessel (1) was heading North on lake Lanier.  The operator was driving to the left hand side of the channel.  As he neared a bend in the river to the left, he continued up the left hand side of the channel. Vessel (2) was heading South.  The operator of vessel (2) was driving on the right hand side of the channel as he should have.  As the two vessels neared each other, the operator of vessel (1) turned to his left crossing in front of vessel (2).  The operator of vessel (2) turned to his right and the two boats collided.  Vessel (2) ramped over the stern of vessel (1) causing extensive damage to both vessels.


BARDID: GA-2014-0050
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: GWINNETT
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 4 2014, I responded to Shoal Creek on Lake Lanier in reference to a boating incident.  Investigation revealed that the operator of vessel (1) entered Shoal Creek from a small cove on the Gwinett County side of the lake.  In doing so, he slowed his boat down to a speed that created a very large wake near a raft of four other boats.  He then turned in a manner that caused his wake to strike the side of the other boats.  The large wake, (approximately 6') caused the other boats to rock violently.  This caused anchor lines to snap and numerous items to fall from shelves and walls inside the other boats and for them to hit together.  Numerous individuals were knocked to the ground and victim (1) sustained a sprained wrist and complained of a back injury.  Vessels 2-5 were at anchor therefore had no contributing factors to the incident.


BARDID: GA-2014-0051
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 17, 2014 at approximately 1830 hours I received a call in reference to a boating incident at Port Royal Marina on Lake Lanier, in Forsyth County. I responded to the scene by vessel. Once I arrived on scene I observed Forsyth County EMS beginning to transport one adult female. I spoke to the boat operator, and he stated that he filled his boat with gas. He stated that the blower was running while he was fueling. Once he finished fueling the boat he went into the store to use the restroom, leaving the blower running. When he returned to the boat he and his wife,  untied from the dock and started the engine. He stated as he put the boat into forward the engine compartment ignited. Both people on board jumped into the water and swam back to the dock. Employees from Port Royal Marina extinguished the fire and assisted them with getting out of the water. wife was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center where she was treated for first degree burns on both of her legs below the knees.


BARDID: GA-2014-0052
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 7, 2014 Operator1 was operating his Sea Ray vessel in Six Mile Creek on Lake Lanier.  Operator1 was towing Victim.  Victim attempted to get up on his wakeboard 5 times and failed.  On the sixth time Victim heard a pop in his left leg.  Victim was transported to Northside Hospital.  Victim's left femur suffered a spiral fracture.  Ranger First Class went and interviewed Operator1 at his residence located at Chestatee Point in Dawson County.  He advised Officer and I that he was traveling at approximately 20 mph when the incident occurred.


BARDID: GA-2014-0053
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: OAKWOOD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 12, 2014 at approximately 1500 hours victim was attempting to water ski in hall county just outside of the no wake bouys located at sunrise cove marina on lake sidney lanier.  As the vessel began to get up on plane victim felt a sharp pain in her lower back. Operator loaded victim up into his vessel and transported her to old federal day use area boat ramp to be treated by hall county fire and rescue.  Victim was transported to northeast medical center for treatment.


BARDID: GA-2014-0055
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 25 2014 at approximately 2355, I Ranger while driving in my truck, heard a call go out over the radio about a boat incident on Lake Lanier. The parties involved had already been admitted to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, and seeing as I was driving near the hospital I volunteered to handle the call. When I arrived at the hospital I met the operator of the boat involved in the incident. Operator1 was sitting next to his daughter, who was in a lot of pain and shock, for she could not make complete sentences and seemed very scared. I then interviewed Operator1. Operator1 stated that he, and two others all went for a boat ride on Lake Lanier earlier that evening. Operator1 borrowed his buddies Four Winds motorboat and drove the boat out into the open waters in front of Gainesville Marina. Then according to his own statements he started to "cut figure-eights" with the vessel. During the maneuvers both were thrown into the starboard gunwale with victim1 eventually being thrown out of the vessel into the water. Operator1 stated he then picked up Victim1 and drove the boat back to the dock. After some time Operator1 took his daughter to the hospital. 
	After interviewing Operator1 I went to interview victim2. Her account was similar to Operator1's except she stated that she and Victim1 were encouraging Operator1 to drive faster and faster when he was making the sharp cuts. After hearing the accounts I felt there was probable cause to arrest Operator1 for Reckless operation of a vessel. However as he was the only family to comfort Victim1, I did not think it was prudent to take Operator1 into custody that night. I informed Operator1 of my intention to take out an arrest warrant on him the following Tuesday the 27. 
	Victims were injured when while operating recklessly, operator turned the vessel in such a way that both passengers were thrown into the gunwale of the vessel, and Victim1 was ejected from the vessel. He was charged with reckless operation of a vessel on Tuesday May 27th 2014 and surrendered of his of volition later that same day at 1300 to the Hall County Detention Center.


BARDID: GA-2014-0056
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The owner of the vessel drowned in a separate incident. Subject and his sons where beached at Three Sisters Islands on Lake Lanier in Forsyth County along with subject2’s family. Subject and his fifteen year old son were swimming after a ball when they began to struggle and went under the water. Operator got into the vessel and attempted to rescue the two subjects. However, he did not know how to operate the vessel other than cranking it. The wind caused the vessel to drift out into the lake. Another boater picked up Operator and transported him back to the Island.
We found the vessel drifting in the mouth of Flowery Branch Creek in Hall County. The vessel was taking on water and was sinking. Towboat USA was called to recover the vessel; the vessel sank below the water line with only the bow exposed before Towboat USA could arrive. Towboat USA was able to recover the vessel and load the vessel onto trailer at Van Pugh North boat ramp.


BARDID: GA-2014-0057
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SKIDAWAY RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ISLE OF HOPE
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 and Occupant had launched their vessel earlier in the day at Kilkenny Marina in Bryan County, Georgia. Operator1 advised he operated the vessel to Savannah, Georgia to watch fireworks. After nightfall while en route back to Kilkenny Marina; Operator1 advised he followed his GPS tracks back. When in the Isle of Hope area, Occupant yelled as they struck a navigational marker. Occupant was ejected. Operator1 pulled Occupant into his vessel and took her to a nearby dock. I asked Operator1 what speed he was traveling and he advised 20-25 miles per hour. I asked Operator1 if he knew that the incident occurred in an idle speed zone. Operator1 advised he had been confused about which zones were applicable to all vessels versus vessels 25 foot in length and over. I asked Operator1 if there had been any prior damage to the vessel; and he advised "No." I asked Operator1 if he had a throwable device on board. Operator1 advised he had a seat cushion. (Not approved lifesaving equipment).

Operator1 provided a written statement at 2330 hours. I did not detect the odor of alcoholic beverages on Operator1's breath, nor did he appear impaired.

Occupant advised she had some cuts and lacerations, but nothing life threatening. Occupant advised they went to Savannah and were going back to Kilkenny when they struck a wooden pole ejecting her into the water. Occupant provided a written statement at 0057 hours on July 5, 2014.

Upon arrival the vessel; the operator and a witness was interviewed. Officer notified United States Coast Guard of the damage to the navigational marker and that it had now become a hazard to navigation. The marker was broke over and submerged slightly at half tide.


BARDID: GA-2014-0058
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TURNERS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: SAVANNAH
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
July 19th, 2014 I Corporal responded to Memorial Hospital in Savannah, Georgia in reference to a reported boating incident. Upon arrival I met with the involved operator of a personal watercraft. Operator1 advised that at approximately 1500 hours he jumped the wake of a vessel in Turners Creek in Chatham County, Georgia. 

Operator1 advised when the PWC landed he was ejected and may have struck the vessel with his leg. Operator1 advised he pulled himself back onto the PWC and operated it back to the boat ramp in Tuners Creek; where he was then transported to the hospital. 

Operator1 is currently being treated for a broken right femur by Doctor.

Alcohol does not appear to be a factor.


BARDID: GA-2014-0059
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TYBEE CREEK
NearestCityorTown: TYBEE ISLAND
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person strikes porller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 26, 2014 at approximately 1657 hrs.  I received a call from Sergeant in reference to a boating incident at Tybee Back River at the south end sand bar where a subject had been cut by a boat prop. 

Operator stated to me that she was not drinking while driving her boat. There were seven people on board an 18’ Tahoe inboard vessel approaching the sand bar at the mouth of the Back River.  The boat ran up to the sand bar to stop and let everyone out onto the sand bar.  The vessel was believed to be out of gear when the victim jumped out of the vessel at the stern and was cut by the propeller.  victim had a cut on his left leg and left arm.  The cuts were approximately 5 inches long.  No bones were broken.


BARDID: GA-2014-0060
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE JACKSON
NearestCityorTown: JACKSON
County: BUTTS
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The victim attempted to step off of his pontoon boat onto a dock when he fell in the water. B.  Cranford was later recovered by the Butts County dive team.  
Cpl. Morris explained that the vessel operator was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. 
At 1610 hours, I interviewed one of the vessel occupants.  Victim brother said his brother Victim took a step from the boat to the dock and fell into the water.  Victim brother said Victim attempted to grab the dock but slipped away and they never saw him again. Victim brother indicated by show of hand that the vessel was within eight to twelve inches from the dock when Victim attempted to step onto the dock.  Victim brother said the boat was moving slightly but that the throttle of the boat was not engaged.  
At 1620 hours, I interviewed another vessel occupant.  Subject said Victim fell between the boat and the dock.  Subject said he saw Victim reach for the dock. Subject said when Victim didn’t surface again he jumped in but couldn’t find Victim.  Subject said, “at that point I had to get ahold of the dock myself”.  Subject said the boat was not moving when Victim stepped from the boat to the dock. Subject indicated by show of hand that the boat was within six to ten inches from the dock when Victim attempted to step onto the dock.  Next, Subject indicated by show of hand that when he jumped into the water to assist victim the boat was approximately 18 to 24 inches from the dock.

At 1632 hours, I interviewed the vessel operator.  Operator said she pulled up next to the dock when Victim opened the door of the pontoon boat.   Operator said Victim stepped from the boat to the dock and had one foot on the dock when he fell into the water.  Operator believes the boat shifted while he had one foot on the dock and one foot on the boat.  Operator said when Victim put one foot on the dock the boat was not moving.  Operator indicated by show of hand that the boat was within six to ten inches of the dock when Victim attempted to step onto the dock.
At 1634 hours, I photographed the 2013 Sun Tracker pontoon boat bearing hull identification number BUJ11098J213 involved in the incident.  I also photographed the dock.
Coroner said the death was caused by drowning.  I received 5 vials of blood that Coroner had drawn from Victim and transported to the GBI Crime Lab in Macon, Georgia.  Alcohol was the cause.


BARDID: GA-2014-0061
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEMERIES CREEK
NearestCityorTown: RICHMOND HILL
County: BRYAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Unknown
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1250 hours, Subject entered into the DNR Fisheries Office at Demeries Creek, in Bryan County.  Father informed the Fisheries Chief, that he had located the body of his daughter, who had been missing along with a kayak from their dock.  The body was recovered approximately a half mile to the North of the dock. 

At approximately 1313 hours, Ranger and Bryan County Captain proceeded in DNR patrol vessel to the location of Victim. Deputy photographed the evidence on scene, including Victim’s body, kayak, paddle and a 375 milliliter bottle of Barton® vodka. 

Corporal met with Father, his wife, and Chaplain to obtain information about the deceased. Father and mother told Corporal they had not seen Victim since the morning of May 7th, 2014. mother said she found a receipt for a five dollar purchase from a local liquor store, the purchase was made at approximately 1400 hours. Father said Victim was not at their residence, when he returned at approximately 1630 hours. Father stated that Victim had a history of drug and alcohol problems, and previous suicide attempts. Father said that on April 4th, 2014, Victim had been arrested for driving under the influence. After returning home, Victim had attempted suicide by jumping off of the dock at their residence. Father had jumped in to bring Victim out of the water. 

On the morning of May 8th, 2014, Father said he checked their dock and discovered a kayak and paddle were missing. At approximately 1000 hours, Father launched his boat at the Demeries Creek boat ramp. Due to low tide, he first traveled down river towards St. Catherine’s Sound. As the tide came in he traveled up Demeries Creek and found Victim lying face down along the bank with the kayak next to her. Father rolled Victim over, upon realizing Victim was deceased; he proceeded to the DNR Fisheries office to report the incident. 

On May 9th, 2014 at approximately 1300 hours, I met with Ranger to photograph the kayak and paddle. Ranger maintained custody of the vessel at the Demeries Creek Fisheries Office.  At approximately 1700 hours, I spoke with the clerk at the gas station and liquor store closest to 16 Demeries Creek Road, the El Cheapo®. The store clerk confirmed Victim’s purchase at approximately 1400 hours on May 7th, 2014. Victim walked to the store then returned to residence. Victim took the kayak from the dock between 1430 hours and 1630 hours, wearing a swimming suit.  

After reviewing physical evidence and witness statements, I believe Victim


BARDID: GA-2014-0062
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
NearestCityorTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of a 2011 Nitro bass boat was sitting with his vessel. Operator was the only person involved in the incident as well as his vessel. Operator's vessel collided with the seawall and was sitting completely out of the water on land. After confirming there were no injuries involved, we began to get information involving the vessel and the operator. Operator advised us that he just finished fishing and was headed back to lakeside boat ramp to take off the water and head to the house. Operator advised he didn’t realize he was that close to the shoreline. He stated it was dark and he looked down to get his flashlight and ran aground. Operator had a friend arrive and assist him in pulling the vessel back into the water. A written witness statement was gathered from Operator. 

 Damage of the vessel consisted of scratches and punctures to the fiberglass hull. The seawall of endured approx. 30 feet of damage. The damage included broken boards and pylons.


BARDID: GA-2014-0064
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Bartow 911 advised that the subjects were pulling another subject on a wake board when the person being towed fell down and possibly broke his femur bone.  The incident occurred in the area of Illinois Creek.  I arrived on scene at Park Marina at 1617 hours.

The subjects were on a rental vessel from Park Marina.  The Bayliner 190 motorboat with registration GA 6688 ZN.  There was seven other occupants on the vessel that was friends with the operator.  The subject on the wake board advised that he was being towed on the wake board when he fell and the impact of the water broke his right femur bone.  Bartow County Fire and EMS treated victim at Park Marina and then transported him to Cartersville Medical Center.


BARDID: GA-2014-0065
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject stated that he was standing by with the boat in the mouth of Clear Creek and the vessel had damage to the hull.  Subject stated that previous night he was under the impression that the boat had no damage.  When I arrived the vessel was still on the shore and sustained damage to the prop, prop shaft, rudder, fins and bottom of the hull.  The engine compartment also had water in it.  Subject arranged for the vessel to be towed back to Glade Marina. Operator stated that he was fishing and had a lure hung up on the shore in Clear Creek.  Operator stated that when he started the engine, he must have hit the throttle because the boat automatically took off to the bank and he struck the shore.  He stated he could not get the boat off the shore and he left the boat and another vessel took him to Park Marina.  END OF REPORT


BARDID: GA-2014-0066
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CANTON
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim advised that he was riding a friend's PWC with one other person in the area of the mouth of Little River. Victim stated that he was traveling upstream in the direction of the bridge and encountered a large wake from a big vessel.  Victim stated that as he went over the first wake he saw a log in the water and turned sharply to avoid the log.  He stated that at that time the PWC stopped and he and his passenger fell off. In the process Victim struck the front of the PWC with his head.  Victim suffered a 4 inch cut and bruises to his forehead.  He also knocked out several teeth.  I spoke to Subject by phone and he explained the same series of events.  subject stated that he saw that Victim was injured and helped him onto the PWC and drove back to Little River boat ramp.  At the ramp another boater called 911.  Subject was not injured in the incident.  There was no damage to the PWC.  Victim provided a written statement.  END OF REPORT


BARDID: GA-2014-0067
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/27/2014 at approximately 14:40 hrs. while on vessel patrol in Hall County on Lake Lanier in Flowery Branch Creek near Van Pugh’s swimming area, I RFC along with my Hall County Sheriff's Department partner, witnessed two PWCs (personal water craft) collide with one another.  I was watching the vessels because they were in operation at an unsafe distance to one another.  While traveling in their direction for a vessel stop, the incident occurred.

Vessel 2 (PWC GA0219PY) was cruising at an approximate speed of 20 to 30 mph, when it suddenly turned approximately 200 degrees.  The sudden change in direction caused vessel 2 to lose momentum and stop.  During the same period, vessel 1 (PWC GA1060BU) was also traveling in the same direction and was in close proximity behind vessel 2.  Its approximate speed was 20 to 30 mph. 

Vessel 1 impacted vessel 2 near the bow on the starboard side at an angle of approximately 90-degrees, causing Operator2 to be thrown from vessel 2.  Operator2 was not wearing the cut-off switch, causing vessel 2 to stay in operation at an approximate speed of 5 to 10 mph turning in circles. 

Once I was on scene and determined that no one was seriously injured from incident, I instructed Operator2 to swim away from vessel 2 and Operator1 not to leave the scene.  I asked Operator2 and Operator1 if they knew each other because of their proximity to each other before the incident.  They both indicated that they had never met.  I also asked Operator2 how much fuel was in vessel 2.  He stated that it was full. 

I used my patrol vessel to slow down vessel 2’s movement while my partner used a long aluminum pole to pull the kill switch.  Somehow, Operator2 did not sustain any injuries other than a slight abrasion to his upper right arm.  Vessel 2 sustained a crack in the hull near the rub rail, a hole in the cowling, and the starboard mirror was torn off.  Vessel 1 sustained no structural damage.

Operator1 received a citation for operating a PWC above ide speed within 100’ of an object in the water.  Operator2 received a citation for operating a PWC without an engine cut of switch attached. 

Incident partially recorded on audio and video device.


BARDID: GA-2014-0068
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: LULA
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 26, 2014 at approximately 1412 hours, I received a phone call from Cpl telling me to call Sgt. about a possible drowning and or boating incident on Lake Lanier.  I called Sgt. at 1414 hours.  Sgt. told me a male was fishing with his father under the Lula Bridge on Hwy 52, when the boat started getting close to the piling. The young male pushed off the piling of the bridge and fell overboard, causing him to gulp in water and shortly lose consciousness. Sgt. told me the father jumped in after him. Two witnesses showed up on kayaks, called EMS and administered CPR.  The victim was transported to North East Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, GA.

          At approximately 1646 hours, Sgt. told me he had an update on Victim from his nurse saying Victim was on a ventilator in critical condition responding to medicine.  Sgt. said Victim’s health history included having an internal defibulator and a brain shunt.

     On June 3, 2014, I called Subject to get information for the boating incident report.  I asked him about Victim’s condition.  Subject told me Victim had been released and was doing fine, as if nothing had ever happened to him. We spoke of the incident and he told me how pleased he was with the Rangers who assisted him and his son with the incident.  

Based on the physical evidence at the scene, the statements of Ranger, and the witness statements it is my opinion that two people were fishing under the Lula Bridge on Lake Lanier when Victim tried to push off the piling of the bridge and fell overboard.  Victim gulped in water unexpectedly and started having trouble swimming.  Subject jumped in after him and got Victim back in the boat with assistance from two female witnesses. CPR was administered until EMS arrived.  EMS transported Victim to NE GA Medical Center for medical treatment.  Victim was placed on a ventilator and administered medication. He fully recovered in the hospital after six days and was released on May 31, 2014 having no further implications.


BARDID: GA-2014-0069
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject told me that his houseboat, which was docked at the time, was shook so bad from a wake, that the third deck broke loose and fell off the top of his boat, which further damaged his boat and the marina's dock. When I arrived the next day around 1330, I spoke with Dock Master of the Marina. Dockmaster stated that he was aware that his docks had been damaged the previous night. I later found Owner's boat and began taking pictures of the damage to the vessel and the dock. When Owner arrived, I had him fill out a witness statement and asked him to explain what happened again. Owner's written and verbal statements both claim that a large wake came and rocked the house boat so hard that the third deck broke off and damaged his boat, and the marina's dock. Based on my observations and experience I conclude the third dock did break away from the vessel. The dock fell in such a way as to further damage the side of the house boat, and the dock of Holiday Marina. In addition, a set of patio furniture and a television set were destroyed. (see property damage list) Later, after Owner had had his boat inspected  and estimates made, he e-mailed a copy of his estimates which came out to $59,642.89.


BARDID: GA-2014-0071
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that they had been out on the lake and were coming back to the dock.  She turned off the engine before the boat was inside of the covered boat dock.  The boat was moving a little fast and victim stood on the bow and put her foot out to stop the boat when she was injured.

Victim was transported to Northside Hospital where Cpl.  interviewed her and her mother.  Corp of Engineer Ranger provided me with the following injury information on Victim - The victim underwent surgery on her left foot at Children’s Heathcare of Atlanta.  They put pins in several toes, a plate on the top of her foot, reset her toes and repaired a laceration on the foot.


BARDID: GA-2014-0072
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST POINT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to Cpl. interview of the operator, they were traveling approximately 40 mph, south bound on Yellow Jacket Creek, and south of Sunny Point Access, with two people, when they encountered a wake and made a hard right turn into it, ejecting all three of the individuals off of the port side of the vessel.  Occupant1 stated that Occupant2 surfaced several feet away and behind her and was saying that she could not see.  Sgt. advised me that another personal watercraft and a pontoon came by after the incident and rendered aid.  The pontoon boat transported operator, Occupant1, and Occupant2 to the boat ramp at Sunny Point Access were they were met by Troup County Emergency Medical Services.  Occupant2 was then transported by EMS to the medical center in Columbus.  The accident PWC was operated back to Sunny Point Access and both PWC’s were released at the scene.  Sgt. stated that all three vessels had come to the lake together.  

Occupant2 was evaluated at the medical center in Columbus and treated for fractures in the sinus and orbital cavity of the right eye, and received twenty five stitches for the laceration above the right eye.


BARDID: GA-2014-0073
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE TOBOSOFKEE
NearestCityorTown: MACON
County: BIBB
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The witnesses stated that the victim fell while being pulled on a wake board and when victim came back up, he had a gash on his head. Subject1 jumped in the water and helped the victim into the boat. Subject1 held a compress on the cut while Subject2 drove to the boat dock.

Fox inspected the wake board for signs of impact but could find no obvious trace of having impacted the victim.  However, the victim's laceration appeared to be consistent with having been caused by the edge of the wakeboard.

Victim was in ICU at the Medical center due to a fractured skull along with the cut on victims head. The victim called me shortly afterwards and stated that he had a fractured skull and wouldn't know until the next day if he would need surgery to relieve the pressure on his brain.
On 8-29-14, I called and checked on Victim and he stated that the doctors had to go in and put a titanium plate where the cut was due his fractures.


BARDID: GA-2014-0074
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BLACKSHEAR
NearestCityorTown: CORDELE
County: CRISP
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was traveling south on Lake Blackshear when it struck the dock. The vessel ramped over the dock causing a 46” section to collapse into the water. The vessel then made a slight right hand turn and continued on an additional 72' 8" before striking the dock and boathouse. Upon striking the dock portion of the boathouse Vessel #1 ramped over the 5' wide walkway portion and entered the north wall of the west side boat slip. Vessel #1 entered the boathouse striking the bow of Vessel #2 which was on its lift. Vessel #1 continued to ramp upwards and struck the east side wall moving it 3' westward as it continued upwards striking the right side of the lift support bar and several rafters located 12' above the waterline. Vessel #1 then exited the south side of the boathouse causing extensive damage to the south side wall and roof before coming to rest just south of the boathouse. Vessel #1 then fled the scene. 

Operator was located at Cabin #8 at Lake Blackshear Resort and was subsequently arrested for Operating a vessel under the influence, Failure to regulate speed and Failure to render assistance / identify vessel and self at a boating accident.


BARDID: GA-2014-0075
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating vessel #1. He was coming out of a cove from fishing near the mouth of Six Mile Creek on Lake Lanier.  Operator2 was traveling out of the mouth of Four Mile Creek headed into Six Mile Creek. Vessel #1 struck vessel #2 on the Port Side. Operator1 and subject1 were ejected from their vessel into the water. They were able to swim back to their vessel and climb in. Both parties involved left the scene of the incident to try and get to the respective trailer before their boats sank. Operator1 was limping on his left leg. He stated his knee was hurting. Operator1 saw a doctor and was diagnosed with a bruised left knee cap. He was told to stay off it for three days and be on light duty for an additional five days. V1 occupant also saw a doctor. V1 occupant was advised by his doctor to stay out of work for one day and then be own light duty for an additional four days. V1 occupant advised me he did not miss any days of work.
The owner of the Scout Boat did not have an estimate on the vessel.


BARDID: GA-2014-0076
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARTWELL
NearestCityorTown: HARTWELL
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject had fallen off the bow of a pontoon boat while on Lake Hartwell.  Subsequently, the victim was struck by the propeller.  The pontoon's operator admitted to consuming alcohol during the day.  Corporal administered field sobriety exercises to Operator1, and no signs of impairment were observed.  

Occupants on the vessel said they were traveling very slow at the time of the incident.   According to Operator1's witness statement, two people were dangling their feet over the bow of the vessel.  Their mother sat with them while they were riding on the bow of the vessel.  According to Mother's witness statement, she too was dangling her feet over the bow of the vessel.  Victim stated a wave caught his foot and pulled him overboard.  Operator1 stated he and the father, retrieved the Victim from the water.  While Victim was being aided from the water Mother called 911.  According to the 911 log, the call was placed at 1605 hours.  Operator1 said they returned back to land as fast as possible and waited for paramedics to arrive.  Victim was transported by ambulance to Greenville Memorial Hospital.

On May 11th at approximately 1108 hours, I obtained a warrant to search the pontoon.  After obtaining the search warrant, Corporal and I went to the pontoon's location at Hartwell Marina.  I observed a receipt on the boat from Walmart, where someone had purchased beer prior to the incident (see photograph 0007).  I observed a cooler with several iced beer in the boat.  The pontoon had all of the required safety equipment onboard.  After searching the inside of the vessel, we asked the marina staff to remove the pontoon from the water with a fork lift.  We noticed a green shirt was torn and wrapped in the propeller (see photograph 0017).  I noticed each blade on the propeller was freshly broken off (see photograph 0020).   We removed the propeller with the shirt attached, and seized it as evidence.  Additionally, we seized the Walmart receipt.


BARDID: GA-2014-0077
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
subject stated Victim hurt is back when he fell while water boarding behind the pontoon boat.   Victim was transported to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.  She stated Victim's  back was x-rayed just to make sure he didn't have any broken bones.  It was determined that Victim just had strained back muscles.  I met and talked with the family on Thursday, August 21, 2014 at there residence at 1715 hours.  When I met with them they said Victim was back to 100%.


BARDID: GA-2014-0078
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3, 2014 at approximately 1100 hours a vessel (vessel 1) was coming into the area of Cocktail Cove on Lake Sindey Lanier.  The vessel was going slow and producing a large wake.  V3's  was in the middle of three vessels tied to each other and all were anchored.  V3 advised me that the wake of this vessel hit his vessel on the Port side causing the vessel to shift.  V3's back Port side handrail was broken in half and his starboard side pole was dented.  V3's foundation of the dented pole on the starboard side was also broke.  (vessel 2) had damage on his starboard rub rail.  This portion of his vessel was dented.  The owner of the vessel on the port side of V3's vessel declined to be included in this report.  The operator of the vessel 1 advised me that he was aware of the wake he caused.  vessel was more than 100 feet from V3's vessel and v2 vessel when this incident occurred.


BARDID: GA-2014-0079
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 30th, at approximately 1330 hours I was notified by GSP Dispatch of a boating incident at Port Royale Marina.  Vessel #1 struck Vessel #2 while trying to dock at the courtesy docks.  Vessel #2 was empty and docked at the time of the incident.  Operator1 stated he was at idle speed attempting to dock and struck the Port side pontoon on Vessel #2.  The Pontoon on Vessel #2 was creased and possible punctured.


BARDID: GA-2014-0080
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
My initial observation was there were two vessels involved in a collision and the vessels were still stuck together in that manner.  An Ebbtide deck style vessel had made impact with its bow into the starboard side of a Bayliner cabin style vessel.   The stern light was burning on the Ebbtide, but no other lights were burning on either of the vessel upon arrival.  RFC and I secured the scene until another patrol vessel arrived.  Sgt. returned from shore to the scene.  Sgt. advised that he had assisted 3 subjects to shore and one subject had advised she was the operator of the Ebbtide.  Sgt. advised me that Operator1 had advised him that she was the operator of the Ebbtide at the time of the incident.  Sgt. advised me that he could smell the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Operator1 person while he was speaking with her.  Sgt. stayed with the vessels and collected floating debris from the scene.  Sgt. located a red in color Coleman Bag Cooler floating in the vicinity of the incident that contained (1) bottle of Coors Light Beer.

RFC and I arrived at Vanns Tavern Park and began to collect information from all persons involved.  RFC Crump spoke with Forsyth County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Personnel and received all the personal information for each of the six persons aboard the two vessels.  Operator2 age 50 was the operator of the Bayliner.  At the time of impact he was in the captain’s chair operating the vessel.  Operator2 had a severe laceration to his right lower leg and a possible broken femur according to Forsyth County EMS Personnel.  Occupant1 age 50 was below deck in the rear sleeping area on the Bayliner at time of impact.  She had minor cuts and scrapes.  Occupant2 age 21 was below deck on sleeper located on the starboard side of the vessel about mid-ship.  He had cuts, scrapes, chest pain, and a contusion in his scalp according to Forsyth County EMS Personnel.  Occupant 3 age 17 was on the top deck of the vessel on the port side sitting next to Operator2 at the time of impact.  She had an open fracture of her right femur, scrapes, cuts, and bruising


BARDID: GA-2014-0083
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 of the stand on vessel stated that a lot of vessels were leaving Flamingo Cove due to inclement weather (thunderstorms).  As they were traveling south toward Clark Creek Landing the rain became so hard on their skin, they slowed down.  As they were slowing down, the vessel behind them failed to notice in time and glanced off the starboard side of Operator1's vessel.

Operator2 of the give way vessel stated they also left Flamingo Cove due to inclement weather and as they were traveling south back toward Clark Creek Landing, the vessel they were following came to a stop and she was not able to correct in time. Said she immediately turned hard right, but was not able to prevent the vessels from colliding.  Operator2 stated that the wake of the stand on vessel was so big that she could not maneuver her vessel out of the wake in time to avoid collision.

Operator1's vessel was damaged at a value of $2,100.91, as per attached estimate.


BARDID: GA-2014-0084
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim, a 15 year old male was riding a tube. When the boat changed direction; Victim fell off and impacted the water. Victim broke his right leg. He was transported to North East Georgia Medical Center by Hall County EMS.


BARDID: GA-2014-0085
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BURTON
NearestCityorTown: CLAYTON
County: RABUN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 1, 2014 at approximately 1330 hours, I was patrolling Lake Burton by vessel when I heard Rabun County 911 request EMS to respond to a pwc incident on Lake Burton on Wildcat Creek near Moccasin Creek.  I responded to the scene with Rabun County Deputy arriving on scene at 1348 hours.  The incident occurred on the lake at 162 Lonestar, Clayton, GA.  I met with medical personnel and found three female subjects laying down on the ground near the sea wall.  I spoke with a witness, who told me he saw the incident.  Witness told me he saw the pwc coming towards him at full speed and he wondered if it was going to pass through a short distance between him and his pontoon boat and a dock.  But then he said the pwc made a hard left turn, crashing into the sea wall.  Witness said all three occupants were ejected off the pwc and landed right where they were laying.

I spoke with a passenger on the pwc.  She was able to stand up and walk a short distance and then sit down.  I was able to retrieve information from her and the operator.  Subject told me she was sitting on the back of the pwc, behind operator and her daughter who was sitting in front of operator.  Subject said she didn’t know what happened. 
 
I spoke with operator who said she was confused.  Operator was complaining about her left side hurting her.  I asked her what happened.  Operator said the throttle was stuck on the pwc and she didn’t know why.  Operator said she made a hard left turn and hit the sea wall.  I asked for her information and received consent to take possession of the pwc.  All three occupants were able to stand and walk to the ambulance.  They were transported to Habersham Emergency Medical Center for evaluation.
 
On September 5, I picked up witness statements from the Gainesville office where RFC Chambers had left them for me.  At 1300 hours, I met with Operator at their residence.  I asked Operator about her injuries and about the incident.  Operator received a sprained left wrist and left ankle, bruised ribs, right swollen knee and minor scratches all over her body.  Operator said she had a hard time remembering what happened, but after talking to subject and her granddaughter she seemed to remember a little more.  Operator said that there was a lot of activity on the lake and they had left LaPrades to go for a ride.  Operator thought while granddaughter was seated in front of her, she may have had her hand on the throttle when they were going down the lake, Operator said she may not have had full control of the ski and that’s why she thought the throttle may have been hung up.


BARDID: GA-2014-0086
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BURTON
NearestCityorTown: CLAYTON
County: RABUN
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
I was told by RFC that Operator, age 65, from Seneca, SC was operating vessel 1 which is described as a 2000 Malibu Response LX ski boat bearing Georgia registration GA 6115 KT (HIN MB2Y6530B000) with four kids in the bow area and one adult passenger. Vessel 1 is a rental boat owned by Anchorage Marine Inc. on Lake Burton. 

Subject1, age 44, from Prosper, TX was in the passenger seat, and four others were in the bow area. Operator was turning the vessel in a circle to create waves in an effort to splash the kids in the bow. When the bow of vessel 1 impacted the wave, the bow took on a lot of water and Subject2 and Victim were ejected out of the vessel. Operator immediately put the vessel in reverse and heard Subject2 yelling that he could not find Victim. Operator jumped in the water to look for Victim and found him stuck in the propeller underneath vessel 1. A pontoon boat came to their aid and assisted them with getting back to their boat house at the residence. Several people notified Rabun County 911 for help during this incident. Rabun County Fire and EMS personnel responded to the scene and lifted vessel 1 out of the water on a boat lift in the boat house to remove the victim from the propeller. Sgt. took several photographs of the victim while they were removing him from the propeller. (see RCSO photographs). The victim had already been removed from underneath the vessel by the time I arrived on scene. RFC and I looked at vessel 1 which was tied up at the dock. All of the seat cushions had been removed from vessel 1 and they were drying out on the dock. I observed the interior of vessel 1 was extremely wet and the bilge pump would automatically pump water periodically. I photographed vessel 1 in this condition (see photographs) and made arrangements for the fire boat to tow it back to the DNR boat house. We spoke to the victim's father about the incident and investigative process. RFC called the owner of Anchorage Marine Inc, about the incident and the involvement of one of his rental boats. Owner gave RFC and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) investigators consent to do what we needed to the vessel to investigate this incident. RFC and I drove to the DNR boat house and removed the patrol boat. The Rabun County Fire boat towed vessel 1 to the DNR boat house where we locked vessel 1 in to secure it overnight.


BARDID: GA-2014-0088
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLINT RIVER
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, September 14, 2014 at approximately 1916 hours, I received a report of a boating incident that occurred on the Flint River via Georgia State Patrol Dispatch. The initial information was that a female had been struck in the head by a boat anchor and was in route to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital.
 
At 1919 hours, I called and spoke to the victim, who advised that she had been struck in the head by a wakeboard operated by a juvenile, while swimming in the Flint River with her boyfriend. She stated that the incident occurred on the west side of the river at the northern most sand bar in Lee County. Victim advised she obtained the name of the operator towing the skier and the vessel’s Georgia registration number.

I arrived at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital Emergency Room at 1924 hours and spoke to Victim and Boyfriend. Victim provided me with the vessel operator’s name, and vessel registration number GA 6530DC. A check of the vessel’s registration determined that Operator was the owner of the 2007 Grey/White 19’7” Chaparral boat. Victim stated that after the incident, Operator and his wife beached their boat to check on her condition. Victim indicated that Operator was traveling north on the Flint River and steered his boat within approximately 20 feet of her and Boyfriend’s location in the water. She stated that Operator was towing two skiers on wakeboards and that both skiers let go of the ski ropes and glided towards the sand bar. Victim explained that one of the skiers came in to her left, coming to rest between two boats that were approximately 30 yards apart. The other skier struck her in the head with his wakeboard before coming to rest. Boyfriend rendered aid to Victim, stated that the wound started to bleed after he and other witnesses applied ice to the wound. Victim and Boyfriend remained on the beach for approximately one hour before returning to their residence. Victim explained that after showering, she realized she needed to seek medical attention for the wound. I obtained witness statements from Victim and Boyfriend and photographed the wound. Victim provided me with the names of three persons that witnessed the incident.

Witness stated he had observed the vessel operator (Operator) steer his vessel within 20 to 25 yards from the victim. He explained that the victim (Victim) was standing in the water along with her boyfriend, along with other boaters that had beached their boats on the sand bar. He stated that the operator’s speed, which he estimated at 20 miles per hour, and the boat’s wake was significant and uncalled for.

Cpl. and I traveled to Industry Insulation, To speak with the vessel’s operator, Operator. Operator advised that he was operating his 20 foot Chaparral boat on the Flint River. He stated that he was towing his two grandsons, on separate wake boards. He advised that as he passed by the west bank, his grandsons let go of the tow rope and glided towards the beach. Operator stated that he did not see anything happen due to his responsibility as the operator to navigate the boat but stated, “The skiers are my responsibility”. He commented that he turned his boat back south and parked his boat on the beach; only then did he become aware that one of the wake boards had struck a young lady in the head.


BARDID: GA-2014-0090
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 11, 2014 at approximately 0800 hours I received a call in reference to a boating accident on Lake Lanier in the Sardis Creek area. I responded to the Sardis boat ramp and spoke with the operator and passenger of each vessel. It was determined through vessel damage and witness statements that Vessel 1 was fishing approximately 50 yards off the bank in Sardis Creek. He stated he was operating his trolling motor at the time. Vessel 2 left the boat ramp and began traveling out towards the main channel of the lake. Due to the fog and low light the operator of Vessel 2 was unable to see Vessel 1 until he was about to strike it. Vessel 2 made a hard right turn in an attempt to avoid the collision, but was unable to avoid striking Vessel 1. Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on the Starboard side at the stern, causing damage to the hull on the corner above the rub-rail. Damage was also done to the motor cover, steering system, and the stern light. Vessel 2 was damaged on the port side below the waterline from approximately mid-ship to the stern. It was determined through the investigation that both vessels were running their navigation lights at the time.


BARDID: GA-2014-0091
State: GA
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NOTTELY LAKE
NearestCityorTown: BLAIRSVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
A rented Personal Water Craft that had been flipped over and swamped. Rental manager stated that the motor and electrical system had been damaged and the PWC was a total loss.  I asked where was the PWC located at and Rental manager stated at North Georgia Water Sports. I arrived at North Georgia Water Sports and collected the information from the yellow over white Seadoo Personal Water Craft displaying Georgia registration numbers GA0871VS (See 156 VIDMIC August 31,2014). 

I interviewed the operator of the PWC Operator and he stated that he was idling beside the disabled pontoon that was drifting toward the bank in the area of Point 2 on Nottely Lake. Operator stated the PWC rolled over and started to sink ( See Operator statement). I interviewed the owner of North Georgia Water Sports. PWC owner stated that he went to the TVA Boat Ramp to assist Operator with repairing the disabled Pontoon boat. PWC owner stated that he observed that the PWC apparently had been swamped due to it sitting so low in the water. PWC owner completed the repair on the pontoon and loaded the sinking PWC onto the trailer and towed it back to North Georgia Water Sports. PWC owner removed the spark plugs and stated that the cylinders were full of water causing damage to the motor and electrical system ( See PWC owner's written statement). I collected the statements and attached a map from Google Earth of the area where this incident occurred. This report is based solely on the information made available to me at the time I received it and the results may be changed or modified with the discovery of new information.


BARDID: GA-2014-0092
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that around 1230 hours he was operating the vessel pulling two young ladies on a tube and his wife was sitting in the front of the vessel on one of the bow seats. He stated that he throttled up trying to bring the vessel on a plain. Operator stated that a large cabin cruiser was going by and the vessel he was operating hit the wake from the cruiser. Operator said that their vessel came out of the water. He also said that victim was thrown up in the air from the wake and came down in the floor of the vessel injuring her back. Operator said he never saw the wake because the bow of his vessel was turned up due to coming up on plain. I asked Operator to call me once victim got out of the hospital so I could get her diagnosis and ask her side of the incident. He told me he would. 

 The two young ladies on the tube being towed said they didn’t see anything since they were on the tube. 

On September 24, 2014 I contacted Operator (since he had not called me) and asked him if  I could talk to victim about the incident. He said “No.” He did agree to let her fill out a Witness Statement Form. I emailed him the form on September 24, 2014. I also asked him to include her Doctor diagnosis. I never received an email or any other calls from them.


BARDID: GA-2014-0093
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CARTER'S LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CHATSWORTH
County: MURRAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon my arrival, I was approached by a white male, later identified as the operator of the vessel in question, Operator.  I asked Operator if he or anyone else was injured.  He replied that he was uninjured and alone on the vessel at the time of the fire.  I then asked him to describe what had happened.  He stated that he had launched the boat from the Damsite boat ramp and motored out to the mouth of the cove.  He stated that after operating the boat for less than 30 minutes, he noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment in the floor of the vessel.  He opened the compartment and the engine was on fire.  He stated that he attempted to extinguish the fire with an extinguisher.  He stated that when he did this, the smoke was too thick to see or breath.  Operator then decided to try and beach the vessel and jump overboard.  He stated that he swam back to the ramp and could not get out of the water due to the steep rocky bank until he got back to the ramp.  Operator was asked if he had ran the engine blowers to vent gas fumes and he stated yes.  He was also asked if the engine was equipped with a backfire flame arrestor.  He stated that he was unsure.  I then asked him for his driver's license and wrote down initial information from him.
      I then made contact with two officers from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers who had a vessel on the water.  I then notified SOC of the vessel fire without injuries by phone.  The two USACE officers and I then traveled by vessel out into the lake where they had already located Operator' vessel.  Operator' vessel had drifted down the lake in a Western direction and come to rest up against the rocks and rip-rap of the dam.  There were no visible signs of smoke or fire damage when the vessel was first observed.  There was, however, extensive damage to the bow area of the hull, approximately 2 1/2 to 3 feet above the water line that was consistent with the vessel striking a fixed object or rocky shore line.  We then attached a rope to the vessel and pulled it back to the boat ramp.  We assisted Operator with getting his vessel back onto a trailer.
     After the vessel was removed from the water, I boarded it and inspected the damage to the engine compartment.  There was minimal visual damage to the engine, however, it was apparent that a fire had occurred.  On top of the engine, what appeared to be a breather cap had been hot enough to be distorted in shape as if it had melted.  It was obvious that a fire extinguisher had been used to try and put out the fire due to all of the extinguishing powder left on the engine and inside the compartment.  I also observed an empty fire extinguisher lying in the floor of the vessel near the operators seat.  I noted that the throttle was in gear and slightly in the forward position.  There were minimal signs of smoke or flame damage to the inside of the engine compartment.  None of the hoses or electrical cables appeared to have fire damage.  There was no visible fire damage to the deck or outside of the vessel.  The only external damage was a large impact area on the bow area of the hull.  This impact area was approximately 2 to 3 foot in diameter with several cracks to the fiberglass hull resonating from the center.  There was no paint transfer from another vessel and appeared upon inspection to be damage from striking a rocky shore line.


BARDID: GA-2014-0094
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WOODSTOCK
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon my arrival, I noticed a yellow Pro Craft 192 Super Pro bass boat (GA Reg # GA66878NZ) on the shore approximately 12 feet from the water’s edge. The throttle was located in the forward position and the key was in the "on" position.  The motor was tilted upward and was lodged in a horizontal position.   I also noticed the dock had been struck by the Pro Craft.  

The vessel struck the dock at approximately 50 degrees on the left side of the dock looking from the shoreline.  The initial impact with the dock caused the bow eye to be bent and pushed to the port side of the vessel (see photo # 63.)  As the vessel ramped over the dock, the lower unit on the motor struck the dock (see photo # 88.)  This impact caused the motor to tilt up and broke the bottom of the trim cylinder (see photo #s 70 & 71.)  The bottom part of the cylinder (Evidence # 1) was located on the dock approximately 8 feet from the lower unit impact site with the dock (Evidence # 2).  The motor became lodged in the upward position when the cowling struck the rear fishing seat (see photo #s 43 & 46.)  This impact of the motor with the transom caused two major breaks in the transom.  As the vessel travelled over the dock the keel struck the handrail on the right side of the dock pushing it toward the water (see photo # 13).  The starboard side of the vessel struck the end of the top left hand rail and gouged the vessel (see photo #s 53 & 54.)  The impact also bent the left handrail down toward the gangway and pushed the top rail toward the shoreline approximately 31 inches (see photo # 113.)  The vessel became airborne and had a secondary impact with the shoreline.  From the first impact with the dock to the secondary impact with the shoreline was approximately 60 feet.  During this secondary impact, Operator was ejected from the vessel and landed approximately 15 feet from the shoreline.  This area was located by the large amount of blood on the ground.  RFC also confirmed this was the area Operator was laying when he was initially treated by EMS.  After measurements and photographs were taken, all of the fishing poles and important items were taken off of the boat and secured in the DNR LED boat house on Allatoona Lake until it could be returned to Operator.

I went to Kennestone Hospital to speak with Operator.  I met with Operator and his girlfriend, at approximately 0030 hours.  I asked Operator if he would speak with me and he said he would.  I asked Operator what had happened and he said he had been at Sunset Grille around 2 pm, ate lunch and had 2 Crown and Cokes.  Operator said he went fishing after lunch on the lake.


BARDID: GA-2014-0095
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CROOKED RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ST MARYS
County: CAMDEN
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon talking with the operator and the injured passenger it was determined that operatorwas operating a 16 foot Carolina Skiff in the Hog Hammock area off Crooked River with subject riding as a passenger. It was late afternoon and around low tide when the two decided to leave the area and proceed back to Crooked River State Park. While trying to leave they struck a shell bed or sand bar and came to a sudden stop, the passenger was ejected from the vessel out the left side and struck his left arm on the ground. He got back in the boat and they returned to another vessel that was also fishing in the area and asked them if they would assist them in getting out of the area and back to Crooked River State Park.
   Once at the boat ramp, victim was transported to Southeast Georgia Campus by Camden County Fire Rescue to have his arm checked for possible fracture. victim was found to not have a broken arm and was released. When asked about his injuries, victim stated that he had a badly bruised left arm.


BARDID: GA-2014-0097
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MERIWETHER
NearestCityorTown: WOODBURY
County: MERIWETHER
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On the morning of August 6th, 2014 at approximately 07:58 hours, I, Ranger First Class was contacted by Captain concerning a possible drowning that occurred the night before in Meriwether County, on Lake Meriwether.  Capt. advised me that I was to be the primary CIRT investigating officer for the case.  

	On August 7th, at approximately 07:00 hours, I arrived at Lake Meriwether to assist with the search and to conduct my investigation.  I obtained an early report from a Meriwether County Sheriff’s Deputy, of the events of the incident.  Deputy stated in his report that at approximately 21:00 hours he observed a vehicle parked at the lake after dark.   Deputy stated that he made numerous attempts with his vehicles loud speaker for anyone left on the lake to come off of the water due to the park being closed after dark.  Deputy’s report stated that he returned at approximately 23:00 hours and the vehicle was in the same location.  Deputy contacted Corporal with the Department of Natural Resources and advised him of a possible overdue boater at Lake Meriwether.  

	At approximately 01:27 hours on August 6th, Cpl. with assistance of Deputy located an overturned tan in color kayak and a yellow and black personal floatation device floating along the shoreline. Subject called and advised that she regularly checks on Victim but had not been able to make contact with him that night.  Subject also advised that Victim had recently purchased a kayak and had planned on fishing Lake Meriwether on the afternoon of August 5th. 

	At 07:15 hours Victim was found floating approximately 100 yards from the bank where Victim's vehicle was parked.  Identification was found on the victim’s body, positively identifying him.  The body was transported via EMS to the GBI Crime Lab for an autopsy.  

	Based on the reports of Deputy and others, I have drawn the conclusion that this incident is an accidental drowning that could have possibly been prevented if Victim had worn his personal floatation device.  Victim's inexperience with the type of vessel and his age may have played a role in incident.  This is a true and accurate statement based on the information from those involved and knowledge acquired through the investigation.  This opinion is based solely on the information given to me at the time and may change upon discovery of new information.

Nothing further.


BARDID: GA-2014-0098
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, September 1, 2014 vessel "2" was drifting in the Chattahoochee River of Lake Lanier near the mouth of Ada creek.  The occupants were in the process of switching out water skiers.  One subject was in the water approximately five feet from the stern of the vessel and off to the port side. The occupants of the vessel noticed vessel "1" traveling towards them and could not see a driver.  They began to shout and wave their arms in an effort to gain his attention.
The operator of vessel "1" was traveling Southbound in the Chattahoochee River on lake Lanier.  As he approached Ada creek, a bucket that contained chicken livers that he was using for fishing bait fell in the floor of his boat.  He reached down to pick them up and lost his balance.  When he looked up, he noticed a boat only feet away from him.  His vessel struck the starboard stern of the other vessel and ramped up the vessel.  Vessel "1" came to rest on top of vessel "2" then fell back into the water off of the starboard side.  The entire length of vessel (1) entered into vessel (2).  The impact with the boat caused one subject to be thrown from vessel (2) and five victims to be injured.  Most of the injuries were minor in nature.  The driver of vessel "2" sustained massive lacerations to her head and scalp and broken ribs.

After the accident, the operator of vessel (1) remained on scene and offered assistance to the injured parties. He sustained only minor scrapes and bruises and did not require any medical treatment.

911 was called and DNR was notified.  Both vessels and all occupants were moved to a courtesy dock at Sportsman Club Road.  In all, five victims from vessel (2) were treated for their injuries at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.  RFC arrived on scene and obtained witness statements from the operator of vessel (1) and three occupants of vessel (2).  He also had both vessels moved to Sardis Creek Park.  Corporal then took possession of both vessels for evidence collection. All witnesses were interviewed and both vessels were photographed.  They were then released to their respective owners.

At this point, the operator of Vessel (1) is being charged with Reckless operation of a vessel and operating a vessel within 100' of an object in the water.  Both charges are misdemeanors.  The incident is still under investigation as to whether a felony charge of serious injury by vessel applies due to the injuries on operator2.  No charges are pending on the owner, occupants, or operator of vessel (2).


BARDID: GA-2014-0099
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-26 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
In early June I received a call about a houseboat being partially submerged in the Mouth of Taylor Creek on Lake Lanier.  I advised the caller to let me know when he could meet me and to try to get me the contact information for the people who witnessed the boat sinking.  In late September, he finally provided me with his version of the circumstances that resulted in the boat sinking and a witness list.  I have attempted to contact each of the witnesses on numerous occasions and was only able to speak with one of them.  He advised me that he was unable to determine the exact cause of the vessel sinking but advised that the boat owner had been forced to have the boat pumped out numerous times because of a leak in the hull.
At this time, I am unable to determine what caused the vessel to partially sink.


BARDID: GA-2014-0100
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: GWINNETT
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sept. 1, 2014, an adult female was a passenger on a vessel (V01: MARQUIS / 2013 / 54 F / BLACK / GA0017LN ), with three others. Based upon witnesses' statements, subjects were returning to the dock after watching  the sunset. While en route to the dock, Victim needed to urinate and tried to use the rest rooms onboard the vessel. Victim broke one toilet attempting to get it to work. When Victim couldn't get either toilet to work, she went to the upper deck and told Operator that she had broken one of the toilets and placed a plastic piece from the toilet on a table. She told Operator to stop the vessel so she could jump in the water and relieve herself. Operator put the vessel in neutral and Victim and one other went to the back swim platform. Victim removed her wrap and dove into the water but did not resurface. Sgt. informed me that Victim had experience as a competition diver and was an experienced swimmer.  Cpl told me that no use of alcohol was detected from Operator.


BARDID: GA-2014-0101
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: TYBEE ISLAND
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
It was a cloudy day with moderate wind.  Swells were up to 3 feet and it was a low incoming tide.  At approximately 0930 hours, two individuals were traveling in a small vessel near a wash out area, between Little Tybee Island and Williamson Island.  Upon entering the sound, the vessel struck a sandbar.  Both parties exited the vessel, with Occupant at the bow and Operator at the stern.  A wave hit the vessel and swamped it.  Another wave hit the vessel rolling it over and striking Operator in the head.  Operator went under the water.  Occupant was able to locate Operator and life jackets.  Occupant pulled Operator to shore where she attempted to revive him, but he swallowed too much water.  Occupant called 911.  Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department (SCMPD) Marine Patrol Unit and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) were the first to arrive on scene.  Occupant advised the USCG to stop CPR because too much time had passed.  According to SCMPD, Operator was blue and unresponsive.  SCMPD carried Operator to the Landings Harbor, while the USCG carried Occupant and her dog to the Landings Harbor.  DNR officers were waiting at the Landings Harbor.  

The boat had a strong smell of chlorine.  

The vessel was a Rogue open boat.  The Georgia registration was GA 0237 CX and Hull I.D. # RTZ160175696.  It had a 40 horse power, Yamaha, engine with a serial # 67CL1012511 N.  The vessel length was 15’ 8”.  The beam width was 5’ 5”.  The freeboard height was 1’ 2”.  The draft was 1’ 6.5”.  It had 3 personal floatation devices and 1 throwable device inside.  It did not contain a fire extinguisher.  It also contained other miscellaneous camping supplies.   

At approximately 1642 hours, I made contact with the Chatham County Coroner.  Coronor told me he contacted the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and requested they perform the autopsy.  He confirmed bruising on the left side of Operator’s face.  He also stated Operator had risk factors for heart attack.  His report is included in this case file.
On July 7, 2014 at approximately 1535 hours, I spoke with Occupant’s sister. She had questions regarding her sister’s boat.  I asked about her sister’s condition.  Subject stated her sister was fine physically and had no injuries from the incident.


BARDID: GA-2014-0102
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WASSAW SOUND
NearestCityorTown: SKIDAWAY ISLAND
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
CPL explained the vessel was drifting up to the north beach of Wassaw Island when an occupant dove head first into less than two feet of water.  The vessel was not under power, the engine was trimmed up, and the anchor was still in the vessel.  

The vessel had a Georgia registration of GA 6672 NS and Hull I.D. number of GDY54165D111.  It had a 225 horsepower Yamaha engine with a serial number of 69JX1032981.  The vessel length was 22’. The vessel beam was 8’ 4’’.     

On October 24, 2014 I received a copy of the coroner’s report.  I contacted the GBI and received a copy the autopsy report.  The autopsy report concluded the manner of death to be an accident due to shallow water dive.


BARDID: GA-2014-0103
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUWANNEE CANAL
NearestCityorTown: WAYCROSS
County: WARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Starting in gear
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 18, 2014, Operator rented a vessel from Okefenokee Adventures. At approximately 1150 hours, Operator signed the rental agreement and reviewed operating procedures with Okefenokee Adventures employee.  Safety equipment rented with the vessel included two (2) type II personal flotation devices and a paddle. The vessel is a fourteen foot Alumacraft, Sierra1436 LT model, displaying a hull identification number of ACBD6128H314. The vessel is registered with the state of Georgia (GA1075XZ) and is insured by Philadelphia Insurance Company. The vessel is equipped with a six horsepower Yamaha outboard motor, F6SMHA model, serial number 6BXS1029391.

Operator and his wife boarded the vessel docked at the Suwannee Recreation Center and traveled approximately six miles along the Suwannee Canal in a northwest direction to the Coffee Bay shelter located in Ware County, Georgia. Operator pulled the bow of the vessel onto the bank near the restroom facility. According to a written statement given by Operator, they arrived at the Coffee Bay shelter at 1315 hours and remained there until approximately 1345 hours. Operator said when they were ready to leave, he pushed the vessel to the edge of the bank. Wife boarded the vessel and sat down in the middle seat. It is unknown, at this time, whether Wife was seated facing towards the bow or the stern of the vessel. Operator boarded the vessel and sat in the operator's seat at the stern of the vessel, facing towards the bow. Operator stated he used a paddle to push the vessel away from the bank into the Suwannee Canal. 

Operator stated he had difficultly starting the motor and attempted shifting between gears: forward, neutral and reverse. When Operator started the motor, it was in forward gear with the throttle turned up. The vessel ramped over floating vegetation and debris that obstructed the entire width of the canal. Operator and Wife were ejected from the vessel into the canal. The depth of the water in the canal was approximately six feet. Operator stated that neither he nor Wife were wearing a personal flotation device when they were ejected from the vessel and that Wife could not swim. 

Operator stated the vessel circled to the starboard side and the propeller became entangled in Wife's clothing.  Operator stated that he attempted to hold Wife's head above water and used a pocket knife to cut Wife's clothing from the propeller. Operator stated that he attempted to pull Wife onto the floating debris but the debris continued to submerge under their weight. Operator said he climbed back into the vessel and attempted to pull Wife back into vessel but the vessel overturned. Operator said at this time he was wearing a personal flotation device. Operator estimated that Wife remained conscious between 15 to 30 minutes after entering the water.  Operator stated after approximately two hours in the water, he was able to pull Wife up onto the bank. Operator said he believed Wife was deceased at this time. 

Operator said he boarded the vessel and used a cypress log to push the vessel into deeper water. Operator started the motor and drove the vessel back over the floating debris.


BARDID: GA-2014-0104
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator2 described the incident as a result of sharp turns being made by her and Operator1 in close proximity to one another.  Operator2 said that Operator1 passed from left to right in front of her.  Operator2 said “I never crossed her path”.  Operator2 said, " Operator1 made a sharp turn and victim flipped off".  It is thought that the victim jumped off V1 and that he was then struck by v2.  Victim suffered multiple skull fractures and traumatic brain injury.


BARDID: GA-2014-0105
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/16/2014 at 2120 hours, I responded to 1220 Sunset Bluff Greensboro, Georgia in reference to a boating incident. Upon my arrival, I spoke to the driver of vessel one. Operator advised as he was operating the Supra south bound in Richland Creek (towards Wallace Dam) the vessel struck a tree top causing damage to the hulll. Operator stated the vessel experienced a severe vibration and began to fill with water. Operator advised (with the bilge pump running) he was able to continue to operate the vessel slowly to the Sunset Bluff address. As Operator arrived at the above address, I met them and was able to unload the occupants of the vessel, and safely secure the vessel unto its boat lift. While the Supra was on its lift, I observed prop and fiberglass damage to the hull of the vessel. A large amount of water was leaking from the hull. No occupants of the Supra reported any injuries.


BARDID: GA-2014-1000
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-11-29 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private pond
NearestCityorTown: Dahlonega
County: Lumpkin
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
USCG entered a report of two fatalities.  Allegedly, a vessel capsized on a 2-acre private pond, sending both occupants who had been fishing into the water.  The victims were reported overdue Saturday after failing to return home.  They were recovered the following day.


BARDID: GA-2014-1001
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-02-08 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private pond
NearestCityorTown: Thomasville
County: Thomas
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
USCG entered news media report of a fatality that occurred on a private body of water.  The search for the victim began after subjects found the victim’s golf cart near the water and his boat unattended on the lake.  Officials recovered the body the following day.  The cause of death is unknown.


BARDID: GA-2015-0001
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCMULGEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ABBEVILLE
County: WILCOX
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
OtherAccidentEvent: ejected
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 2, 2015 Subject (age 52) and Operator (age 21) launched a 14’ Sing Fisher vessel equipped with an 8 H.P. Johnson outboard motor in the Ocmulgee River immediately upstream from the Dodge County Landing at approximately 1730 hrs. 

At the time the subjects launched their vessel the river stage at the Abbeville gauge was approximately 11.8’. The subjects intended to travel down river to Half Moon Landing near Abbeville, GA and then return. The subjects traveled approximately 5.48 miles and attempted to negotiate a natural “cut” in the original river channel near a location referred to as “Blue Lake”. 

The subjects encountered objects (tree’s) in the cut channel and failed to negotiate a large tree extending out of the water. The current caused the vessel to go under the tree that extended out of the water at an angle which caused the passenger in the front of the vessel to be forced to the deck of the vessel and as the motor and rear of the vessel passed under the tree the rear of the vessel was forced below the surface of the water causing the vessel to take on water and partially flood. 

According to statements from both vessel occupants the vessel continued to float, but soon collided with more debris in the river channel causing the water inside the vessel to shift and the vessel to capsize. Both occupants held on to the capsized vessel using portions of the vessel seats as floatation. Eventually the vessel went below the surface of the water and the occupants floated, swam, and used trees along the river channel to continue downstream to attempt to find safety. 

The occupants of the vessel climbed out of the water onto woody debris in flooded timber outside of the main river channel approximately .71 miles downstream of the original location of the incident. The following day at approximately 1330 hrs. the subjects were by patrol vessel and transported to the Dodge County boat landing.

 During the interviews with the occupants of the vessel it was determined that there were no Personal Floatation Devices (PFD’s) in the vessel. In a subsequent interview with (the vessel owner) on 3/5/2015, he stated that he attempted to secure the sunken vessel to a large vine with a line attached to the bow of the vessel. He stated that he was unsure if the vessel remained attached to the vine he attempted to secure the line to.  

He stated that he had paid $500 for the motor and vessel in 1997. Operator was transported by ambulance to the Dodge County Hospital for treatment due to injury. He remained in the hospital and was released from the hospital on March 5, 2015 at approximately 12:00 hrs.


BARDID: GA-2015-0002
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCONEE RIVER
County: LAURENS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 21, 2015 at 23:04 Cpl. was notified by GSP Statesboro to contact Laurens County 911 reference a boating incident. Cpl. contacted Laurens County 911 and was informed Laurens County had received a report from Johnson County at 22:24 stating that a vessel was overturned on the Oconee River with at least two persons holding onto the vessel and the victims had yelled at caller to contact 911. 

Cpl. advised Laurens County and GSP that he would be responding. Laurens County had dispatched law enforcement and Fire units at 22:29. Cpl. was 10-76 to retrieve his vessel when he received an update from Laurens County that the subjects had been located and taken to the boat landing at the Beaverdam Wildlife Management Area (BDWMA) at 23:24. 

Cpl. responded to the scene without a vessel arriving at 00:09 on March 22, 2015. On scene Cpl. learned that Deputy had boarded a vessel with an unidentified fishermen and located three subjects in their disabled vessel approximately .25 miles upriver from the BDWMA boat landing and towed them back to the boat landing. 

When Cpl. arrived one victim was already receiving treatment from Emergency Medical Service (EMS). Cpl. received an update reference the incident from Laurens County Rural Fire unit Jared Mathis. Cpl. interviewed two subjects, and he stated that he and the other two subjects had launched the vessel at approximately 15:30 – 16:00 at the Blackshear Ferry boat landing to go for a boat ride. He stated that he and the other two subjects went up river past the BDWMA boat landing and at dusk had turned around to return to Blackshear’s Ferry landing. 

He stated that at some point he stood up in the vessel to urinate and the vessel began to take on water and then overturned and that he nor the passengers were wearing PFD’s. One of the other subjects was struggling to swim and that the other passenger was able to reach him and pull him back to the vessel. 

Operator then stated that he and his passengers were able to “swim the vessel” to shore, right the vessel, remove the water and re-enter the vessel. He stated that the motor would not start. When the subjects came into view of a residence on the shore line of the river they began to yell for help prompting the resident to contact 911. Operator stated that he borrowed the vessel from a relative and that he had three Personal Floatation Devices (PFD’s) and a throwable floatation device in the vessel while operating it on the river. 

After the incident No PFD’s were recovered and one throwable floatation device was located in the vessel. Cpl. could detect an odor of alcohol coming from Operator and he stated that he had consumed two beers earlier in the day. Cpl. conducted Standard Field Sobriety Testing on the subject, but determined he was not impaired to constitute a charge for Boating Under the Influence or less safe operation. 

Victim stated that he had consumed 3-4 beers.


BARDID: GA-2015-0003
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-02-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: ST MARYS
County: CAMDEN
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 15th 2015 at approximately 1700 HRS, SV Seventh Heaven struck the St. Marys Jetties. The captain stated that combined with rough seas and being unfamiliar with how far the jetties ran offshore was the cause of the incident. Nassau County Deputies responded and escorted the vessel to St. Marys Boat Service. Ranger e responded to St. Marys Boat Service. All occupants were uninjured. 3 adults and 3 children. Vessel was boarded by U.S. Coast guard earlier in the day and was cleared for inspections. No Violations Found.


BARDID: GA-2015-0004
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-01-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TURTLE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BRUNSWICK
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 01/14/2015 at 1228 hours, SeaTow® vessel Captain contacted the United States Coast Guard (USCG), Brunswick station, reporting a partially submerged vessel in the Turtle River, near Quarantine Island.  Officers located the vessel at latitude 031°06.920’ north, longitude 081°28.440’ west, approximately 175 feet northwest of the private dock on Quarantine Island. Officers began a search of the area. Officers recovered Victim1 partially submerged in a supine position at latitude 031°07.050’ north, longitude 081°28.520’ west, approximately 1,000 feet northwest of Quarantine Island. Victim1 was brought aboard the USCG vessel; Fireman performed cardiopulmonary resuscitative measures. Victim1 was wearing a vest style personal flotation device, which was not zipped. The USCG vessel returned to the station dock at One Conservation Way in Brunswick, Georgia. 

At 1405 hours I photographed the body of Victim1. I did not observe any indication of trauma. Deputy Coroner arrived on scene, examined Victim1 and pronounced time of death at 1431 hours. Wife told me Victim1 was leaving their residence on Quarantine Island to pick her up at the public boat landing located at the base of the Sidney Lanier Bridge. Wife said Victim1 was operating the Forcast vessel because their primary vessel was being repaired. Wife described Victim1’s extensive knowledge pertaining to vessel operation. 

At approximately 1500 hours, the USCG vessel carried me to Quarantine Island, where I examined the their dock and vessel lift. I found the vessel lift control panel was in the “on” position. The vessel lift was partially submerged, lowered approximately four feet from the raised position level with the dock, approximately four feet above sea level. This indicated Victim1 lowered the lift to launch the vessel at the water level of the tide stage. On 01/14/2015, low tide at the USCG station was at 0926 hours. I estimated the time the incident occurred was approximately 1200 hours, two hours and thirty four minutes after low tide. Given the incoming tide, I estimate the water level was approximately four feet above sea level at the time of the incident. 

On 1/14/2015 at approximately 1800 hours I spoke with Wife, she strongly objected to an autopsy of Victim1.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Agent determined an autopsy would not be performed. cardiologist, confirmed victim’s history of heart disease.  

I observed no significant damage to the vessel's structure and found no indication of collision. 

On 3/09/2015, I obtained results of postmortem blood alcohol testing performed by GBI. Forensic Toxicologist reported gas chromatography tests resulted in an ethyl alcohol concentration of 0.398 (+/- 0.024) grams per 100 ml of blood. Estimations of measurement certainty are reported at 99% probability. 

Based on my investigation, I find that Victim was operating the vessel while under the influence of alcohol. The stern of the vessel submerged while operating full throttle in reverse, possibly while launching the vessel from the dock lift. Victim entered the water after the stern of the vessel submerged. Victim was separated from the vessel by the current of the incoming tide. The cause of Victim's death is undetermined at this time. The Glynn County Coroner's report is pending at this time.


BARDID: GA-2015-0005
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BLACKSHEAR
NearestCityorTown: CORDELE
County: CRISP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, April 3, 2014 at approximately 1311 hours Rgr. and I met with Operator1 and Operator2 at the Smoak Bridge Boat Ramp in Crisp County in reference to a boating incident that occurred on Lake Blackshear. I interviewed both individuals in reference to the incident and during the interviews each stated the following: 

Operator1, stated that he was operating Vessel #1 east on Lake Blackshear for the purposes of checking recent repairs that were done to his vessel. He stated that he turned his vessel to the left (north) because he saw a vessel that was approaching on his starboard side. After turning his vessel, he began looking down at his water pressure gauge, which he noticed was inoperative, and failed to see that he was approaching Vessel #2. He then struck Vessel #2 on its starboard side. He stated that he did not see Vessel #2 prior to the collision.  He also indicated that the position of the sun could have possibly affected his ability to see Vessel #2.

Operator2, stated that he was operating Vessel #2 east with its electric trolling motor and had several poles in the water. He stated that he then heard a vessel approaching at a high rate of speed from his starboard rear. He then looked over and saw Vessel #1 just prior to impact. Operator2 stated that he pushed his sons into the rear floorboard of his vessel and was struck by the bow area of Vessel #1 and was ejected into the water.

Both Operator1 and Operator2 rendered written statements in reference to the incident. Rgr. and I then inspected and photographed the damage to both vessels which were on their trailers. The statements and photographs have been attached under the attachments section of this report.   

Investigation revealed that Vessel #1 was travelling northeast on Lake Blackshear when it’s operator failed to see Vessel #2 which was trolling in an easterly direction with an electric trolling motor in the creek channel. Vessel #1 struck Vessel #2 in the starboard side with its bow and ramped across the driver and passenger side consoles before exiting and reentering the water on vessel #2’s port side. The operator of Vessel #2, who was standing in the bow area operating a trolling motor, was ejected from the vessel upon impact. The operator of Vessel #2 sustained a laceration and contusion to his right arm during the collision. The two occupants of Vessel #2 were thrown to the floor near the stern of the vessel and were uninjured. All parties involved declined medical treatment. 

The operator of Vessel #1, Operator1, was cited for Operating a vessel too fast for conditions.


BARDID: GA-2015-0006
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAVANNAH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: AUGUSTA
County: RICHMOND
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday April 04, 2015  four people were joy riding on the Savannah River in the Augusta area.  Occupants on the vessel stated they had been riding in the 2001 Yamaha boat since approximately 3:30 PM or 4:00 PM.  Operator stated he had been operating the boat.  The 3 female occupants had been consuming alcohol while they were on the boat ride.  At approximately 7:00 PM the group decided to return to the boat ramp to load the vessel and leave the area.  Operator said he made a sharp right turn, during which he hit a wake in the water causing Victim to fall to the left side of the vessel and strike her head just above the left eye brow.  The group proceeded to the boat ramp at that point.

After arriving at the boat ramp the group asked Victim how she was feeling.  Victim reported to having a head ache but thought she was okay.  Victim and Occupant1 left in together in Occupant1 vehicle.  Occupant1 reported that she was trying to convince Victim to go get her head looked at, but Victim refused to go to see a doctor.  While traveling home; however, Victim passed out in the vehicle.  Occupant1 was not sure if it was from the alcohol or the head injury and called Richmond County E-911 to ask for assistance.  

Victim was transported to GRU medical center where she was very combative and uncooperative, and had the smell of alcohol on her breath.  Victim was seen by MD.  Victim had no obvious external injuries.  Victim was found to have a concussion, believed to have been caused by her striking her head against the side of the vessel.  

Victim was kept in trauma unit over night for observation.  Medical personnel stated that the injury was minor, with no concern of ongoing issues related to the boating incident.


BARDID: GA-2015-0007
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL BRANCH RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: MOLENA
County: PIKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 9th, 2015, at 18:28 hours, I, Ranger First Class was notified by Corporal of a possible double fatality incident on Still Branch Reservoir in Pike County. 

	two individuals had located an abandoned vessel on the eastern bank of the reservoir.  The two individuals said that the rear trolling motor was still running and that the fishing poles still had lines in the water when they located it.  At approximately 16:38 hours a body of a toddler not wearing a personal floatation device had been located near the northeast shore of the reservoir.  Cpl. advised me that it was believed that the toddler was out fishing with his father and that the body of the father was still in the lake.  Cpl. also said that Department of Natural Resources Rangers, Pike County Sheriff’s Office personnel, and local fire department members had been looking in the area for the unaccounted for individual throughout the night utilizing body drags from the boats, side scan sonar, and a ground search from the bank of the surrounding area.  

	After the briefing from Cpl., I began photo documenting the abandon vessel, now located in the parking lot of the boat ramp.  While documenting the vessel, I observed that there were not any personal floatation device located anywhere on the vessel.  I also observed two fishing poles in pole holders, a children’s fishing pole, an open bag of potato chips, and a Nesquik chocolate milk drink at the stern of the vessel.  Shortly after I finished documenting the vessel a member of the fire department located a fishing pole floating near the western bank of the lake and the lure that was attached matched a package of lures located in the vessel.   

	At approximately 11:46 hours the DNR sonar team located a possible target of interest, and using a submersible video camera they were able to locate a body.  Operator’s body was located approximately 150 yards southwest of where the abandon vessel had been located.  Operator’s body was recovered at 13:15 hours and carried to shore where I was able to photo document his body and I was able to retrieve a wallet from Operator’s blue jeans positively identifying the victim.

	Based on the evidence and testimony from witnesses the facts show that the two victims were trolling for fish when they both exited the vessel.  With the information I have been able to obtain I cannot with any certainty determine which victim exited the vessel first.  It is apparent that this incident could have been possibly avoided if the victims had been wearing a personal flotation device.  This is a true and accurate statement based on the information from those involved and knowledge acquired through the investigation.  This opinion is based solely on the information given to me at the time and may change upon discovery of new information.

Nothing further.


BARDID: GA-2015-0008
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/02/2015 at 1506 hrs., I was dispatched (by Greene County 911) to the area of the sand bar, across from Armour Bridge Boat Ramp in reference to a boating incident. The sand bar is located where Richland and Beaverdam Creeks  meet in Lake Oconee, Greene County, Georgia. Upon my arrival, (at 1514 hrs.), I made contact with the owner of vessel one. V1 owner stated his vessel was anchored at the sand bar (with ten occupants onboard) when a driver of a Sea Doo approached them in a reckless manner. V1 owner advised that the subject on the Sea Doo continued to turn in circles at the rear of his vessel attempting to spray the occupants of his vessel. V1 owner stated the operator of the ski finally struck his vessel in the rear causing damage. As I spoke to V1 owner, the operator of vessel two was sitting in the back of V1 owner's vessel and confirmed V1 owner's recollection of the incident. 
	The operator of vessel two. As I spoke to Operator2 about the incident, his speech appeared slurred and his eyes were bloodshot and glassy. I requested Operator2 to step into my patrol vessel so I could further my investigation reference the boating incident. While in my patrol boat, I could smell a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath and person. Operator2 informed me he had only consumed two beers earlier that day. 
	Due to my observations of Operator2, I requested Operator2 to perform a series of exercises to determine his level of intoxication. As I began the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus exercise, Operator2's eyes appeared to track equally and his pupil size was consistent, but dilated. Operator2's eyes did not pursue my stimulus smoothly, he exhibited Distinct and Sustained Nystagmus at maximum deviation and Nystagmus onset before 45 degrees. On exercises two and three, I observed Operator2 exhibit deep concentration and thick and slurred speech. Operator2 performed poorly on exercises four and five (see B.U.I. screening form for details), and tested positive on the portable Alco-Sensor. 
	Due to my training and experience in detecting impaired operators for twenty-two years, I placed Operator2 under arrest and read him his Implied Consent Warning under 21 and requested a breath test under the Implied Consent Law. Operator2 agreed to a breath test and was transported to the Armour Bridge Boat Ramp. The Sea Doo ski was towed to the above boat ramp where it was later released to the owner's daughter. 
	Operator2, along with myself was transported by Deputy with the Greene County Sheriff's Office to the Law Enforcement Center to perform a State Administered Breath Test. Operator2's breath test indicated a blood alcohol concentration of .171 grams. Operator2 was charged with operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol and reckless operation of a vessel. Operator2 was given a copy of his breath test results off the Intoxilyzer 9000, copies of his two citations, and served with a copy of a Georgia Department of Natural Resources form 1205 (Administrative Suspension).  Operator2 was turned over to the Greene County Law Enforcement Center for booking. 
	Vessel two was not currently registered.


BARDID: GA-2015-0009
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE RICHARD B. RUSSELL
NearestCityorTown: ELBERTON
County: ELBERT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 22, 2015 I was informed by Sergeant of a boating incident on Lake Russell in Elbert County.  Sgt informed me a boat had sank in Van's Creek earlier in the day.  He told me there were no injuries, and the boat was tied to the bank.  The following morning I met with Sgt and we launched a boat from Russell State Park.  We quickly located the boat near the back of Van's Creek.  The back of the boat was full of water, and the front was tied to the bank.  The boat was a Cajun 16 foot fiberglass boat with South Carolina registration 0514 MR.  The motor was a Mercury 115 horse power. After viewing the boat, we returned to the park.  

At approximately 1130 hours the owner/operator of the boat arrived at the park.  Operator told me he was fishing and the back of the boat began taking on water.  Operator said he was able to get his boat to the bank and tie it off before it completely sank.  Operator told me another boater picked him up and he left the boat in the lake over night.

On April 24th Operator called me and told me that his boat had been removed from the lake.  Operator told me a crack had developed in the transom, which led to the boat taking on water.


BARDID: GA-2015-0010
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCONEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 10, 2015 at approximately 10:00 am, operator2 was traveling northbound on the Oconee River in his 16 foot gold/ brown Aries boat(V02). Operator2 struck another vessel causing damage to his vessel on the port side hull of the fiberglass ( see pictures). The vessel he struck, a 14' green Alumacraft(V01),was owned and operated by operator1. 

Operator1's vessel was anchored in the bend of the river. His vessel was damaged on the starboard stern corner and also damaged the motor housing and bracket ( see pictures). No injuries were found on any of persons involved. Operator2 was issued citation for rules of the road. According to witness statements, Operator2 was not looking in his direction of travel, causing him not to see the anchored vessel until he hit it.


BARDID: GA-2015-0011
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-02-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARTWELL
NearestCityorTown: LAVONIA
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 12, 2015 I received a call from Lieutenant (Lt.) telling me I was assigned as the case agent on a Hart County drowning incident that involved one adult male and a kayak dated on February 11, 2015. Lt.  said the operator of the vessel had surfaced on March 8, 2015. Lt. said the family wanted the operator’s personal belongings. Lt. told me to get in touch with Corporal (Cpl.) and make arrangements to receive the information and items from the incident and to determine if the vessel and personal items could be released to the family.

I photographed the kayak, which was an 11’ Perception Sport Rhythm Kayak, green/blue in color, HIN WEMGWSLCC414. (See 17315021101 photo log). 

The operator was found floating March 8, 2015, by fisherman on Lake Hartwell near the new Harbor Light Marina on the Georgia (GA) side. Operator had been missing since February 11th 2015. Operator had launched his kayak from Lake Hartwell State Park in Oconee County, South Carolina (SC). Operator’s kayak had been located upside down, between two docks on Lake Hartwell close to Knox Circle, on the GA side. Cpl. said the paddle was located directly across the lake from the kayak on the SC side. Cpl. said Oconee County dive members pulled up to an island near Rock Springs boat ramp where they found beer bottles along with foot prints on the island. The lot numbers on the beer bottles were consistent with the beer bottles that were found inside the kayak. A search was conducted for several days that included assistance from other agencies including GA Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement (DNR LE), Hart County Sheriff’s Department, Hart County Fire Department, Oconee County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and SC DNR. GA DNR LE used sonar equipment to try to locate the victim.

Reports state on February 13, 2015, DNR LE suspended the search due to extremely cold temperatures and a wintery weather forecast. Daily patrols of the area were conducted for the victim’s body. On March 8, 2015, fisherman in the Shoal Creek area of Lake Hartwell discovered a body floating in the back of a creek just past Harbor Light Marina South. Cpl. responded along with the Hart County Sherriff and Hart County Coroner. The body was sent to the GBI crime lab for testing and analysis. According to the GBI report, it was confirmed that the body was identified as operator, and the cause of death was an accidental drowning.

Based on the physical evidence at the scene and the statements from DNR LE Officers and Hart County Investigator, the facts show that Operator was kayaking on Lake Hartwell on February 11, 2015. During his kayaking trip Operator accidentally drowned. Operator had the required safety equipment on board.


BARDID: GA-2015-0012
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 15, 2015, at approximately 2135 hours, I, Ranger First Class (CIRT Investigator) received information from RFC regarding a boating incident on Lake Lanier. He told me the vessel had crashed on a rock piling and overturned causing one fatality.  

We were at the Chattahoochee River channel marker C-30, where I saw a white and blue Monterey cabin cruiser, registration GA 9057 CG, over turned on its top, laying on exposed rocks just north from Browns Bridge Road bridge on the east side of Lake Lanier in Hall County.  The battery on the vessel was continuously chiming and a strong smell of fuel was surrounding the vessel.  We continued to secure the area to keep other vessels away from the incident.  I contacted the owner of the vessel and received verbal and written consent to search the vessel at 0959 hours.  Owner told me his boat was leased out through Freedom Boat Club.  

I documented the damage and photographs taken.  (See evidence damage log). There was extensive damage to the bottom hull including two large gouges that were roughly 4’10” in length and one gouge that was 1’6” long.  The port side of the vessel had the most damage to the side, which showed rotational movement, scratches, fiberglass spider webbing, and crushed fiberglass. Tow Boat arrived on the scene and patched the holes on the hull and towed the vessel to our facility.

Based on the physical evidence at the scene and the statements from DNR LE Officers, responding Hall County and Forsyth County Fire Department personnel, Hall County Investigator and witness statements, the facts show that subjects were cruising on Lake Lanier in a 27' Monterey vessel Operator had reserved from Freedom Boat Club on March 15, 2015 at approximately 1500 hours.  They were returning to Freedom Boat Club from Winding Lake Drive headed south towards Browns Bridge Road.  At approximately 2010 hours, Operator and Victim were at the helm of the vessel.  Operator was sitting closest to the throttle behind the steering wheel as he operated the vessel left of center, in the Chattahoochee River channel, violating rules of the road, and struck submerged and exposed rocks located at channel marker C-30.  This impact caused the vessel to abruptly stop in motion, rolling on its port side, turning of opposite direction, and flipping completely over on its top.  The impact caused Operator to be ejected from the vessel and Victim was trapped under the vessel, having the top half of her body, including her head, to be submerged under the water surface causing her to drown.


BARDID: GA-2015-0013
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OGEECHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GEORGETOWN
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Good sam advised he had seen the two jet skis earlier that day horsing around in the no wake zone doing tricks. Subject and his friends went up the Ogeechee River and was gone for about thirty minutes before returning to the boat ramp. On the way back from to the boat ramp just south of the I95 Bridge he noticed two jet skis upside down in the water with the individuals on top of the overturned jet skis. 

Apparently the operator had capsized after swerving to miss the other PWC at 20 mph.  The occupant was recovered unresponsive, blue, and looked like he may have been hit in the head.  Victim was treated for hypothermia, pre-drowning, and would be held overnight for observations.  His body was 93 degrees when it was first taken by EMS and 95 degrees at the hospital.
Neither the operator now the victim wore a PFD; the victim was in a chest harness.

Good sam approached them and was able to get two males, a female, infant and eighteen month old out of the water and into his boat. Subject stated the people said they had been in the water approximately thirty minutes before he arrived. Subject drove them to the boat ramp but on the way he noticed the infant was turning blue and said he was going to call 911 to meet them at the boat ramp. The two male subjects told him not to call 911 because they had been drinking. Subject called them anyway. Once Subject arrived at the boat ramp he dropped everyone off and went back to tow the two jet skis back to the boat ramp. Once Subject arrived back at the boat ramp after towing the jet skis he said everyone was gone who had been in the water.

The first PWC was a 1997, 9 foot, Bombardier.  The second was a 2000, 10 foot, Yamaha.  The Yamaha had a registration of 0762 ZD and Hull ID number of YAMA32031001.  The Bombardier had a registration of GA 0683 TM and Hull ID number of ZZN54777A797.  I observed gauges and scratches over a large portion of both PWCs that would be consistent with damage caused from loading, unloading, and transport without the use of a trailer.  Both PWCs were missing kill switch lanyards.  I photographed PWCs for evidence with 137 photographs.  I inventoried property in each PWC.  The Yamaha registration was expired (last registered in 2011) and fire extinguisher was unserviceable (yellow pin broken and removed).


BARDID: GA-2015-0014
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST POINT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 12:10 hours, on May 9th, 2015, I, Ranger First Class was contacted by Sergeant about a boating accident on West Point Lake that occurred northeast of Cameron Mill Road bridge on the Yellow Jacket Creek Arm of the lake.  I arrived on the scene at Highland Marina at approximately 12:25 and was informed that the victim had been transported to the West Georgia Medical Center in Lagrange.  Sgt. and I arrived at the medical center and located the victim and her family waiting in the emergency room waiting area.  Victim advised me that she had fallen from a wake board and had sustained a deep laceration on her forehead above her left eye.  I interviewed the driver and the other occupants of the vessel.  The driver and the occupants each gave the same description of the incident, stating they were traveling northeast on the Yellow Jacket Creek arm of West Point Lake when Victim fell from a wake board and when they turned around to get her they noticed that she had a large amount of blood on her face.  Victim was transported to West Georgia Medical Center.  Victim was treated for her injuries and released.

	Sgt. and I inspected the vessel located at Highland Marina and found no evidence to contradict the stories of all parties involved.  Based on the evidence and statements from all parties involved it appears that Victim struck the wakeboard with her head when she fell, causing the laceration to her forehead.


BARDID: GA-2015-0016
State: GA
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CUSSETA
County: CHATTAHOOCHEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday April 03, 2015 at 1240 hours I was notified by Corporal (Cpl.) of Region 4 in regards to a boat incident that had occurred on Fort Benning near Uchee Creek. Cpl. said Fort Benning Game Warden's were on scene. I made contact with Fort Benning Game Warden Officer said it was a minor boat incident involving two boats that had collided and there were no injuries. 

   On Tuesday April 07, 2015 at 1630 hours Ranger (RNG) and I met first with Operator1 the owner/operator of the Ranger boat involved in the incident. Operator1 had his boat with him. After introducing ourselves I had Operator1 write a statement of the incident on Friday (see attachment) as I took photos and measurements of his boat. Operator1 boat is an 18 foot 1992 Ranger 361-V bass boat with 175 horsepower Johnson outboard motor. The boat has a 10 inch wide by 16 inch deep hole on the port (left) side of the boat. The damage begins at approximately five feet eight inches from the tip of the bow of the boat and continues to approximately nine feet two inches from the bow of the boat. Besides the hole the fiberglass is busted in that near four foot area, the front fishing seat is crushed down to the carpet floor and the front deck and compartments on the port side are broken. (see photo's 1-12)

    Operator1 said he and his brother were fishing north of Uchee Creek around 1100 a.m eastern time. Operator1 said they headed north up river and stopped about 100 yards south of the Dixie Road Bridge. Operator1 said they turned towards the east bank and were preparing to start back fishing. Operator1 said he had noticed the other boat accelerating from the bridge, but it was not headed towards them. Operator1 said the other boat planed out about thirty yards from them and he could see the occupants were looking backwards. Operator1 said the other boat then made a sudden hard left turn directly at them. 

Operator1 said he yelled once at the other boat but it was too late; the other boat slammed into them. Operator1 said the other boat ramped completely over the bow of his boat and its motor tore through the port side of his boat. Operator1 then cranked his boat and ran it up onto the shore to make sure it did not sink. The other boat pulled up with them and the two operator’s swapped names, insurance and phone numbers; then called the police. Operator1 did not have insurance on his boat. Operator1 said they met the Fort Benning Game Warden at the Uchee Creek boat landing. 

     Operator1 said the Progressive insurance adjuster had met with him on Monday April 06. The insurance adjuster totaled his boat out and gave him an estimate of value at $7,500…


BARDID: GA-2015-0017
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST POINT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24th, 2015 at approximately 14:57 hours, I, Ranger First Class was contacted by the dispatch from the Newnan Georgia State Patrol Post about a jet ski accident that had occurred around Sheafer Heard Park.  

The deputy advised me that an individual had been struck by another jet ski on the lake and had been transported to West Georgia Medical Center before we arrived.  The deputy identified the operator of the striking vessel.  I began to interview Operator1 about the incident.  Operator1 stated that he and passenger were riding a jet ski approximately 300 or 400 yards from the shore of Sheafer Heard Park while they were attempting to switch drivers both of them fell from the vessel and the vessel began to make circles in the water under power due to the fact that neither of them had the required safety cut off lanyard attached.  

Operator1 advised that three individuals drove over to them on another jet ski to assist with the runaway jet ski.  Operator1 stated that his jet ski made a circle and collided with Operator2’s jet ski knocking all three individuals from the vessel into the water.  Operator1 stated that the vessel circled back around and Operator2 attempted to stop the vessel and was struck by the bow of Operator1’s vessel as it collided with the bow of Operator2’s vessel injuring Operator2’s left thumb.  Operator1 stated Operator2 was able to get the runaway jet ski stopped and then went back to the shoreline to receive treatment for his injured hand.

	At approximately 17:30 hours, I was able to make contact with Operator2 by phone.  Operator2 advised me that he had left the West Georgia Medical Center without receiving treatment and was at the medical center in Thomaston.  Operator2 gave a similar statement, advising that he saw two individuals floating in the lake waving their hand looking like they needed help.  Operator2 advised that when he got over to their location to ask if they needed any assistance he noticed out of the corner of his eye a jet ski coming in his direction.  

Operator2 stated that the vessel struck the starboard side of his vessel throwing all three individuals into the water.  Operator2 advised that one occupant struck Operator1’s vessel with her head when she was ejected causing a closed head injury, and subject2 suffered a strain to her head and back when she was ejected from the vessel as well.  Operator2 advised after getting ejected from the vessel Operator1’s vessel made another circle around and was heading in the direction of subject1.  Operator2 stated that he attempted to push Operator1’s vessel out of the way of subject1 when his left hand was caught between the bows of both vessels causing the injury to his thumb.  Operator2 advised me the next day that all three victims had been treated and released and that he had received eight stitches in his left thumb and had suffered possible fractures to the bone.    

	Based on the evidence and statements from all parties involved it appears that that the incident could have been avoided if Operator1 had attached the required safety cut off lanyard to himself, effectively cutting off the engine of his jet ski when they were ejected from the vessel.


BARDID: GA-2015-0018
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-01-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SATILLA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WAYCROSS
County: WARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On January 5, 2015, I, Ranger First responded to conduct an investigation of a reported boating incident with a missing person on the Satilla River in Ware County.  Once we arrived at the Command Post at Jamestown Landing, we were briefed by Sergeant on the boating incident which initially occurred on January 3, 2015. Sergeant said a white male named had been fishing and not returned on time.  

	After the briefing, I rode with Corporal by vessel up river to the location of where the swamped vessel was found on January 4, 2015 by Ranger First Class.  I observed and photographed the cluster of trees and parts of the river where the vessel was located.  

I photographed the entire vessel, motor, location of the engine starting system components, and the vessel’s contents. Sergeant assisted me with measuring the vessel. The vessels total length was approximately 13’9”.  The top beam had a width of 4’8”.  The bottom of the vessel was 3’wide.  We located and documented dirt in the rub rail on the starboard side of the vessel located 6’8” and 7’6” aft (back) of the bow point of the vessel.  We located and documented a gouge in the aluminum on starboard (right) side of the vessel 10’3” aft (back) of the bow and -1’5” from the gunwale towards the chine (corner where the sidewall meets the bottom of vessel). The tiller handle on the engine appeared to be in the run position and tilted approximately 45 degrees backwards.  The kill switch was in the run position and no safety lanyard was attached.  We did not find any evidence that would indicate the vessel struck an object in the water.  

	Sergeant. and I left the impound lot and traveled to the Shrine Club that is located across the road from the Jamestown Landing. We met with family members of the missing man.  I acquired written statements from uncle and brother that had been in contact with the missing man on January 3, 2015.  Uncle said he had dropped Victim off about 10:00 a.m.at Jamestown landing on the Satilla River and was supposed to pick him up at about 04:00 p.m.  Brother said he had talked to Victim at 11:41a.m.  Brother said Victim said to him he was at the US1 Alma Highway Bridge fishing.  Uncle said he tried to call Victim at 1:30 p.m. but could not reach him.  Uncle said he went home and got another vessel to go look for Victim, but it would not crank.  911 was called about 5:45p.m.  DNR was called and arrived around 7:00 p.m.  

	
	On March 11, 2015 Sergeant  said a person found a deceased person in the Satilla River located approximately 1 bend down river from where vessel was located.  The victim’s BAC was .137.  

	In conclusion, the cause of the vessel swamping is unclear.  The investigation did not discover any severe damage or mechanical problem that could have led to the vessel swamping.  No personal flotation devices were found in the vessel or on victim.  Based on the toxicology report from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation the alcohol level exceeded the legal limit to safely operate a vessel under Georgia law therefore implying victim was boating under the influence at the time of incident.   This is a true and accurate statement based on statements from those involved and knowledge acquired through investigation.  This report is based solely on information, evidence, and statements provided at the time of incident and may changed upon the discovery of new evidence.


BARDID: GA-2015-0019
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 16, 2015, the two persons listed were attempting to start a PWC when it exploded.  The explosion threw both occupants into the air some distance before they landed back on the PWC.  The occupants then exited the PWC.  Shortly after exiting, the PWC engulfed in flames resulting in a total loss of the machine.  While on fire, the PWC drifted into a nearby dock, causing slight burn damage.  Putnam County Fire Rescue arrived on the scene to extinguish the flames and to inspect the condition of the two occupants.  Both occupants were cleared and refused any additional medical treatment.


BARDID: GA-2015-0020
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Owner's boat was rafted with other vessels in Cocktail on Lake Lanier.  The water was calm.  Winds were calm.  Witnesses stated victim lost her balance and fell from top deck and hit the bottom deck of vessel.  Witnesses said she had been consuming alcoholic beverages.  Hall County Fire/Rescue administered first aid to her on the vessel.  Victim was transported to an ambulance at the boat ramp at Russell Bridge by Hall County's rescue boat.  Hall County EMT stated he thought she had a concussion and sprained/bruised right shoulder.


BARDID: GA-2015-0021
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim he slipped and fell at the starboard quarter, according to witnesses.  Victim hit his head on the gunwale of the vessel.  He was treated by Hall County EMS and transported to the hospital.  He suffered a concussion and received stitches to the back of his head. The vessel was anchored and rafted up beside other vessels.  The weather and water was calm at the time of the incident.   I talked with Victim via mobile phone on June 7th and he said he was ok and back at home.


BARDID: GA-2015-0022
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject and I just picked up a Yamaha Waverunner rented at Lanier Jet Skis in Buford, GA. The pickup location was the ramp at Lake Lanier Islands next to the Lanier Islands Bridge. To the best of my knowledge and according to subject he had driven jet skis similar to this rental before and he did take the only safety test and watch the video as required by individuals renting watercraft on the lake.  

I launched and was riding my own personal Sea-Doo Jetski. We were in route to Holiday Marina to meet up with the rest of a group from our office. When the accident occurred we were in front of Holiday Marina, outside the no wake barriers, more specifically in front of the first houseboat dock on your right hand side as you are approaching the marina. There was no boat traffic on the water at the time with the exception of one roughly 28’ Searay cruiser that passed us just as we were rounding the corner and approaching Holiday Marina. In front of Holiday I had made a U-Turn and was heading back into the direction of the open body of the lake. 

There was still some residual wake from the cruiser that had passed us but that boat was more than 100 yards or more away at that point. 

Subject was still traveling toward the Marina. I passed him on the Port Side. We were on opposite sides of the residual of the wake from the Cruiser. Shortly after I passed him maybe 15 seconds I made another U-Turn and that is when I noticed his ski was stopped and he was in the water. 

It appeared that victim struck the right side-view mirror with his head.  The mirror was the only portion of the waverunner that sustained any damages.


BARDID: GA-2015-0024
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST POINT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28th, 2015, at approximately 17:30 hours, I, Ranger First Class was contacted by Sergeant he asked me to call Troup County 911 in regards to a boating incident that had occurred on West Point Lake.  I called Troup County 911 and they advised me that an individual had fallen while skiing and was being transported by their own vehicle to West Point Medical Center in Lagrange.  

	I arrived at the West Point Medical center at approximately 18:00 hours and was able to make contact with the injured individual, identified as Victim and the operator of the vessel. Victim and Operator both said Operator and their daughter were pulling Victim on skis behind their 2015 Sea Doo GT130 in the area of Whitewater Access when Victim attempted to drop a ski so he could continue to ski with only one ski.  Victim said when he dropped one of his skis he began to lose balance and fell on his groin and side area and then began to flip end over end on his side.  Operator said after getting Victim home he nearly passed out and nearly vomited from the pain and that they decided to take Victim to the emergency room.   

	On June 29th, 2015, I was contacted by Operator and she advised me that Victim was being treated for a fractured pelvis and strained ligament at the West Georgia Medical Center and would probably be released on the following day.

Interview recorded on Vidmic.

Nothing further.


BARDID: GA-2015-0025
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLINT RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, May 24, 2015 at approximately 7:30 PM I received a call from dispatch informing of a boating incident about 5 miles north of Reynolds Sand Bar.  When I arrived at the location, I located a vessel being towed in by another vessel.  The vessel being towed was a white and black Moomba boat with two subjects inside the vessel.  

The vessel being towed informed me they call 911 after they hit a rock and drifted for about two hours.  Operator informed me that his vessel had a slow leak and asked if he could be escorted back to the landing.  I then towed Operator back to Flint River Heights landing, and asked him what happened to his vessel.  Operator stated he was traveling north in his vessel and hit a rock that was submerged under the water in the middle of the river.  When Operator loaded his vessel on the trailer, I could see damage to the vessel on the lower unit and to the fiberglass of the vessel.  Operator and his wife both gave written statements of the occurrence.


BARDID: GA-2015-0026
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARTWELL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: HARTWELL
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I, RFC, along with Sgt. received a call from the Hart County Sheriff's Office at approximately 4:53 PM on May 23, 2015 in reference to a boating incident on Hartwell Lake.  The incident occurred at Mary Ann Branch Ramp involving one boat with injuries.  We arrived at the scene at approximately 5:10 PM, spoke with the deputies on scene who identified the operator of the boat.  

On May 26, 2015 I spoke with Operator again on the incident.  I got more needed information for the report and got him to describe the incident to me again.  He told me the same thing as of the day it happened.  He stated to me that all were taking turns skiing and during the time Victim was skiing he wanted to switch from a knee board to regular skies.  Operator stated to me that they had trouble with the throttle throughout the day and that sometimes in order for the motor to go in neutral the boat would have to be shut off.  He stated that at the time of the incident he thought the boat was in neutral.  When Victim attempted to board the boat from the back he failed and his left leg collided with the propeller that was possibly still in gear.  Operator stated that all were wearing PFD's because all were taking turns skiing.  He stated they got Victim aboard the boat and headed for the nearest ramp.

On May 27, 2015 I spoke with the victim and he stated to me that he was doing the best he could.  He said that the hospital stitched his laceration and he was released.  He returned to Long Island, New York to continue to run his business.  He said that he has to receive physical therapy due to the cut hitting a nerve.  He described the incident the same way that Operator did.


BARDID: GA-2015-0027
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On the listed date and time, Officers received a call in reference to a boating incident at the listed location.  Officers responded to the location and found that Gold Cross EMS and Columbia County Sheriffs Office were on scene (see C.C.S.O. report #15-014181).  Officers found that the operator of the vessel was recovered from the water by the listed witnesses and turned over to Gold Cross EMS.  The operator was transported to GRU ER for medical treatment.  Officers found that the vessel sank after the incident.  Debris from the vessel was recovered from the waterway by the listed witnesses. Officers collected the debris at the scene for evidence.  Officers spoke to witnesses at the scene and obtained written statements.  Officers found that video footage of the incident was taken.  

Witnesses voluntarily gave Officers copies of the video. Officers found through witness statements and video footage, that the listed subject was operating the listed vessel traveling north in Keg Creek at a high rate of speed.  The vessel struck a wake causing the operator to lose control of the vessel.  The bow of the vessel went under the water causing the operator to lunge forward striking the bow.  The operator was then completely ejected from the vessel.  The vessel immediately sank after the incident. Witnesses further stated that the operator was wearing a helmet and a CGA PFD at time of incident.    

Officers responded to GRU ER and met with the vessel operator.  The operator stated that he was operating the listed vessel at the listed location.  The operator stated that he was preparing for the Augusta Southern Nationals and wanted to give his vessel a test run.  The operator stated that he was traveling north on Keg Creek at speeds over 100 mph when an unknown jet ski caused a wake.  The operator stated that he struck the wake causing him to lose control.  The operator stated that he has no other recollection of the incident after striking to wake.  The operator stated that he will make arrangements for the removal of the vessel.  

Officers investigation found that the operator of the listed vessel was traveling north on Keg Creek at Wildwood Park at a high rate of speed.  The vessel struck a wake in the area causing the operator to lose control of the vessel.  The bow of the vessel went under water causing the operator to be ejected from his seat.  The operator struck the bow of the vessel about his body causing the listed injuries. The operator was then completely ejected from the vessel into the water where he was recovered by the listed witnesses.   The incident location is a highly populated residential and recreational area.  Officers found the operator at fault in the incident for reckless operation.  The operator was traveling at a speed that was unsafe to be able to negotiate other boating traffic.  The operator failing to regulate his vessels' speed in that area showed a disregard for the safety of person(s) and property.  Further investigation found that the vessel is not registered and was being operated without a type 4 throwable device and fire extinguisher.    *

** On 070815 at approximately 1130 hrs, Officers met with listed witness at Wildwood Boat Ramp 2.  He stated that he would retrieve the vessel on request of the vessel owner/operator.  At approximately 1545 hrs, he retrieved the vessel.  Officers found that the vessel was broken into pieces.  The vessel hull appeared to be unsalvageable while he believes that the motor could be salvaged.  Debris that was collected as evidence at time of incident was turned over to him by Officers.  Pictures of the recovery are attached.


BARDID: GA-2015-0028
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was towing a tube. The tuber fell off the tube. Operator started a hard turn and increased his speed. The passenger was laying on the seat on the left side of the vessel. She rolled off the bench seat and her head hit the drivers seat base. She had a laceration on her ear. She was transported to North Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville.


BARDID: GA-2015-0029
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE RABUN
NearestCityorTown: CLAYTON
County: RABUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The resident stated that he had just witnessed two PWC's collide in the Pigeon Mountain Run area of the lake and the operators appeared to be "dazed" and" intoxicated". 

I noticed some light scratches on the upper part of Operator1s leg but no other visible injuries.  Operator2 had what appeared to be deep bruising to both of his knees and cuts to the underside of his arms.  They were both checked out by EMS personnel on the scene and refused further treatment.  

I first spoke to Operator2 about his alcohol intake for the day and he stated that he had drank a couple of beers earlier.  While EMS personnel checked his status, I spoke with Operator1 about her alcohol intake for the day and she stated that she had drank some beer and had a cocktail.  Operator1 had a strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from her person.  When I asked her how tall she was, she repeatedly stated that she is 6'5" when she is actually 5'6".   Her eyes were bloodshot, she recited the number count slowly with deep concentration and during the recitation of the alphabet she paused for approximately ten seconds between K and L.  On the second recitation of the alphabet, she replaced S with X.  Operator1 completed the finger dexterity exercise very slowly.  When conducting the hand pat exercise, Operator1 was very uncoordinated and did not complete it according to my instructions (see field sobriety screening form). After completing field sobriety exercises, I placed Operator1 under arrest for Boating Under the Influence and read her the Implied Consent Warning for persons over the age of 21.  

I relinquished custody of Operator1 to Deputy who transported her to Mountain Lakes Medical Center for blood/alcohol testing.  I next conducted field sobriety on Operator2.  He had a very strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from his person.  On the number count exercise, he omitted the number 20.  During the recitation of the alphabet, he sang it entirely despite my instructions not to.  He was unable to touch his thumb to his finger during the finger dexterity exercise.  Operator2 was very uncoordinated and did not separate his hands during the hand pat exercise. (see field sobriety screening form) After completing field sobriety exercises on Operator2, I placed him under arrest for Boating Under the Influence and read him the Implied Consent Warning for persons over the age of 21.  He was then taken into custody by Deputy Parker Chamblee and transported to Mountain Lakes Medical Center for blood/alcohol testing. Deputy Smith and I next spoke with the owner of the PWC's. 

 He had arrived at the accident scene while I was conducting field sobriety. We made photographs of the damage, verified HIN's and collected registration.  The registration was in the dash pocket of his ski boat and had never been placed on the PWC's.  I informed him that it must be placed on the vessels after being received in the mail.  I released the two PWC's and instructed him to contact me with a damage estimate as soon as possible.  Deputy and I next proceeded to the Rabun Co. Detention Center to process the two operators upon arrival.  While there, I received a call from Deputy stating that Operator2 had refused blood testing after arriving at the Medical Center.


BARDID: GA-2015-0030
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday June 28, 2015 operator1 was traveling south in Vessel 1 on Lake Lanier just north of Hwy 369. While traveling a larger vessel, (Vessel 2),came from behind him and passed him on the port side. The vessel was approximately 40 feet in length and had a name of "Outta Control" on the back. 

Once Vessel 2 passed, Vessel 1 made a slight left turn and attempted to cross the wake of Vessel 2. As Vessel 1 crossed the wake the bow went under water. The water impacted the railing on the front causing the vessel to come to stop. When the vessel stopped two jueveniles were ejected into the water. Neither juvenile was injured. The impact of the water caused significant damage to both sides of the railing. During the investigation I was unable to determine the identity of Vessel 2.


BARDID: GA-2015-0031
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 12, 2015 at approximately 1730 hours  cpl. and i received a call in reference to a boating incident located near river forks park.  Officer and i arrived on the scene at approximately 1800 hours.  I identified the operator of vessel 2, and he advised me that he was sitting still next to the operator of vessel1.  Operator1 stated that he took off and was within 20-25 yards of operator2. Operator2 began his operation and made a sharp left turn, in front of operator1, and he couldn't stop in time.  Vessel 2 hit vessel 1 and went over the top of vessel 1 on port bow side.  

Operator1 said he was going about 25 miles per hour when he hit operator2.  Operator2 broke his left leg due to the incident.  He was transported to northeast georgia medical center for treatment.  Witness statements from operator1 is included in this report.


BARDID: GA-2015-0032
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 16, 2015 at approximately 1645 hours operator was attempting to get up on plane.  Victim was waterskiing behind vessel 1.  Operator said he began to get underway and the ski rope tightened.  Victim held on to the rope and as a result dislocated his right shoulder.  I spoke with victim and he advised me that the rope he was waterskiing with pulled really tight and he tried to hang on to it.  When he did, his arm dislocated.  Operator advised me that subject can usually just pop  his shoulder back into place but this time he couldn't.  Victim went to the northside hospital located in brasselton georgia for treatment.  Victim was treated and released at approximately 1800 hours the same day the incident occurred.


BARDID: GA-2015-0033
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 24, 2015 at approximately 1145 hours operator informed me that he was operating his vessel near the mouth of big creek just north of russell bridge on lake sidney lanier.  Operator observed another vessel in front of him.  He shifted his vessel into reverse in order to try and avoid the other vessel.  Operator advised me that he did not hit the other vessel or any fixed object.  Operator vessel began to fill up with water and eventually sank.  Operator advised me that he thinks there may have been a breach in the hull or the bilge pump may have malfunctioned.  The vessel remains on the bottom of the lake at the moment.


BARDID: GA-2015-0034
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NOTTELY LAKE
NearestCityorTown: BLAIRSVILLE
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 04, 2015, Corporal, both with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, responded to a boating incident on Nottely Lake in the area across from Ivy Log Creek on Honaker.  Cpl. received the call at approximately 1915 hours.  We arrived on scene at approximately 1925 hours.  Upon our arrival, we met the complainant.  Subject said the incident occurred at approximately 1500 hours, and he could show us the area of incident.  

Cpl. and I did notice damage to the middle and left pontoon, front aluminum stripe, the front/left aluminum panel, and the front/left deck.  Subject got on our vessel and took us to an area across from Ivy Creek at Honaker.  Subject said he did not really know the exact location or what happened.  Subject said he had five people on his vessel and four people on a tube being towed by his vessel, an Odyssey Millennium 2302, for a total of nine people. 

 Subject said he was in the middle of the channel and looked back at the tube to see only three people on the tube.  Subject said he asked the other four passengers of the boat about the fourth person on the tube, still looking away from his path of travel, and he felt the vessel hit something.  Subject said he hit the bank.  

Subject said Victim1 sustained an injury to his right ankle, victim2 sustained a concussion, victim3 sustained an injury to her right middle finger, and fourth person did not sustain any injuries.  The passengers on the tube, sustained no injuries.  Subject took his vessel and all the passengers back to his dock so he could take the injured passengers to Union General Hospital.  Subject received an estimate for repairs, which he said would be high, and called Cpl. for a boating incident report several hours later.  All injured persons were treated at Union General Hospital and released.  Employees at the Marina told Cpl. and I the damages to the vessel were going to total approximately $10,000.00.

Note: Cpl. and I patrolled the area, with Subject on our vessel, and found the area of the collision.  The GPS coordinates, obtained from the patrol vessel's GPS, are N 34 55.338, W 084 03.887.  Cpl. photographed the damage to Subject's vessel for documentation.


BARDID: GA-2015-0035
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 7th 2015, at approx. 1450 hours, we were on routine vessel patrol on Lake Sidney Lanier, near Shoal Creek.  At that time, GSP Dispatch advised me via radio that a boating accident had just occurred on Lake Sidney Lanier, and that the injured party was at the Old Federal boat ramp being treating by Hall Co. EMS.  I advised Dispatch that we would be in route to the said boat ramp.  Upon arrival, I met with EMS, who advised me that a young juvenile male subject had been involved in a boating related accident while tubing, and was complaining of a back injury.  EMS specifically advised me that Victim was complaining of lower back, and spinal injuries.  EMS stated to me that they had palpated Victim's lower back, and spine, to which Victim grimaced in pain.  EMS proceeded to transport Victim to Northeast GA Medical Center for further examination.  

	I then met with the operator of the vessel, which towed Victim on the tube.  Operator stated that at the time when the accident occurred, he had been towing Victim, along with two other juvenile male subjects, on a tube, just north of Bolling Bridge, on Lake Sidney Lanier at approx. 1430 hours on the said date.  Operator stated that he was operating his vessel at approx. 20-25 mph, when the tube carrying Victim, and the other juveniles, hit a wave, causing Victim to be thrown off of the tube.  Operator stated that Victim apparently struck the water, and then immediately began complaining of a back injury.  Operator then promptly transported Victim to the Old Federal boat ramp, where he requested EMS to examine Victim.  Operator also stated that Victim was loaded onto a back-board, and taken to the hospital.  

	I then followed up with mom on June 9th.  She advised that her son had received CT and X-ray tests at the hospital; the tests were negative according to mom.
***End of report***


BARDID: GA-2015-0036
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAVANNAH RIVER
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC Incident occurred on 6/6/2015 at approximately 18:24 hours on the Savannah River near Champion’s Retreat golf course. 

Owner/Operator was traveling upstream above the Hwy 28 Bridge when he noticed his daughter and her boyfriend were no longer behind him on another PWC. Operator began to make a U-turn in order to head back down stream. As he was turning he saw a submerged log and accelerated to miss it. 

The PWC struck the log causing it to crash into a tree on the river bank. Operator was ejected on impact. Operator was able to get back on his PWC and travel down river to make contact with his daughter. 

His daughter put him on her PWC and took him to their residence. EMS was called while Operator was being transported back to his residence. He was taken by truck to the Martinez Columbia Fire Station on Fury’s Ferry Road. From there Gold Cross EMS transported him to GRU for treatment. Operator suffered a broken right leg and broken bone in his left hand.


BARDID: GA-2015-0037
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OLIVER
NearestCityorTown: COLUMBUS
County: MUSCOGEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator told me that they had been on the lake boating and tubing. Operator said that prior to the incident, Victim1 was one of the last passengers to be on the tube. Operator said when Victim1 had gotten back on the boat, he was visibly tired and just "plopped" down into a seat on the boat. Victim1 at this time also took the PFD he was wearing off. Operator said that no one was tubing at the time of the incident. 

Operator went on to say the boat was stopped and 3 of the teenagers; Victim2, and two others decided to jump into the lake and swim. Of the 3, Subject1 was the only one wearing a life jacket. Operator said she questioned the teens about not having a life jacket on as they jumped in. After being in the water for only a short time, Operator said a storm blew up with wind, rain, and hail. Operator noticed the boat was drifting further away from Victim2 and that Victim2 was beginning to struggle in the water. Operator said she attempted to throw Victim2 a life jacket, but that the wind blew it away from him. Operator dove into the lake attempting to assist Victim2, but soon realized she couldn't keep Victim2 above water by herself. Operator said she began to call for help and had to let Victim2 go. Operator said as she was swimming back to the boat for a life jacket, she saw Victim1 and Subject2 jump into the lake. Victim1 was not wearing a life jacket, but Subject2 was. Subject1 and Subject3 had made it back to the boat and Subject3 was able to throw Operator a life jacket to put on. Operator said when she turned back to look for Victim2 and Victim1, they were gone. Because of the waves from the storm, Operator said she couldn't see Subject2 floating further away from the boat either. Operator then got back into the boat and drove back to where she last saw Victim2 and Victim1. Subject2 was later rescued by another boater that happened up on the scene.  
          I took Operator out to where we had been searching and Operator showed me the area where she believed the incident occurred. The area Operator indicated was closer to the Big Eddy Club shoreline than we had initially been told and we threw a buoy in the water to mark the location. Operator was then transported back to Lake Oliver Marina by Columbus Fire and Rescue.  
           RFC and I searched with the pontoon boat while Cpls searched from Cpl. patrol boat. At approximately 1810 hours, we recovered the body of Victim1 floating in Lake Oliver. Columbus Fire and EMS Divers were called to come and transport Victim1' body to the Big Eddy Club to be turned over to the coroner. We continued our search well into the night for Victim2 with no success. 

          On the morning of 06/03/15, Cpl. and myself located the body of Victim2 floating in Lake Oliver at approximately 0645 hours. Columbus Fire and Rescue were called to come and transport Victim2' body to the Big Eddy Club to be turned over to the coroner.
          On 06/04/15, I made contact with Operator by phone to ask some follow-up questions as to some of the occupants complete names and a reliable count on passengers on the boat the day of the incident. Initial information had the number of occupants at 8 or 9, but Operator confirmed there were 10 people onboard.          
Conclusion to incident:
          It is my opinion based on the investigation, operator's recount, and witness statements that on 05/31/15, Victim2 and Victim1 were passengers in a 2005 Yamaha SX230 vessel. Subject is on record as being the operator of the vessel, but it has been determined through the investigation and occupant statements that the boat was not under power at the time of the incident , but was adrift. It is also known that Victim2, along with 2 other juveniles left the boat to go swimming as a storm was approaching. After being in the water for an unknown amount of time, Victim2 began to struggle while swimming. Operator attempted to throw Victim2 a life jacket, but it missed its mark due t


BARDID: GA-2015-0038
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JACKSON LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MONTICELLO
County: JASPER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 8, 2015, at 1845 hours, I, RFC was contacted by RFC in reference to a boating incident on Jackson Lake.  Subject informed me that RFC was in route to the scene.  I spoke with RFC by telephone and he said the victim and vessel occupants were at the City of Jackson Fire Department.  

I arrived at the City of Jackson Fire Department at approximately 1930 hours.  I immediately met the driver of the vessel.  Operator said the victim was trying to get back into the boat when the propeller hit his leg.  Operator said he put the boat and neutral and thinks when he turned around he must have bumped the vessel back into reverse.  I performed the BUI Interview on Operator but found that Operator was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  

Next, I collected witness statements from all the occupants (7 including the victim) that were on the vessel.  

I proceeded to Lloyd Shoals Park to meet RFC and photograph the vessel.  While photographing noticed there was no visible physical evidence inside the vessel.  When the vessel was trailered there was no visible physical evidence on the propeller or motor of the vessel.  

Next, RFC and I proceeded to Macon Medical Center to interview the victim and obtain the appropriate medical information.  Victim said he was swimming toward the vessel and when he was within a “couple” of feet of the vessel he realized the vessel was in reverse but it was too late and the propeller struck him on the leg.  (See video and photographs)

It is my opinion based on the investigation and witness statements that on July 8, 2015, Victim and another person were tubing on Jackson Lake near “Big Water” when Victim fell off of the tube.  According to occupant statements Operator, approached Victim and put the vessel into neutral.  Operator thinks his hip moved or bumped the throttle into reverse.  Therefore, when Victim was at the stern of the vessel his left leg was struck by the propeller.  Victim was assisted into the vessel by the male occupants and proceeded to the Lloyd Shoals boat ramp.  a fisherman at the park, rendered first aid to Victim and told them they needed to call 911 or go to the hospital.  Subject drove Victim and the other occupants to the City of Jackson Fire Department.  Due to Victim’s injuries he was transported to Macon Medical Center where he was treated for lacerations and contusions to his left leg.


BARDID: GA-2015-0039
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, July 3, 2015 I, Ranger was on routine vessel patrol with Cpl.  At 20:32 hours I received a phone call from the Georgia State Patrol dispatch center advising that a boat incident with injuries had occurred near Bird Island on Lake Oconee.  While en route to the incident scene, I was advised by GSP that the victim had been removed from the lake and had been transported to St. Marys Hospital in Greensboro, GA.

When Cpl and I arrived at St. Marys Hospital, I was advised that the victim had left the hospital and was taken to Putnam General Hospital in Eatonton,  GA.

When Cpl and I arrived at Putnam General Hospital we found the Victim  in the ER receiving medical attention from Dr..  I gathered personal information from Victim and interviewed her concerning the incident. Victim stated that she had been a passenger on a PWC when the operator  drove the PWC into a large wave.  Victim said she was thrown up into the air because of the wave and when she came back down she landed on the side of the PWC injuring her tail bone.  I had Victim complete a witness statement form regarding the incident.  

The next day I interviewed the operator of the PWC.  Operator stated that she was operating the PWC with Victim on board as a passenger on 7/3/2015.  She then stated that she drove the PWC into a large wave and as a result Victim was thrown up into the air and when she came back down she missed the seat hitting her tail bone on the side of the PWC.  Operator's story confirmed the information I gathered from Victim regarding the incident.

I called Victim on 7-6-2015 and she stated that she had not suffered any fractures and the extent of her injury was a bruised tail bone.  No charges were filed in the incident.


BARDID: GA-2015-0040
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SEMINOLE
NearestCityorTown: DONALSONVILLE
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 12, 2015 at approximately 1:00 p.m., I received a phone call from Ranger in reference to a boat incident on Lake Seminole.  Ranger advised me the incident was between Cypress Pond and Big Jim’s Landing.  I picked up a patrol boat and met Ranger at Big Jim’s Landing.   I arrived at the landing at 2:00 p.m, we launched the patrol vessel and headed towards the scene of the wreck.  When we arrived at the location, we observed a Tracker Marine pontoon boat with a 90 horse power motor with damage visible to the front port side of the vessel. There was also a Skeeter bass boat with a 250 horse power motor located in the woods nearby with the motor barely in the water.  All but one passenger were headed back to Big Jim’s Landing to be examined my EMS.  All passengers and operators refused EMS at the Landing.  While at the Landing, I interviewed the operator of the bass boat and Ranger conducted field sobriety exercises on the operator of the Pontoon Boat.  

Operator2 stated that he and his girlfriend went through Grassy Flat and started going into a small canal, where he slowed down to about 32 miles an hour.  He stated that when he started to make a right turn inside the narrow canal, he saw the pontoon boat.  Operator2 stated both vessels turned their boats to the right and they sideswiped each other on the left hand side of each vessel.  

When Ranger concluded field sobriety exercises, he determined that Operator1 was not impaired.  I asked Ranger to return to the incident location to take photographs and collect the witness statement from the remaining passenger on the pontoon boat.   While Ranger was photographing the scene, I interviewed Operator1.  Operator1 stated that he was going about 10-12 miles an hour heading towards Spring Creek, when a bass boat came around the curve going really fast.  He stated he turned right but the bass boat struck him on the left side of his vessel.  All passengers and operators gave written statements of the occurrence.  

All six subjects refused EMS at the Landing.  Visual bruising was apparent on some passengers.  The bass boat operator, Operator2 was charged with failure to regulate speed.  The Pontoon Boat Operator, Operator1 Was Charged with operating a vessel with expired registration.


BARDID: GA-2015-0041
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAVANNAH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NEWINGTON
County: SCREVEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The boating incident only involved one boat and one operator.  

Witnesses stated that Operator was in a 1976, 18 foot Allison speed boat, registration number GA 6589 TY, at the time of the incident.  Witnesses stated that Operator was coming down the river in a straight away and "punched" the gas. They said the bow of the boat came up out of the water and "shot" straight up in the air.  The boat rolled to the port side and came to rest upside down and then sank in the river.  Witnesses rushed to the boat to try and recover Operator.  Operator was nowhere to be found.  Witnesses pulled the boat to the bank of the river and turned it right side up.  Seconds after the crash witnesses stated they saw Operator's life jacket floating down the river.  Several of the witnesses stated that Operator was wearing his life jacket.  As I was interviewing witnesses, several made  statements about a heavy thunderstorm earlier in the afternoon and the amount of water that they drained out of their boats.  One witness provided me with a photograph during the storm that depicts the heavy rain (see witness photo).  Witnesses stated that the incident occurred between 1700 and 1730 hours.

Search efforts resumed on the morning of June 1st at approximately 0700 hours.  At approximately 0930 hours, Operator's body was found floating in a log jam approximately 1/2 mile above Blue Springs landing.  The body of Operator was transported to Poor Robin Boat Landing.  At approximately 1045 hours, Deputy Coroner, pronounced Operator dead. Coroner took possession of the body and transported it to the Screven County hospital.  Operator's body was then transported to Macon for Medical Examiner Dr. to perform the autopsy.


BARDID: GA-2015-0042
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST POINT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The victim secured the sit in style kayak she had been paddling to another vessel and was attempting to exit the kayak.   While pushing herself up with her arms to get out she felt a pop and sharp pain in her sternum area and could no longer get out of the kayak.  

The victim was transported to West Georgia Medical Center and treated for a cartledge and/or muscle separation from the sternum and ribs area.


BARDID: GA-2015-0043
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
NearestCityorTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessels were traveling east on Lake Sinclair in the area of Putnam beach. Vessel 1 turned its port side in front of Vessel 2 obstructing the view of the operator due to water spray. Vessel 2 collided with Vessel 1 striking the port side of the vessel, and the operator of vessel 1. Damage to Vessel 1 included crushed and scratches in the fiberglass and damage to the steering column. Damage to vessel 2 included fiberglass damage  to the bow. Operator1 complained of pain in her left leg but refused medical attention.


BARDID: GA-2015-0044
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MACKAY RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ST SIMONS ISLAND
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, 6/26/2015, I, RFC was called to the Mackay River bridge and boat ramp for a sailing vessel that had collided with the bridge structure. When I arrived the vessel was just south of the dock beached and anchors were being put out by Seatow. Seatow and Coastguard had already pulled the boat off the bridge and over to the bank. The captain of the vessel told me that no one had been injured and everyone was wearing a life jacket. There as a total of four people on board, 2 women and 2 children. 
 
She stated that she had waited for the tide to go out some more on the north side of the bridge because of height restrictions on the mast. She began going under the bridge very slowly and said she lost steerage and drifted into the western bulkhead under the bridge. When they hit apparently there was an I beam sticking out by the barge which was doing repairs to the bulkhead. The beam stuck through the starboard engine wall of the boat and water began pouring in. They called Seatow and Coastguard. Seatow placed pumps in the vessel and anchored it out. They also called in a repair diver from Jacksonville and stayed with the vessel over night until it could be patched and moved to Morningstar Marina.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0047
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OGEECHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: SAVANNAH
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
I was advised the victim/operator fell into the water and drowned near the boat dock at the King's Ferry Landing in Richmond Hill, Georgia. 

On May 14, 2015 I traveled to the Demeries Creek Law Enforcement Office. I received a next of kin notification, witness statement, photo of the operator's driver's license, and statement from Sgt. (see attachments). The victim/operator was identified.

I photographed (see photo log) and inventoried items in the vessel with Sgt. (see vessel inventory). The vessel was a 1998 Nissan, open motor boat, registration GA 6246 SY, and Hull Identification Number of NIS00883K889. The vessel was powered with a 90 horsepower engine. 
 
The vessel and trailer were released to owner's son at approximately 1840 hours at the Demeries Creek office. 

On May 15, 2015 I was notified by Sgt. the Georgia Bureau of Investigation would be performing an autopsy. 

On May 22, 2015 I received a report from the GBI medical examiner's office (see attachments). The autopsy report stated the cause of death was due to drowning with hypertensive heart disease.

Based on witness statements, reports, photographs, and other physical evidence from the scene the facts show: On May 13, 2015 at approximately 1635 hours, victim was in the area of the boat dock at King's Ferry Landing, in the Ogeechee River. Once he was near the boat dock, he attempted to make a repair to his vessel without wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) and his vessel not tied to the dock. While doing so, he fell into the water and drowned. This report may be changed or modified with the discovery of new information.

According to a witness, the victim appeared to have motor problems. He saw him in the boat go toward the highway 17 bridge and then return close to the Kings Ferry dock. As witness was attempting to load his boat he looked back and saw victim in the water and go under. He came up once and then went down and did not resurface. 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0049
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARBOUR RIVER
NearestCityorTown: SOUTH NEWPORT
County: MCINTOSH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2015 I, Ranger, responded to the area of the Barbour River boat ramp in reference to a vessel on fire.  When I arrived on scene, I spoke with the vessel owner.  Owner said that he was running in the Barbour River towards the dock when his engine began to "choke out."  Owner said he looked back to inspect his motor when he noticed visible flames and smoke coming from around the vessels motor.  At the same time the motor ceased running and the vessel became dead in the water.  Owner and his wife then placed the two children on board in the water.  Both children had on life jackets.  Wife and her daughter then exited the boat with two others.  The fifth occupant then exited the boat while holding on to a cooler.  

Owner was able to access his fire extinguisher once everyone else was off the boat but it only put out half of the fire.  A nearby boat saw what was going on and gave their fire extinguisher to Owner.  Owner was able to get the fire out with the aid of the other extinguisher.   The other boat then began to get the swimmers out of the water.  I asked Owner who the captain of the nearby vessel was.  The other person was gone once I arrived so I did not get a chance to speak with him.  Owner had his boat towed to the dock at the Barbour River Landing and stood by on the dock for me to arrive.  

I began to assess the damage to Owner's vessel.  I noticed the 250 horsepower Evinrude engine had some discoloration due to heat.  The cowling was also melted, and the stern of the boat above the waterline was burnt and flaking.  I did not see any damages on the boat forward of the stern, however it was still in the water.  I asked Owner what he believed the price of the motor was and he said somewhere in the area of $7,500.00.  I took a few pictures and gave Owner a copy of my business card with my contact information.  

No Further
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0050
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OGEECHEE RIVER
County: BULLOCH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/29/15 I Ranger was contacted by Ranger First Class regarding a possible boating incident that took place on 3/28/15. A unnamed source told RFC that two people had been thrown from their boat while riding on the Ogeechee River in Bulloch County. The source also said that one individual had been taken to East Georgia Hospital in Statesboro GA. The extent of their injuries were unknown. I then contacted CPL to see if he could find out more information on the incident. 
 
On 3/30/15 CPL. and myself met at the Metter Law Enforcement office to discuss the boating incident from the day before. CPL was able to identify the parties involved and was able to make contact with boat operator by phone. The operator agreed to met with me later that afternoon so that I could take his statement about the incident.  
 
Later that evening I met with Operator and Occupant (the other occupant of the vessel during the incident) at their home off Old River Road. Both Operator and Occupant stated that they had launched their boat on 3/28/15 from Rocky Ford landing on the Ogeechee River. They had planned to enjoy a day out on the water and join a local group of boats heading down river. Operator stated that at approximately 2:00 pm that afternoon he was following two boats down river while on plane when he hit the wake of one of the other vessels. The impact threw both him and Occupant out of their vessel into the water. Operator quickly located Occupant and was able to help her to a nearby log. Operator then swam back toward his vessel, which was still in gear and circling. Operator was then able to climb back in to his vessel and use it to pick up Occupant who was still clinging on to the log.  The pair then headed about a half a mile down river to Williams landing, where they were met by several other boaters in their group. Bulloch County EMS was dispatched to the location and transported Occupant to East Georgia Hospital in Statesboro GA. Occupant was treated for minor bruising and hypertrophic symptoms. She was released from the hospital later that day. There was no visible damage done to Operator's vessel.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0051
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/28/15 at approximately 19:15 Sgt. received a call from Georgia State Patrol regarding a boating incident on Lake Oconee. Sgt. made contact with the owner of Oconee Wild Watersports who gave him the contact information for Operator1 who rented a PWC and pontoon boat that were damaged in a boating incident. Operator1 contacted Sgt. later that evening and spoke with him in reference to the incident.

 Operator1 stated to me that on 7/28/15 at approximately 16:40 on Lake Oconee just north of the Highway 44 bridge, he was in operation of a personal watercraft rented from Oconee Wild Watersports when he attempted to “splash” his friends and family that were on a pontoon boat that he had also rented from the same location. As he approached the front of pontoon boat at speed, Operator1 reported to me that he turned the handlebars of the PWC left, away from the pontoon boat while forgetting to throttle the engine. This caused the PWC to strike the pontoon boat on the front of the starboard pontoon causing damage to both vessels. Operator1 said that he jumped off the PWC just before the collision and was not injured. 

Upon investigation, the damage to both vessels was consistent with Operator1’s account.  Operator1 was charged with operating a PWC within 100’ of an object above idle speed. Both vessels involved are owned by Oconee Wild Watersports. subject stated that the vessels were not insured.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0052
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at approximately 11:31 AM, I (Ranger) received a call from the Law Enforcement Division Region 3 Office advising that a boating incident had occurred on Lake Oconee near Reynolds Plantation.  CPL and I proceeded to the scene of the incident.

Once on scene we were taken to two PWCs involved in the incident.  The PWC's were a red 2012 Yamaha Wave Runner (GA 0314 PG) and a blue 2012 Yamaha Wave Runner (GA 0314 PH).  The Red PWC, identified as vessel 2, had a hole in the hull on the port side rear (see Pictures).  The Blue PWC, identified as vessel 1, had damage to the bow and motor.

After interviews with the operators and occupants of both PWC's,  it was determined that the PWC's were involved in a collision.  Vessel 1 and 2 were traveling north on Lake Oconee near Plantation Marina.  Vessel 2 made a sharp left turn and Vessel 1 collided into the rear port side of Vessel 2.  As a result of the collision, the operator and occupant of vessel 2 were ejected from the vessel.  The occupant of vessel 2 suffered a bruised ankle due to the incident.

Greene County EMS and Fire responded to the scene.  guardians refused further medical treatment.

Both PWC's were rented from Oconee Wild Watersports.

Nothing Further.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0053
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Detailed Narrative
On May 18, 2015, at approximately 1550 hours, I, Ranger First Class (RFC), was called to the scene of a personal water craft (PWC) incident at West Dam Park on Clarks Hill Reservoir. I was participating in annual firearms training at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office training center when I received the notification.
 
Captain said that deputies obtained statements from three female witnesses, who had observed the incident and had made an attempt to rescue the victim.  At approximately 1450 hours, the witnesses said a white male was operating his PWC at a fast speed toward the dam. The witnesses said Victim made a sharp left turn and was ejected into the water. They said Victim surfaced briefly then disappeared. The witnesses made an attempt to locate Victim but were unsuccessful. At approximately 1455 hours, COE Ranger was driving in the area and spotted the PWC and two of the witnesses in the water. The third witness approached Ranger and described the incident. Ranger made the 911 notification. At approximately 1515 hours, COE Rangers arrived on scene by their patrol vessel. Rangers towed Victim's PWC to Beach 1.
 
I photographed the scene, Victim's PWC, and obtained the witness statements. Severe weather halted all efforts for the evening. At approximately 1830 hours, Victim's PWC was returned to the boat ramp at Lake Springs Park by members of the Columbia County Dive Team. I photographed Victim's PWC and vehicle in the parking lot at Lake Springs. In Victim's vehicle I observed a 30 pack of Busch Light beer in the passenger floor board and a personal flotation device (PFD) on the back seat. Officer met with Victim's family and released his property to them at approximately 1920 hours. At approximately 1930 hours, I left Lake Springs Park and travelled back to the Columbia County Sheriff's Office training center.
 
The search for Victim continued for the next fifteen days and involved eighteen Conservation Rangers from Region III, two pilots from the DNR Aviation Unit, and the COE Rangers. Four DNR vessels were used to search the incident area including the Side Scan Sonar vessel. On June 2, at approximately 0640 hours, a COE Ranger observed Victim's body floating in the search area near Beach 2 of West Dam Park. Corporal responded to the scene and COE Rangers moved Victim's body to the shore.  The kill switch lanyard was attached to Victim's left wrist. The Columbia County Coroner's office responded and Victim's body was transported to the GBI Crime Lab for a pending autopsy.
 
Conclusion
Based on witness statements, evidence obtained as well as my knowledge, training and experience the facts show that on May 18, 2015 Victim was operating his PWC while not wearing his PFD at approximately 1450 hours in the area of West Dam Park Beach 1 on Clarks Hill Reservoir. Victim made a sharp turn to port and was subsequently ejected. Victim drowned moments after entering the water as was described by three witnesses to the incident. Pending the results of an autopsy, alcohol consumption by Victim may have been a contributing factor. Victim's failure to wear his PFD is the primary contributing factor for his death in this incident. I base this conclusion on the evidence and information currently provided. Any new information could cause this conclusion to change.


 


BARDID: GA-2015-0055
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SEMINOLE
NearestCityorTown: DONALSONVILLE
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, August 8, 2015 at approximately 6:00 p.m., I received a phone call from Seminole County in reference to a boat incident on Lake Seminole near the state park.  I called Deputy with Seminole County and he advised they were transporting a subject to the hospital in Bainbridge by ambulance.  The subject was identified.  Subject stated he was skiing barefoot at about 34 miles an hour when he fell onto the water hurting his chest.  I then interviewed the boat operator and her statement was the same.  Subject was released from Bainbridge Hospital that day with minor bruising.  Both Subject and subject gave written statements of the incident.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0056
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: REED BINGHAM STATE PARK
County: COOK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
*** On April 26, 2015 Sgt. responded to a boating incident at Reed Bingham State Park. They gathered the operators' information and witness statements. The statements were conflicting so officers were unable to determine who was at fault. Some witnesses stated the operator1 capsized his vessel on his own. Other witnesses stated operator2 was operating his vessel too fast and too close to operator1.

RFC has been waiting to hear from Operator1 to get the property damage total. RFC made contact with Operator1 on August 11, 2015. Operator1 stated total damage to the vessel was $2800.00 and a $700.00 iPhone was lost.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0057
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCMULGEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FITZGERALD
County: BEN HILL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I arrived at Dodge’s Old Lake at 19:12 hours. Ranger First Class (RFC) advised me three persons had been recovered, along with the vessel involved in the single vessel boating incident. RFC said there was one fatality and the body was being transported by Sgt. and Sheriff by vessel to Browns Landing in Ben Hill County across the river. 

Once I arrived at Brown’s Landing, I met with Corporal (Cpl.). Cpl. said 3 persons were traveling up the Ocmulgee River from Ben Hill County Landing toward Brown’s landing. Corporal said there were two witnesses uninjured in the incident and a fatality. The two survivors were traveling up river in their vessel near Brown’s landing when the motor of the vessel struck something in the water. The impact with the underwater object snatched the steering lever from Operator’s hand causing the vessel to quickly make a hard right turn and capsize ejecting all three passengers from the vessel into the river. Corporal said he found the vessel swamped, and vessel operator, and passenger sitting with the inoperable vessel about 700 yards below Brown’s landing on the Telfair County side of the river. Corporal said he had located the deceased victim approximately 500 yards down from Brown’s landing just off the main channel of the river in a slough. 

I interviewed Operator and Occupant1. Operator and Occupant1 said they were traveling up river near Brown’s landing when the motor of the vessel struck an unseen object in the water. The impact with the underwater object snatched the steering lever from Operator’s hand causing the vessel to quickly make a hard right turn, capsize, and eject everyone from the vessel. Operator said he was the operator of the vessel. Occupant1 was located in the middle seat of the vessel, and Victim was sitting in the rear of the boat. J. Operator and Occupant1 said they got onto the capsized vessel and rode it into the next curve of the river, where they were able to turn it over and get most of the water out of it. Operator and Occupant1 said victim could not swim. They said Victim was wearing an orange life jacket, and the last time they saw him, he was floating along the edge of the river near a pine tree. Operator and Occupant1 said the incident happened somewhere around 12:00 hours. Operator and Occupant1 keep trying Operator's phone until they were able to dial 911 for help. 

I photographed the vessel and released it to Operator. I observed the cowling was off the engine. Operator said it had come off when the boat capsized. The vessel had been moved and Operator had tried to crank the vessel, so I was unable to document any throttle position location. The vessel was a blue with white trim 14 foot Monark fiberglass open johnboat type vessel with a 40 Horse Power Tohatsu 4 stroke engine with stick steering. I could not locate a capacity plate on the vessel. 

On June 30, 2015, The Medical Examiner's Office said the cause of death for Victim was cardiac dysrhythmia due to hypertensive cardiomyopathy in conjunction with physical exertion and aspiration of water. 

 


BARDID: GA-2015-0058
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WOODSTOCK
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At the above date and time I, Ranger First Class (RFC) with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources-Law Enforcement Division (GA DNR-LED) responded to a boating incident on Allatoona Lake with RFC in the area of Little River.  RFC and I arrived on scene at approximately 1810 hours at the boat ramp at Marietta Marine. RFC met with two people and got statements from them about the incident.  I met with the subjects, along with the other people on the boat, and got statements from them about the incident.

According to all statements made by witnesses and boat operators the incident occurred in the area of Blankets Creek which is north on Little River.  Operator2 and his friends were wake boarding up the creek.  Subject1 was assisting Subject2 with learning how to wakeboard.  Subject1 would hold Subject2 in the water until the boat would take off and then float in the water.  Once Subject2 was finished skiing, Operator2 would come back and pick him up.  
 
Operator1 and Subject3 were fishing in the same area.  They had finished fishing one area and were moving to another.  Operator1 said that he had just got his boat up to speed when he heard a thump under his boat.  Subject1 then surfaced next to Operator1' boat and Operator1 attempted to assist him.  Operator2 and his passengers came over to get Subject1 and take him to get help.  Operator1 followed them back to boat ramp at Marietta Marine.  Subject1 was checked out by Cherokee County Fire/EMS and released.  

Operator1 was issued a citation for operating vessel above idle within 100 feet or person in water and released from the scene.  Subject1 told me that he was going to the hospital to have his injury checked out.  At this time there is nothing further to report about the incident.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0059
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAVANNAH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EBENEZER
County: EFFINGHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
The incident occurred down river from the Tuckasee King boat landing.

The victims were the operator of the boat and two passengers.  Operator, Passenger1, and Passenger2 were transported to Memorial Hospital in Savannah GA by ambulance.  A fourth passenger in Operator's boat was ejected from the boat and was not injured.  The fourth person stayed at the scene of the boat crash.  

We continued down river to the crash location.  The location was a couple of miles below Boykin sandbar.  Two SC DNR officers were still at the scene of the incident with Operator's boat.  We arrived at the scene at approximately 1755 hours.  Upon arrival at the scene I began to question the individuals that were present. I discovered that the fourth person was the only person present when Operator crashed his boat.  I learned that the crash occurred as several boats were en route to Savannah from a private boat landing in Burke County GA. The other boats came along only minutes after the crash occurred.  Subject stated that when he came up to the crash that he could see Operator's boat in the bushes against the embankment of the river.  He saw Fourth person in the water hanging onto a tree top that was in the river.  Subject helped get Fourth person out of the water.  Subject and his friends began to  render aid to the three victims. Fourth person stated that he did not see what happened because he was facing the back of the boat.  He stated that he thought Operator was trying to get the radio to work and wasn't paying attention and ran into the river embankment.  Subject called 911.  He said the crash happened at approximately 1600 hours.  

After we collected witness statements, Fourth person got in one of the other boats and they all continued to Savannah.  I examined and photographed the boat at the scene.  The boat had serious damage to the front portion of the hull and and bow.  I also noticed the motor was trimmed up relatively high.  I also located the point of impact with the river embankment.  The point of impact was approximately 100 yards down stream from the sandbar where Operator's boat was located. I talked to Operator a few days later and he stated that he moved the boat to the sandbar after the crash occurred. 

I made contact with Ranger First Class.  RFC went to Memorial Hospital and asked Operator for a sample of his blood to test for intoxicants.  RFC read Operator implied consent and Operator said yes.  Operator's blood was drawn at 2020 hours. 

We pulled Operator's boat to Ebenezer boat landing and loaded it onto the trailer that his friends brought to get the boat.  We took the boat off the river at approximately 2100 hours.  We took the boat to Buck and Sons impound yard in Sylvania, GA.

On Saturday July 25th, I went to the impound yard and took the boat to the shop at Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Area.  I took inventory of the boat and photographed the damage to the boat.  The boat made impact with the river embankment at  approximately a ninety degree angle.  The boat had major damage to the front quarter of the hull on the starboard and port side. The damage to the bow consisted of large holes and cracks in the bow and forwa…
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0060
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHATUGE
NearestCityorTown: HIAWASSEE
County: TOWNS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 21, 2015 at approximately 15:13 hrs. I CPL received a call from Towns County Deputy Sheriff in reference to a boating incident that occurred on Lake Chatuge. D/S stated that the victim was cut multiple times by the prop of the boat and was being treated by EMS and flown out by Life Flight. They were standing by at the Ridges Marina Gas dock with driver and occupants of the vessel who appeared to have been drinking. I advised D/S that I would be in route and to observe the driver and occupants of the vessel. I arrived at The Ridges Marina at approximately 15:39 hrs. I retrieved my boating incident report forms and met the deputies at the gas dock. I obtained some general information concerning the boating incident from D/S2 and spoke to the operator of the vessel. I asked Operator what had happened and he said they made a slight left turn while Victim was taking a picture of himself. Victim was standing in the front he right of the center of the boat behind the rail and he just lost his balance while taking a selfie. The boat was travelling full throttle about 15 mph. Victim who was a high school friend had been drinking but was not acting crazy. 20 year old Operator said he was the dad of the group and he had not been drinking. The three other guys onboard had been drinking a little. I walked over where the pontoon was tied to the dock and observed some type of material tangled in the prop of the motor and a lot of blood inside of the pontoon boat. I asked Operator to show me where Victim was standing when he fell overboard and he pointed to the front center of the vessel. I asked where the other guys were sitting and he point to the seat on the far side of the pontoon and said two of the guys were on that side and pointed to the seat in front of the driver seat and one was on that side. I asked Operator what time did the incident occurred and he said that he had rented the pontoon boat at 2:30-2:45 PM and the incident occurred around 3:00 PM. I asked information about boating experience and lake conditions. (See 156 March 2015 VIDMIC 156150321 1550 for video and exact audio, Towns County S.O. Report).
 
At 16:12hrs. I asked Operator if he had any alcohol today and he said no I asked Operator if he had any last night and he said yes he had stopped drinking about 1:00 AM in the morning. I asked Operator the questions from the BUI Screening Interview form and he said that he had strep and was taking amoxicillin. I asked Operator if he would perform a series of field sobriety exercises to ensure you are safe. Operator stated yes sir absolutely. I conducted the BUI Screening Interview on Operator and completed the exercises at 16:24 hrs. determining that Operator was not under the influence. (156 March 2015 VIDMIC 156150321 1612 for video and exact audio)
 
At 16:31 hrs. I spoke to subject and Operator about any type of boat education courses or the rental boat education course. They said they were going out on the lake just to hang out. I asked if they were life jackets onboard the vessel and they said yes. I obtained some notes from D/S while he was leaving the scene.  (156 March 2015 VIDMIC 156150321 1631 for video and exact audio)
At 16:38 hrs. I obtained a written Witness Statement and a Generic Vessel Seating Diagram from Operator. Operator said they rented the boat and after about a 5 minutes in Victim was taking a picture of his self while standing on the front of the boat. The boat was travelling at full speed (15mph) and made a slight left causing Victim to fall overboard over the front of the vessel. Operator could not cut the engine in time and Victim was cut by the engine. They immediately got Victim out of the water, applied pressure to his wounds, called 911and drove back to the Ridges Resort Marina. Operator completed the seating diagram stating that he was the operator of the vessel. (See Operator written statem…
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0061
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CHATUGE
NearestCityorTown: HIAWASSEE
County: TOWNS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject rented the Chapparral vessel from Boundary Waters on 08/07/15 from 1300 hours to 1700 hours.  When he returned the vessel at approximately 1730 hours, he met with owner of KC Water Sports and told him he had damaged the vessel.  Operator was towing his wife on skis when he hit an underwater object causing the skeg on the motor to hit the obstruction.  The skeg broke and destroyed the lower unit.  No one was hurt during the incident.  All safety equipment was on board the vessel.  

Operator took full responsibility in the incident and paid  owner $2,268.04.  

Owner notified GSP Gainesville and reported the incident.  


 


BARDID: GA-2015-0062
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: SUWANEE
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 23, 2015 at approximately 1903 hours I, Ranger First Class (RFC) with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) Law Enforcement Division, received a call from Corporal (CPL) about a boating incident with a fatality on the Chattahoochee River in Forsyth County. CPL and I are members of the Critical Incident Reconstruction Team (CIRT) and he told me a summary of the incident and informed that I would be the case agent for the incident. I had been told that RFC and Sergeant (SGT) had been on the scene and assisted with recovery efforts. I contacted RFC about the incident.

I called RFC at approximately 2043 hours. He gave a brief description of the incident and also told me that he had completed the drowning report for this incident. I asked RFC to send me all the information he had collected including photographs, GPS coordinates, and any other pertinent information. RFC also told me the vessel and truck belonging to the deceased, had be turned over to a wrecker service out of Forsyth. I told RFC I may need his assistance in photographing the vessel on May 25, 2015. I then contacted the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office about the incident.

I photographed vessel for report purposes. As I photographed the vessel I did not notice anything that was out of the ordinary nor could I have known what was ordinary since the vessel had already been processed. vessel had the proper Georgia registration displayed and all applicable safety equipment on board. I did notice that there was some fishing tackle onboard as well. I looked for any damage to the side and bottom of the vessel but could not locate any except for normal usage from the vessel being loaded and unloaded from the trailer. I completed the documentation of the vessel at approximately 0930 hours.

I contacted National Park Service (NPS) Ranger about the boating incident. Ranger told me that they would have a report completed as quickly as possible. He told me their report would include the reports from the other assisting agencies as well. I told him I would wait to get his report to complete my investigation as all my report would be based on the reports of the other agencies. I received Ranger report from the NPS on June 5, 2015.

After inspecting the vessel and reviewing the information provided to me, I believe that Victim was fishing on the Chattahoochee River in the area of McGinnis Ferry on May 23, 2015. For some reason, unknown as to whether it was due to a medical condition or not, Victim fell from his vessel and drown in approximately 4 feet of water. I could not find any significant damage to the bottom or side of his vessel that it would indicate his vessel had hit something in the water. I did not include a seating diagram with this report because there is no way of knowing whether or not Victim was sitting or standing before he fell out of his vessel.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0063
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8, 2015 at approximately 2330 hours Cpl. received a call in reference to a hit and run boating incident.  We were advised the vessel that was struck was attempting to locate the vessel that struck them and left the scene at Holiday Marina.  At approximately 0000 hours on August 9, 2015 Cpl. and I arrived at D-Dock at Holiday Marina.  I spoke with the operator of the vessel that was struck.  Operator1 stated that a large white, tall vessel struck the rear of his vessel just before the buoy line at Sunset Cove.  Operator1 could not provide a better description of the vessel that had struck his vessel.  Operator1 stated that he was drifting when he noticed the vessel approaching and he attempting to quickly move his vessel to avoid being struck by the approaching vessel.  The approaching vessel struck Operator1's vessel on the starboard side at the stern causing fiberglass and other damage.

I then spoke with the passenger onboard Operator1's vessel.  Passenger stated that he only noticed the approaching vessel for mere seconds before impact and that all he could describe it as was a tall, narrow, large vessel with a V-shape in the front.  Passenger also stated the vessel was white in color.

Cpl. photographed the damage to Operator1's vessel.  I observed paint transfer to Operator1's vessel that was white and blue in color.  

Cpl. and I patrolled Holiday Marina by foot and vessel in attempts to locate the vessel that struck Operator1 unsuceessfully.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0064
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person strikes engine flywheel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 17, 2015 at approximately 1800 hours I received a call in reference to a boating incident that occurred at Big Creek boat ramp in Hall County Georgia.  I was advised that the subject went to Northeast Georgia Medical Center to be treated.  I arrived at the medical center at approximately 1930 hours.  I interviewed the operator of the vessel.  Operator advised me that he was operating the vessel and trying to load it onto the boat trailer. He said the victim was trying to repair the engine while he was driving the vessel onto the trailer at the boat ramp.  Operator advised me that when he stuck his hand down into the engine it got caught on the fly wheel and lacerated victim’s right hand. Operator advised me that he called 911 and began attending to victim.  Victim advised me of the same circumstances.  Victim suffered a severe laceration to his right hand and was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for treatment.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0065
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CARTERS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: ELLIJAY
County: GILMER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 22, 2015 at approximately 2148 hours, I, Corporal (CPL) with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) Law Enforcement Division (LED) Critical Incident Reconstruction Team (CIRT) received a call from Sergeant (SGT) in reference to a boating incident on Carters Lake. SGT told me two people collided while wakeboarding. The collision caused serious injuries to one adult white male. The unknown white male was transported by Life Flight to Medical Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee. SGT said the victim was in critical condition at that time. I told SGT I would get with CPL on Tuesday, June 23, and begin the investigation. I made contact with Captain (CPT) and gave him a brief of our plans.

On Tuesday, June 23, I met with CPL and Ranger First Class (RFC) at the Cohutta Springs Youth Camp. Before my arrival, I spoke with CPL and he told me the victim had died. Upon my arrival, I met with Camp Director who told me Survivor was the other wakeboarder who collided with Deceased. I asked Director where the vessel involved was located and where Survivor was located. He said Survivor was on his way back to the camp from Woodring Branch campground with the vessel. Director explained that Survivor, Deceased, and the vessel operator, were wakeboarding instructors for a group of teenagers at the youth camp for the week. Director said the group had been camping at Woodring Branch campground for a few days while they learned how to wakeboard when the incident occurred. He asked if he could have a meeting with the entire group when they returned from Woodring Branch because the group was not aware of Deceased's passing. I agreed and told Director I would need to see the vessel that was towing the wakeboarders. Director agreed and said they would cooperate fully with the investigation and they would help provide any other information if needed. It was my understanding there were approximately thirteen (13) youth campers on the vessel when the incident occurred. I asked Director if he would ask the campers if any of them were willing to speak to me about what they saw. He agreed to ask. We remained at the camp for another 30 minutes before the group arrived.

When the group arrived, Director met with the entire camp. I met with Operator at the boat ramp on a lake at the camp. Operator had put the vessel back on the water. I asked him if he could put the vessel back on the trailer so I could survey it. The vessel was a black 2015 Super Air Nautique (HIN: CTC53015H415). The vessel had been purchased on Friday June 19, 2015 and did not have a Georgia registration. I did not notice any damage on the vessel. I took photographs of all sides of the vessel and the capacity plate. Nothing else was completed on the vessel. After the vessel survey was complete, Director told me he had three (3) campers that were willing to speak to me about what they saw. I asked Operator if he would be willing to give me a statement regarding the incident and he agreed.

I went to the office to interview Operator. Operator said he was the operator of the vessel and had over 100 hours in operating a vessel of this type. He said he had 13 campers on the vessel with him as well as the two (2) wakeboarders. He said they left the area from the campground around 1845 hours and pulled Survivor and Deceased around for several minutes as they performed different wakeboarding maneuvers for the campers on the vessel. Operator said he was travelling in a straight direction, at approximately 23.9 miles per hour (MPH) across the lake. Survivor was on the port side and Deceased was on the starboard side of the vessel, both being pulled on wakeboards… (narrative is cut off)
 
USCG entered- according to an article, the two wakeboarders collided; the deceased victim was struck in the head by the other wakeboarder’s board, suffering trauma.
 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0066
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARDING
NearestCityorTown: HAMILTON
County: HARRIS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the vessel was going to assist a friend who was in a disabled boat.  While on the way the operator noticed smoke coming from the engine bay and opened the compartment to investigate and noticed a fire.  The operator then jumped from the vessel without a life jacket and swam to shore.  No other persons were on board.  
    Harris County 911 notified me, Sgt., about the incident about 19:15 pm.  Upon talking with the vessel owner by phone the vessel was fully involved in fire.  Arrangements were made by the owner with A LaGrange Tow, a marine towing company, to secure and remove the vessel from the water.  At about 23:00 pm the same evening the tow company and owner had been unable to locate the vessel.  The tow company resumed the search the following morning and could not locate the vessel.  The vessel likely sank after burning to the waterline.
    The owner stated the vessel was worth about $12,000.
    DNR LED did not respond to the scene but handled this complaint by phone.  
    No further details.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0067
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WOODSTOCK
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 11, 2015 at approximately 1645 hours, I, RFC with the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, received a complaint of a boat incident that occurred on Allatoona Lake near Galt's Ferry Day Use area.  I advised GSP Dispatch that I would be en route to Galt's Ferry by vehicle to investigate the incident.  I arrived at Galt's Ferry at approximately 1658 hours.  Upon arrival, Cherokee EMS was transporting one subject from the incident to Kennastone Hospital.  I contacted Sgt. about the information that I received upon arrival.  Sgt. advised that he would be en route to Kennastone Hospital to determine the status of the injured boater.

I met with Cherokee Fire and Sheriff Deputies at the scene.  They advised me of the parties involved in the boating incident that involved two Personal Watercraft(PWC) colliding near Galt's Ferry Day Use area.  I interviewed one operator still on scene.  Operator1 advised that he and another family member were operating two PWC's out in front of Galt's Ferry Day Use area.  The two operators were traveling in the same direction when Operator1 made a left turn and crossed into the lane of travel of Operator2.  Operator1 struck Operator2 on the right side and ejected him off his PWC.

Sgt. advised me that he interviewed Operator2 and determined the extent of the injuries he sustained from the incident.  Operator2 had several broken ribs and a possible broken spleen.  There were no signs of alcohol or drug use with the two operators.  Both operators were new to operating PWC's.  Attached are witness statements from Operator1 and another person that was near the location of the incident.

RFC 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0069
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2015, I, RFC with the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, received a complaint call from Army Corps of Engineers Ranger Amy Cobb in reference to a sunken boat near Old 41 Campround #3.  Cpl. and I responded to the boat incident by vessel.  We met with subject near the area of Blockhouse and located the vessel that was sunk.

Cpl. let me out of the patrol vessel at Old 41 Campground #3, where I met with the operator of the vessel that had sunk.  The operator advised that he had borrowed the vessel to test drive to determine if he was going to buy the vessel from the owner.  Operator advised that he had the vessel, a white Caravelle, tied up to the shoreline.  He advised that he noticed it had taken on water this morning.  He attempted to remove the water and get it around to the boat ramp to load it up.  However, on the way to the boat ramp, the vessel began to sink.  Operator, with the assistance of other boaters, was able to get the sunken vessel back close to the shoreline at the campground.  At the time of our arrival, the vessel only had approximately two feet of the bow sticking up out of the water, the rest of the vessel was submerged. 

Operator advised that he was going to attempt to pull the vessel into shallow water and use a sump pump to remove all the water from the vessel.  Then he was going to attempt to get the vessel to the boat ramp to load up.  I advised him that we would check back in with him later in the day to determine the status of the vessel.

I checked the area at 1800 hours.  I was unable to locate the vessel in the area.  Operator had removed the vessel from the lake.

RFC 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0070
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 27, 2015 at approximately 1836 hours, I, RFC with the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, was dispatched to a boating incident on Allatoona Lake.  The boating incident involved a person on a wake board receiving head injuries from impact with the water.  Bartow Fire and EMS responded to 6118 Misty Valley Drive Acworth, GA to check on the subject.  Bartow EMS transported the injured subject to Kennastone Hospital.  I responded to Kennastone Hospital to interview the injured subject about the incident.

I met with the injured subject's wife at Kennastone Hospital.  Wife advised me that her husband was on Allatoona Lake with some friends when he was injured while wake boarding.  Wife advised that Victim fell backwards off the wake board and the impact with the water caused the head injury.  Victim was diagnosed with a concussion at the time of my arrival at Kennastone Hospital.  Wife advised that Victim does not remember the incident or even being on Allatoona Lake.  I asked Victim about the incident and he claimed that he had fallen off a ladder.  Victim's head injury seemed to be quite significant at that time.  I gathered information from Wife and advised her that I would contact her in the next day or two to check status of Victim.

I attempted to contact the vessel operator and owner but was unable to reach him at that time.  Operator did return my phone call a short while later.  He advised the same incident that Wife described.  I advised Operator that I would need to meet with him to gather his information and the vessel information.  We agreed on meeting the next morning.

On August 28, 2015, I met with Operator at his lake house on Allatoona Lake.  I gathered his information and the vessel's information at that time.  Operator advised me of the other occupants in the vessel at the time of the incident.  The other occupants are listed in the persons section of the report as occupants.  Operator advised the same information regarding the incident as Wife had already did.  The cause of the incident and injury was skier mishap/fall.  Operator did advise that he had talked to Victim earlier that morning and he did get released from Kennastone Hospital around midnight on August 27.  The only injury Victim sustained was a concussion.

RFC 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0071
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 7, 2015, I, RFC with the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, received a call of boating incident near Old Hwy 41 Day Use 1 on Allatoona Lake.  The boating incident involved two personal watercraft (PWC) vessels.  Cpl. and I were in the area of the Blockhouse when we received the call from Corps of Engineers.  Cpl. and I met with Corps of Engineers Ranger at Old Hwy 41 Day Use 1.

The Corps of Engineers Ranger advised me of the incident and directed me to the operator of one of the PWCs.  Operator1 was the operator of the PWC that was struck by another PWC.  Operator1 sustained a large laceration to the top of her right foot.  Operator1 advised that the striking PWC left the scene of the incident.  Operator1 advised that she was traveling in the main lake channel south of Interstate 75 when she was struck by another PWC on her right side.  Operator1 could not remember much about the striking vessel.  She advised that she thought it was a light yellow/green color PWC with two occupants.  See Operator1's witness statement under attachments.

The owner of the vessel was also on scene.  He advised that he would be taking Operator1 to Cartersville Medical Center for treatment on her right foot.  Bartow EMT completed some treatment to Operator1's injury on scene at Allatoona Lake.  I gathered some information from owner regarding the PWC before he left the scene.  I advised owner that I would contact him at a later time to complete the report.  At that time Cpl. and I partolled the area to try and locate the other PWC involved in the incident.  We were unable to locate any PWC matching the description that Operator1 advised.

Later that evening, I responded to Cartersville Medical Center to gather more information regarding the incident.  I met with Operator1 in the emergency room to gather a witness statement from her regarding the boating incident.  Operator1 had stitches applied to the laceration on her right foot.  I also met with owner to gather more information from the PWC involved in the boating incident.

RFC 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0072
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLUE RIDGE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: BLUE RIDGE
County: FANNIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 12th, 2015, subject reported a boating incident that occurred on September 6th, 2015. Operator stated that he was operating his vessel (V01: CORRECT CRAFT / 1995 / 17 Ft / OFF WHITE / GA6306MF )  and pulling a skier when he ran aground in Blue Ridge Lake. He stated that he was headed in a westward direction around 18:00 p.m. He said that the sun was in his eyes and he did not see the muddy water which signified a shallow area. He stated that nobody got hurt in the incident. The vessel came to an abrupt stop and he had to get other boats to pull his vessel free. The location of the incident was between markers 3 and 4. Operator said that he could see a poured concrete block, that was likely used to anchor buoys, from where his boat run aground. Operator showed me pictures of the concrete block and the damage to the struts and propeller. The pictures showed the metal struts bent to one side, the propeller blades bent, and the propeller shaft bent out of alignment. Operator also stated that the rudder was damaged. Operator said that he is having the boat fixed at a boat repair shop on Blue Ridge Drive between McCaysville and Blue Ridge. End of report.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0073
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLTOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WOODSTOCK
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
2014 hours   *** I spoke with Operator1 about the incident briefly.  He did tell me that he got the information from the other vessel operator.  I asked Operator1 for the other operator's information and he gave me the name of Operator2 and his contact information.  Operator1 said that they did not know who to call about the incident and neither did Operator2.  Operator1 did tell me that his boat was taken back to Park Marina and that it had to be pulled out of the water because of the damage to the hull.  He said it was parked at the repair lot at Park Marina on Allatoona Lake.  I told Operator1 to send me a statement about the incident to my state email address.  I called Operator2 to get his side of the story and to arrange a time to meet with him.  

I met with Operator2 and one of the occupants of the boat at Operator2's residence.  I told both of them to send me a statement recounting the events of the incident to my state email address.  I also photographed Operator2's vessel at this time.  Operator2 showed me the damage to his vessel.  There is significant damage to the bottom of his aluminum vessel near the chine on the starboard side at the stern.  There is also another area that appears to be damaged from the collision as well at the top of the stern of the vessel on the starboard side.  These areas were photographed.  Operator2 said that he had all the safety equipment on his boat and that his lights were working on the night of the incident.  At this time I also got the contact information for an occupant in Operator2's vessel.

Next I went to Park Marina to photograph Operator1's vessel.  His vessel did sustain a crack to the fiberglass beginning on the port side at the chine approximately 47 inches from the stern.  This is also the point of impact between the 2 vessels.  The crack in the fiberglass continues up to the rub rail of the vessel.  This is the only damage that I noticed to the vessel.  I photographed this area as well as other features of the vessel.  Operator1 also sent me another statement about the incident at this time.
Based on the information provided to me by all parties involved I cannot say which vessel is at fault for several reasons.  There was no call made the night of the incident.  I have spoken with both parties and told them that in the future just like in an automobile accident they can call 911 to get help.  I was patrolling on Allatoona Lake that evening near the dam and could have responded quickly to the scene to resolve the issues that we have before us at this time.  The main issue with this incident is that the location of the vessels when the incident occurred are very different.

Operator2 and his occupants in their statements said that they were approximately 20 yards from the shore traveling in a northerly direction back to the area of Kellogg Creek.  Operator2 said in his statement that he saw the boat coming and could not turn to the right because of his closeness to the shore. This left him with no choice but to turn to the left as he thought the other vessel was going to pass him on the right.  According to Operator1 he saw the vessel and knew that a head on collision was imminent.  Operator1 did tell me that he was several hundred yards from the shore near the area of Harbor Town Marina.  When Operator1 saw that both vesse…
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0074
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At the above date and time I, Ranger First Class (RFC) with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) Law Enforcement Division, responded with RFC at Holiday Marina.  Upon arriving on scene at 1753 hours we learned that victim was being pulled on a tube behind a boat being operated by her husband.  Operator had turned the boat and Victim hit a wake on the tube.  Victim was thrown off the tube and hit a large wake on her left side.  When Operator went to pick her up she was complaining about pain in her side.  They called 911 and met Bartow County EMS at Holiday Marina.  EMS personnel said that she probably had some bruised or broken ribs.  She was transport by ambulance to Cartersville Medical Center for treatment.  RFC spoke with Operator to determine if he was under the influence of alcohol. RFC determined that Operator was not impaired and released him from the scene.  

There is nothing further to report at this time.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0075
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At the above date and time I responded to a call about a boat fire at Allatoona Landing.  I responded to the scene with RFC.  Once on scene we met with officers from the Bartow County Fire Department and the persons involved in the incident.  I spoke with passengers on the boat.  Subject told me that her husband, had turned on the blowers and was letting the boat run. As they were about to untie from the dock there was an explosion in the engine compartment.  The back of the boat near the stern caught fire.  They were assisted in putting out the fire.  There were no injuries treated as one male had the hair burnt from his legs.  The boat was loaded onto a trailer and removed from the water.  The damage from the fire resulted in a total loss of the vessel.  

There is nothing further to report at this time.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0077
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CARTER'S LAKE
NearestCityorTown: ELLIJAY
County: GILMER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On above date and time, I Cpl. of the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources, LE Division, was patrolling Carter's Lake with Deputy of the Gilmer County Sheriff's Office.  At that time we were contacted by radio and cell phone that a boating incident had occurred on the lake and that a person was being brought to the Damsite boat ramp with a probable broken leg.  We were also notified that EMS had been notified and were en route.  We then traveled to the boat ramp arriving approximately 5 minutes after the call.  
    After our arrival, we waited approximately 10 minutes until the accident vessel arrived.  We cleared boats and boaters from the dock area and assisted with keeping the victim stationary on back of the vessel while waiting for EMS to arrive.  After EMS arrived, we assisted EMT's with moving Victim from the back of the boat onto the backboard and into the ambulance.  Deputy gathered information from the operator, passengers, and victim while I asked questions about the incident.  
    The vessel operator stated that Victim had been wake boarding when he hit a wave wrong and went down into the water.  Operator stated that he believed Victim had broken his right upper leg.  Two passengers in the vessel gave the same statement.  It was very apparent by Victim actions and observations of his leg that the right femur was broken.  Victim stated when asked that he was just starting to learn how to wake board and had very little prior experience.  
    All parties were given business cards with phone number and e-mail address and asked to write written statements about the incident at a more convenient time.  No unusual contributing factors were noted and alcohol did not seem to be a factor.  Several attempts on later dates were made by phone to receive the written statements, however, no written statements were ever provided.
    During a phone conversation with the victim on June 10th, Victim stated that he had sustained three fractures to his right femur and had undergone surgery to place a steel rod in the leg. 

END OF REPORT
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0079
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CANTON
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2015 I was patrolling Allatoona Lake with RFC, at 1145 hours I received a call in reference to a boat fire at Sweetwater Beach in Cherokee County.  At this time we were on a sunken vessel call at Old 41 Day Use Area on the south end of the lake.  I called Sgt. for assistance.  After completing the first call we responded to Sweetwater Beach.  Once on scene we met with subject who stated that he just bought a 18 foot Sylvan runabout boat about two weeks ago.  He stated that after he launched the boat the engine ran for a minute and the engine backfired. At this time Operator stated that the entire vessel quickly became engulfed in flames.  Operator stated that he jumped from the vessel and swam to the beach area at Sweetwater Day Use.  The vessel was a total loss burned to the waterline.  Operator was uninjured in the incident. Operator was friends with a wrecker service owner and called to have the boat pulled from the water.  Operator stated that all his personal belongings were in the glove box of the boat, ID, wallet with $700 cash, and new I phone.   END OF REPORT

Cpl. 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0081
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALLATOONA
NearestCityorTown: CANTON
County: CHEROKEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I, Officer with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division received a call from the Georgia State Patrol Dispatch that there was a boating incident at Gault's Landing on Allatoona Lake.  I responded to the area where I located the listed Operator.

Operator stated he was floating in his vessel out in the water with the engine shut off.  Operator stated the listed occupant was swimming out to his boat.  Operator stated he started the vessel as Occupant was entering the vessel.  Operator stated he accidentally put the boat in gear causing the propeller of the vessel to strike Occupant in the left foot.  Operator stated Cherokee County EMS responded to the scene and transported Occupant to Kennestone Hospital.

I spoke with Occupant by phone a few days later.  Occupant stated that he was entering the vessel when Operator started the motor and put it in gear.  Occupant stated the propeller hit his foot.  Occupant stated he was transported to Kennestone Hospital by EMS.  Occupant stated he was treated and released from the hospital with bruises and lacerations.  Occupant stated he did not need stitches and nothing was broken.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0082
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL
NearestCityorTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 3, 2015 at approximately 0630 hours I, Ranger First Class, was notified by Corporal of a fatality boating incident on Clarks Hill Lake in Columbia County. Corporal told me I would be the CIRT officer handling the case. At approximately 1000 hours I arrived at the DNR boat house in Mistletoe State Park. Ranger First Class soon arrived, and I assisted with loading sonar equipment into a DNR boat. I then drove the vessel to the incident location near the mouth of Keg Creek and the Savannah River channel. Corporal and Ranger First Class were on the scene when we arrived. I was advised by Cpl. that four men were riding in a vessel traveling between islands in an attempt to bow fish when the vessel they were in sank. Three of the men swam to a nearby island, while one of the men was unable to swim to the island and drowned. I was told the vessel and the victim had not been located. Soon after arriving at the scene, I drove to Wildwood Landing to escort Ranger First Class and the DNR sonar boat to the scene. Throughout the day I assisted with keeping other vessels away from the sonar boat, while Rfc. and Rfc. operated the sonar. The sonar search was called off before sunset, and I was told it would resume the following morning at approximately 0800 hours. I left the scene at approximately 2000 hours.

On May 4, 2015 I arrived at the scene at approximately 0800 hours. I assisted Rfc. with running the sonar unit. At approximately 1000 hours, I left the sonar boat and went to a South Carolina boat landing and interviewed the vessel owner Owner. Owner said he was out on the lake on the night of May 2, 2015 with Operator, Occupant1, and the victim. Owner said they had been bow fishing, and they were idling between two islands when they spotted a large piece of styrofoam floating in the lake. Owner said Operator was driving with a tiller steer motor and pulled over to the styrofoam, so they could look at it up close. Owner said his boat had a large metal platform on the front which he and Victim were riding on. Owner said Occupant1 was sitting on a bench that was attached to the metal platform. Owner said they pulled away from the styrofoam, and shortly after the front of the vessel began rapidly taking on water. He told me the vessel sank out from under them and was gone in a couple of seconds. I asked Owner if they had personal flotation devices on board, and he said they had four wearable and two throwable PFDs. Owner said the vessel sank so fast they did not have time to grab the personal flotation devices. He said when they went into the water, Victim kept saying he was not going to make it. Owner said he told Operator and Occupant1 to swim to the island, which was a few hundred yards away. He stated that he tried to help Victim who was struggling to stay afloat. Owner said Victim eventually disappeared under the water, and he could hear Operator and Occupant1 yelling for him. He told me he swam towards Operator and Occupant1, and they helped him onto the island. Owner said they could see lights from a fishing vessel, and they began to yell for help. He said the vessel came to their aide, and called 911. Owner said South Carolina DNR responded and transported them to a nearby boat landing. He said operator, Occupant1, and himself where transported to the Georgia Regents Medical Center in Augusta and were treated for hypothermia. I asked Occupant1 how big his vessel was, and he said it was a 15 foot Duracraft. I then asked him if he thought it was overloaded, and he replied "no". I then returned to the incident location and assisted with the sonar search. Not long before sunset, Rfc. was able to positively locate and identify the vessel using a sonar…
 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0083
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SEMINOLE
NearestCityorTown: DONALSONVILLE
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, 10/21/2015, at approximately 0845 hours, I was notified by Capt. about a boating incident that had just occurred on Lake Seminole, near Spring Creek Park landing. Capt. advised that he would be responding, along with Sgt.. I arrived on scene at approximately 1020 hours and assisted Capt. and Sgt. as they interviewed the occupants and operators of both vessels that were involved. 
 
The operator of vessel #1 stated that both vessels had just left the dock, and were heading out into the lake to fish for bass. The operator of vessel #2 was following close behind Operator1' vessel. As they neared the intersection with the Spring Creek channel, Operator1 stated that he stopped to chat with a friend that he saw fishing nearby. Operator2 stated that he looked away to wave at the nearby fisherman, who was also an acquaintance, and he didn't notice that Operator1 had stopped in front of him. Operator2's vessel struck the stern of Operator1' vessel, just to the left of the motor, and proceeded across the port side, exiting near the passenger seat of vessel #1. 
 
There was visible damage noted on the top rail of Operator1' vessel that appeared to confirm the statements given by both operators. There was also minor damage to the bottom of Operator2's vessel and the skeg of his motor. 
 
A passenger in Operator1' vessel. He stated that he turned around just before impact, and dove into the bottom of his vessel, which probably saved him from being injured in the incident. Some of his fishing equipment was damaged from the impact. Both operators and both passengers gave written statements of the incident, and all were in agreement as to what had occurred. There were no injuries involved in this incident. Charges are pending against Operator2 for violating the navigational rules of the road.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0084
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAVANNAH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: RINCON
County: EFFINGHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 7:15 pm I Ranger received a call from Effingham County Dispatch regarding a boat incident that had just taken place in the Savannah River. The subjects involved in the incident were unsure of their current location but had advised dispatch that they were up river for Abercorn creek and below Millstone landing. Dispatch had also received information the one subject had received life threatening injuries during the incident. Because of the injuries dispatch advised the operator of the vessel to proceed to Abercorn Landing were EMS was standing by. After receiving all this information I notified Sergeant of the incident and we responded to Abercorn Landing.
 
Upon arriving at Abercorn Landing Sergeant and myself were met by Rincon Fire Chief. Chief stated that the victim had sustained several serious injuries and that he had been air lifted to Savannah for treatment. Chief also was able to identify the boat operator and the other two occupants that were onboard the vessel when the incident took place. At that time Sgt. and I began interviewing the boat operator. Operator stated that they had been out Alligator hunting when the boat struck a sandbar and Occupant was ejected, the boat then ran over Occupant while he was in the water. This statement was also echoed by the other two occupants of the vessel. All parties involved completed a witness
statement at the scene.
 
Later the evening Operator, two South Carolina DNR officers, and myself returned to area of the river where the incident took place. Operator was able to show us the general area but was unsure of the exact location because of the tidal change. Operator also stated that when the boat had struck the sandbar they had been in about the middle of the river. With this information I was able to determine that the incident had taken place in the waters of the state of Georgia. All information, witness statements, and the vessel its self was turned over to Corporal with the Critical Incident Reconstruction Team. 
 
It was determined that the vessel had struck the sandbar located at global positioning system coordinates: latitude 032 degrees, 15.75 minutes North, longitude 081 degrees 8.8 minutes West. The exact point of impact could not be determined due to low water visibility. 

 


BARDID: GA-2015-0085
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALTAMAHA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BAXLEY
County: APPLING
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2015, at approximately 13:00 hours I was contacted by Sergeant (SGT.) to assist (SGT.) with a boat incident to look for a missing boater at Dean’s landing in Appling County. I arrived with my vessel at approximately 14:30 hours. 
 
I interviewed the deceased victim’s brother, who said he and his brother were fishing in a pile of rocks just up river from Dean’s landing on the Altamaha River. Brother said they had finished fishing and were floating out of the rocks trying to get the motor to start on the boat but were having problems. Brother said Victim was in the rear of the vessel attempting to start the tiller-steer Johnson 9.9 HP engine. Brother said the engine started and took off at what must have been full throttle. Brother said he yelled for Victim to cut it down but it was too late. Brother said the left side of the vessel struck a small rock sticking up causing the vessel to capsize and eject both of them into the river. Brother said he ended up hanging onto a rock in the rock pile after he came to the surface. Brother said Victim was hanging onto the capsized vessel in the river. Brother said he told his brother to stay on the boat but instead he tried to swim to him and Victim went under the water without resurfacing. Brother said a boater heard them yelling and rescued him off the rock he was hanging on. 
 
According to Georgia Department of Natural Resources boat registration data base the registration of GA0268DK on the vessel was registered to the deceased victim. The vessel was a 1978 Fisher Marine open bottom aluminum boat. The vessel was 14 feet in length and 36 inches at the base. There was a small indentation of hull damage to the port (left side) bottom of the vessel near the chine (corner of where the bottom meets the side) located approximately 156 inches from the transom towards the bow. The vessel was powered by a Johnson 9.9 outboard tiller steer engine. The throttle control on the tiller handle appears to have been altered because it was set between slow and shift. Also upon my arrival on scene the vessel had been turned back over and was at the landing when I arrived on scene. 
 
On June 30, 2015, I had Brother remove the vessel out of the water. I photographed the vessel and released it to Brother. I photographed the struck rock, river, and the rock pile of the incident location. I rode the river assisting in looking for the missing boater using the side scan sonar. 
 
On July 1, 2015, I ran the vessel while side scan sonar was being utilized attempting to locate Victim until approximately 13:00 hours. At approximately 13:30 hours (SGT.) and I patrolled down river from Deans landing to Plant Hatch looking for Victim. At approximately 14:29 hours the son of Victim was returning his vessel to US 1 landing, and he said he thought he saw Victim in a curve just upriver from US 1 landing. Sgt. and I respond with Appling County Rescue and recovered the body. I transported the body to US 1 bridge and released it to Appling County Coroner.
 
In conclusion, according to the only witness and my observations of the vessel no personal flotation devices were in use at the time of incident. Brother’s statement and my observations of the evidence on the vessel's hull damage appears to be accurate and reasonable explanation of why the vessel capsized ejecting both persons into the water. It is reasonable to find Victim was not wearing a personal flotation device and subsequently drown as a result from physical exhaustion and aspiration of water. According to the Coroner's Report and an autopsy conducted by the Savanah Coastal Crime Lab Medical Examiner's Office, the cause of death was drowning. 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0086
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: BRUNSWICK
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the afternoon of July 31, subject and her daughter were in their boat off of Sea Island. operator ran aground near Pelican spit at the mouth of Hampton River.. Over time, Operator continued using the engine and along with the tide was able to float off the bar. The boat ran out of fuel and was drifting in the current. During this time a severe storm approached the area. The boat began taking on water from the starboard side. Daughter called the Coast Guard on her cell phone and Coast Guard advised for them to put on their PFD's and stay in the boat as long as they could. The boat capsized and both stayed with the boat. When Coast Guard boat arrived on scene, the boat crew was unable to get to them for the shoals. A Coast Guard Helicopter was called and picked up Operator and daughter and flew them to SSI airport.

Both refused treatment from EMS at the time, but both went to the emergency room the next day to be checked out.

SEE STATEMENTS for more details

As of this report the boat has still not been recovered and is in the Hampton river. I spoke with (8-11-15) who will be salvaging the boat this afternoon.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0087
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-12-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: ST MARYS
County: CAMDEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was heading south along Cumberland Island about 10 miles offshore in rough conditions and decided to come into the St Marys river entrance. His electronics were down and he was trying to use his phone and memory to navigate into the river. As he approached the area he noticed the red and green markers and went straight towards them thinking he was at the mouth of the river. He was in fact north of the jetties and hit the north jetty while trying to get to the channel. The boat bounced across the rocks. He checked both hulls and found the starboard side taking on water. This was about 2230 hours. 
At this time, Operator1 called Coastguard. Then he threw out the anchor but was continuing to drift. Coastguard was over two hours out so Deputy with Nassau County responded to the scene and removed Operator1 from his vessel. When Deputy responded he found Operator1 to actually be on the Georgia side of the channel. Deputy took Operator1 to the hospital where he was admitted and released the next morning. 
 
Deputy called GA State Patrol dispatch who in turn called me around 0130 hours. I spoke with Operator1 around 0220 hours. He advised me that he was ok and would be released in the morning. His vessel came to rest on the beach at Ft. Clinch on the Florida side of the channel. I spoke with him several times over the next few days while he worked out getting the boat to a dry dock facility on the North River in St Marys. On 12/13/2015, Operator1 was able to float the vessel himself using a water pump and get the boat to the Fernandina Marina that night. He motored the vessel up to the Point Peter docks on the North River the next day and it was pulled from the water. 
 
I came to the Point Peter docks and met with Operator1 on 12/15/2015. He is staying on the boat and plans to do the repairs himself over the next couple of months. I completed the rest of this incident report and had Operator1 send me the account of the event that he had posted on his blog and a list of damages. 
 
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0088
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-12-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LINCOLNTON
County: LINCOLN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/15/2015 at approximately 1205 hours I was notified by SC DNR Officer of a boating incident that occurred on the Georgia side of Clarks Hill Lake.  Officer advised the incident took place in Fishing Creek, Lincoln County.  Officer further advised that the incident was a boat on boat collision.  Officer stated that all occupants were out of the water and were going to Calhoun Falls SC.  Myself and Captain traveled to Calhoun Falls and met with the subjects identified on this report.  Subject had complained of hip and back pain and was transported by EMS to Anderson Hospital and was not on scene at our arrival.  Photographs and statements were taken at the 7-Eleven in Calhoun Falls.  Capt. went to Anderson Hospital and met with victim (unable to provide written statement).  Victim was being treated for pain and was in observation by medical personnel.
 
Witness statements and physical evidence would indicate that the vessel being operated  struck the vessel belonging to Operator2.  Operator2 and his passenger saw  Operator1's vessel approaching and signaled in attempt to gain Operator1's attention.  Operator2 subsequently jumped from his vessel and occupant was thrown from the vessel after impact.  Evidence would suggest that Victim was riding in the fishing seat located on the bow of the vessel and was thrown to the rear of Operator1's vessel striking the floor and gunwale area on the port side.  
 
Operator1 assisted in retrieving subjects from the water and was able to provide dry clothing to aid in the prevention of hypothermia.
 
Officer investigation would suggest that contributing factors would be: Operator1's vision was obstructed due to Victim's seat location possibly drawing attention to Victim instead of proper look out.   
Both vessels appeared to have significant damage that would presumably be over $2500.00.
Vessel 1, belonging to Operator1, had fiberglass damage to the port underside beginning near the bow.  The vessel was sitting on a trailer at the time of my inspection and I was unable to determine how far underneath the damage continued.  
 
 Vessel 2 had aluminum damage to the starboard side that started near the center of the vessel continuing across the console and ending near the bow.  
See pictures attached to hard copy of incident report.
 


BARDID: GA-2015-0089
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: SAVANNAH
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 31, 2015 I, RFC was on patrol in Richmond Hill, Georgia, at approximately 0925 hours I was notified by Sgt. of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), of a boating incident, in South Channel near Fort Pulaski. The incident was believed to be a single vessel and single occupant boating incident. The operator was believed to be in the water. 

I arrived on scene approximately 1025 hours and met with officers who were in the Safe boat in a target recovery mission. The Savannah Chatham Metro Police Department (SCMPD) Marine Patrol Unit, the dive team, and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) were also on scene. 

Sgt. informed me at the time of the incident that witnesses on the bank fishing observed a vessel traveling above idle speed under the bridge and then heard the sound of a crash (See witness statements). They observed the vessel come out the other side without the operator. Moments later the operator was observed floating and then disappeared under water. One of the witnesses attempted to lower a line to the operator, but by the time he was able to get in position on the bridge he was unable to locate the operator. At this time the vessel was moving up stream with the incoming tide. The engine was running in gear and the vessel was circling. The USCG arrived minutes later. They boarded the vessel to kill the engine and deploy the anchor. Sgt. Found the vessel registration of GA 0299 CX. She located a vehicle tag at the Lazaretto Creek boat ramp that matched the registered individual.

The vessel was towed to the north bank of the bridge and anchored by Cpl.. I took photographs of the vessel as it was when I saw it (see photo log). I located a yellow dry bag in the left bow compartment. Inside the dry bag I located a wallet with a driver's license. While looking for the wallet a firearm was located. It was unloaded and placed back in the bag. 

At this time, Sgt. where notifying the next of kin. Sgt. obtained permission for the trailer to be used by DNR to recover the vessel.

Sgt. traveled by vehicle to the Lazaretto Creek boat ramp to secure the trailer. I then operated the vessel from the area of the bridge to the boat ramp where Sgt. was waiting to load it on the trailer. The vessel was secured and we travelled back to Fort Pulaski to get my vehicle. Sgt. and I traveled to the DNR Priest Landing Boat House (PLBH) on Skidaway Island. Once we arrived at the boat house a vessel inventory was performed (see vessel inventory). The vessel was secured in the boat shed and we left for the evening. 

On November 1, 2015 I traveled to Fort Pulaski and arrived around 0800 hours. Cpl. and RNG where in a target recovery mission. I boarded the DNR Safe boat with Cpl. and RNG and took photographs of the scene (See photo log). 

I left Fort Pulaski and met Sgt. at the PLBH and continued to photograph the vessel. (See photo log). I spoke with Petty Officer and Petty Officer of the USCG Station Tybee. Officer was in charge of the boat crew that arrived first on the scene at approximately 0929 hours and secured the skiff. Officer informed me the skiff was still circling when they found it. The coordinates for that location were N32 01.5 and W80 54.4. Petty Officer boarded the skiff to turn off the engine and to deploy the anchor. Petty Officer informed me he only pulled the kill switch lanyard to turn off the engine and deployed the anchor. Everything else was left as he found it.

 


BARDID: GA-2015-1000
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-05 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pine Mountain
County: Harris
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news article, two people drowned after their canoe flipped in Pine Mountain in Harris County.  The two allegedly could not swim well, and were not wearing life jackets.  They were vacationing from LA.  Individuals attempted to assist them after their vessel capsized but to no avail.


BARDID: GA-2015-1001
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Altamaha River
NearestCityorTown: Jesup
County: Wayne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
OtherAccidentEvent: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 18, 2015 I, Ranger First Class (RFC) with the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division was notified by Corporal (Cpl.) of a boating incident that occurred, on the evening of September 17, 2015 in Penholloway Creek, in Wayne County. The coordinates of the incident location was N 31 33. 460 and W 81 41.915. The incident involved two vessels. One vessel was heading down stream with three occupants. The other vessel was heading up stream with one occupant. The two vessels collided with each other in a sharp bend in the creek. Three occupants were ejected into the water. One occupant was found deceased and the other two occupants were transported to the hospital. The operator of the other vessel refused medical treatment. The vessel with three occupants was found capsized. The vessels were removed from the river and transported to the Wayne County Jail. 

I learned the vessel heading up stream was a Carolina Skiff and the vessel heading downstream was a Tracker. The Tracker was found capsized near a cypress tree on the southern creek bank. V1 deceased victim was found approximately 3 to 5 feet from his vessel face down in the water. He had a laceration on the left side of his head, near the hair line. Most of V1 injured victim1’s injuries were internal, on his right side. These injuries included broken bones, contusions, and abrasions. V1 injured victim2 had minor injuries including contusions and abrasions. Cpl. interviewed Operator2 after he was transported back to the Paradise Park boat ramp.

Cpl. informed me while interviewing Operator2 he did not observe any signs or evidence of the use of alcohol. He also informed me Ranger (RNG.) interviewed V1 injured victim2 and V1 injured victim1 at the hospital, the night of the incident. Cpl. and I processed the vessels to document evidence and damage (See photo logs, photographic evidence, and vessel inventories). 

We began with the Tracker (Vessel 1). It was a 2015 model. It was green in color and 14.9 feet in length. It had a Beam width of 4.8 feet and a freeboard height of 1.6 feet. It was a tiller steer open vessel. It was powered by a Suzuki 25 horsepower engine. Vessel 2 had crushing damage to the starboard bow. Mud and tree bark material were inside the crushed area (See photos 010 and 208).

Due to the stress the bow encountered, all but a couple rivets failed to hold the bow seat in place. See photos 022 and 037). It had scratch marks in two concentrated locations, near the middle and rear seat, on the port gunwale (See photos 008,187, and 188). The center of these damage locations were approximately 6.1 feet and 11.0 feet from the bow to the stern. The round gunwale was flattened in these two areas and paint was flaking off. A portion of the port gunwale, near the middle seat area, was crushed in towards the center of the vessel. The center of this damage was approximately 6.1 feet from the bow. It had scratches and white scuff marks on top of the engine cowl. The cowl was cracked and damaged on the front (See photos 032,034, and 052). The starboard gunwale was pushed outward from the center of the vessel, between the bow seat and middle
seat. The round gunwale was cracked in this location (See photos 011 and 134). The crack was 4.1 feet from the bow to the stern on the starboard gunwale.

We then processed the Carolina Skiff (Vessel 2). It was a 2007 model. It was white in color and 15.6 feet in length. It had a beam width of 5.4 feet and a freeboard height of 2 feet. It was a stick steer open vessel. It was powered by a Yamaha 50 horsepower engine.  Vessel 1 had very little damage compared to Vessel 2. It had scuff marks in the center of the hull (See photos 162 through 166 and 190 through 191). It had scratches on the port and starboard chines. Fiberglass was damaged on


BARDID: GA-2015-1002
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-12-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Marys River
NearestCityorTown: Kingsland
WaterConditions: choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/22/2015 at 0725 hours, I, Corporal (Cpl.), received a call from Captain (Cpt.), assigning me to the Critical Incident Reconstruction (CIRT) Investigation of a boating incident on the St. Mary's River in Camden County. I arrived on scene at approximately 1000 hours. I met with Department of Natural Resources (DNR) rangers and deputies from the Camden County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) for a briefing on the incident. During the briefing, I was told that on 12/21/2015 at 1830 hours, subject reported to Georgia State Patrol (GSP) dispatch that her husband had not returned home from fishing. Subject reported that Victim had left their residence in Kingsland at approximately 0530 hours on 12/21/2015. Subject reported Victim had taken a small boat to go fishing on the custody.

On 12/21/2015, high tide on the Saint Mary’s River occurred at approximately 0523 hours. At approximately 0715 hours, Victim was operating the vessel traveling downriver. Victim was seated in the operator’s seat facing toward the bow of the vessel. Sometime after 0715 hours, Victim was ejected from the vessel while the vessel was in motion. The throttle was found at a three quarters position (see photographic evidence frame 4, 5 and 37). The vessel may have struck an obstacle in the river. I observed scratch marks on the port side of the hull eight inches from the keel (see photographic evidence frame 62). There was a large amount of debris in the river as a result of the above average high tide due to the approaching full moon on 12/25/2015. The emergency cut off switch and cord were found intact and connected, indicating the cord was not attached to Victim (see photographic evidence frame 38 and 39). The stick steer control lever was found pulled back, this would have caused the vessel to circle to the port side (see photographic evidence frame 6 and 36). It is unclear whether the stick steer control was pulled back by Victim prior to being ejected from the vessel or whether this occurred as a result of the vessel operating while not under command. 

After Victim was ejected, the vessel ran circles to the port side until it ran into the marsh and eventually stalled out, either from overheating or lack of gasoline. Approximately thirty yards upriver (West) from where the vessel was found, I observed a partially submerged tree with recent damage that appeared to be cuts from a boat propeller, indicating the vessel had passed through the area. Approximately twenty yards upriver from where the vessel was found, I observed an area of marsh grass that appeared to be pushed down, indicating the vessel had circled through that area as well. It is unclear how long the vessel ran while not under command.

DNR rangers and CCSO deputies continued search efforts for five days. On 12/26/2015 at approximately 0900 hours, Victim's body was recovered by CCSO deputies, approximately five miles downriver from where the vessel was found. Victim was recovered wearing a tan colored jacket. Camden County Deputy Coroner took possession of Victim's body and pronounced the cause of death as a result of accidental drowning. Coroner transferred Victim's body to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Coastal Crime Laboratory for an autopsy. I spoke with GBI medical examiner, Dr. who told me the primary cause of Victim’s death was caused by accidental drowning and there was no indication Victim had been struck by the vessel. The GBI autopsy report is pending at this time. On 1/22/2016, I towed the vessel to Victim’s residence. I met with Subject to return Victim’s personal belongings. 

This report and all associated diagrams are based on information available to me at this time. Results may be modified should new information become available.


BARDID: GA-2015-2000
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-12 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Back River
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to reports in the news media and Coast Guard, a kayaker became stranded after a current pulled him offshore.  The kayaker ended up in the water and became hypothermic and dehydrated.  He spent four days in the hospital after he was recovered.


BARDID: GA-2015-2001
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Flint River
NearestCityorTown: Bainbridge
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to news media reports, a man was ejected from and was struck by the propeller in the arm shortly after he and a companion had left the basin.  He later died from his injuries.  No future information.


BARDID: GA-2016-0001
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLARKS HILL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1515 CPL and I responded to a call at Wildwood Park in reference to a boating incident. Two vessels had collided near the boat ramp. 


BARDID: GA-2016-0002
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAPELO SOUND
NearestCityorTown: EULONIA
County: MCINTOSH
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/8/2016 at approx. 1742 hrs  I received a call from McIntosh 911 reference to a capsized vessel in Sapelo Sound with victims in the water. 911 advised that a second vessel was rendering aid. I was at the DNR Law Enforcement dock in Meridian and was able to board our 24' Edgewater patrol vessel and head to the location of the incident.

While on the way McIntosh 911 advised that the second vessel had capsized and there were 7 victims in the water. I acknowledged the information and advised that my ETA was approx. 10 mins. 911 further advised that the McIntosh County Fire/rescue was responding from Bellville boat ramp once they launched their vessel. I had to travel along the ICW to get to Sapelo Sound due to the negative low tides. At approx. 1812 I was able to tell 911 that I had the victims in sight and I was beginning to pull the victims into my vessel  in the middle of Sapelo Sound due north of High Point on the north tip of Sapelo Island.

Due to the 4 and 5 foot seas I had to back up to the capsized vessels so I was close enough to leave the helm and grab the victims one at the time to pull them into my vessel. There were 7 people in the water, 3 on the first vessel I backed up to and 4 on the second. there were 4 juveniles ranging in age from 6 to 16. There were 3 adults, 2 male and 1 female. All the victims were suffering from various stages of hypothermia after being in the water for almost an hour. One of the juveniles was complaining of a hurt leg and shoulder due to being slammed into the boat by the rough seas. I was able to get a rain jacket on the youngest victim who was suffering the worst from hypothermia and shock. 

Once I had everyone secured on my vessel, I advised 911 I was headed to Bellville Landing with all victims. After we passed the Mud River the McIntosh Fire/Rescue vessels were almost at my location coming from Bellville Landing. I pulled up to one of the Fire/Rescue vessels and transferred the two youngest juveniles and the adult female over to them for more advanced treatment of hypothermia. After they were secure we all headed to Bellville landing.

At the landing we transferred some of the victims to McIntosh EMS vehicles and the rest to personal vehicles. All victims went to Brunswick Hospital for treatment or evaluation. All victims have since recovered.

After talking with the occupants of the vessels, I found out they had went fishing earlier that day in Blackbeard Creek. They didn't anticipate the seas getting as rough as they did. When they started in they got into way rougher water than their small boats could handle. The fact that they had life jackets on board the vessels was critical to the positive outcome on the incident.


BARDID: GA-2016-0004
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHATAHOOCHEE RIVER
County: MUSCOGEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Failure to vent
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 19th, 2016 at approximately 1940 hours I was contacted by GSP Newnan Dispatch about a boating incident at Bulldog Bait and Tackle Boat Ramp at 1300 Victory Drive in Columbus, GA. I was given the phone number of Columbus Fire Dept. personnel that were on scene. Upon contacting the Fire Dept, I was advised that a vessel had exploded and one subject was injured, Injured1. I notified my supervisor, Officer1, and proceeded to the scene. I spoke with the Fire Dept several times while I was enroute to the scene and was advised that Injured1 had been ejected from the vessel and sustained compound fractures to the inside of both of his legs near his ankle. Injured1 was stabilized and transported to Columbus Medical Center. 
I arrived on the scene at approximately 2124 hours and the scene was clear, no one was there. I was able to photograph the vessel, a 1984 Galaxy stern drive with a fiberglass hull and a registration number of GAxxxxxx. The vessel was located on the left hand side of the boat ramp and was secured to the bank. The vessel was badly burned. I was unable to remove the vessel from the area due to the extensive damage to the vessel; the motor had burned through the hull anchoring it in place. 
I then went to the Columbus Fire Station to request a copy of their reports, which are attached. I also contacted Columbus PD but they did complete any reports on the incident. 
I then proceeded to Columbus Medical Center where I was able to speak with Injured1 about the incident. Injured1 stated that he had launched the boat from Bulldog Boat Ramp with his son and nephew. Injured1 informed me that he had started the motor in the parking lot while the boat was on the trailer prior to backing the vessel into the water. He then backed then backed the vessel into the water and his son, Witness1, pulled the boat over to the dock with the bow rope. His nephew, Witness2, was standing on the dock next to the boat. The motor had been cutoff for a few minutes at this point when Injured1 attempted to restart the motor. Upon Injured1 attempting to restart the vessel an explosion occurred that originated from the engine compartment. Injured1 was ejected from the vessel landing in the water. His son, Witness1, let go of the rope and the boat began floating down river.  His nephew Witness2 pulled Injured1 from the water onto the boat ramp where he was treated by the Columbus Fire Department Paramedics for compound fractures to inside of both of his lower legs. No one else sustained any injuries. Columbus Fire Department was able to pull the boat back to the ramp and put the fire out. The vessel sustained massive damage from the fire. 
I asked Injured1 if he had turned on the blower motor to vent the engine compartment prior to attempting to start the motor. Injured1 was unaware of the blowers. I also asked Injured1 if there was a flame arrestor installed on the engine. Injured1 stated there was one installed.
Due to the massive damage that the vessel sustained, I am unable to determine if a flame arrestor was installed on the motor or if there was a fuel leak prior to the explosion. I can say that failure to vent the engine compartment prior to starting the vessel could have played a significant role in the cause of the fire. I however am unable to determine the exact cause of the fire.


BARDID: GA-2016-0005
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TOWALIGA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FORSYTH
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the afternoon of March 2, 2016, Sgt., were dispatched to the Highway 83 - Towaliga River bridge regarding a reported boating incident.  Upon arrival, I interviewed the two subjects who had been involved in said incident.  Investigation revealed the following:
   
	On Saturday March 2, 2016 two people were boating on the Towaliga River in Monroe County. Operator was the operator of the vessel, an 18 foot Smoker Craft jon boat, and Occupant was a passenger. Operator and Occupant departed from a boat ramp on the Ocmulgee River near Juliette, Georgia and proceed upstream to the Towaliga River.  They then traveled up the Towaliga.  Upon reaching the shoals below High Falls State Park they began their return down stream. 

 Operator was negotiating a curve in the river when the vessel struck a large limb hanging into the river, thus causing the right side of the vessel to dip down and take on water - the vessel then capsized.  

Once the vessel capsized Operator and Occupant hung onto the vessel as it floated down the river. When Operator and Occupant reached the Highway 83 Bridge they turned loose of the vessel, swam to shore, and exited the river.

On March 2, 2016, responding officers did not attempt to recover the vessel due to environmental conditions; both the Ocmulgee and Towaliga Rivers were out of their respective banks, water currents were swift, and darkness was quickly approaching.  

On Sunday, March 4, 2016,  the owner of the vessel, informed reporting officer he had successfully recovered the vessel.  He stated damage to the craft was in excess of $2000.


BARDID: GA-2016-0008
State: GA
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
NearestCityorTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/01/2016 at approximately 0040 hours Vessel A (Vessel 1), was traveling west towards the junction near the area of Nancy's Branch. Vessel A was traveling approximately 30 miles per hour at around 3,000 rpm's when it struck Vessel B (Vessel 2). 

Vessel B was traveling north out of the mouth of Nancy's Branch at approximately 50 miles per hour. 

Vessel A struck Vessel B on the rear starboard side and ramped up and over Vessel B behind the operator and occupant's seats. 

The operator of Vessel A was ejected during the collision and was retrieved from the water by a witness. Both Vessel A and B came to rest immediately after the collision. 

Vessel A received moderate damage to its keel and eye hook from the bow and back approximately 6 foot. Vessel B received extensive damage to it's starboard side and moderate damage to the engine cowling. Vessel A had a illuminated bow light and stern with electrical tape used to hold the bow light in place. The bow light was very dim but could be seen at a closer distance. Vessel B had well illuminated bow lights. The stern light of Vessel B had been missing since the collision and had been in the area of the point of initial contact. Vessel B was totaled.


BARDID: GA-2016-0009
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST POINT LAKE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 16, 2016, at approximately 1021 hours, I, Officer1 of Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (GADNRLED), received a call from Officer2 (GADNRLED) advising me of a boat incident on West Point Lake in Troup County. Officer2 advised me to respond as a Critical Incident Reconstruction Team investigator. I responded and arrived on scene at approximately 1230 hours. While en route, Officer3 (GADNRLED) called me and advised that he needed to turn on the bilge pump to keep the vessel from sinking. When I arrived, I was briefed by Officer3. Officer3 informed me that the vessel was located anchored near a buoy in a nearby cove. There were several fishing poles in the rod holders with the fishing lines were in the water and it appeared the occupant of the vessel was in the act of fishing. Officer3 told me there were personal belongings present in the vessel. Officer3 advised the owner/operator of the vessel was a 70 year old white male. According to Officer3, Witness1 and Witness2 had seen and spoke with the Operator during the evening of March 15, 2016 at the boat ramp. Witness1 and Witness2 returned to the lake the morning of March 16, 2016 and discovered the Operator’s vessel without anyone present.
I went to the area by vessel with Officer3 and Officer4 (GADNRLED). I photographed the area and vessel upon approach. I photographed the interior of the vessel before entering it. I noted the presence of water in the vessel and the instability of the vessel when the water moved as I boarded. A fishing rod was laying on the rear deck near the starboard stern. There was a T-shirt, miscellaneous coats, snacks, insulin shots, a pistol and a leather shoe in the vessel along with fishing gear. A broken styrofoam cooler with several Lite beer cans was located in the floor by the passenger seat. None of the cans had been opened. I secured the pistol from the vessel for safe keeping. We returned to the boat ramp where the Incident Command had been established. Officer3 and Officer4 made arrangements to bring a larger patrol vessel to the area and Officer5 (GADNRLED) was requested to respond with the Side Scan Sonar. Troup County Fire towed the victim's vessel to the boat ramp where it was secured at the dock. Troup County Fire and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers personnel began dragging the area for the victim. I remained at the boat ramp until the son of the Operator, arrived on scene. Sheriff1 and I notified the son that we strongly suspected that the Operator had fallen from the vessel and we were searching for him. While speaking with the son, I learned that the Operator recently purchased the vessel and this was the first time he put it into the water. During this time, Officer2 and Officer5 arrived on scene. 
Officer3 and Officer4 returned with the Edgewater patrol vessel and Georgia State Patrol Aviation arrived on scene. GSP began an aerial search of the area to ensure the Operator had not swam to shore. Dragging operations were suspended in order to search the area with the vessel mounted side scan sonar. Officer3, Officer5 and I scanned the area where the vessel was found. We observed an image that, based upon our knowledge, training, and experience, we believed to be a person. After making several observations of the target, we placed a marker buoy as close to the target as possible. Troup County divers, went into the water and searched. The divers located and retrieved the Operator at 1630 hours. The Operator was wearing blue jeans and no shirt. He was wearing one leather shoe matching the shoe found in the vessel. I assisted placing the Operator into a body bag and placing him into an U.S. Army Corp of Engineer vessel. I accompanied the body to the boat ramp where he was turned over to the Troup County C


BARDID: GA-2016-0010
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARTWELL LAKE
NearestCityorTown: HARTWELL
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 24, 2016, I was contacted by the Hart County Sheriff's Office at approximately 12:00 PM in reference to a possible boating incident on Hartwell Lake.  Deputies and EMS were en route to the scene at Milltown Campground Ramp.  I called Officer1 at the scene to get me the pertinent information needed for the incident due to the subject needing medical assistance.  
Injured1 was the victim of the incident.  Injured1 was wake boarding for the first time and suffered a broke femur to his right leg.  I met with Officer2 and we went to the location of the vessel.  We got needed information off the vessel.
On April 29, 2016, I called and spoke with Owner1 and Owner2, the owners of the vessel, and who also were on the vessel at the time of the incident.  Owner2 stated that her daughters friends were up from Georgia Southern College before their final exams and wanted Owner1 to take them out on the water one last time before heading back.  Owner2 stated that they always go to that location on the lake to ski due to the traffic not being that bad.  She stated that when Injured1 was wake boarding, he never came up to ski.  She also stated that there was no alcohol involved, that is what Officer1 stated as well, and that everyone that needed PFD's had them on.  Owner1 stated that he was the operator of the vessel.  He stated that he was glad that he did not have to go across the lake to Hartwell Marina for EMS to get to Injured1.  I also spoke with Injured1.  He stated that this was one of his first times ever skiing.  He stated that when he was coming up to ski he thinks he leaned a little too far forward and the board caught the water and he heard his leg snap.  He stated that he thought that the inexperience did play a role into him getting hurt.
Injured1 was taken to Athens Regional Hospital where he went into surgery the following morning.  Doctors placed a rod in his right femur and sent him home on Tuesday.  He is expected to make a full recovery. 
Information for air temperature was gathered from www.wunderground.com.
Information on the water temperature was gathered from the Corps of Engineers website.


BARDID: GA-2016-0011
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 stated that on Saturday night May 7, 2016 that he was anchored next to the island across from Port Royale Marina.  He stated when he pulled up his anchor and started to leave he didn't pull far enough away from the island before he made his turn into open water and he ran the vessel aground on rocks close to the island.  Operator1 stated the incident happened between 9:30pm -10:30pm.  Operator1 stated he was going very slow when he ran aground and the main reason for the incident was operator inattention.  Operator1 stated that it was a windy night which caused white caps on the water and that there was a significant amount of boat traffic on the lake.  Operator1 stated Tow Boat US assisted him with ungrounding the vessel.  Operator1 stated that his wife was below deck when the vessel struck bottom and she fell and bumped her head which caused a laceration above her right eye that required five stitches.  She was transported to Northside Forsyth Hospital by EMS (non-emergency).  I checked the vessel at Holiday Marina after it was taken out of the water on Sunday May 8th.  The vessel had damaged to the keel, propellers, and rudders.  Operator1 stated that the hull integrity had not been compromised and it appeared that only the keel, props, and rudders would need repairs.  Damage estimates had not been obtained at the time I talked with Operator1.  Damage appears to be well above $2,000.


BARDID: GA-2016-0012
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-02-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday February 15, 2016 at 1730 Officer1 and I received a call from GSP dispatch about a missing kayaker on Lake Lanier. I responded by truck from Wilson Shoals WMA, while Officer1 came from his home. Officer1 went to the DNR facility at Aqualand and began a search by boat. Our information was that his cell phone was pinging from the shoreline of Van Pugh Park. I drove along and checked by shore but was unable to find him. Hall County Marine Rescue 1 also headed to Van Pugh Park with the phone’s GPS coordinates. They found Subject along the shore near Chestnut Ridge Park. Subject was transported to Northeast GA Medical Center in Braselton where he was hospitalized with hypothermia but made a full recovery shortly. Subject later stated a wave had capsized his kayak and after making repeated attempts to turn the kayak over with no success, Subject swam himself and the kayak to shore in order to assist with his own rescue. In conclusion, Subject's kayak was capsized by a wave.  Due to the conditions Subject was unable to get the kayak turned over. He swam to shore and due to his falling body temperature, he passed out. I checked on Subject on February 17 later and he was being released to go home with a complete recovery.


BARDID: GA-2016-0013
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 24, 2016 I responded to a boating incident in Hall County on Lake Sidney Lanier near Burton Mill park boat ramp.  I arrived on the scene and observed both parties involved in the incident and advised them to fill out witness statements.  The statements are attached to this report.  The operator of vessel 1, Operator1 was operating his Sea Doo going towards the open body of water.  The operator of vessel 2, Operator2 was returning to the Burton Mill boat ramp.  The vessels were heading toward each other and suddenly attempted to avoid hitting one another.  The vessels collided, vessel 1 struck vessel 2 on the starboard stern portion of the vessel causing the fiberglass to crack.  There was no damage to vessel 1.  Both individuals were uninjured.  ***END OF REPORT***


BARDID: GA-2016-0014
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HARDING
NearestCityorTown: HAMILTON
County: HARRIS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/1/16, I, with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division observed a news feed on my personal Facebook account which depicted a subject that had been injured in a wake boarding mishap. I read the comments and saw that the incident occurred on Lake Harding in Harris County and that the subject was taken to the emergency room. I passed the information to Officer1 since I was off and asked that he make contact with the individuals to complete a boat incident report. Due to scheduling conflicts, Officer1 was never able to meet with the parties involved.
On 5/4/16, I met with Operator1, the vessel operator, and interviewed her for the boat incident report. Operator1 said that the incident happened in the Boat Club Slough which is on the Georgia side of the lake. Operator1 said she was towing Injured1 on a wake board when he fell. Operator1 said she turned around to pick him up and noticed that Injured1 was bleeding severely from his head, specifically above his right eye. Operator1 went on to say that other occupants in the boat helped Injured1 out of the water and into the boat. They went back to the dock and put butterfly band aids on the laceration. Operator1 said that because of the depth of the laceration, Injured1 went to the St. Francis ER to have the wound looked at. By the time they arrived at the ER, the laceration had closed and the ER staff only cleaned the area and glued the laceration.
I spoke to Injured1 and he confirmed the information. Injured1 said he believes his wake board caught a wave as he was attempting to land a jump. The impact flipped Injured1 and he said his wake board hit him in the head as he landed causing the laceration.
Nothing was noted during the interviews that would lead me to believe that Injured1 sustained the injury any other way than what he and Operator1 told me. This report is based on witness accounts and the information I was provided at the time of the investigation.

5/4/16


BARDID: GA-2016-0015
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ogeechee River
NearestCityorTown: LEEFIELD
County: BULLOCH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 8th, 2016, I Corporal received information from Corporal, with GA DNR LED, about a boating incident that occurred on the Ogeechee River in Bulloch County.  The incident occurred at approximately 1600 hours just downstream from the Oliver Bridge boat landing and the Highway 24 bridge.

Operator1 was the owner and operator of vessel 1.  Operator1 told me that him and his mother were in his boat.  Vessel 2 was owned and operated by operator2.  Operator1 said that they were traveling downstream from the Oliver Bridge boat landing when they met a boat going upstream.  

The boat that was heading up stream did not follow the navigation rules for boating.  Operator1 and V1 occupant were forced into the trees on the embankment of the river.  The incident occurred in a curve in the river.  Operator1's boat was stuck against the embankment of the river and the tree.  Operator2 turned around to render aid.  The other boater, who is unknown, continued on and did not render aid.

Operator2 hooked the bow line from Operator1's boat to his boat.  He attempted to pull Operator1's boat out of the trees and off of the embankment.  Operator2's boat began to take on water from the extra weight.  Operator2's boat then swamped, capsized, and sunk under Operator1's boat.  Operator2 got into Operator1's boat.  Operator1's boat swamped, capsized, and sunk while him and Corey were trying to get his boat unstuck.  Operator1, V1 occupant, and Operator2 were all in the water.

V1 occupant was wearing a personal floatation device. Operator1 and Operator2 assisted V1 occupant to the shore.  Operator1 and Operator2 were also able to get out of the water.  The three occupants of the two boats were able to escape injuries.  They returned on Monday, May 9th and retrieved the boats from the river.  

I talked to Operator1 and Operator2 on the phone on Tuesday, May 10th.  Operator2 told me that he did not have any damage to his boat.  Operator1 informed me that he had a significant amount of damage to his boat and loss of property.  I made arrangements to meet with the individuals involved and to get statements.

I met with Operator1, V1 occupant and Operator2 on Tuesday, May 17th.  Due to health issues, V1 occupant did not give me a written statement, but she did give me a verbal statement.  I received a written statement from Operator1 and Operator2.  The statements of all three involved are consistent with each other.  Operator1 had minimal damage to his boat, but he suffered a lot of loss in property during the incident.  He gave me a list of damage and lost property that is included in the report.  The majority of the lost property was fishing equipment and tackle.  I examined both vessels and photographed them.

In conclusion:  Based on my investigation and experience,  I have no evidence at this time that the events that took place on May 8th, are any different than what the witnesses stated.  Vessel 1 was forced into the trees and embankment of the river.  When Vessel 2 attempted to render aid, the vessel swamped, capsized, and sunk.  When Operator2 entered Vessel 1, that vessel swamped, capsized, and sunk while they were trying to free it from the embankment.  My conclusion is subject to change if more information and evidence is discovered.


BARDID: GA-2016-0016
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FRANKLIN
County: HEARD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 23, 2016, Sergeant and I, Corporal, both Conservation Rangers with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, were patrolling the Chattahoochee River utilizing my assigned state riverboat in the vicinity of the boat ramp at Franklin in Heard County. 

I noticed a boat traveling South towards my patrol boat location. I noticed what appeared to be a fish basket being held by a occupant seated on a pedestal seat at the bow of the boat. As the boat passed by my location neither the operator nor the bow occupant looked in my direction. I began to follow this boat which was a 15 foot Alumacraft aluminum boat powered by a Mercury 25 horsepower outboard engine and it displayed GA 0307 VK as a Georgia boat registration at the bow. While following the vessel, hereafter referrred to as vessel #1, we passed underneath the first power line that crosses the Chattahoochee River. At 18:55 hours, just below the power line I witnessed vessel #1 strike and run over an anchored Tracker Topper 10 aluminum Jon boat, hereafter referred to as vessel #2, containing two occupants and eject them into the water. 

I maneuvered my patrol vessel to the ejected persons still in the water, an adult male and a male child. The adult male was hanging on to the child whom was wearing a personal flotation device. Sgt. and I pulled them into my patrol boat. The adult male whom had been seated as the operator at the rear seat of vessel #2,  was identified and the child previously seated at the bow seat was his son.   

I overheard Sgt. call in to Troop D Communications to report the incident and request emergency services. I heard the driver of the striking boat, vessel #1, yelling to the bow occupant that he was supposed to be watching and helping. Vessel #1 began to move underpower, I yelled out for that vessel to stop and the operator stopped the boat. 

I pulled over to vessel #1 and obtained a valid Drivers license from the operator of that vessel. Neither occupant of vessel #1 appeared to be injured. I asked Operator1 why he was not watching where he was going. Operator1 told me that his son, the bow occupant, was supposed to be watching because he couldn't see in front of the boat. Operator1 further stated that his son didn't let him know there was anything in front of him. I noticed vessel #2 was being held stationary by a yellow rope attached to an underwater anchor. Vessel # 2 had filled with water but was still partially afloat from onboard flotation.  I maintained possession of the Driver's license and asked Operator1 to follow me back North to the Franklin boat ramp which he did. We left vessel #2 anchored as we traveled to the Franklin boat ramp to meet with emergency services. 

During our travel towards the boat ramp, operator2 complained of his side hurting and seemed to have a hard time breathing but no injuries were openly visible. I watched him take a wet phone out of his pocket and lay it in the floor of my patrol boat. 

At the boat ramp, emergency service personnel took v2 subjects via ambulance to the Newnan Piedmont hospital to be evaluated for injuries and I walked over to Operator1. 

Operator1 proceeded to tell me that he previously always had someone helping him when he carried his son fishing. He told me his son was 15 years old and mentally disabled. He told me again that he could only see left and right and his son was supposed to be looking straight ahead for obstructions. 

I asked Operator1 if he would complete a breath test for alcohol on my state issued Alco-Sensor FST device. Operator1 completed the breath test and produced negative results for the presence of alcohol. I made photos of vessel #1 in the water and then requested that Operator1 put the boat on the trailer. Once on the trailer, I conducted further observation


BARDID: GA-2016-0017
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/08/2016 I received a call from the Putnam County Sheriff's Office around 1239 hours in reference to a boating incident on Lake Oconee.  The dispatcher advised the incident involved a boat and a jet ski.  I called Sgt. and advised him of the boating incident.  Sgt.1 stated he would respond from the boat house.  I also called Cpl1.  Cpl.1 stated he would respond by vehicle.  I was advised by Sgt.1 to go to Putnam General in reference to two individuals injured during the incident.  I was given an update by Putnam County 911 center that the incident was between a pontoon vessel and a small fishing boat.

Sgt.1 and Cpl.1 arrived at the incident location and started gathering information from the scene.  Sgt.1 and Cpl.1 took pictures and video of the incident scene.

I went to the Putnam General hospital.  There were three of the four individuals involved in the boating incident at the hospital.  I interviewed the operator of vessel #1.  Operator1 stated he was fishing on Lake Oconee and was heading back to the boat ramp at Old Salem Park.  He stated he was looking down at his GPS because he was unfamiliar with the area he was fishing.  He stated he looked up and there was a pontoon vessel in front of him.  He stated he hit the pontoon vessel.  Operator1 stated he was stunned for a moment and then immediately turn his boat around to check on the passengers on the pontoon vessel.  Operator1 stated his vessel was taking on water and he put his trolling motor down and headed towards the bank because he was taking on water.  Operator1 stated his vessel sank and capsized at a dock.

I then spoke to the operator of vessel #2.  Operator2 stated she was looking at the houses with her father and her grandmother.  Operator2 stated the vessel came around a point and was headed straight for their pontoon vessel.  Operator2 stated she put the throttle of the pontoon vessel in neutral because she did not know whether to stop or give the vessel more gas.  Operator2 stated the boat hit them on the left side of the pontoon vessel.

I interviewed a passenger on vessel #2.  Grandmother stated she was sitting on the left hand side of the vessel and was hanging onto the railing of the pontoon vessel.  Grandmother stated she saw the vessel at the last moment and sat up in the chair she was sitting in.  Grandmother stated the boat hit the railing she was hanging onto and was she was thrown into the floor of the pontoon vessel.  Grandmother stated they made it to the dock and she was transported to the hospital.

I finally spoke with other passenger on v2.  He stated he was on the pontoon vessel but did not remember seeing the vessel coming at them.  He stated his primary concern was for the injuries to his mother.  

Looking at the photographs, Vessel 2 was struck by vessel 1 causing damage to the front port side of vessel 1.  Vessel 2 sustained damage to the port side railing, canopy supports and seats.

After looking at the photo evidence and the damaged described to me by Sgt.1 and Cpl.1, It was determined that Operator1 was at fault in the incident and was cited for violating rules of the road.


BARDID: GA-2016-0018
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 28, 2016 Sgt. and I received a call at approximately 2215 hours in reference to a boating accident south of Gainesville Marina, near Robinson Park, on Lake Lanier. Upon arrival I observed the vessel was almost completely on shore and ran into some trees. 

A male was in the driver seat and a female was laying in the seat on the port side. The female was complaining of back and neck pain. She was being attended to by an off duty paramedic. Upon speaking with Operator1 and the paramedic witness it was determined that Operator1 was traveling southbound on the lake. 

The witness stated that Operator1 nearly struck their vessel head on, then veered to the west and struck the rocky point. V1 occupant, whom was asleep, was thrown into the seat in front of her, and Operator1 struck the console. Hall county EMS arrived on scene and transported V1 occupant to NE GA Medical Center where she was observed overnight and released. When Operator1 was asked what happened, he stated he fell asleep while driving. V1 occupant also stated he fell asleep as well. Operator1 was arrested for Boating Under the Influence.  

The vessel sustained damage to the railing on the starboard side at the front. It was pushed back into the seats and separated from the deck on the starboard side. The drivers console also was damaged with a crack in the fiberglass on the lower left side.


BARDID: GA-2016-0019
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LANIER
NearestCityorTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/19/2016 at approximately 00:23 hrs, I, RFC received a call from GSP Gainesville Dispatch regarding a possible boating incident on Lake Lanier near Clarks Bridge.  Dispatch stated that a subject was in the water, holding on to a vessel, and calling for help. I called Hall County Dispatch to ascertain further information.  Hall County Dispatched advised that the subject was out of the water and being transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for treatment.  I called the hospital and spoke to the Charge Nurse and Subject to verify he was okay and to determine if he could have been impaired.  In addition, I obtained a brief statement from Subject.

On 04/27/2016, I was able to make telephone contact with an elderly subject from DeKalb County.  Subject stated that on 04/18/2016 he and a friend were fishing on Lake Lanier.  They were done fishing and Subject dropped off Friend at the boat ramp.  Friend backed the trailer into the water.  Subject attempted to load the pontoon boat onto the trailer.  Once he was close, he cut the motor and moved to the front of the vessel while it was coasting in towards the trailer.  One of the pontoons encountered part of the rear of the trailer that was underwater, causing the trailer suddenly to stop.  

Subject lost his balance and fell overboard from the bow.  He grabbed onto the side of the vessel.  He could not swim and he could not touch the bottom. The vessel was still too far out into the water for Friend to assist, so he went up to Clarks Bridge Rd and managed to get a passerby to call 911.  Hall County Emergency Services arrived on the scene and managed to get him to shore.  He was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for observation for hypothermia.  Subject was released from the hospital on 04/29/2016 at 03:00 hrs.

No further details and incident closed at this time.


BARDID: GA-2016-0023
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SIDNEY LANIER
NearestCityorTown: BUFORD
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 1st, 2016, at approximately 0745 hours, I, Ranger (Rng) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division-Critical Incident Reconstruction Team (GA DNR LED CIRT), received a call from GA DNR LED Corporal (Cpl), who advised of a boating incident that had occurred the previous date on Lake Lanier in Hall County.  Cpl advised that the boating incident would likely turn into a CIRT incident investigation at a later time, and to initiate a standard boating incident investigation.

Cpl advised that on April 30th, 2016, at approximately 1700 hours, he received a phone call from the manager of Habersham Marina.  Manager advised Cpl that one of his tenants had called to report a suspicious vessel near the mouth of Cocktail Cove on Lake Lanier.  Manager advised that the boat was drifting unattended, and a hat and sandals floated near the vessel.  Additionally, another person called Hall County 911 to report seeing the vessel drifting unattended.  Cpl responded to the location, and observed the vessel drifting in the lake, along with another vessel, as well as a Personal Water Craft (PWC) nearby.  Cpl advised that a female of an additional vessel on scene, stated that she had noticed the victim's vessel drifting in the middle of the lake for quite some time, and that it appeared to be unoccupied.  Subject advised Cpl that another vessel had pulled up to the victim's vessel, and called 911.  Subject advised Cpl that the initial caller left the scene, but Subject decided to remain until authorities arrived.

Cpl advised that the victim's vessel was located near the main channel of the lake, approximately three to four hundred yards from the small island adjacent to Cocktail Cove, with the wind blowing to the North.  Cpl advised that witnesses placed the original location that the vessel was observed, as being located at approximately two hundred feet from the small island, but closer to Cocktail Cove.  Cpl advised that he began to examine the vessel at that time.  Cpl advised that Ranger First Class (RFC) and Rng received the call as well from Hall Dispatch, and responded to the scene.  Cpl advised that he boarded the vessel, and observed that the throttle was in neutral, with the key in the ignition.  He advised that a pair of sunglasses were placed upside down on the console of the vessel, as if they had been recently put there.  He also advised that he located a cellular phone, and a device that is used to allow individuals with a tracheostomy to speak (electrolarnyx).  RFC and Rng towed the vessel to the DNR LED Boathouse, located at Aqua-land Marina, and secured it for evidence.

Cpl was unable to locate any identifying object on the vessel that would allow for identification of the vessel's operator.  He began to make phone calls to the recent numbers that were dialed in the operator's phone.  He spoke with a gentleman.  Subject2 advised Cpl that he had spoken to the operator at approximately 1345 hours.  Operator had advised Subject2 that he had run out of fuel near Cocktail Cove, while traveling to Bald Ridge Marina, from Holiday Marina.  Cpl then spoke with the victim's ex-girlfriend, and she provided Cpl with further information concerning Operator.  Ex-girlfriend advised Cpl that Operator lived on a houseboat located at Bald Ridge Marina (slip M-32), and that the vessel he was operating was owned by another person.  Ex-girlfriend also advised Cpl that Operator had recovered from throat cancer, and had a tracheostomy.  Cpl then began conducting shore sweeps of the surrounding area…
 
I conclude, that on April 30th, 2016, at approximately 1345 hours, Victim spoke with Subject by cellular phone. Victim advised Subject that he had traveled by vessel on Lake Lanier, when his vessel experienced fuel related problems. The motor most likely ceased function due to this. Victim was located near Cocktail Cove at that time. Victim had just left Holiday Marina, and attempted to reach Bald Ridge Marina. At that time, Victim then most likely began to remedy the vessel's fuel related problems (a fuel hose leak had occurred, which rendered the vessel inoperable). A thunderstorm occurred at that time; high winds and rain ensued. Rain water entered the vessel, and accumulated at the stern area. The bilge was full of water, as the vessel had taken on water during the course of the day. The vessel became unstable. Victim most likely stepped onto the port side rear deck, in order to unlatch the motor cowling. The motor would not trim. He most likely released the port side cowling latch, to inspect the motor. The vessel then most likely rolled port side enough to cause him to lose his balance. Victim then fell over the gunwale, and into the water. He was not wearing a life jacket. He could not re-board the vessel. The northward wind most likely pushed the vessel away from him. Victim had a tracheostomy. When he went underwater, water entered directly into his lungs, and he subsequently drowned. This incident report is based exclusively upon accessible information at the present


BARDID: GA-2016-0024
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BLACKSHEAR
NearestCityorTown: CORDELE
County: CRISP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6-29-16 at approximately 1510 hours, I received a call in reference to a boating incident.  The incident took place approximately 300 feet west of the mouth of Boy Scout Slough on Lake Blackshear in Crisp County.  I went to The Lake Blackshear Marina and one of the rental Personal Watercrafts was half submerged and tied to the dock.  I meet with the driver and renter of the PWC and the passenger. V1 occupant was seated holding a bag of ice to her forehead inside of The Marina Store.  Marina employee, asked V1 occupant if she needed any medical attention and she refused.   

The PWC at was rented at approximately 1400 hours, Operator1 said they were on it for approximately 10 to 15 minutes before the incident occurred.  When they got past the No Wake Buoys at the mouth of Boy Scout Slough, Operator1 said he accelerated to approximately 10 miles an hour and V1 occupant’s hat came off and landed in the water. Operator1 circled around and retrieved the hat. Operator1 said he reached back to hand V1 occupant her hat and the back end of the PWC sank causing it to become unstable and roll over.  V1 occupant said the PWC’s handle bars made contact with her forehead as she was surfacing.  They attempted to roll the PWC back over several times, however they were unsuccessful. 

Subject was standing on the dock at The Lake Blackshear Marina and noticed Operator1 and V1 occupant had turned over the PWC.  Subject said the subjects seemed to be in distress and he went to render aid in his vessel.  Operator1 and V1 occupant got into Subject’s boat and he took them and the PWC back over to The Lake Blackshear Marina dock.  After writing down their personal information and the boating incident information, I took 2 pictures of V1 occupant’s forehead.  I observed some mild skin discoloration on her forehead.  

While I was talking with Operator1 and V1 occupant, Arabi Boat Works was contacted and asked to trailer the PWC.  Subject2 trailered the PWC and advised me, both of the drain plugs were properly secured in the PWC.  Subject2 and I then examined the PWC and no structural damage was observed, however the engine contained water.  While waiting for the water to drain out of the interior of the PWC, I continued to talk with both Operator1 and V1 occupant.  I was on scene for approximately 2 hours and V1 occupant never complained about any pain.  Subject2 took the PWC back to his shop and said he has been unable to determine what caused the PWC to fill with water.  

I was contacted on 7/6/16 by SGT. who stated V1 occupant had received medical attention from a hospital.  I contacted Operator1 on 7/8/16 and advised him I would need to make contact with V1 occupant so I could have her sign a medical record release form.  V1 occupant contacted me on 7/8/16 and she said she worked part time at the Bleckley Memorial Hospital and could get the medical records today. V1 occupant said they were going out of town, and she would mail her medical records to me. 

See medical records for injury and treatment.


BARDID: GA-2016-0025
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
NearestCityorTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/2/2016 at approximately 1645 hours, Vessel 1 was following Vessel 2 travelling south in Rocky Creek in Lake Sinclair.  

Operator2 told me that he observed a ski boat pulling a skier coming from his right and he decreased speed and turned to his right (starboard) to avoid the ski boat.  

Operator1 told me that she did not see Operator2 change course and speed until the last second and she struck his PWC on the right side, with the front (bow) of her PWC.  The impact knocked both operators into the water but they were able to reboard the PWC's and travel back to the owner's lake house. 

Both operators were taken to the hospital where they were treated for injuries and released that afternoon.  Operator1 suffered a sprain to her left shoulder.  Operator2 suffered contusions/small lacerations to his right knee area.

Vessel 1 suffered damage to the underside of the hull beginning at the front and travelling 36 inches down the hull.  Scratches and scuffs into the fiberglass.

Vessel 2 suffered damage to the right side front  storage compartment and fiberglass damage to the front and rear section of the hull above the waterline. There was also fiberglass damage to the left rear side approximately 8 inches in size, resulting from the collision.  Damage was moderate to extensive. 

Neither operator had completed boater education training as required by law.  No charges were filed.


BARDID: GA-2016-0026
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SINCLAIR
NearestCityorTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-16-2016, I, RFC were on routine lake patrol by boat on Lake Sinclair. We were heading towards the Sinclair dam when we noticed an ambulance at a residence, so we pulled up to see what and if we could help. I spoke with a Subject who stated that a female had broken her arm while skiing, so Sgt. put me on the bank to start a boating incident report. I gathered  information from all occupants on the boat. Sgt. had Subject write a witness statement form. 

Operator stated that he was pulling the victim behind pontoon boat on a inner tube (unknown brand) when the stitching tore and gave way. Operator also stated that when the stitching tore loose, the fabric began taking in water and made the tight and snatched Victim under water and apparently breaking her arm between the elbow and the shoulder. After talking with all witnesses, and hearing the same as to how the incident occurred, Sgt. and myself left. 

Sgt and I went to Oconee Regional Hospital, where Victim was being treated.  I spoke with Victim briefly due to her pain and medication given to her. Victim stated that the tube fabric split, came off and drug her under water causing the injury.


BARDID: GA-2016-0028
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OCONEE
NearestCityorTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by boat piece
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/02/2016 at approximately 1630 hours, I responded to the area of Long Shoals Boat ramp (located in Putnam County, Georgia) in reference to a boating incident. Upon my arrival, I spoke to the wife of the victim, while the victim was being treated by Putnam County EMS. 

Victim was transported to Putnam General Hospital and was treated by Dr. received 27 stitches, and was released at 1905 hours (same date). 

Later as I spoke to Victim, he and his wife both were consistent in their account of the incident. Mr Kline stated that he and his wife had been swimming from their personal watercraft (PWC) near the incident location. Victim stated when the two went to leave the area, they boarded the PWC started the motor and proceeded to accelerate. Victim advised the tie off rope was sucked into the vessel's intake causing the rope to tighten up around the steering column and break sending a piece of plastic (from the PWC) into his left leg.


BARDID: GA-2016-0029
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARTWELL
NearestCityorTown: MARTIN
County: STEPHENS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating the boat.  The victim, Victim, was being pulled on a tube with her daughter.  The tube hit a wake.  When Victim came down after being bounced by the wake, she hit her jaw on her daughter's head.  The daughter was unhurt.  Victim went to St. Mary's Sacred Heart Hospital for jaw pain.  She received a CT scan.  The scan showed that the jaw was not broken.


BARDID: GA-2016-0030
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OGEECHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ELLABELLE
County: BRYAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 8, 2016 at approximately 0930 hours I, RFC \, was on patrol in the area of Dasher’s Landing in Bryan County and received a call from Sgt. I was notified of a boat incident that occurred in the Ogeechee River on May 7th.  The vessel was a Jon boat that sank north of Dasher’s Landing, and there were no injuries.  I contacted the Georgia State Patrol Dispatch and was provided the contact information for the caller.  

I contacted Subject and was told operator took her brother in law’s boat out in the Ogeechee River on May 7th.  He went with 3 other individuals.  The boat sank approximately 1.5 miles north of Dasher’s Landing between 1200 hours and 1600 hours.  No one was injured.  She informed me Operator was the father of the boat owner.  She stated family and friends searched for hours in an attempt to locate the vessel with no success.  She asked if the Georgia Department of Natural Recourses (DNR) could help locate the vessel.  She was also concerned if the sunken vessel would be a hazard in the waterway.  I informed Subject that our department did not normally assist in salvage operations, but I would assist to evaluate potential hazards in the waterway.  I called RFC to assist and asked him to bring a patrol boat with him.  

While at Dasher’s Landing, Operator arrived and began to tell me his story.  He stated he was fishing in the river with 3 other people.  He was traveling up river at approximately idle speed went the bow went underwater and swamped the vessel.  All occupants went into the water.  A vessel passing by assisted with their recovery.  No one was injured.  He also stated two of the occupants were seated at the bow of the vessel at the time of the incident.  The other occupants were identified.  Operator denied having consumed any alcohol on May 7th.  

RFC and I put our vessel in the water and traveled up river to the incident location.  We assisted in locating his vessel.  The approximate location was 32’12’24.41 and 81’24’53.90.  We returned back to the landing.  

On May 11, 2016 I received a note from the Brunswick office secretary.  The note read that the boat had been recovered.


BARDID: GA-2016-0031
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE VARNER
NearestCityorTown: COVINGTON
County: NEWTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: LACK OF VESSEL FLOTATION
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 21, 2016 at approximately 1830 hours I, Ranger1 with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Critical Incident Reconstruction Team, was notified by Lieutenant1 in regards to a fatal boating incident on Lake Varner in Newton County.  I was told to contact  Corporal1 and Ranger2.  I called Ranger2, and he told me two men had drowned after their boat sank on Lake Varner.  I arranged to meet Ranger2 at the Newton County Sheriff's Office the following morning to collect his notes, statements, and to photograph the vessel.

On April 22, 2016 at approximately 0900 hours, I met Ranger2 at the Newton County Sheriff's Office.  Ranger2 told me the victims' names, subject1 and subject2.  According to Ranger2, both victims were recovered by divers soon after the incident.  Additionally, Ranger2 gave me two witness statements obtained from witness1 and witness2.  After reading the witness statements, I photographed the vessel which was recovered from the lake the previous evening.  The vessel subject1 and subject2 were in was a 12 foot jon boat that did not have a hull identification number or vessel registration.  Additionally, the vessel did not have a manufacturer decal or a capacity plate.  I observed two trolling motor batteries, miscellaneous fishing gear, a type four throwable device, and a stern mounted trolling motor on the vessel.  No wearable personal flotation devices had been located at the scene or in the vessel.  I noticed the vessel appeared to have very little built in flotation, and did not appear to be of very study construction.  After photographing the vessel I left it at the sheriff's office, and advised them they could release the vessel to the family.  

Approximately a week after the incident, I was able to contact witness1 and witness2.  Both witness1 and witness2 were in a vessel on Lake Varner at the time of the incident in the cove adjacent to the boat landing.  Witness1 told me she did not really see anything.  Witness2 told me he saw subject1 and subject2 alone in their boat in the cove.  Witness2 said at approximately 1700 hours he looked over and saw only the front of the victims vessel sticking out of the water.  Witness2 said he saw both victims trying to swim, and attempted to get to them in an effort to help.  Witness2 said when he got approximately 50 yards away the victims went under the water and did not resurface.  Witness2 said he did not see any wearable personal flotation devices floating in the cove.  Additionally, Witness2 did not know which victim had been driving the vessel.  Witness2 said the wind was blowing very hard at the time of the incident, and he was thinking about taking off the lake due to the water becoming rough and dangerous.  

According to subject1 and subject2's autopsy reports, their combined weight was 497 pounds.  With the addition of the two trolling motor batteries and fishing gear, the vessel contained more weight.  After interviewing witnesses and observing the victim's vessel, it is in my opinion that a combination of poor flotation, high winds, and the vessel carrying a considerable amount of weight inside caused it to take on water and sink.  The lack of wearable personal flotation devices in the vessel was a contributing factor to the victims drowning after the vessel took on water.  

This report is a true and accurate statement based on witness statements and knowledge acquired through investigation.  My conclusion contained is based solely on information given to me at the time of this investigation and may change with the discovery of any new information.


BARDID: GA-2016-0033
State: GA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST MARY'S RIVER
NearestCityorTown: KINGSLAND
County: CAMDEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/3/2016 at approximately 1300 hours, Ranger First Class (RFC) and myself, Corporal (CPL), responded to a call from Camden County Sheriff's office reporting a boating incident in the St. Mary's River. RFC and I met with Ranger (RNG) and responded to the incident. When we arrived on scene, we encountered three vessels. 

Vessel 1 was a 1988 Bass Tracker 17 feet in length bearing Georgia registration GA6299DT. Vessel 2 was a 1998 Tracker Marine 17 feet in length bearing Florida registration FL7632CN. Vessel 3 was a Utopia, United States Coast Guard documented vessel. Rangers confirmed that all persons involved in the boating incident had been recovered from the water. Rangers observed as Vessel 2 towed Vessel 1 to a nearby private dock. Vessel 3 returned to private dock. Rangers spoke with 5 persons on board Vessel 2 for a briefing on the incident. 

Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 launched at Highway 17 (Blue Bridge) public boat ramp at approximately 0930 hours. Both vessels travelled downriver to fish. At approximately 1230 hours both vessels left the fishing area to return to the boat landing. 

While accelerating to get on plane, Vessel 1 took on water over the stern. Vessel 1 became swamped and the 4 persons on board were ejected from the vessel. Vessel 2 and Vessel 3 assisted in recovering persons on board Vessel1. All vessels involved had neccessary safety equiplment and personal floatation devices on board.  Subject sustained minor injuries to her left wrist and was taken to medical care. Vessel 2 assisted in towing Vessel 1 to boat landing. Owner of Vessel 1 did not report any expense or insurance coverage for damages.


