# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: NC-2014-0034
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOWAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: COMO
County: HERT
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Overloading
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday may 10, 2014, at approximately 1:15pm while on boat patrol on the chowan river near the winton bridge, i received a call from ncwrc communications reference a report of a sinking vessel north of gatlington beach, sand banks game land. It was a clear day, around 85-90 degrees, with a slight shop on the water. I proceeded to the scene of the accident and upon arrival, i saw two men waving me down from the gates county bank of the chowan river. As i pulled over to speak with the two men about what they had seen, i noticed several pieces of boating and fishing equipment floating in the water approximately 250 yards up river from macks wharf. After getting a brief explanation of what happened, i proceeded to pick up what i could and look for any sign of the two men that were seen in the boat. After picking up all of the equipment, i went back and spoke with the two witnesses and had them write out a detailed statement. The witnesses explained to me the boat was headed south when they heard a noise as if the boat struck an object in the water. When they heard the noise, they looked up to see the boat sinking rapidly and the two men in the boat yelling for help. At this time subject went to his truck to call 911. After calling 911, they took a second look through their binoculars to see that the two men in the boat had disappeared. 

After the recovery of the two victims and the boat, i did a thorough inspection of the boat. I could not identify any significant damage to the boat's hull. Based on the facts, circumstances, and statements from witnesses, there was not much free board left after subjects along with all of their equipment were in the boat. 

While they were heading south down the river, witnesses heard the victims hit something small enough to make a noise but not large enough to cause any significant hull damage. This caused the operator to power down rapidly causing the wake to wash over the stern of the boat causing it to take on water and sink. 

Adequate pfds were on board but not in use by either victim. Alcohol and/or drugs was not considered to be a factor in this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0035
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROSE BAY
NearestCityorTown: SWAN QUARTER
County: HYDE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: Rotted plug
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, on june 21, 2014 at approximately 10:00am near the far eastern point of judith island in rose bay in hyde county, nc operator was operating a 16 foot 1987 winchester motor boat. His wife was also on board the vessel. They were fishing and decided to relocate. The operator started the motor and began to bring the boat up on plane. While doing so, both individuals noticed water coming into the stern of the boat. There were three fishermen nearby and occupant called to them for assistance. The water continued to fill the stern of the boat as the three fishermen helped tow the sinking boat to the nearest shoreline. Once the boat had been beached, the assisting individuals left while operator and his wife unloaded their gear onto the shore line and called seatow. All safety equipment on the vessel was in compliance with state law. Personal flotation devices were on board but were not used by the individuals throughout the course of this incident. Alcohol and/or drugs were not a contributing factor to the incident and no charges have been filed. After seatow retrieved the sunken vessel and towed it back to swan quarter wildlife access, it was revealed that the cause of the incident was a broken and dry rotted plug.


BARDID: NC-2014-0036
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: BATH
County: BEAU
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the pwc, had no experience operating a pwc and had not taken any kind of boating safety class. Operator was operating his friend’s pwc in back creek in bath heading north. He started to operate the pwc too close to a pier that was attached to the shore. Operator was unaware that when you let off of the throttle on a pwc, it loses all steering. He let off the throttle and steered to the left to try to avoid the dock. The pwc stayed on its same path and collided with the pylon attached to the dock, bow first. Operator was ejected over the steering column, tearing the column off of the pwc, and landed on top of the dock. Operator hit his head and had several scratches and bruises on both his legs and feet. Ems was called to the scene but he refused to go to the hospital. Operator was charged with operating a pwc without taking a nasbla approved boating safety class.


BARDID: NC-2014-0037
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HIGH ROCK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: DENTON
County: DAVD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 31, 2014 at approximately 3:30pm, a pwc and a bass boat were involved in a boating accident on flat swamp creek of high rock lake 0.65 miles north of hwy 8 bridge in denton, nc. The total width of flat swamp creek where the boat incident occurred is approximately 100 yds. Vessel 1 was an 11 ft 2010 yamaha wave runner that was black and tan in color. It was being operated by operator1, and he had no passengers on board with him at the time of the incident. Vessel 2 was an 18 ft 2008 triton bass boat with a 150 hp mercury motor. The bass boat was white and red in color and had a starboard side console. It was owned and operated by subject. His son was sitting in the passenger seat on the port side of the vessel at the time of the incident. The pwc, vessel 1, was struck on the port side bow by the bow eye of the bass boat, vessel 2. 

Operator1 who was operating vessel 1 had been out cruising on flat swamp creek for approximately 10-15 minutes and decided to head north on flat swamp creek back towards the dock where he had started from. There were some friends of operator1 Sitting out on the dock where he had left from. As operator1 was heading back north, he passed his dock on his starboard side. He was operating the pwc at approximately 10-20 mph. After passing his dock, operator1 Turned the pwc back towards his left to circle back around to his dock, and at this time is when the pwc made contact with the bass boat. 

Operator2 who was operating vessel 2 was heading north on flat swamp creek going to one of his fishing locations. Operator2 and his son, v2 occupant had launched their bass boat from the southmont access area and traveled south on high rock lake to get to flat swamp creek. While heading north on flat swamp creek, operator2 observed a pwc in front of him. He observed the pwc approximately 150 yds in front of him. Both stated that they observed the pwc in front of them doing circles from one side of the creek to the other. As operator2 continued to travel north at speeds over 20 mph, he began closing the distance between himself and the pwc. Operator2 stated that once he was close to the pwc, he began to slow down and blow the horn on his bass boat 6-7 times he also stated that when he was behind the pwc, he tried to go around it once and had to turn back the other way to prevent from hitting the pwc. He then continued on and was passing the pwc on his right, starboard side when the pwc suddenly turned into his bass boat. At this time operator2 stated that he was going approximately 10 mph when he struck the pwc. 

After the collision between the pwc and the bass boat, both operators idled over to operator1.'s dock to tie up. A witness then called raleigh to report the incident. They then all waited on operator1.'s dock until i arrived. After speaking to operator1., he stated he never heard the horn, nor did he see the bass boat prior to the collision. Operator1, nor operator2 and his son v2 occupant were injured. There was significant damage to the pwc and not the bass boat. The pwc had a large hole in the fiberglass on the port side bow and the fiberglass was cracked across the entire bow from port side to starboard side. There were very minor scratches on both sides of the bow around the bow eye of the bass boat. 

There were multiple witnesses on operator1.'s dock that observed the collision between the pwc and the bass boat. Multiple witnesses stated that they did hear the horn of operator2 bass boat before the collision occurred. They stated that operator1 Never saw the bass boat behind him. Witnesses stated that the bass boat came up very close behind the pwc at a very fast speed. They were trying to get the attention of the bass boat so he would slow down. The next thing they observed was the collision of the pwc and the bass boat. 

There was one passenger/witness on board the bass boat which was operator2' son, v2 occupant.  V2 occupant stated that the pwc was doing circles in the lake. He


BARDID: NC-2014-0038
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NEUSE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NEW BERN
County: CRAV
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 17:00 on june 11, 2014, operator1 was attempting to dock his 39 ft trawler at galley stores marina, new bern, nc located on the neuse river. While maneuvering, a throttle cable snapped causing operator1 to lose his ability to control the throttle. Operator1 quickly turned off the engines and the vessel's bow then struck the marina's concrete bulkhead head on. None of the 6 passengers were injured as a result of this collision. The vessel sustained significant damage. Impact with the bulkhead damaged the bow's leading edge and also caused the fiberglass to separate from the bow thrusters. This in turned caused the vessel to take on water and resulted in damage to the interior of the vessel. Tidewater marine was hired to repair the vessel and confirmed the throttle cable had broken. The broken throttle cable appears to be the sole cause of the incident. 

************************ 
there is no mention by the officer of this report as to what caused the cable to break.


BARDID: NC-2014-0039
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: SHERRILLS FORD
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements made by the owner/operator of the vessel, he was operating the boat on the main channel of lake norman at the entrance to energy cove, towing three females on an inflatable tube. At some point one of the females riding the tube fell off or was ejected from the tube. When the operator picked victim up, she was complaining of shoulder pain and her shoulder appeared to be dislocated. Victim was transported to lake norman hospital where she was treated for a dislocated shoulder. Victim was wearing a pfd. 

********************************* 
there is no mention by the officer of this report as to what caused the victim to fall off the tube.


BARDID: NC-2014-0040
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: MOREHEAD CITY
County: CART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 16, 2014, at approximately 1:30pm, operator1 was cruising down the icw in a 28 ft carolina classic in bogue sound near channel marker #2 and sugar loaf island. While traveling in an easterly direction at approximately 25 knots, operator1 noticed his starboard side engine's temperature rising. He slowed to idle speed and smoke began to enter the galley. He then turned off the engines and anchored his vessel. 

Tow boat us provided assistance, raised the engine hatch, and extinguished the flames. No one was injured and no property other than the vessel was damaged. Mechanical failure is the suspected cause of the fire. The exact nature of the mechanical failure is currently unknown. Operator1 had not recently fueled the vessel and residual fuel vapors are not thought to have caused the fire. The fire caused significant damage to the engine room, engine, and rear starboard side of the vessel.


BARDID: NC-2014-0041
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE JAMES
NearestCityorTown: NEBO
County: MCDO
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 4, 2014 at approximately 10:45pm, vessel 1 was traveling east, and vessel 2 was traveling west. The two vessels collided striking port bow to port bow. Vessel 2 hit vessel 1 on the port side half way between the bow and beam. Vessel 2 then jumped vessel 1 and hit the port side of the outboard motor on vessel 1. the owner/passenger of vessel 2 was thrown into the water which did not result in injury. the owner/passenger of vessel 1 was sitting in the port bow and was knocked into the floor of the vessel and received multiple injuries. 
 
After the collision, v2 occupant re-boarded vessel 2 and they left the scene of the accident. Vessel 1 remained at the scene till help arrived. Vessel 2 continued to travel on lake james but was experiencing mechanical problems. Two fishermen on a pontoon boat, unaware of what had occurred, attempted to tow them, but the rope broke. Two female passengers from vessel 2 boarded the fishermen's pontoon boat and was transported to canal bridge access. subject contacted ncwrc enforcement and provided them with information about the accident, who was driving and a boat description. Wildlife officers located vessel 2 two hours after the accident. Vessel 2 was slowly traveling along the shoreline. Operator2 at the time of the accident, was now a passenger and refused to admit to operating. V2 occupant, the owner of vessel 2, was now operating. V2 occupant and also the operator of vessel 1 were both charged with owi. the operator of vessel 2 at the time of the accident, was charged with reckless operation and failure to render aid after a collision.


BARDID: NC-2014-0043
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WILMINGTON
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 23, 2014 at approximately 5:47pm, wildlife officers were notified by raleigh dispatch of a boating accident that occurred at close to trails end marina. Upon arrival, contact was made with Operator, who was the operator of vessel 1. Upon arrival of the wildlife officer, the two victims were being loaded into the ambulances and taken to new hanover regional medical center for treatment. 

Officers met Operator at new hanover regional medical center and stated that he was traveling south on the icw just north of trails end marina. He was pulling an inflatable tube with 4 passengers on it. Operator was traveling approximately 20 mph when he turned his vessel to the right heading into trails end marina. When he turned his vessel to the right, the tube that was being pulled swung to the left side of the boat path, it then went over the wake from the boat. When the tube swung to the left, it put the passengers on the tube directly into the path of the green channel marker. 

The passenger on the tube, victim1, age 15 was lying down on the left side of the tube and victim2, age 13, was the other passenger on the left side and she was sitting on top of victim1. When the tube went over the wake from the boat, it made the tube swing into the wooden channel marker. Impact was made on the left side of the tube. Both injured victims were thrown off the tube into the water. Victim1 was knocked unconscious and was bleeding in the water. Operator turned the boat around to get the victims out of the water. As he approached victim1, she was face down and unconscious. Her mother jumped out of the boat into the water to help to get victim1 back into the boat. A witness was at trails end marina and saw the accident happen, notified the uscg via vhf radio and took his boat out to help rescue the remaining people in the water. The two other passengers on the tube were uninjured and remained with the tube. The boat and passengers returned to trails end boat ramp and met emergency responders. 

Both injured parties were transported to nhrmc for treatment. Victim1 suffered several facial fractures and a head laceration which required stitches. Victim2 was flow to chapel hill later that night with bleeding on her brain.


BARDID: NC-2014-0044
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WYLIE
NearestCityorTown: CHARLOTTE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: limb tangled in vessel equipme
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/20/2014 at approximately 3:00pm, a boating incident occurred on lake wylie at the docks of the pine harbor town homes in charlotte. The operator navigated adjacent to the dock and allowed the passenger to get off the vessel and onto the dock. As the passenger was attempting to secure the rope from the vessel to the dock cleat, the operator unintentionally bumped the throttle causing the vessel to lunge forward. As the vessel lunged forward, the rope tightened causing the passenger's right hand-fingers to be crushed between the constricted rope and the dock cleat. 

On june 20, 2014 it was a clear, sunny day with an ambient temperature of 94 degrees and a water temperature of approximately 80 degrees. The two women had been on the pwc for about one hour and decided to return home for food and additional sunscreen. The operator navigated the vessel to the southern-most boat docks closest to the water's edge adjacent to the pine harbor town homes on lake wylie the operator navigated the port, left, side of the vessel adjacent to the south end of the boat dock and allowed the passenger to get onto the boat dock. The operator then tossed an approximately 6 foot long rope to the passenger, who was now standing on the boat dock. The rope was attached on the port, left side of the pwc below and slightly forward of the handlebars. The passenger wrapped the rope around the dock cleat two times. At this point, the stern, rear of the vessel began to drift counter clockwise around the south end of the boat doc towards the east side of the dock. The operator then told the passenger to "hold on", meaning she was about to maneuver the vessel closer to the dock. After the operator said "hold on", the passenger unwrapped the rope from the cleat one time, leaving one loop in place around the cleat. The operator then began maneuvering the vessel closer to the dock. The passenger stated that as the operator maneuvered closer to the dock, she "wrapped the rope around the cleat one more time." immediately after the passenger made another loop with the rope around the dock cleat, the operator of the vessel stated that she "unintentionally pressed the throttle" in an abrupt manner causing the vessel to lunge forward. The operator said in a written statement that the rope "possibly got crossed over the handlebars and hit the throttle of the vessel." at this time, the passenger's finger extremities on her right hand were crushed between the constricted rope and the cleat on the dock due to the forward motion of the vessel. The tension between the rope and the cleat caused extensive lacerations and crushing injuries to three fingers on the passenger's right hand. Both individuals were wearing uscg approved type 3 pfds at the time of the incident. A witness was on a docked boat five slips down and saw the incident occur. The witness helped the passenger to shore and called emergency services. The passenger was hospitalized at carolinas medical center in charlotte. A visual inspection of both the vessel and the dock after the incident revealed no apparent property damage. Also, upon visual inspection of the vessel, it appeared highly unlikely for the rope to depress the throttle. Alcohol was not a factor in this incident. 

The operator of the vessel unintentionally pressed the throttle in an abrupt manner causing the vessel to quickly lunge forward. This erratic motion caused the rope to become tightly constricted around the passenger's fingers and the dock cleat. This appeared to be the result of operator inattention. The operator was charged with failing to complete an approved boating safety course.


BARDID: NC-2014-0045
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WYLIE
NearestCityorTown: CHARLOTTE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 15, 2014 around 3:00pm, operator, was attempting to anchor and tie off his 24 foot colbalt inboard outdrive vessel to another pontoon boat at the sandbar area north of buster boyd bridge on lake wylie, catawba river. His boating party consisted of 9 people total with 3 of them being children under the age of 13 wearing uscg approved pfds. 

Operator began having trouble moving his vessel into position due to the water being choppy. Another member of his party jumped off the bow, front of the vessel, in waist deep water to help maneuver the vessel alongside a pontoon boat. While subject1 was tying of the bow, front of the boat and placing a fender between the vessels, subject2 jumped off the aft, back of the cobalt vessel to assist without operator's knowledge. 

Operator stated that the vessel was in neutral at all times and was certain of that. He did state that he leaned over the side to observe subject1 tie off the bow of the vessel. This is when witness accounts of what happened stated that they heard subject2 yell out for help. Subject2 was found at the aft, back of the boat, with his foot almost severed from the left leg and another open cut just a few inches above that. 

Subject2 was transported to carolina medical center, main, for treatment for an open joint fracture to the left foot and open leg fracture to the left leg. 

The vessel was in compliance with coast guard regulations and safety equipment. No alcohol or impairing substance was known to be a factor. It is my opinion that the operator while leaning over the side of the vessel bumped the shifter in gear and the outdrive struck Subject2's left leg and foot with the propeller. The operator did not know that Subject2 had jumped out of the boat, and turned the motor off as soon as he heard him yell out. The wounds Subject2 received are consistent with a propeller strike under power. Subject2 had never been on a vessel nor had he had knowledge of the mechanics of them and thought he was just going to help when he jumped into the water behind a running motor. With the known evidence, no charges were made in this boating incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0046
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 1, 2014 at approximately 4:45pm, wildlife officers witnessed a boating accident that occurred on the icw just south of masons inlet. 

The accident occurred when operator1 was traveling south on the icw. Operator1 was traveling at approximately 15 mph going in a southern direction on the western side of the icw when his boat ran aground landing on a sandbar. The vessel came to a sudden and complete stop. 

Vessel 2 operator was also traveling in the same direction and was approximately 50 yards behind vessel 1. Operator2 stated that he did not see vessel 1 hit the sandbar and came to a stop until it was too late to avoid impact. Just before impact, vessel 2 turned to the right in an attempt to avoid the collision. Vessel 2 made contact with vessel 1's starboard, stern side, just above the swim platform. Vessel 2 drove up onto the rear portion of vessel 1 then slid off the right side gunnel causing visible damage to the ladder on the swim platform of vessel 1 and a gouge into the fiberglass on the hull of vessel 2. 

Wildlife officers made sure all parties involved were not injured. Both vessels drove to wrightsville beach access area and filled out the accident reports.


BARDID: NC-2014-0047
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 26, 2014 at approximately 4:00pm, Operator1 had his vessel, vessel 1, tied off the northern most dock at the wrightsville beach access area. While Operator1 went to retrieve his truck and trailer, operator of vessel 2 pulled in the northern most slip. While Operator2 attempted to dock and tie off his vessel, the port side stern slid to the left due to current and wind, making contact with Operator1's vessel mid starboard side. From the initial contact, Operator1's vessel was pushed into the stationary dock on the port side causing a crack in the port side gunwale. Approximately $2000.00in damage was caused to Operator1's vessel.


BARDID: NC-2014-0048
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KITTY HAWK BAY
NearestCityorTown: KITTY HAWK
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Approximately 1:00pm on saturday may 24, 2014, i received a call from ncwrc dispatch regarding a boat accident in the kitty hawk bay area. I arrived to speak to the owner/operator of vessel 1. I then traveled to speak with the owner/operator of vessel 2. 

Vessel 1 was traveling south in the direction of blount bay. Vessel 2 was traveling west out of kitty hawk bay pulling a raft with two occupants. Vessel 2 struck vessel 1 about half way back on the port side. The bow of vessel 2 struck the operator of vessel 1 in the lower back before traveling from stern to bow of vessel 2. There were no injuries. 

The operator of vessel 2 was cited for operating any motorboat or vessel, or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device on the waters of this state in a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person. General statue 75a-10(a). 

Pfds were on board but not used by survivors. Alcohol and/or drugs were not a contributing factor to this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0049
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAPE FEAR RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FAYETTEVILLE
County: CUMB
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/6/14 at 3:05pm, the land owner of the ramp received a phone call from victim asking land owner if he could use his boat ramp. Land owner informed victim the he could not use the ramp because he was not going to be there when victim wanted to use the ramp. At approximately 17:40, land owner drove by the ramp and saw victim's vehicle backed down the ramp with a trailer attached that was under the water while the vehicle was still running. Land owner then noticed a jet ski about 200 yards down river with no one on it and called 911. The vehicle registration comes back to victim, but the jet ski registration does not and expired in 2012. Cumberland co shefriff department deployed their search and rescue dive team on 4/7/14 but was unable to find victim. Victim's wife was notified by ccsd and she stated that on 4/6/14, he left their home to see if he could get the jet ski to run. Also, according to the report from the sheriff office, victim's wife said that he had been drinking alcohol before he left with the jet ski. The jet ski appeared to have normal wear and tear due to age, under seat, but there is no evidence of damage caused by running into, or striking any objects. There were not any witnesses to the accident. His body was recovered by the ccsd on 4/14/14. He was not wearing a pfd, and there was no one on board the vessel or in his vehicle. I have been waiting to submit this report to receive the toxicology report from the medical examiner to see if there was alcohol in his system at the time of the accident. However, i have not yet received the report and will send it in after i receive it.


BARDID: NC-2014-0050
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROCKFISH CREEK
NearestCityorTown: HOPE MILLS
County: HOKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/22/14 at approximately 6:00pm, operator was operating his pwc on upchurche's pond in rockfish creek when he drove under a metal support cable which struck him in the neck and was then thrown off the back of his pwc. After interviewing operator, he told me he was operating his pwc in rockfish creek next to camp rockfish when he went out of his intended direction well before coming up to 2 fishermen in a small vessel in order for his wake not to disturb them. He slowed to approximately 10-12 mph to go around the fishermen. He was close to camp rockfish, a kids camp, where there are structures for rope swings, slides, etc. However, there were no "danger" or "no wake buoys" on the end of the camp where he had his accident. He did not see the metal support cable which went from one of the structures into an anchor point in the water. His pwc went under the cable and the cable struck him in the neck under his chin and threw him backwards off his vessel into the water. He was wearing a type iii pfd and the kill switch lanyard was removed which stopped the motor of the vessel. He was pulled out of the water by the two fishermen he was trying to avoid. 911 was called and responded by taking him to the hospital for treatment. He suffered a neck laceration due to the cable. There was slight damage to the pwc where the cable slid up the front of the vessel, light scratch. The pwc did not strike any other objects or the shore. Upon investigation, a few days after the accident, someone rearranged the configuration of the buoys and marked each metal cable with a red flag. Alcohol was not a factor in this accident. Unable to contact witnesses of this accident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0052
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE TWITTY
NearestCityorTown: MONROE
County: UNIO
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/19/14 at approximately 5:00pm, a boating incident resulting in a fatality, drowning, occurred on lake twitty 1/4 mile southeast of the lake twitty public boat ramp. The vessel was an 18 ft generation iii aluminum bass boat with a 40 hp outboard motor. The vessel was owned and operated at the time of the incident. There was only one passenger, 18 year old operator’s grandson, on board the vessel. While fishing with his grandfather in a local bass tournament, occupant fell overboard and did not resurface. 

According to operator, he and his grandson, occupant, participated in this bass tournament on a regular basis. After launching their boat, they traveled 1/4 of a mile down the southeast side of the lake to a favorite point. This is where they started fishing in approximately 9 feet of water. Operator stated he was fishing off the front, bow of the boat, which is contradictory to a statement that is included by another agency in this report. This may have been due to stress as the incident had just happened minutes earlier. Occupant was on the back/stern. Subject stated after making one or two casts, he heard a splash in the water and turned to see what it was. He then realized occupant was no longer in the boat, so he jumped in to try to retrieve him. Operator was unsuccessful in locating occupant so he called 911. Occupant was not found until 6/21/14 at 9:00am he still had his fishing reel in his hand. Operator stated that occupant had seizures weekly, sometimes daily. He said, he was sure that this is what happened as occupant was a good swimmer. 

In conclusion, it appears occupant had a seizure causing him to tense up and lose his balance. This resulted in occupant falling overboard and drowning due to his medical condition.


BARDID: NC-2014-0053
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WYLIE
NearestCityorTown: CHARLOTTE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/22/14 at approximately 3:15pm a boating accident occurred 300 yards south of the sandbar on lake wylie in charlotte, nc. This was a two-boat incident involving a pair of new unregistered yamaha pwcs with 250 hp motors. One was a 2011 model and the other a 2014 model. Both vessels were owned by the same individual. Vessel 1 was operated by operator1 and vessel 2 by his sister in law, operator2. Operator1 was slowing to a stop when operator2 lost control striking the right side of his vessel. 

On this day, operator1 drove to buster boyd boat access area to try out the two new pwcs he had purchased four days earlier. The weather was nice and he brought operator2 along to enjoy this day. He launched both pwcs from the access area and planned to teach operator2 how to operate one as she had never ridden a pwc before. They spend a minimal amount of time in the no-wake zone in front of the boat ramp so operator2 could practice the controls of the pwc. This left operator2 with only a few minutes of operating experience. Then they decided to head north to the sandbar to see how many people were there and what was going on. 300 yards prior to reaching the sandbar, operator1 turned right and slowed down before arriving at their destination to speak to operator2. Operator2 let off the throttle to slow down. Because of her lack of experience, she was unaware a pwc jet drive continues to move in a straight line if not under power. This caused it to strike operator1 in the right rear panel. The impact sent operator2 forward and across operator1's pwc landing her in the lake. The initial impact of the pwc's injured operator2's right arm and leg. Both operator2 and operator1 were wearing uscg approved life jackets. Operator1 helped operator2 out of the water, seeing she was injured, and assisted her in returning to the boat ramp they came from. The weather was clear and sunny. The air temperature was 88 and the water temperature 87. The lake was rough due to large vessels creating 2 to 3 ft wakes. 

It appears operator inexperience is the key factor in this incident. Operator2 had no formal boating certification and only a few minutes of training in operating this vessel earlier in the day. This incident occurred after operator2 released the throttle making it unable to turn or be maneuvered all while being too close to operator1. Operator2 was charged with careless and reckless operation and operating a motorboat by persons born after 1/1/8 without completing a boater safety course. There was no alcohol involved in this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0054
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALBEMARLE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: NAGS HEAD
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday june 21, 2014 at approximately 3:00pm, i, officer, received a phone call from raleigh dispatch concerning coast guard station oregon inlet reporting an injured boater airlifted to elizabeth city hospital. I responded to coast guard station oregon inlet. Upon arrival, i talked with petty officer, who informed me that the operator of vessel 1 was airlifted to elizabeth city hospital and later airlifted to norfolk general hospital. Petty officer also informed me that vessel 1 was still aground on a shoal near davis channel. On tuesday june 24, 2014, i talked with operator at his residence regarding the boat accident. Operator stated that he left oregon inlet fishing center to go clamming. Operator ran aground causing a fishing rod to be ejected from the vessel. After placing vessel 1 in neutral and turning the engine off, operator attempted to retrieve his fishing rod. Operator put one hand on the outboard motor and the other on the transom, while facing forward, he jumped into the water. Operator immediately noticed that his left calf was cut by the prop. While getting back into the vessel, operator hit his left eye on the outboard motor. Operator then called the coast guard for assistance. Upon the coast guard's arrival, they airlifted operator to elizabeth city hospital. Later that day operator was air lifted to norfolk general hospital. Operator had a friend retrieve his vessel for him while in the hospital. No charges were filed.


BARDID: NC-2014-0055
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALBEMARLE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: PLYMOUTH
County: WASH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, Operator, he and his party were traveling east out of the roanoke river and into the albemarle sound at approximately 15 mph when they struck a submerged log. The log was located between channel marker 5 and 6 near the mouth of the river. When the vessel struck the log, it lost power. Operator stopped the vessel to raise the engine and assess the damage. He observed that the lower unit had been torn off by the submerged log. He then anchored the vessel and waited for assistance. 

I was patrolling boating and fishing in the area when i observed the vessel flagging me down. When i approached, i observed 3 males and 3 females in a 22 foot stingray. The operator informed me what happened and i began to tow the vessel to mackey's marina. About halfway to port, i stopped because the occupants of the towed vessel informed me that they were taking on water. I then continued to port. When we got to mackey's marina, the occupants loaded the vessel onto the trailer and pulled it out of the water. Water had filled up the hull and was covering the battery. 

No alcohol or drug use was suspected and no charges were filed.


BARDID: NC-2014-0056
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CURRITUCK SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KITTY HAWK
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday june 28, 2014, at approximately 12:30pm, i received a call from a subject, owner of the s and s watersports. Subject wanted to report a boat accident that happened on june 24, 2014 with one of his rental pwcs. Operator was the operator of the pwc, vessel 1. Operator was going forward when she went to turn and hit a wave wrong. The wave ejected her and the passenger, occupant, off the pwc. As they were ejected, occupant's chin hit operator's head. Occupant was knocked unconscious and was face down in the water with a cut on his chin. Occupant was pulled out of the water by the operator of another pwc and was taken to the dock. Operator was also picked up by another pwc and was brought to the dock. Operator was transported to the emergency room via a personal vehicle and received nine staples in her head. Occupant was transported to the emergency room via ambulance. Occupant's jaw was broken, his mouth was wired. He received 10 stitches and two teeth were pulled. No charges were filed.


BARDID: NC-2014-0057
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEMBROOKE CREEK
NearestCityorTown: EDENTON
County: CHOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday july 12, 2014 at approximately 6:09pm, Operator1 was operating vessel 1 with three others on board. They had been on the water for the majority of the day and Operator1 admitted he had been drinking michelob ultra the entire time. As Operator1 was traveling east up pembrooke creek, his vessel was approached by another vessel from his starboard, right side. The other vessel, a 17 foot maycraft, vessel 2, was being operated by Operator2 with friend being pulled on a knee board behind the vessel. Operator2 and knee boarder had been taking turns being pulled on the knee board. Knee boarder had just fallen off and was starting another run. Operator2 was watching knee boarder to be sure he maintained his balance as he gained speed moving south into the channel of pembrooke creek. Knee boarder saw vessel 1 approaching and began yelling at Operator2 to alert him of the oncoming vessel. Operator2 saw the oncoming vessel at the last second and immediately turned his vessel sharply to the right to avoid the collision. Onboard vessel 1, Operator1 saw the oncoming vessel, vessel 2, at the last moment, took his boat out of gear, and attempted to avoid the collision by making a sharp left turn. Vessel 1 collided with vessel 2 on the port, left side, rode up onto the gunwale and then back down to the left causing extensive damage to vessel 2. Vessel 2 then began taking on water. Upon impact, knee boarder, who was wearing a coast guard approved pfd, let go of the rope that connected him to vessel 2 to distance himself from the vessels. 

Operator2, who was not wearing a coast guard approved pfd jumped into the water and swam to check on knee boarder. The two then swam back to vessel 2 and reboarded it. The impact caused V1 occupant who was wearing a coast guard approved pfd and riding in the bow area of vessel 1 to be thrown from the vessel and temporarily knocked unconscious. V1 occupant2 who was also wearing a coast guard approved pfd and riding in the bow area of vessel 1 was thrown around the bow and suffered bumps and bruises. Operator1 and v1 occupant3 were both riding behind the console of vessel 1 and were not wearing any pfds and did not suffer any injuries. Once the collision had occurred, Operator1 immediately put his vessel into reverse and maneuvered his vessel towards his son and pulled him from the water. Next, Operator1 approached vessel 2 with his vessel. Words were exchanged and then it was decided that Operator1 would tow vessel 2 to edenton marina. 

Operator2 and knee boarder boarded vessel 1 as their vessel was being towed. After arriving at the marina, the two vessels were trailered. Each individual involved in this incident was evaluated by chowan ems and no one required nor requested to be transported to the hospital for further medical attention. Damage to vessel 1 includes gashes in the keel, large scratches in the gel coating on the underside of the vessel, and a gouge in the propeller. 

Damage to vessel 2 includes broken fiberglass, a large gash in the gel coating and fiberglass, and engine damage on the port side. 

Charges stemming from this accident include: 
Operator1 - operating a vessel while under the influence ncgs 75a-10(b1); operating a vessel in a careless and negligent manner ncgs 75a-10(a).


BARDID: NC-2014-0058
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KERR LAKE
NearestCityorTown: HENDERSON
County: VANC
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, on june 27, 2014, operator was boating on kerr lake. The pontoon boat operator was operating became disabled. Operator looked over the port side of the vessel to see if she saw a line in the water that was in the prop of the motor. Operator slipped off the seat on the port side of the vessel and fell over board. Operator received a cut just below her right knee cap approximately four inches long and approximately one inch wide. Operator was taken by ems to miriah parham hospital in henderson. Operator underwent surgery at granville medical system for the cut on her knee. It is undetermined if alcohol or drug use was a factor in the accident. No charges were filed in this accident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0059
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: MOORESVILLE
County: IRED
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/20/2014 at approximately 7:45pm, operator tried to go out on the family's yamaha pwc. He pushed it off their floating dock. He then got onto the pwc. While drifting just off the dock, he tried to start the pwc. When he pushed the ignition button, the pwc exploded under him. This ejected operator from the pwc. The explosion caused 1st and 2nd degree burns to the legs of operator. There were not any other fires other than the initial explosion. Operator was wearing a type iii uscg approved pfd at the time. He had also had a us power squadron boating safety course. Operator was taken to the hospital where his burns were treated. He was released after his legs were treated. Alcohol and drugs were not a factor or present in this accident. 

Upon reviewing the pwc, it is clear to see there was an explosion. The seat above the engine compartment was missing. The console around the steering column was ruptured and cracked. The inside of the engine compartment was slightly blackened. The air intake to the engine was cracked open. It appears that there were fuel vapors inside the engine compartment and when the ignition button was pushed, the vapors ignited. The ignition of the fuel vapors inside the engine compartment caused an explosion that in turn ruptured the top of the hull and passenger area. This led to operator getting burned and the destruction of the pwc. Fortunately there were not any secondary fires as a result of the fuel vapors igniting.


BARDID: NC-2014-0060
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: HENRICO
County: NORT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 11, 2014 at about 5:00pm, vessel 1 was traveling west in dogwood branch.  She noticed vessel 2, a pwc coming from wobble island.  Vessel 2 went toward vessel 1's port side and struck vessel 1.  After striking vessel 1, vessel 2 then struck a tube being pulled by vessel 1.  Vessel 2 knocked three passengers off the tube causing injury to victim1’s left knee and hop and victim2’s right wrist.  All of the riders on the tube were wearing pfds.  After the collision, the operator of vessel 2 said he was sorry and did not see vessel 1.  The operator of vessel 1 asked the operator of vessel 2 if he had insurance.  The operator of vessel 1 stated the operator of vessel 2 said "no, he was broke".  Then the operator of vessel 2 left the scene and headed toward virginia.  The operator of vessel 1 went to wobble island. 

According to the operator of vessel 1, the operator of vessel 2 had been at wobble island.  She stated other people on wobble island had observed that the operator of vessel 2 had been drinking heavily. 

At approximately 18:30, I interviewed the operator of vessel 1.  She was able to provide a photo of vessel 2 showing va registration va 1754 bf, showing damage to left port side of the pwc.  She was also able to positively identify the operator of vessel 2 from a dmv photo.  There are warrants for reckless and negligent operation of a motorboat and leaving the scene of an accident for the operator of vessel 2.


BARDID: NC-2014-0061
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROANOKE RAPIDS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: GASTON
County: NORT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 18, 2014, the operator of vessel 1 and two other passengers were traveling east on roanoke rapids lake. The three stated they were heading to canoe creek to go bow fishing for carp and gar. The operator stated that in a short amount of time he saw vessel 2 operated by operator2 approaching him at about a two o'clock position off his starboard side. At about the same time his passenger told him to "turn left now". The operator of vessel 1 turned sharp left, while vessel 2 proceeded toward them. The two vessels collided with each other. Vessel 2 hit vessel 1 on its starboard side in the middle of the vessel at about a 45 degree angle. Vessel 2 proceeded to travel over top of vessel 1 causing damage to the rear starboard side and stern, knocking out the stern light. Vessel 2 received damage underneath on the front starboard side. After the collision both vessels went to their left. Vessel 1 went toward the shoreline checked to make sure it was not taking on water while vessel 2circled looking for vessel 1. The operator of vessel 2 stated that as he was searching, he saw a red light coming from vessel 1. Both operators checked to see if each other and passengers on board were ok. Both stated all were fine with no injuries. The operator of vessel 1 stated to the operator of vessel 2 that vessel 1 had damage. Vessel 2 was afraid of a confrontation and left the scene. Vessel 1 followed behind vessel 2. When vessel 2 stopped vessel 1 tried to obtain information from vessel 2, vessel 2 gave his name and vessel 1 wrote down vessel 2 vessel registration number which turned out to be the wrong number. Vessel 2 went to a private boat ramp, took out his vessel, and went home. 

north carolina wildlife enforcement officer, arrived on the scene on roanoke rapids lake about 30 mins later (about 12:30am). I talked to the operator of vessel 1 and its passengers and also to a home owner who lived on the lake that heard the crash. The operator of vessel 2 left the scene, only left his name, and did not contact any other state or county law enforcement regarding the accident. After interviewing the operator of vessel 1 and witnesses, i left the scene. The operator of vessel 1 identified the other operator. Two hours after receiving the call, at about 2:00am, i was able to find the operator of vessel 2 at his residence.  When talking with the operator of vessel 2, he stated that he did not see vessel 1 lights and that vessel 1's lights were off. While talking with him i noticed a strong odor of alcoholic beverage. He stated he had a couple of beers earlier while on the boat, and three beers when he got home. I gave operator2 some field sobriety tests which showed that he was impaired at the time. He also stated he cleaned out all of the beer cans and bottles that he and his wife had on the boat and put them in the trash can near the curb. When i examined the trash can, i noticed several empty beer cans and bottles. I was not able to make a determination if alcohol was a factor in the accident. 

I took written statements from people that were involved. According to both operators, there were no injuries. There is substantial damage to both vessels. At this time, this investigation is still going on. 

************************************************************* 
please note: if further information is received for this incident, it will be updated in bard when received.


BARDID: NC-2014-0062
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TRENT RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NEW BERN
County: CRAV
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 5, 2014 around 11:00am, operator and three other family members boarded their 36 foot sail boat which was affixed to the dock at slip of the new bern grand marina. Their intentions were to enjoy a four hour trip upon the neuse river. As operator was backing his vessel out of the slip in an eastern direction, he went to disengage the engine from reverse and reengage it into forward. The transmission then locked in reverse as operator made several attempts to change it into forward. The vessel then collided stern to stern with a 49 foot yacht attached to the dock. As a result of the collision, vessel2 sustained a two foot long crack on the port side of the stern about one foot above the water line, as well as buckling of the flooring of the deck nearest the stern. While the crew of operator's vessel was trying to hold themselves off from hitting any additional vessels, subject tripped and fell within the vessel resulting in a jammed right thumb, which she was transported to urgent care the following day.


BARDID: NC-2014-0063
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAYLORS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: BEAUFORT
County: BEAU
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On or around 14:30 on may 31, 2014, vessel one was attempting to undock from finz grill in beaufort and maneuver out of the slip area to the west. There were three other boats docked in this immediate area as you can see on the attached diagram. Victim, a passenger on vessel one, was attempting to hold vessel one off the other boats in the dockage area. Vessel one went forward towards the front dock. Operator then backed up towards the boat docked behind him. Victim attempted to hold that boat and vessel one apart. Operator put vessel one in forward gear and turned out to the right towards the boat on the south side of him. Victim fell off the back of vessel one into the water. Operator put vessel one in reverse not knowing victim had fallen off the back of his vessel and his prop struck victim in the leg. Victim was not wearing a pfd at that time. Several people came down and helped victim out of the water and ems was called. He was taken to carteret general hospital where he was treated for his injuries.


BARDID: NC-2014-0064
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FONTANA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: FONTANA
County: GRAH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON JUNE 29, 2014 AROUND 7:10PM, VESSEL ONE OPERATOR WAS LEAVING POINT 4 ON FONTANA LAKE FROM FISHING DUE TO A THUNDERSTORM COMING TOWARDS HIM ON THE LAKE.  VESSEL ONE WAS MANEUVERING THROUGH THE WHITE CAPS AND STRONG WIND WHEN VESSEL 1 STARTED TO TAKE ON WATER ON THE PORT STERN SIDE.  AFTER VESSEL 1 TOOK ON SO MUCH WATER ON THE PORT STERN SIDE, ONE WHITE CAP WAVE CAME ACROSS THE PORT BOW SIDE AND CAPSIZED THE VESSEL.  Operator THEN CALLED FOR HELP AND A CAMPER LOCATED ON POINT 4 OF FONTANA LAKE SAW Operator AND CAME TO HIS AID.


BARDID: NC-2014-0065
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: HUNTERSVILLE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/29/14 at approximately 6:30pm, a boating accident occurred on lake norman near blythe landing in huntersville, nc. The vessel was an 18 foot 2007 ranger fisherman boat with a 90 hp outboard tiller steer motor. The vessel was owned and operated by operator, who was towing his granddaughter, on an inflatable tube when the tube struck a wake throwing victim from the tube. 

Operator had been towing his 17 year old granddaughter victim and her friend for around an hour in the area of blythe landing on lake norman. Operator was accompanied by his wife, who was seated next to him serving as the lookout while operator towed the two young girls on a small inflatable tube. The tube was only big enough for one person to be towed at a time. Operator stated that victim wanted to take one more turn before they returned to shore for the evening. Operator stated the vessel had just got on plane when he began to operate the vessel in a counter clockwise circle. The maneuver caused the tube to swing out to the right or starboard side of the vessel. When the tube struck the wake of the towing vessel, it caused victim to be thrown from the tube. Wife stated that victim's face struck the water's surface first when she was thrown from the tube. Victim was wearing a type iii pfd and never went below the surface of the water. Wife saw victim float on her back clutching her face and remained in that position until they pulled her back onto the vessel. Victim complained of her head and neck hurting. Victim stated she never lost consciousness. Fearing a head and neck injury, wife called 911 and they met the medic at blythe landing. Victim was transported to presbyterian hospital, huntersville where she was treated and released a few hours later. No major head or neck injuries were discovered. 

It appeared that the inflatable tube's impact with the towing vessel's wake caused the victim to be thrown from the tube. No one was charged as a result of this incident. No alcohol was involved in this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0066
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SUMMIT
NearestCityorTown: TUXEDO
County: HEND
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 30, 2014, at approximately 9:45am, operator1 was operating vessel one on lake summit in henderson county nc. Operator1 was towing a skier, his son. He was towing his son in towards the cove where the property is located and where they stay. Victim released from the rope and coasted in towards the location where he normally stops. Victim had too much speed and was unable to stop before striking the rock retaining wall. 911 was called; ems responded and victim was taken to pardee hospital in henderson county nc where he was treated and released for a broken wrist and a laceration to his face.


BARDID: NC-2014-0067
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JORDAN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: PITTSBORO
County: CHAT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/2/14 at approximately 12:05am, operator and two others were fishing on jordan lake near the dam. The subjects ran out of catfish bait and decided to head home. Operator was the operator of the vessel one subject to his left in the passenger seat and one near the bow of the boat. Upon take off, operator noticed the boat was slow to plane off but didn't think much of it. Operator headed toward a light he thought was the ramp area. He was mistaken but realized his mistake and then headed toward the correct ramp. In route to the correct ramp, operator noticed some water in the floor of the boat. He turned on the bilge and it began to pump water. Operator then slowed to see where the water was coming from. As he slowed, i believe the water in the bottom hull of the boat rushed forward plus the weight of the third person in the bow caused the bow of the boat to dip below the waterline. Water immediately rushed over the bow and was soon pointed toward the bottom. All three men exited the vessel. The bow eventually rose back to the waterline as the stern slowly submerged. The men were able to level the boat and turn on the bilge again. Eventually enough water was pumped out to allow the men to get back in the vessel. Around 4:30am, a pontoon boat passed by and assisted the subjects back to the ramp. The vessel was loaded on the trailer and remaining water was drained out. 

Upon my investigation of the vessel, i was able to locate a crack in the drain for the live well. This crack would allow enough water to enter the hull over a few hours time to possibly cause the bow of the boat to dip upon slowing. The added weight of the third person in the bow was too much.


BARDID: NC-2014-0068
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: SHERILLS FORD
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator of vessel 1 and investigation on 7/4/14, at approximately 2:00pm in the cove at bass drive in lake norman at sherrill's ford, the operator of vessel 1 was pulling a tube behind a jet ski with subject aboard. The cove is very narrow and vessel 1 was pulling the tube in a northern direction on plane. Vessel 1 changed direction turning sharply to head back south swinging the tube wide to its port side and hitting a dock. The operator of vessel 1 and the victim were both wearing properly fitted pfds and the vessel was properly equipped with fire extinguisher and was properly registered. The victim suffered very minor bruising to her left side and left arm. Ems and other rescue personnel were called to the scene and she was transported to lake norman medical center in huntersville in an ambulance. The cove where the accident occurred is very narrow and was very crowded upon arrival on the scene, and thus the jet ski should have been at no wake speed. Also, lake norman has a rule, 15a ncac 10f.0307, which disallows any vessel from operating above no wake speed within 50 yards of any marked boat launching area, bridge, dock, pier, marina, boat storage structure, or boat service area on the waters of lake norman. 

The accident could be attributed to the operator's inexperience, and careless and reckless operation traveling at excessive speeds in the narrow cove. Alcohol was not involved in the accident. The operator of vessel 1 was issued a citation for careless and reckless operation.


BARDID: NC-2014-0069
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE TILLERY
NearestCityorTown: MOUNT GILEAD
County: MONT
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Failure to vent
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/5/14 at approximately 1:30pm, a boating incident occurred on lake tillery near the fairway shores community in mount gilead nc. The vessel was a 19 foot 1987 glastron with a 140 horse power inboard motor. As operator was giving the vessel throttle, that is when they all heard a "woof" sound and they started seeing flames. They were approximately 50 yards from their dock and all on board were able to swim to safety. 

The five individuals had been cleaning the vessel up since approximately 10:00am. As they finished cleaning the vessel at approximately 12:30pm, they fueled the vessel up with gas and checked the oil. At approximately 1:30pm, the five individuals were boarding the vessel and pushed off from their dock. As operator slowly started drifting to the middle of lake tillery, she started to give the vessel some throttle. Operator had only given the vessel roughly around a quarter throttle when they heard a "woof" sound two more times coming from the vessel. They had to swim approximately 50 yards to get to the dock. As they were swimming, victim told them he was burned. As they got to the dock, they helped pull victim out of the water and could see had been burned on his left leg. Victim's left leg had been burned from the knee down to his foot and the skin was peeling off. Victim also had burns to his right foot and his eyebrows, chest and arms were singed. The vessel floated to the shoreline near the dock. Since the motor cover had been blown off, i was able to see the vessel was equipped with a flame arrestor. Operator had completed her required boating safety course. 

Victim received 2nd and 3rd degree burns to his left leg and foot. Victim was airlifted and received treatment at unc chapel hill. Lake tillery fire department was able to respond with their fire boat and put out the remaining fire on the vessel. Montgomery county ems was able to transport victim from the scene to lake tillery fire department and met a unc chapel hill helicopter that transported victim to the burn center at unc chapel hill. From my investigation, it appears that the cleaning vapors and the vapors from the fuel were trapped in the engine compartments. Although the vessel was equipped with a flame arrestor, it appeared to not be working correctly. With the flame arrestor not working correctly and the vapors of fuel not being able to escape, that resulted in the fire/explosion of the vessel. 

No one was charged as a result of this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0070
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: CEDAR POINT
County: ONSL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Approximately 3:45pm on saturday july 5th, operator was pulling two individuals on a tube near the west channel of the icw across from the cedar point ncwrc boat access area. Their vessel was traveling east then made a port side turn and began traveling west when operator under estimated the arc that the tube would make behind the vessel. At this time, the vessel was approximately 25 yards off the shore line and witness said that the tube was riding atop the marsh grass. The tube continued along the marsh grass outside the wake of the vessel when the tube struck a fallen tree that was lying in the marsh grass which snapped the tow line as operator' vessel continued its west bound path. The vessel that witnessed the collision was traveling east in the same area and went to the scene of the incident to render aid. At that time, operator circled around and came back to the tree and scooped up both of the individuals that were involved in the collision and left the scene. The witness vessel then reported seeing another gentleman who was not operator coming back to get the tube that was left in the tree after the incident. Meanwhile, operator was transporting victim 2 to carteret general hospital where they were treated and released later that evening. 

The tow rope used to pull the tube was a ski rope with a handle that was tied in the center, placed around the tow pole and the free end was tied to the tube. The rope broke approximately 10 feet from the tube.


BARDID: NC-2014-0071
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NEUSE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: KINSTON
County: LENO
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/6/14 at approximately 5:30pm, a home made vessel composed of two rows of plastic 55 gallon drums, pontoons with wood deck attached on the top was located in the neuse river near kinston nc. Operator had launched the vessel on hwy 70 at the kinston parks and recreation boat ramp and was drifting down stream to the ncwrc boat access area located at 963 hwy 11/55. 

Operator had eight passengers and himself on the vessel. There were no coast guard approved life jackets on board. The vessel did have alcohol on board and several of the passengers including several underage drinkers that were cited, and the operator had consumed alcohol. The victim had not consumed alcohol. The victim was pregnant, this was a factor she said in her decision to go to the hospital. 

Operator was using a piece of electrical conduit as a push pole to navigate the vessel as it drifted down stream. Operator, not being aware of his surroundings, where the passengers were located on the vessel in comparison to where the push pole was being used, and the possibility of a piece of electrical conduit breaking under the extreme pressure exerted when trying to navigate a vessel of his vessel's size in the strong current of the neuse river led to the accident. 

When the vessel was just down stream from the king street bridge, operator was attempting to navigate with the electrical conduit when it snapped in the direction of the victim and the piece left in operator's hands struck her in the head. The injury caused by the accident was a small laceration to the head of the victim and swelling of the immediate area to the laceration. The victim was transported to the hospital by lenoir county ems and was diagnosed and released. 

In conclusion, i believe based on my training and experience as a wildlife enforcement officer, that the operator's intention, alcohol use, fault of equipment, and hazardous waters lead to the accident on 7/6/14.


BARDID: NC-2014-0072
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: HAMPSTEAD
County: PEND
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:
On july 12, 2014, at approximately 12:00pm, operator was operating his 19ft white with blue trim winchester 1977 model fiberglass motorboat, vessel 1, in the icw at the ncwrc boating access area ramp located at the end of lewis rd. In hampstead, nc. Just before the boating incident occurred, operator unloaded vessel 1 off his trailer at the ramp and tied it to the ncwrc floating dock. Vessel 1 was tied off at the bow and stern to the eastern side of the ncwrc floating dock oriented with the bow pointed south. There were 4 passengers on board vessel 1 and the operator. Before the incident victim stepped onboard. Just before the incident occurred, the operator was standing on the starboard side of vessel 1 behind the center console along with an adult female positioned on the port side near the stern. 
 
passenger and incident witness, was positioned on the starboard side of vessel 1 in front of the center console. There was a 5 year old male passenger, and a 7 year old female passenger sitting in the bow of vessel 1. According to the operator and the incident victim, victim untied vessel 1's bow line and then untied the stern line. Victim then gave vessel 1 a shove off of the dock and proceeded to step on board. When victim's right foot hit the slippery deck of vessel 1, he turned his ankle over and fell onto the floor landing on the port side of vessel 1 beside the center console. The operator, operator then pulled vessel 1 a few yards away from the dock. When operator realized that victim's injury was severe, he pulled vessel 1 back up to the dock. Two off duty paramedics that were standing at the boat ramp called 911. A pender county ems rescue squad and a fire department engine was on scene when nc weo sgt arrived at approximately 12:15pm. Sgt began investigating the boating incident immediately. I arrived on scene at approximately 12:20pm and interviewed the operator and witness. When i arrived on scene, the victim was already loaded in the ambulance and being transported to cape fear orthopedic hospital. After interviewing the victim via telephone, victim informed me that he was treated for a fractured right ankle and released from the hospital approximately 1 hour later.0


BARDID: NC-2014-0073
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: WISE
County: WARR
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 13, 2014 at approximately 4:00pm, operator was towing his girlfriend and her daughter on a tube on lake gaston inside six pound creek heading toward jordan creek. Operator said he made a sharp left hand turn around a point off of rocky pointe road. Operator stated that "as he rounded the point, which was less then 200 feet wide, he encountered another boat coming in the opposite direction out of jordan creek". Operator said he adjusted his vessel to avoid the oncoming vessel as well as the vessel's wake. According to operator and other witnesses, the sharp left hand turn combined with the quick adjustment to the left caused the tube in tow to swing wide right then sling shot back to the left. As operator decreased his speed to approximately 10-15 mph and straightened the travel of his boat, the two passengers hit the wake from the other boat and were catapulted off the tube. One of the passengers struck the dock head first and was knocked unconscious. Her life jacket kept her afloat while family members and neighbors rendered assistance. 

victim  was taken to duke hospital where she was treated and released for a laceration to her face, broken cheek bone, and ruptured ear drum. Alcohol was not a factor in the accident. However, operator was charged with negligent operation of a motor vessel due to the small size of the cove where he was towing the passengers and the speed at which he was doing so. 

************************************************** 
please note: all vessel 2 information is unknown


BARDID: NC-2014-0074
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: HOLDEN BEACH
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS CRUISING BEHIND VESSEL 2.  VESSEL 2 CAME TO A DRIFT TO AVOID A BOAT WAKE AND TURNED HARD TO STARBOARD.  VESSEL 1 WAS UNABLE TO SEE VESSEL 2 DUE TO WATER SPRAY RESTRICTING THE OPERATOR'S VISION CAUSING VESSEL 1 TO COLLIDE WITH VESSEL 2.  BOTH OPERATORS AND PASSENGER WERE WEARING PFDS.  NEITHER DRUG NOR ALCOHOL WERE BELIEVED TO BE THE CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.  OPERATOR INATTENTION IS BELIEVED TO BE THE CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT.
 
*************************************************************
IT IS NOT MENTIONED BY THE OFFICER OF THIS REPORT AS TO THE CAUSE OF THE INJURY TO THE VICTIM'S LEG; NOR THE TYPE OR EXTENT OF INJURY.


BARDID: NC-2014-0075
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MAXWELL MILL POND
NearestCityorTown: PINK HILL
County: DUPL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 17, 2014 at approximately 12:30hrs, Operator arrived at maxwell mill pond campground to fish. He rented a canoe, green 15 ft 9 inches pelican canoe. The renters also furnished Operator a type ii pfd and a paddle. At about 17:56hrs, Operator was fishing close to the south bank of the pond when his canoe overturned. subject noticed Operator struggling to try and swim, ran to get help. He ran to where the campers were located, he yelled to renter that the man had fallen overboard. She yelled for subject2 to call 911. Renter then ran down and got her kayak and paddled out to Operator's location. When she got to where Operator was, she could see the overturned canoe and Operator was floating face down in the water. She then yelled for her brother for help and that is when he came out in the boat. They pulled Operator to a nearby log and they began cpr until ems arrived. Operator was not wearing the pfd provided by the campground. It was photographed floating in the water a short distance from the canoe. It was still fastened in the way it would have came out of the bag when it was purchased. 

Operator was announced deceased at 18:51 hrs by medical examiner dr. from wayne memorial hospital. Ems then transported the deceased to the morgue at wayne memorial hospital. 

I, master officer, arrived at maxwell mill pond on 7/18/14 at 21:30 hrs. I began talking with renter and she pointed out to where the incident had occurred. I paddled out in my kayak and found the fishing lure the deputies had described on the log where they believed he had gotten it hung up. I removed the white fluke and started pulling at the line and attached to the line was a fairly new rod and reel. I could tell from the condition of the rod, it had not been in the water long. I met with detective back at the ramp, he confirmed it was the same type of lure that Operator had with his fishing equipment. I also confirmed it with the pictures the duplin county sheriff's office had taken. 

I believe that Operator was fishing and his lure had gotten hung up on the log. He then attempted to dislodge and his attempt caused the canoe to turn over and he fell in and drowned.


BARDID: NC-2014-0076
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOILING SPRINGS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: SOUTHPORT
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 20, 2014, operator was operating a pwc on the big lake at boiling springs. He had a passenger on the back of the pwc. According to operator's father, operator was driving the jet ski and occupant was on the back. They would approach the dock where there were numerous friends and relatives and then they would drive out and the individuals on the dock would throw a frisbee out and occupant, passenger, would jump off the jet ski and try to catch it. It appears that what happened in this particular incident is that when occupant went to jump off the pwc, he must have slipped and fell backwards and hit his head on the rear of the pwc, which resulted in a laceration and momentary unconsciousness. According to operator, when he turned the pwc around he saw occupant in the water and he was unresponsive. He then motored over to him and jumped in the water to assist. Occupant quickly came to and the ambulance was called and he was transported to new hanover regional hospital where he was treated and released. It appears that this incident was caused by operator inexperience, as well as horseplay by the passenger which resulted in the fall and the injury. It is unclear as to whether alcohol was involved. According to the first responders, Occupant had been drinking and admitted to having around six beers. The operator said that he had only consumed alcohol after the incident in an effort to calm his nerves. It is the opinion of this investigator that alcohol did play a role in this incident. However, because operator was allowed to consume after the operation, no charges related to alcohol were filed. Both passengers were wearing uscg approved life jackets and they assisted in keeping the unconscious victim afloat.


BARDID: NC-2014-0077
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WHITE LAKE
County: BLAD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/23/14 at 3:45pm, mother of the victim was pulling victim on his wakeboard behind their mastercraft ski boat on white lake. Victim had been attempting to land 360s that day. As victim jumped the boat's wake, he tried to do a 360 and land it. When he attempted the 360, he fell as he tried landing it. Victim fell on the water back first as his wakeboard came out from under him. Operator saw him fall and immediately went to assist him. As she arrived where he was in the water, she noticed that victim's head was still under the water. Victim's head then came up out of the water and he was gasping for breath and could not speak. Victim's face was very red and purple in color, swollen and his eyes were bulging. Operator pulled victim up on the platform of their boat. As operator got victim on the platform of their boat, victim started talking. Victim was yelling that his back and neck was in pain. Operator called a neighbor for help via cell phone, but was unable to get them on the phone. Operator proceeded by calling 911. While on the phone with 911, operator was able to get victim's wakeboard off his feet. Victim then moved into the back of the boat where he still had difficulty breathing and had back and neck pain. Operator drove the boat to their private dock where she met emergency services. Paramedics put victim on a body board to stabilize him and transported him to bladen county hospital in elizabethtown. Victim was checked into bladen county hospital that afternoon and checked out after being assessed by a doctor that evening.


BARDID: NC-2014-0078
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NANTAHALA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: FRANKLIN
County: MACO
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/25/14 about 18:50pm, operator1 was operating the vessel on nantahala lake. Operator1 was part of a bass tournament which was just launching from rocky branch access. V1 occupant was a passenger in the boat with operator1. As operator1 headed left from rocky branch into the main channel, operator1 was heading in the direction where the nantahala river comes into the lake. Right near what is called jerrett creek, operator1 encountered waves from another boat. When operator1 stated he was running about 65 mph when he encountered the waves. As he entered the waves, he maneuvered to the left trying to get away from the waves. Operator1 stated he also started to trim the motor down as fast as possible. Operator1 said the waves seemed to him to be larger than any he had come across before. Operator1' boat hit the first wave causing the front of the boat to go higher than expected. Operator1 said the boat went into the air causing the back end of the boat to hit the top of the next wave. When the back end of the boat hit the next wave it caused the front of the boat to come down so hard that the port side noise of the vessel went under water. Operator1 was ejected from the boat on impact. V1 occupant landed in the center of the boat. Operator1 was wearing a life jacket and a lanyard attached to the kill switch. Upon ejection of operator1, the engine was cut off by the lanyard attached to the kill switch. The other boats that were following operator1 said that the waves caused many of the boats to go airborn. Operator1 was helped out of the water by other boaters. Operator1 was transported to murphy hospital. Operator1 has a broken pelvis and a compression of his l1. V1 occupant was not injured in this accident. 


*************************************************************** 
please note: all vessel 2 information is unknown.


BARDID: NC-2014-0079
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: TERRELL
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/28/14, at or about 23:15 hrs, i received a call from ncwrc dispatch about a boat accident that occurred on lake norman at kiser island road. 

According to statements made by the operator of the vessel, he was operating the boat on lake norman near kiser island. Operator stated that the fuel throttle on the boat hung up and would not go in neutral. Operator stated that he tried to turn the boat in an attempt to avoid hitting the bank. However, he was not able to do so in time to keep from running the boat on to some rocks along the bank. 

It appeared that the boat was traveling east on lake norman and the operator turned the boat to the right, south, as he neared kiser island road and ran into rocks as well as the bank. Operator made a statement that he had operated a vessel on lake norman for a large portion of his life. 

The use of alcohol and or drugs is believed to be a contributing factor to the accident. A blood sample was taken from the operator. However, at the time of this report, the results are still unknown. Several items including beer bottles and empty wine containers, as well as a receipt for $186.00 for purchase of alcoholic beverages was found on the vessel. 

The operator was transported by ems to lake norman hospital. The operator was treated for his injuries and released. The operator received nine stitches for a laceration above his right eye and also a broken left foot. One other passenger had a small cut on her face. 

The vessel sustained extensive damage estimated to be about $25,000.00. The boat received gouges and holes in the fiberglass along the bottom of the hull on the port side and vow, and the outdrive was completely destroyed. 

The operator was charged with owi and careless and reckless operation of a motorboat.


BARDID: NC-2014-0080
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: TERRELL
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements made by the operator of the vessel, he was operating the boat near midway marina, towing three males on an inflatable tube. As the operator was making a turn, the victim fell off the tube into the water. The other two occupants stayed on the tube and the operator returned to pick the victim up. When the operator made contact with the victim, he was yelling for help and complaining of pain in his leg. The operator then helped the victim onto the boat and called for help on his cell phone. The operator met with ems at midway marina and the victim was transported to catawba hospital by ems. 

The subject broke his right femur and no other injuries were reported. Doctors were able to determine that the subject had an abscess on his bone which created the weak spot. This is though to be the reason his femur broke when he fell off the tube into the water. 

A passenger was videoing the subjects tubing when the accident occurred. The video footage shows that the operator was not acting in a careless or reckless manner. The use of alcohol and or drugs was not detected at the scene and is not believed to have been a contributing factor to the accident. No charges have been filed.


BARDID: NC-2014-0081
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: WISE
County: WARR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On august 5, 2014, around 9:00am, operator was operating his 18 foot sea ray boat in six pound creek on lake gaston. Operator was pulling his wife, on water skies. Victim was skiing with two skies. When she tried to switch from two skies to one, the front of the ski stuck in the water bending her left leg back fracturing her tibial plateau. Operator was able to get victim loaded into the vessel and taken to the dock where ems came and took her to mariah parham hospital. Victim was wearing her pfd at the time of the accident. There was no drugs or alcohol involved.


BARDID: NC-2014-0082
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TOPSAIL SOUND
NearestCityorTown: TOPSAIL BEACH
County: PENDER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 5, 2014 at approximately 11:30am operator of vessel 1, was drifting perpendicular to the main channel of topsail sound. This vessel was located at the mouth of a creek on the northern edge and the topsail sound waterway just southeast of moore landing. 

Vessel 2 operator was cruising northwest when an oncoming vessel was approaching her port side. While attempting to avoid the oncoming vessel, Operator2 hit vessel1, on the port side bow which caused her vessel to come to a sudden stop. The sudden stop caused Operator2 and two other passengers to be thrown into the water which caused minor head injuries. 

Vessel 1 had damage to the port side bow, fiberglass damages were estimated to be approximately $1000.00. Vessel 2 had approximately $800.00 in damage to the starboard side bow.


BARDID: NC-2014-0085
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: HUNTERSVILLE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/26/14 at approximately 9:45pm, a boating incident occurred on lake norman approximately .2 miles northeast of blythe landing access area. The vessel was a 16 foot 8 inch aluminum sea nymph with a 60 horsepower outboard motor. The vessel is equipped with a trolling motor and has a seat positioned near the bow, front of the vessel, to allow operation of the trolling motor. Operator1 was operating the vessel from the bow seat using the trolling motor. Operator1's son was sitting in a port, left, side passenger seat at the time of the incident. A wake from light boat traffic slightly rocked the boat causing the victim, 3 year old victim, to fall from the passenger seat and strike the back of his head on the starboard, right, side driver's console seat. 

The weather was mild and foggy with an air temperature of approximately 70 degrees and water temperature of approximately 86 degrees. The operator, his wife and 2 children had been on the vessel for approximately 20 minutes prior to the incident. The operator stated that they were preparing to begin fishing. The operator stated that he was in the front, bow, seat near the trolling motor. the victim, was seated in a port, left side passenger seat, his wife was standing behind the victim, and his daughter was standing in front of the victim. The operator's wife stated as she was standing behind her son, he slipped off the passenger, port, side seat and hit his head on the boat's driver side, starboard seat. The operator stated that the trolling motor was in the water but not under power at the time of the incident. The operator transported the victim to blythe landing access area and called emergency services. Emergency services recommended that the parents transport the victim to the emergency room. The operator transported his son to carolinas medical center in huntersville for medical treatment. The victim received 3 staples to the back of his head and was released. 

It appeared that light boat traffic created a slight wake causing the victim to lose his balance in the seat. The wake from that light boat traffic combined with the 3 year old victim's lack of balance in the passenger seat appeared to be the cause of this incident. No one was charged as a result of this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0086
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: OAK ISLAND
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday 8/9/14 at approximately 4:30pm, there was a boating accident on the icw near blue water point marina. The facts of this accident are unclear due to not being able to speak with the operator of the vessel involved. Operator and Occupant were the two individuals involved in this accident. Operator is in the icu at new hanover memorial hospital and Occupant passed away due to the injuries that occurred in this accident. Family members of Operator told me that he had just purchased the jon boat a couple of weeks ago. Due to this information, i will assume that Operator was the operator of this vessel at the time of the accident. The vessel was heading into the entrance of blue water point when it struck a wooden channel marker. I believe that Operator was operating the 14 foot jon boat and his vision was obstructed by the passenger who i believe was sitting on the bench in front of the operator. Due to the placement of the passenger, the operator could not see the first of four channel markers leading into the marina. As a result of this restricted vision, the vessel collided with the first channel marker. 
 
Occupant struck the wooden channel marker face first causing severe head injuries which later turned into fatal injuries as he passed away at new hanover memorial hospital. It is unclear how Operator received his head injury. After the collision, both subjects were thrown to the starboard stern of the vessel. The vessel was in forward gear and doing circles after the impact while both subjects lay face down in the vessel. A bystander that heard the accident jumped into his boat and proceeded toward the circling vessel. The bystander threw his anchor in front of the circling vessel causing the propeller to catch his anchor rope, therefore choking off the motor. He was able to tow the vessel to blue water point marina where ems rushed both subjects to new hanover memorial hospital. As i stated earlier, this is my opinion of what happened. Once Operator is able to speak, i will get the facts of this accident and send in a continuation page to attach to this report.


BARDID: NC-2014-0087
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAPE FEAR RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CASTLE HAYNE
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 17, 2014, at approximately 5:00pm, operator, who had recently purchased vessel 1 was maneuvering his boat around one of the bridge pilings what supports the hwy 40 river overpass so he could become familiar with how his boat handled. Operator stated while he was maneuvering his boat one of the wakes he produced swamped the stern of his boat causing it to sink quickly. Operator stated he had on a pfd when his boat sank and attempted to swim to shore but was unable to due to the strong current. He was able to flag down a nearby boat by waving a type iv pfd in the air. The passengers on the nearby boat pulled operator out of the water and transported him to the castle hayne access area. 

Operator sustained no injuries as a result of this accident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0088
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PAGES CREEK
NearestCityorTown: WILMINGTON
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON JULY 13, 2014 AT APPROXIMATELY 4:00PM operator WAS NAVIGATING UP PAGES CREEK.  WHILE NAVIGATING, operator RAN AGROUND CAUSING THE VESSEL TO COME TO A HAULTING STOP.  THE SUDDEN STOP CAUSED PASSENGERTO FALL IN THE FLOOR OF THE BOAT.  WHILE FALLING, victim FACE CAME IN CONTACT WITH THE CENTER CONSOLE RAILING CAUSING victim TO BREAK HIS NOSE.  There was a strong current.


BARDID: NC-2014-0089
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FIGURE 8 ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 4, 2014 at approximately 5:45pm, operator was operating a 23 foot mako vessel heading north between the marshland and figure 8 island with 6 other passengers aboard. 

While making a left hand turn through the marsh, the vessel ran aground and caused it to come to a haulting stop. The sudden stop caused two passengers to be thrown overboard causing minor head injuries, bitten tongue and a shoulder injury. Passenger was thrown onto the floor of the vessel which caused him to land on a cleat leaving a laceration to his back. 

Vessel operator notified me as i came in contact with him that he had been drinking alcohol prior to the incident. I then had operator board my patrol boat and i conducted field sobriety (seated battery) on operator. Based on my observation of operator and the field sobriety test, did not think operator was impaired. There were not charges. 

************************************************* 
there is no mention by the officer of this report as to the bac of the vessel operator.


BARDID: NC-2014-0090
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: EMERALD ISLE
County: CART
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
At or around 4:00pm on may 14, 2014, two people went for a swim about 250 feet west of the bogue inlet pier. Victim was standing in waist deep water facing the beach when the front tip of vessel one struck him in the back. Vessel one's operator, operator, had been surfing for a period of time that day in the kayak before the incident. After the incident, it doesn't appear that operator offered assistance,but he did provide his name and phone number to other swimmer when approached. Operator of vessel 1 was wearing a pfd but victim was not. 

After the incident, victim's girlfriend, came and took him to carteret general hospital. Victim suffered numerous injuries due to the impact of vessel 1. These injuries include but are not limited to a nondisplaced rib fracture on the 12th rib on the left, and a l2 and l3 transverse process fracture.


BARDID: NC-2014-0091
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: CORNELIUS
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/13/14 at approximately 11:40am, a boating incident occurred on lake norman at ramsey creek county park access area in cornelius. The vessel was a 10 foot long yamaha personal watercraft. The operator was attempting to trailer the vessel when she unintentionally fully pressed the throttle. The vessel quickly lunged forward colliding with the section of the trailer containing the winch and bow, front stop, causing the vessel to launch up and over the tow vehicle. The vessel landed on the concrete boat ramp in front of the tow vehicle. The operator was ejected from the port, left/ side of the vessel as it struck the ground. 

The weather was sunny and clear with an air temperature of approximately 80 degrees and a water temperature of approximately 83 degrees. The operator of the vessel had been enjoying a day on lake norman with her friend who owns the personal watercraft. The owner backed the trailer into the water with the tow vehicle, a 1998 toyota tacoma. Once the trailer was properly positioned in the water, the owner stood at the left rear corner of the tow vehicle. The owner instructed the operator to idle towards the trailer with the pwc. The owner stated that as the operator approached to within approximately 10 feet of the trailer, she instructed the operator to "give it some gas." the operator stated that she remembers pressing the gas then hitting the trailer and being launched into the air. The owner stated that as the pwc collided with the section of the trailer containing the winch and bow, front, stop, it launched into the air continuing in a forward motion, struck the roof of the tow vehicle, then landed on the concrete boat ramp in front of the tow vehicle. Measurements taken at the scene of the incident indicate that the vessel landed 16 feet from the water line and 11 feet 7 inches from the front bumper of the tow vehicle. As the vessel collided with the ground, the operator was ejected from the port, left, side of the vessel and struck the ground with the left side of her body. The operator sustained a laceration on the left, rear side of her head, abrasions and lacerations on her left elbow, and bruising on the left side of her back. Emergency services were called and quickly arrived on scene. The operator was transported by ems to huntersville presbyterian hospital. The operator received medical treatment and was released that day. 

This incident resulted in extensive property damage to the pwc, personal watercraft trailer, and the tow vehicle. The personal watercraft had extensive gouges and cracks down the entire length of the hull. Two significant cracks are in the stern, rear, of the vessel just above the steering nozzle. The trailer was damaged where the vessel collided with the section containing the winch and bow, front, stop. The tow vehicle had extensive damage to the roof and rear glass. The rear glass window was completely removed from the back of the vehicle upon impact with the personal watercraft. 

It appeared that excessive speed was the cause of this incident. The operator unintentionally pressed the throttle in an abrupt manner causing the vessel to quickly lunge forward. The motion of the vessel lunging forward possibly caused the operator to grasp the throttle even tighter, therefore giving the vessel more gas and causing it to gain speed as it approached the trailer. Alcohol was not a factor in this incident. No one was charged as a result of this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0092
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BADIN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: BADIN
County: STAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 4, 2014 at approximately 17:00 hrs, a boating incident occurred on badin lake.82 miles south of lakemont, whip o will, boat access area in new london, nc. Vessel 1 was a 24 foot avalon pontoon boat with a 150 horsepower outboard motor and was owned and operated by the same person. Operator1 was operating the vessel and had 13 passengers on board at the time of the incident. Vessel 2 was a 12 foot sea doo jet drive personal watercraft. Operator2 was the operator of vessel 2 and had one other passenger on board. Vessel 1 was struck on the port side by vessel 2. 

Vessel 1 was cruising north bound down the channel of badin lake near shoreline drive towards lakemont access area. Operator1, the operator of vessel 1, observed vessel 2 traveling east bound approximately 10 mph towards the port side of vessel 1 before it was struck. Operator1 said "he did not know whether he should accelerate or decelerate to avoid the collision". There was not an adequate amount of time to make an appropriate action. Vessel 2 was cruising east bound in the channel of badin lake when operator2 made a sharp change in direction that in result caused the passenger to fall overboard from vessel 2. Operator2 turned his attention to the overboard passenger. While observing the overboard passenger, operator2 continued moving in an east bound direction approximately 15 mph. When operator2 looked back to the direction he was traveling, he realized that he was approximately 25 yards from the port side of vessel 1. Operator2's inattention and inexperience while operating vessel 2 resulted in the collision of vessel 2 into vessel 1. 

The air temperature was 95 degrees and the water temperature was approximately 89 degrees. There was a light wind and slightly choppy waters due to the increased boating activity on the lake for the fourth of july weekend. There were no visibility restrictions and the skies were clear and sunny. All parties on board vessel 2 were wearing proper pfds. Vessel 1 also had the necessary amount of pfds on board. Ncwrc as well as montgomery county sheriff's office responded to the incident. No parties involved in the incident were injured. The initial analysis of vessel 1 after the incident, revealed damage to the port side door and to the port side pontoon, apparently from being struck by vessel 2. The damage to the port side door collapsed the aluminum sheet metal inward. The damage to the pontoon was a dent where vessel 2 had turned and collided after initial impact rubbing the side of the pontoon. Vessel 2 had minimal scratches to the fiberglass hull underneath the tow hook under the bow of the pwc. There did not appear to be any further damage to either of the two vessels. 

Vessel 2 was operated with inattention and inexperience. Vessel 2 was cruising near shoreline drive with a passenger on the rear of the pwc. Vessel 2 made a sharp turn causing the passenger to fall overboard. The operator of vessel 2 diverted his attention to the passenger, but continued moving forward towards vessel 1. The operator of vessel 2, operator2, then directed his attention back to the direction he was traveling when he realized he was headed towards vessel 1. Vessel 2 was traveling approximately 15 mph when it made impact with vessel 1 at the port side door of the pontoon boat and then brushed the port side pontoon after initial impact. The operator of vessel 2 was charge3d with operating a motorboat or vessel on the waters of this state in a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger life, limb or property of any person.


BARDID: NC-2014-0093
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: HAMPSTEAD
County: PEND
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 18, 2014 at approximately 10:00am, operator1 was operating his white sea fox vessel in the icw just north of topsail beach inlet. vessel 1 passenger, was standing onboard vessel 1 on the port side of the center console while operator1 was positioned at the helm. Immediately prior to the incident, vessel 1 was cruising north in the center of the channel at approximately 35 mph headed up the icw. Vessel 1 was being followed by operator2, operating vessel 2 approximately 75-100 yards behind vessel 1. Vessel was cruising around 35 mph. V2 occupant was sitting in the front seat of vessel 2 while operator2 was positioned at the helm. Vessel 1 began moving closer to the western side of the channel towards a dock the two men were planning to fish. Vessel 1 then slowed down to less than 10 mph. According to the operator of vessel 2, operator2, he never noticed that vessel 1 had slowed down to less than 10 mph. The passenger on board vessel 2 said that as soon as he realized they were in danger of ramming into vessel 1 he yelled, "watch out". Vessel 2's operator tried to stop his vessel and turn it to the right but it was too late. Traveling at an estimated speed of between 21-40mph, vessel 2's port side bow hull impacted vessel 1's outboard engine and rode up onto vessel 1's starboard stern. The impact damaged the top of vessel 1/s engine and engine cowling. Vessel 1's engine would not start after the collision. After the initial impact, vessel 2's bow traveled up to vessel 1's leaning post and struck the starboard bimini top support of vessel 1. During the collision an abu garcia 6500 ambassader reel and magnum rod combo was lost from vessel 1. The impact of the collision scratched up the gel coat of vessel 2's port side bow hull. According to the operator and passenger of vessel 2, operator2 was sitting on top of a throwable type iv pfd when he was following behind vessel 1. Just before the incident occurred, the type iv fell off the operator's seat and operator2 reached down to pick it up. Just as operator2 looked back up, he realized that vessel 1 had slowed down and that's when the incident occurred. Operator2 said that he wasn't paying attention and that it was his fault. 

The day of the incident, ncwrc officer sgt and i were patrolling on the pender icw near the ncwrc hampstead boating access area when we were notified about the incident by ncweo. Officer and i arrived on scene at approximately 12:00pm on july 18th and began investigating the incident. After our initial investigation, the operator of vessel 2, operator2, was charged with operating a vessel on the waters of this state in a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger life, limb, or property of any person ncgs 75a-10 (a). The operator of vessel 1 was charged with operating a motorboat that is not equipped with the prescribed number, size, or type of fire extinguishers capable of extinguishing burning gasoline ncgs 75a-6(m). No one was seriously injured in the incident. Vessel 1's operator, operator1 complained about his left shoulder bothering him at the scene of the incident. Operator1 visited a chiropractor on july 23rd to address the injury to his left shoulder. Just after the incident he wasn't able to lift his left elbow above his shoulder. I spoke to operator1 after his doctor's visit and he said that his shoulder was doing fine.


BARDID: NC-2014-0094
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: CORNELIUS
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/7/14 at approximately 7:00pm a boating incident occurred on lake norman near the mouth of ramsey creek in cornelius, nc. The vessel was owned and operated by Operator who was operating the vessel toward blythe landing with 7 people on board. The wind caused a hat to blow out of the vessel. Operator turned the vessel around, stopped the vessel, and jumped in the water to retrieve the hat. Operator began to have difficulty returning to the vessel. The victim jumped in the water to assist Operator. Both men began struggling to stay afloat. A third person entered the water to take the men a life jacket. Operator was able to obtain a life jacket. Victim disappeared under the water and never resurfaced. 

Operator had been operating the vessel for approximately 1 hour on lake norman. He and his 6 passengers had stopped for a short period of time and everyone on board the vessel had consumed a small amount of alcohol. Operator decided to turn the vessel back towards blythe landing where he had launched. He wanted to get back to the landing before dark. He was traveling at a cruising speed approximately 5-10 mph when victim stuck his head out of an open cabin hatch located at the bow of the vessel. Victim was wearing a black ball cap. A moderate wind of approximately 7-10 mph was blowing that evening. The wind blew the ball cap from victim's head and out of the vessel. Operator stated that he did not want to go back to retrieve the hat, but he was persuaded by victim to do so. Operator turned the vessel around and went back to where the hat was floating. Operator stopped the vessel on the downwind side of the hat and turned the engine off. He removed his shirt and shoes and jumped in the water to retrieve the hat. Operator did not put on a life jacket before entering the water. He retrieved the hat and began swimming back to the vessel. He realized that the wind and waves were taking the vessel away from him faster than he could swim. Operator called out to the people on board the vessel to throw him a life jacket. One of the passengers on board attempted to throw Operator a type ii life jacket but the wind made it impossible to throw it any distance. The life jacket ended up on the surface of the water in between Operator and the vessel. 
 
At this point, victim realized Operator was in trouble and was struggling to swim. Victim jumped in the water and swam out to Operator. Victim did not put on a life jacket before entering the water. Victim grabbed Operator around his neck with his right arm and attempted to swim back to the vessel. Immediately the two men began to have difficulty staying on the surface of the water. Operator stated that he panicked because he felt as if he was being drug underwater by victim. He pushed away from victim and both men surfaced a few feet apart from one another. No person remaining on board the vessel knew how to drop the anchor or how to start the engine of the vessel. 
 
At this point a third person entered the water in order to help the two struggling men. Subject did not put on a life jacket before entering the water. Subject retrieved the type ii life jacket that was floating on the surface of the water and swam it out to the men. She stated she gave the life jacket to victim who in turn handed it to Operator. Operator grabbed the life jacket and clutched it to his chest. Operator and Subject stated they never saw victim after this moment. Victim went under the water and never resurfaced. The wind kept blowing the vessel farther away from the now two people on the surface of the water. a passenger on board the vessel called 911 for help. Subject and Operator floated on the surface of the water for approximately 15 minutes until help could arrive. Subject was pulled out of the water by good samaritan who happened to be operating his vessel in the area and saw her in the water. Operator was pulled out of the water by a responding charlotte mecklenburg police department vessel. 
 
A sea


BARDID: NC-2014-0095
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MILL CREEK
NearestCityorTown: PRINCETON
County: JOHN
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH DOWN MILL CREEK AND CAME UP TO A TREE THAT WAS HANGING OVER THE CREEK.  THE TREE HAD A LIMB ABOUT FIVE INCHES IN DIAMETER HANGING DOWN INTO THE WATER.  THE MOTOR SHUT OFF BEFORE REACHING THE LIMB.  THE VESSEL CONTINUED STRIKING THE LIMB CAUSING THE VESSEL TO TURN SIDEWAYS.  WATER BEGAN TO RUSH OVER THE SIDE OF THE VESSEL DUE TO OCCUPANTS SHIFTING THEIR WEIGHT TO ONE SIDE CAUSING THE VESSEL TO CAPSIZE.  NONE OF THE OCCUPANTS USED A LFD.  ALCOHOL WAS PRESENT IN THE VESSEL AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT BUT IT WAS NOT A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.


BARDID: NC-2014-0096
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: LITTLETON
County: WARREN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
ON AUGUST 13, 2014 operator WAS PULLING subject ON A WATER SKI ON LAKE GASTON IN BIG STONE HOUSE CREEK.  subject LET GO OF THE SKI ROPE AND AS HE CROSSED THE WAKE FROM THE VESSEL TOWING HIM, subject LOST HIS BALANCE AND HIS FOOT CAME OFF HIS SKI CAUSING HIM TO DO A SPLIT.  subject INJURED HIS HAMSTRING.  I DO NOT BELIEVE ALCOHOL WAS A FACTOR IN THIS ACCIDENT.


BARDID: NC-2014-0097
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KERR LAKE
NearestCityorTown: TOWNSVILLE
County: VANC
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On august 15, 2014, Operator was pulling water skier in mill creek. Subject let go of the ski rope. Operator continued on plane into the no wake zone in mill creek and made a left turn striking a floating dock 53 feet from the shore line with the starboard side of the vessel. The vessel received some cuts to the bottom side of the vessel. The dock was busted and crushed on the end. The walkway to the dock was also damaged and the floats under the dock were damaged. Due to getting the information a day after the accident, i was unable to determine if alcohol was a factor in the accident. Operator was charged with careless and reckless operation of a motor vessel, property damage to the dock, and being greater than no wake or idle speed.


BARDID: NC-2014-0098
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FALLS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: RALEIGH
County: WAKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
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 inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and vessel 2 were travelling south out of a cove near new light rd on falls lake. Vessel 1 had a 15 year old male operator and a 16 year old male passenger. Vessel 2 had a 16 year old female operator and a 16 year old female passenger. Vessel 1 was on the right and vessel 2 was on the left. Both vessels were turning right out of the cove. Vessel 1 hit a wave which caused it to collide with vessel 2. On impact, vessel 1 rose up over the right side of vessel 2 knocking both the female operator and female passenger off the pwc and into the water. Female operator of vessel 2 was the only one to sustain injuries suffering from an injury to the back of her head, injury to her right knee and two broken teeth. 
 
She was transported to wake medical emergency department by wake county ems where she was treated and released. All operators and passengers were wearing type iii pfds of proper size and adjusted properly. Alcohol was not a factor in this accident. I spoke with wake county da's office on monday august 25, 2014 who did not want to pursue charges due to the operator of vessel 1 being 15 years old. Picture 1 indicates the left side view of vessel 1. Picture 2 indicates the minor damage to the left underside of vessel 1. Picture 3 indicates the right side view of vessel 2. Picture 4 indicates the fiberglass damage and the broken mirror of the right side of vessel 2.


BARDID: NC-2014-0099
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: CAROLINA BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday august 17, 2014 at approximately 2:45pm, wildlife officers were notified from new hanover county so of a pwc crash on the icw in carolina beach in front of north end jet ski rentals. 

Upon investigation it was found that vessel 1 was heading in a southern direction at 30-40 mph vessel 2 was also traveling south approximately 20 yards to the left and behind vessel 1 at 30-40 mph on the icw. Operator1 was attempting to jump a wake from a large vessel traveling north in the opposite direction from the pwcs. 

Operator1 turned to the left in an attempt to jump the wake from the large vessel (unknown) but cut in front of the path of vessel 2. Vessel 2 hit the kill switch on his pwc in an attempt to avoid the collision. Vessel 2 was still gliding in the water but not under power when it turned slightly to the right just before impact. 

Vessel 2's bow made impact on the port side of vessel 1 halfway down the gunnel wall. This caused cracks and a hole in the fiberglass of vessel 1. Upon impact both operators were thrown off their vessels into the water. Operator2 was able to get back onto his pwc and return back to the rental dock. Operator1 attempted to get back onto vessel 1, but could not due to an injury he sustained to his left lower leg. Operator1 was assisted onto a jet ski and taken back to the rental dock for help. 

Ems was contacted and Operator1 was transported to cape fear hospital for medical treatment. Operator1 suffered a broken left leg and surgery was needed. 

Charges: 
Operator1 -operate any motorboat or vessel on the waters of the state in a reckless or negligent manner as to endanger life, limb or property of any person. G.s. 75a-10(a).


BARDID: NC-2014-0100
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROANOKE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: MANTEO
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
on 8/17/14 at 4:45pm, i Officer received a call from raleigh dispatch informing me that a boating accident had occurred in nags head and that injuries were involved. i called up dare central for details of what had happened. dare central told me that the injured party was with ems at manteo access area. Officer2 met me at the kill devil hills fire department. i was there dropping my patrol boat off. Officer2 and Sgt were on their way back to currituck county. the three of us had worked together that afternoon. 

Officer2 and i patrolled to manteo access area. by the time we arrived there, ems had already left the scene. this was around 6:20pm. we then patrolled to the outer banks hospital arriving around 6:30pm. at the hospital, i first spoke with subject was sitting in the passenger seat of a vehicle when i approached him. subject stated he was the son of the victim. i asked subject to tell me what had occurred that day. subject reported that he was on one pwc and his father was on another. he reported that he and his father were headed south on the south side of the washington baum bridge. he reported that both pwcs hit a wake causing both operators to be thrown off into the water. he reported that there was a glare on the water and he did not see the wake. he reported his pwc was in front of his father's when they hit the wake. he also reported that he and his father were going faster than no wake speed. when i asked him how much alcohol he had consumed he stated, "i'm pretty sure i've had one." subject reported that after he landed in the water he saw his father was face down in the water. he reported that he went to his father and flipped him over so he wasn't face down in the water. he reported his father was unconscious but gained consciousness within seconds of being flipped face up. subject reported several vessels came to them and assisted. he reported he and his father got on one vessel which then transported them to manteo access area where they were met by ems. subject stated the boat that made the wake was a large white boat about 50-60 feet long. he stated the boat was in the no wake zone but was exceeding no wake speed. subject reported he and his father were several pilings to the east of the no wake zone. i got him to use a map on my phone to show me where the events of that day occurred. 

after speaking with subject, i then went back in the hospital and spoke with victim. victim was in a room lying in a hospital bed. his wife was in the room as well. victim seemed to have difficulty moving and speaking. when i asked him to tell me what had happened, he told me that he could not remember anything. i did not feel it was possible to do a field sobriety test on victim. victim did admit to drinking three beers. the door was open in the hospital room when i was talking to him. victim did have a cut lip. staff at the hospital did take blood from victim. i told victim i would speak with him later that week. Officer2 and i then left the hospital. 

the next day i arrived at victim's home around 4:40pm. i spoke with victim again. he was able to walk around and communicate with me better than the day before. victim completed a mb4.1 form. victim stated that he thought he was operating vessel and his son was operating vessel . he reported he and his son were traveling between 21-40 mph when they hit the wake. 

victim also showed me his pwcs. they were red, tan and black in color. they had registration numbers but no validation decals. they did however have a current registration. victim again stated that he only consumed three beers the day before. i told him that the limit on a boat was .08 just like in a motor vehicle. he stated that his alcohol level was higher than a .08. we were in his living room when he said this. victim reported his injuries the day before consisted of a contusion strain in his neck. victim reported he recently had two neck surgeries. he reported he did not collide with


BARDID: NC-2014-0101
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHITE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WHITE LAKE
County: BLAD
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The accident occurred on 8/30/14 around 4:30pm on white lake. Myself and officer were patrolling white lake that evening. We were several hundred yards off shore close to the timber lodge community. We were flagged down by the operator of a ski boat and was told by them there had been an accident and a girl was knocked unconscious. They pointed us to the vessel that was involved and we then made contact with the operator of that vessel. I asked the operator was the passenger ok and was she breathing. I could see her laying in the floor of the vessel and she was alert and breathing. I then called for ems to meet us at the boat ramp in the timber lodge community. As we traveled with the injured female the passengers of vessel 1 told us a pwc had struck their tow rope which was trailing behind their boat in the water. The vessel was not moving and no one was in the water at that time. They stated when the pwc struck the rope, it tightened up and struck the female in the face and knocked her into the bottom of the vessel. They also stated it was a red pwc with a male driving and a small child on the back. The pwc continued to travel around the lake and did not stop or turn around after the rope was struck. I traveled to the boat ramp with the injured female and officer began looking for the red pwc along with officers who were working on the lake as well. The operator of the ski boat also assisted us with trying to locate the red pwc. They witnessed the accident happen and gave us a good description of the operator of the pwc. A total of 4 red pwcs were located around the lake and no one met the description the witnesses gave us. The operator of vessel 2, the pwc, was never identified so vessel 2 remains unknown. The female was transported to bladen county hospital and was treated then released with no major injuries. 

No charges were filed due to not being able to locate the operator of vessel 2.


BARDID: NC-2014-0102
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FONTANA LAKE
NearestCityorTown: ALMOND
County: GRAH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
This is a 2 vessel accident occurring at an entrance to a no wake zone area in the panther creek area. Both pontoon boats were rented by the same group and they are all friends and worked together at a restaurant. Vessel 1 was traveling parallel with vessel 2 at the entrance to the area. Vessel 1 and vessel 2 were both traveling at a slow speed. Witnesses stated that vessel 1 and 2 were slowly passing one another as if they were racing through the no wake zone still maintaining a slow speed. Vessel 1 then made a right turn into vessel 2 putting his starboard front side of the pontoon into the port side of vessel 2. This in turn caused vessel 2 to lose his course of travel and witnesses stated that vessel 2 almost turned over because of vessel 1's actions. Witnesses further stated that vessel 1 did not let off the throttle while pushing vessel 2. After that action, vessel 2 spun out and had to return to the direction of travel they were heading before the accident and vessel 1 proceeded on. Both pontoons returned back to the panther creek boat dock where they had rented the vessels. The operator of vessel 1's actions appear to be intentional. 

A witness called the boat dock and advised the owner to check for damages of the pontoon rental boats that were returning because of what he witnessed. Prince boat dock owner stated that the damage to the vessels was not there when the boats left the dock to be rented. This damage consisted of a dent to the pontoon and a dent to the skirt of the port side rear of vessel 2. There was no damage to vessel 1 with the exception of rash to the right starboard corner. 

Upon my arrival, both drivers stated that nothing had happened. I noticed an odor of alcoholic beverage on the breath of both drivers, so field sobriety tests were administered by myself and officer. The driver of vessel 2 was not too intoxicated, but the operator of vessel 1appeared to be intoxicated. The operator of vessel 1 was belligerent and raised his voice several times at me telling me to prove something happened. 

After field sobriety was administered, the operator of vessel 1 was arrested for operating while impaired and careless and reckless operation of a motorboat. 

Other witnesses in the boat were cooperative and did admit that a very small and slow collision had taken place but they didn't think that they were responsible for the damages to the vessel. The damages to the vessel were consistent to the accident that was described to me. 

The operator of vessel 1 blew a .0 on the intoximeter 5000 almost 2 and 1/2 hours after accident and magistrate did not find probably cause for arrest for owi. The magistrate did find probable cause for careless and reckless operation. No further investigation is needed in this accident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0103
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: MACON
County: WARR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating a nine foot pwc with two passengers in six pound creek on lake gaston. Operator was heading north at idle speed when the pwc back fired then exploded sending all three passengers airborne and into the water. The pwc then caught on fire and drifted into a boat house catching the boat house on fire also. The passengers were wearing their pfds and were able to swim to shore. The fire department was able to put out the fire. The pwc was burned completely to the water line and sank. The explosion caused the top hull to separate from the bottom hull. The pwc was recovered and removed from the water.


BARDID: NC-2014-0104
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BANKS CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On wednesday august 20, 2014 at approximately 10:17 pm, wildlife officers were notified from raleigh dispatch of a boating incident in banks channel at wrightsville beach in front of 406 waynick blvd across from the carolina yacht club. 

While in route to the incident scene, wildlife Officer1 received a call from wrightsville beach officer. Officer2 advised that the operator of the vessel had left the scene of the incident and he gave a description of the missing operator. Just after Officer1 turned right onto waynick blvd. From causeway dr., Officer1 spotted a woman that fit the description of the operator. Officer1 asked Operator if she was looking for her friend that fell overboard. Operator responded "yes and did you find her"? Officer1 asked Operator to enter the patrol truck and was given a ride approximately 1/4 mile to the south where the incident occurred. Operator had a strong odor of alcohol when she entered the patrol vehicle. Operator admitted she was driving the vessel when her friend, victim, somehow fell off into the water of banks channel. Operator was acting very nervous, visibly shaken and continued to ask the same questions over and over about the condition of victim. Operator and subject, both are not sure how or which part of the boat victim fell off. There were 4 visible empty plastic cups of red wine on the vessel. Operator performed standard field sobriety tests in the flat, cool blacktop parking lot of the carolina yacht club parking lot. 

Upon investigation and after speaking with the operator of vessel 1, two others and victim, it was determined that the following chain of events occurred. On her front porch which overlooks a small canal where her boat is tied up. Subject and victim were having sushi and white wine on victim's front porch. When they saw Operator at her home. Victim and subject then invited Operator to join them for drinks and dinner at victim's residence. Operator accepted the invitation and joined them. Operator said that she had 1 1/2 glasses of red wine while she was at victim's home, which subject and victim also confirmed. Subject and victim had been drinking white wine. All three were talking about how nice of a night it was and they decided to take Operator 2001 23 foot regulator boat for a slow ride to enjoy the night. 

All three boarded Operator' boat along with their dogs. Operator was the operator and came out of the small canal in front of her home turned left into motts channel heading towards banks channel. Operator was in banks channel heading south at approximately -5 mph in front of the carolina yacht club when victim fell overboard. Operator stated that she never saw victim fall overboard. She only heard a splash. Subject also did not see victim fall out of the boat. After Operator heard the splash, she turned the boat off, lifted the prop out of the water and began yelling victim’s name in an attempt to find their friend. A witness, was standing on the carolina yacht club dock when he heard the women yelling. Subject2 saw victim floating and being carried to the south by the outgoing tide in between docks. Subject2 jumped into the water in a attempt to save victim, but lost her in the dark. He then swam to Operator' boat, started it and drove it to the carolina yacht club dock. 

Subject3 was outside on her front. When she heard people running up her dock yelling "call 911" subject3 called 911 then awoke her husband, and told him that people outside needed help. Subject4 ran outside and asked what was happening. Subject4 then grabbed his kayak and entered the water looking for victim. Subject4 drifted and paddled south in banks channel going with the tide. He was shining his flashlight in between the docks and tied up boats for victim. Subject4 stated that he heard something in the water and looked with his light to find victim floating. Subject4 stated that when he first sighted victim, she was still face up, but not attempting to swim. Subject4 had to


BARDID: NC-2014-0105
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BELEWS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WALNUT COVE
County: STOK
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/24/14, at approximately 4:15pm, a boating accident occurred on belews lake .9 miles north of humphries marina. Operator’s girlfriend was sitting behind him on the seat. The pwc struck a wake and both were thrown from the vessel. 

The two had launched their boat at carolina marina in rockingham county on the north end of the lake and had been cruising around. They decided to work their way south and were approximately .9 miles north of humphries marina on the west side of the channel in stokes county. Operator stated he was not paying attention and hit a wake unseen by him. He described the event "we were both catapulted up into the air. I went to the left and i think she went to the right." 
 
Occupant stated at a later date that she knew that they were getting ready to be thrown off "it has happened before" and that she was unsure what had happened but thought she had fallen back down on the back of the pwc. It was overcast that day with periods of misting rain. The air temp was approximately 84 and the water temp was approximately 94. There was no damage found on the pwc. No witnesses to the actual accident. A passing boater, noticed the pwc floating without occupants went to investigate and located the two subjects in the water. Good samaritan stated the girl was in extreme pain and he jumped in the water and helped operator lift her up onto the back of his boat. Good samaritan stated that when they lifted her up on the boat, there was a lot of blood coming from her pelvis area with no visible wounds, being a doctor, he realized the need for urgent medical attention. His wife called for help and they transported the two back to carolina marina where they were met by paramedics. occupant was transported to moses cone hospital in greensboro and underwent surgery for a broken pelvis and internal bleeding. She was transported to wake forest baptist hospital on tuesday the 26th and had another surgery. She was released on 9/5/14. Her injuries were described to me by her as a broken pelvis on her right side, there was an actual part broken off that had pushed inward and had cut her bladder, uterus, and vagina. Both subjects stated and were reported to be wearing pfds. 

It appears from the statements made by the operator and passenger that inattention, speed, careless and reckless boat operation were factors in both subjects being catapulted from the pwc resulting in the injuries sustained by the passenger. The operator was charged with careless and reckless boat operation and expired boat registration.


BARDID: NC-2014-0106
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GREEN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ORIENTAL
County: PAML
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/23/14 at approximately 8:00am, Operator and wife packed their sailboat for a trip to washington nc. The two left their dock and proceeded out of oriental and into the neuse river. Not long into the trip the two decided to cancel the trip and return home due to bad weather. Upon returning to the dock, victim proceeded to step to the mid ship area on the starboard side of the vessel and grab a dock line and prepare to step onto the dock and secure the stern of the vessel as they had done countless times. Note that the wind direction that day was pushing the vessel in the same direction of travel. The couple always docks with the starboard side of the vessel to the dock. While coming close to the doc, Operator placed the vessel in reverse to slow their forward momentum and stop alongside the dock. Then victim proceeded to step from the vessel to the dock with the dock line in her hand. 
 
Note that the line was secured to the vessel and the loose end of the rope was in hand. Victim then stepped from the vessel to the dock. As soon as victim had both feet on the dock, she lost her balance and fell back towards the sail boat and was able to grab onto the top guide cable that went around the top deck of the boat. Operator stated at that point, there was only a two foot gap between the dock and the boat. At this point victim had two feet on the dock and her upper body leaning on the guide cables of the boat. The struggle of victim between the boat and dock caused the boat to be pushed farther from the dock and then allowing victim to fall into the water with the rope still in hand. 
 
Operator saw the fall and immediately left the helm at the stern of the vessel and proceeded to the area on the boat directly above victim where she had fallen. Operator directed victim to move to the stern of the vessel and get to the ladder. Operator then left and went to drop the ladder. Victim made it to the ladder but was not able to climb up. Operator attempted to pull her up but was unable. This is when victim was suddenly and quickly pulled under the water. As victim was moving to the stern, the loose end of the rope which she had fallen into became caught in the prop. When victim fell into the water, she was immediately entangled in the rope with it wrapped around her body and wrist. Once the rope came in contact with the spinning prop, the rope began to spool up on the prop and shaft and build until the rope was completely tight between the prop and the cleat. Once the rope was tight, the prop was no longer able to spin and caused the engine to bog down and stop. Due to the fact victim was near the end of the rope, she was very quickly pulled underneath the vessel and then caught between the prop and the cleat on the top side of the vessel. Once the rope was tight and the engine stopped, victim was trapped in the line between the prop and top side of the boat. At this point, Operator began to panic and started yelling for help. Operator then dropped the anchor on the bow of the vessel to keep from drifting farther away from the docks. At the time, their neighbor, was sitting on their back porch and was able to hear operator screaming for help. 
 
Then neighbor ran down to the end of his dock and was within ten feet from the stern of vessel. The direction of the wind pushed the boat from dock to the end of neighbor’s dock. Neighbor yelled for Operator to throw him a line. Operator did that and Neighbor then pulled the vessel's stern directly to the end of his dock. Once the vessel was secured, Neighbor realized what was going on and proceeded to grab the line in which victim was attached. Neighbor saw that the line was stretched tight and he could not pull victim up from underneath the boat. Neighbor then entered the water and followed the line down until he reached victim's right hand. Neighbor then tried to pull her out and again was not able. After 911 was called, first responders were toned out at approximately 9:44am. First resp


BARDID: NC-2014-0107
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BADIN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: NEW LONDON
County: MONT
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/13/14 at approximately 2:20pm, a boating accident occurred on badin lake just outside the no wake zone at the badin shores resort in new london, nc. The vessel was an 18 foot carolina skiff with a 70 horsepower kawasaki motor. The vessel was operated at the time of the incident, while subject was being pulled behind the vessel wake boarding. Operator stated that the vessel was traveling around 21-40 mph when victim misjudged the wave while he was wake boarding. 

Operator and his son, victim, were staying at the badin shores resorts when the incident occurred. They had been enjoying the day boating and wake boarding since badin lake was not as crowded as it normally is. At around 2:20pm the two were about 100-150 yards away outside of the no wake zone at gar creek. Operator was operating the vessel while his son victim was wake boarding. Operator was operating the vessel around 21-40 mph when victim misjudged the wake and was thrown from his wake board. Victim was wearing his life vest at the time of the incident. Operator was able to get victim out of the water and could tell that victim's left knee was dislocated and called 911. operator explained to the paramedics that he was staying in badin shores and that they would be returning back to the boat ramp inside of badin shores. The paramedics were on scene in about 10 minutes and were able to transport victim to stanly regional medical center to have x-rays on his left knee. The x-ray report indicated that his femur was dislocated from his tibia. Victim also had a tear in his mcl and acl from the incident. 

In my professional opinion, it appears that the operator's lack of attention, experience and excessive speed may have been factors in the incident since it was victim's second time ever wake boarding. No one was charged as a result from this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0108
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: COINJOCK
County: CURR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/21/14 at 5:14pm sgt called me to inform me about a possible boating accident in currituck county. I spoke with currituck county dispatch who informed me that the victim was taken to albemarle hospital in elizabeth city. I contacted the hospital and had them connect me to the father of the victim. I questioned father over the phone as to what had occurred that day. Father reported that he was operating a rented boat on the icw. He reported his wife was sitting beside him to his left holding their two year old son. He reported his vessel was following a large yacht. Father reported the yacht, which they were about 100 yards from, made an unexpectedly large wake. He reported telling everybody on his vessel to hold on. He reported that when their vessel hit the wake, his wife and son went forward causing his son to hit his upper lip on the center console of the vessel. Father reported his wife was unable to hold on to anything because she was holding the son. Father reported that when they realized what happened, they called 911 and met an ambulance at the coinjock boating access area. The son was transported to albemarle hospital where he received four stitches , two on the inside and two on the outside. No charges were filed in this incident. Nothing further at this time.


BARDID: NC-2014-0109
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PUNGO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BALHAVEN
County: HYDE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, Operator, he and his wife victim3 were test driving vessel 1 while being accompanied by the owner victim1. Victim3 drove the vessel out into the main channel of the pungo river and down the icw for some distance. Operator was operating the vessel on the return trip. As Operator approached the leechville bridge, he said he decelerated from around 4000 rpms to near 2400 rpms. As Operator got closer to the bridge he became unsure of the span that he should pass through. Witness stated she heard a man, owner, yell, "what are you doing? You are not going to make it." during the investigation, i was able to conclude that a vessel of this size could pass under each span of the bridge. Just prior to colliding with the pylon, Operator said that he turned the vessel sharp and to the left to avoid the collision. Victim1 advised me that he told Operator to slow down three times prior to striking the bridge. Victim1 said that prior to striking the pylon, Operator turned the vessel sharp and to the left with the starboard side of the vessel striking the bridge first. The initial strike was with pylon 8. The impact ejected all passengers out of the vessel. When Operator was thrown from the boat, it is believed that he pushed the throttle wide open. The vessel continued striking pylons 7 and 7a. The last strike occurred at pylon 6when the vessel exited towards the river. According to bystanders, the vessel made two circles at a high rate of speed and then struck the river bank on the hyde county side. The vessel travelled approximately 65 feet across the marsh before stopping. 
 
ponzer vfd advised that he turned the engine off and raised the motor after the incident. He said that when he approached the vessel, the throttle was wide open, the steering wheel was straight and the motor was tilted up approximately 15%. Victim1 advised that he swam operator And victim3 to bridge pylons and told them to hold on. Witness said that she got several pfds from her sailboat and ran them to the bridge. Pfds were lowered to the survivors. A vessel picked up victim3 and brought her to shore. A good samaritan lowered a rope from the bridge and pulled victim1 to safety while witness swam pfds to Operator. Witness assisted him to the ramp at leechville bridge. Hyde county ems transported operator And victim3 to vidant beaufort county hospital. Victim3 was treated for a bruised chest and released from the facility. Operator was transferred to vidant pitt memorial hospital and is undergoing treatment for a fractured pelvis, broken ribs, lacerations, and broken fingers. Victim1 was treated by his local physician for an injured foot and laceration to his finger. 
 
The vessel sustained hull damage on both the starboard and port sides. The leaning post on the driver's seat was bent and the steering rod was broken. I feel that the steering rod was broken after the vessel traveled 65 feet over the marsh. At this time i'm not sure of engine damage, but feel that some would have occurred due to it running at high rpms out of the water for a period of time. Ncdot determined that the bridge was safe to drive on and only suffered cosmetic damage. At this time, the use of alcohol and drugs does not appear to be a factor in this case. Hyde county ems, ncmp, hyde county so and ncdot assisted in this incident. No charges have been filed at this time.


BARDID: NC-2014-0110
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN ISLE BEACH
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF VESSEL 1 AND PASSENGER WERE TRAVELING WEST ON THE ICW NEAR OCEAN ISLE BEACH, NC.  WHILE APPROACHING A LARGER VESSEL, UNKNOWN, COMING FROM THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION, VESSEL 1 WAS UNABLE TO MANEUVER OUT OF THE ONCOMING WAKE CAUSING IT TO COLLIDE WITH A DOCK.  BOTH OPERATOR AND PASSENGER REQUIRED HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL TREATMENT.  BOTH WERE WEARING REQUIRED PFDS.  NEITHER ALCOHOL NOR DRUGS WERE INDICATED. OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE AND THE OTHER VESSEL'S WAKE ARE BELIEVED TO BE THE CONTRIBUTING FACTOR FOR THIS INCIDENT.


BARDID: NC-2014-0111
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WYLIE
NearestCityorTown: CHARLOTTE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/24/14 at approximately 2:15pm, a boating incident occurred on lake wylie. The incident was located at the entrance to withers cove. The single vessel incident involved a pwc. His brother was the passenger. The pwc jumped the wake of another boat causing both subjects to be ejected off the port, left, side of the vessel. 

On this day the weather and visibility was clear. The air temperature was 80 degrees and water temperature was 85. Subjects were loaned a pwc. They were riding on lake wylie across from south point boating access area along with owner. They saw a vessel cruising down the main channel leaving a large wake. Operator took off and jumped the wake the vessel was leaving. The pwc then went airborne causing both operator and occupant to be ejected off the port, left, side of the pwc. This caused injuries to operator's pelvis and occupant's knee needing medical attention. Both subjects had on pfds shortly after the incident, they were able to flag down owner who came back to look for them after getting slightly ahead of their location. Fire station 38 was on routine patrol and saw operator and occupant waving about the same time owner arrived. They also came over to assist. There was broken fiberglass on the left rear panel of the pwc where occupant's knee made contact as he was thrown off. There was no more damage to the pwc. Both subjects were transported to steele creek cmc for medical attention. 

This incident appears to be operator inexperience. This was operator's first time operating a pwc. He was traveling too fast and was unable to control the pwc as it jumped the other vessel's wake. Operator had not completed a boating safety course as required by law. Owner  was charged with allowing operator to operate a pwc without first completing a nasbla approved boating safety course.


BARDID: NC-2014-0112
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BADIN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: BADIN
County: MONT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1:30am on august 24, 2014, vessel 1 was traveling north on badin lake. The operator of vessel 1 was being distracted by the other occupants in the boat. Vessel 1 then collided with a pier in which had a pontoon on the boat lift. Vessel 1 collided with the pier and the pontoon on the lift. After the collision, the operator of vessel 1 turned off the navigational lights and left the scene returning to the owner's pier. 

The operator of vessel 1 stated that the vessel began to take on water immediately after the collision. Due to this circumstance, the operator navigated the vessel back to the owner's pier to be placed on the lift. 

Operator  was charged with careless and reckless operation and operating at night with no navigational lights being displayed. 

Vessel 1 was found to be in compliance with all boating safety equipment requirements. Unable to determine if alcohol is a factor in this incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0113
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-09-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BADIN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: NEW LONDON
County: MONT
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/30/14 at approximately 1:45pm a boating accident occurred on badin lake.22 miles from old whitney boating access area in new london, nc the vessel involved in the incident was a 16 foot skeeter bass boat with a mercury 150 horsepower outboard motor. The vessel had a starboard side console and was owned and operated by the same person. His friend was sitting in the passenger seat on the port side of the vessel at the time of the incident. The transom of the 16 foot skeeter was deteriorated and gave way causing the motor to fall off into the water. This occurred while the vessel was underway, the faulty transom and the propulsion from the motor falling into the water caused the vessel to capsize. 

According to the operator, operator and occupant launched the vessel on the lake at alcoa boating access area. They traveled northwest bound en route to go fishing near the tuckertown dam. They were traveling approximately 50-55 mph and were just out in front of old whitney access area when occupant felt a slight bump. According to occupant, when he felt the slight bump, he looked towards the back of the boat and realized that the motor was no longer there. Before he could say or do anything, the vessel suddenly flipped over and began to sink. Both passengers were wearing a type iii coast guard approved life preserver at the time of the incident. The passengers were initially trapped underneath the vessel when it flipped over. They were able to climb out from under the vessel and hang on to the bow of the vessel that had not yet sank. According to both men, they were in the water for approximately 20 minutes until help arrived. Another boat came by and saw them in the water and offered assistance. The air temperature was 89 degrees and the water temperature was approximately 77 degrees. There was no wind and the water was calm on the lake at the time of the incident. There were no visibility restrictions. The sky was sunny and clear. Ncwrc as well s stanly county rescue squad responded to the incident. 

The concluding analysis of the incident was that the transom was faulty which caused the 150 horsepower outboard motor to detach rom the stern of the vessel and fall into the water. The motor continued to function and the propulsion of the prop underneath the vessel caused the vessel to capsize and to sink. Ncwrc assisted in towing the vessel back to alcoa boating access area and assisted with getting the vessel back on to operator's trailer. The 150 horsepower outboard engine had remained attached to the vessel by various wires and hoses. Ncwrc assisted in securing the motor inside the vessel. This appeared to be equipment malfunction and was out of control of the operator. No violations were found throughout the investigation and alcohol and drugs were not a factor in the incident.


BARDID: NC-2014-0114
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK SOUND
NearestCityorTown: HARKERS ISLAND
County: CART
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At or around 4:00pm on may 15, 2014, operator was spotted standing beside his boat near the short turn at 34'38.182 & 76'31.571 by a ferry boat captain for cape lookout national seashore ferry.

At 9:00pm, subject1 found vessel one floating with the engine halfway up near shell point with no occupants. Vessel one's motor cowling was loose but still on the engine. While the boat was being towed to the marina the motor fell down into the down position. The boat was then placed on a trailer and a search began. The search was temporarily suspended at 2:00am on may 16, 2014.

At day light on may 16, 2014, the search resumed. Operator' body was found by assistant chief and crew on a harkers island fire and rescue boat at 11:10am on the shoreline of browns island at 34'42.021 and 76'31.457. Operator' body was lying face down half in the water and half out of the water. He was not wearing a personal flotation device but was wearing dark shorts, grey t shirt, and no shoes. His shorts were buttoned, belt secure, zipper down, and penis out. His brother informed me that he would not have been clamming on browns island.

Upon closer examination of vessel one at brother's residence, i learned that when vessel one was found, the anchor was up on the bow like operator normally leaves it. The motor was a 25 hp old model evinrude tiller handle. Operator brother informed me that operator drove the boat while standing up in the rear of the vessel. Brother told me that to turn the engine off, Operator had to unplug the gas line from the six gallon gas tank and let the engine burn all the remaining fuel out of the carburetor. When the boat was found, the fuel line was plugged up and there was a half of tank of gas still in the tank. Brother also informed me that the throttle does not work and that the boat is pull started in gear. Wherever the throttle is when you start it is the speed you will be going unless you take a pair of pliers and adjust the throttle on the engine. The prop for vessel one is held on by a nail. We took the prop off and the nail was gone. The motor was in gear and the prop would just free spin as if the motor ran aground breaking the nail that holds the prop to the gears. If this happened, it would more than likely stall the engine out explaining why the gas line was still plugged up, and there was still gas in the tank.

Operator's clam rake, push pole, or starting cord were not located in vessel one.

It is my opinion that operator fell out of vessel one while the motor was running in gear and the boat underway. The boat continued to travel until striking a sandbar which broke the prop pin, knocked the motor into the up position, and stalled it out. Low tide at shell point was at 4:58 pm, so as the tide began to rise, the boat became a drift and later found at approximately 9:00pm. Alcohol is the number one contributing factor in operator's drowning.


BARDID: NC-2014-0115
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MOREHEAD WATERFRONT
NearestCityorTown: MOREHEAD CITY
County: CART
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At or around 5:00pm on october 5, 2014, vessel two was adrift in the morehead city waterfront area with an overheated engine. The current was unusually strong that day due to there being a full moon. The tide was incoming pushing vessel two from east to west and in the direction of several large charter boats. The operator and passengers of vessel two flagged down the passing vessel one and asked for assistance. Vessel one's operator was concerned with the safety of the passengers of vessel two. His thought was as strong as the current was that day that it might force vessel two under water if caught under the bow of the larger boats. Therefore, he rendered assistance. They tied vessel one's bow line to the starboard rear cleat of vessel two. After straightening it out, it appeared as if the wind may push the boat over to captain bill's restaurant so they disconnected the two boats. It became evident shortly after that, the boats were on a direct collision course with the boats at the olympus dive center. Operator1 re-approached vessel two and his port stern line was attached to vessel two's starboard front cleat. Vessel one immediately began to back in reverse turning vessel two around and bow out. When the two boats got perpendicular to the current, there was nothing they could do. They were too close and moving too fast to have enough time to get out of the situation. Vessel one's reaction was to pull them out from the bow of the docked boats. While trying to do this, vessel two's port bow corner hit the port bow of vessel three causing a dent in the aluminum hull.


BARDID: NC-2014-0116
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: COINJOCK
County: CURR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Note: i, officer, was contacted by operator1 on 10/9/14 in reference to this boat accident** operator1 described to me what happened over the phone and by written correspondence. Operator1 did not contact ncwrc or any law enforcement immediately after this incident. Operator1 had left the scene of the accident and contacted me on 10/9/14 with a description of the other vessels involved. I have filled out this report and description based on the information given to me by operator1 as no physical investigation was possible. 

operator1 claims his vessel, nighthawk i, was traveling south in the coinjock canal/icw and overtaking the port side of a sailing vessel salt shaker. Operator1 reports that as he was passing the salt shaker, a large motor yacht, defiance, began to overtake both the nighthawk i and the salt shaker. Defiance was traveling between the nighthawk and the salt shake and increased speed significantly producing a large wake. Operator1 claims this wake hit nighthawk i on its starboard-stern quarter causing it to roll to port and then back and starboard at about 30 degrees. Operator1 claims the defiance continued on without stopping. The nighthawk i claims this caused damage to the transom and to the ac power inverter for a total of $2145.00. Operator1 also reported that during this waking by defiance, occupant, who was on board the nighthawk i was thrown into a table and then to the deck. She reportedly suffered bruises, stiffness and soreness from the impact. Medical treatment was sought in jacksonville nc on 10/7/14.


BARDID: NC-2014-0117
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HATTERAS INLET
NearestCityorTown: HATTERAS
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was navigating hatteras inlet in his 15' boat when it became bow heavy around 22:00 hrs on 10/21/14. He deployed the anchor and swam to shore. While the boat was anchored, it capsized in the inlet. The boat was reported by someone on the beach and the us coast guard, hatteras island rescue, us park service and nc marine patrol were called. The owner of the vessel approached us park service on the beach and informed them that he was the owner of the boat and that everyone was safely on shore. Operator1 stated that he abandoned the boat at sea the night before. He stated that he swam to shore and hitched a ride with some fishermen on the beach to the ferry docks. He then called a cab company to pick him up. He did not report the boat accident to anyone. 10/22/14the boat was towed to shore by the us coast guard and operator1 was given 48 hours to salvage the boat from the beach. Operator1 did not salvage the boat and it was towed off the beach by us park service. Operator1 is being charged with abandoning property by us park service.


BARDID: NC-2014-0118
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TRENT RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TRENT WOODS
County: CRAVEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The kandy bar, which is operated by tugboat cruises of new bern, nc and gives sightseeing tours of the new bern area waterways, on 9/28/14 was traveling in an easterly direction at approximately 6 mph down the trent river to return to port. The vessel was being operated by operator1 and had 3 passengers board. At approximately 14:45, the kandy bar was struck on its starboard side by the port side of a 19' mckee craft being operated alone by operator2 at a speed of approximately 10-15 mph. Operator2's vessel was heading in the same direction and overtaking the kandy bar at the time of the collision. 

Operator2's vessel struck the kandy bar with the forward half of his port side at an angle causing the vessels to then slide up against each other. No one was injured as a result of the collision but both vessels sustained minor damage. The passengers aboard the kandy bar reported operator2's vessel was not on plane at the time of the collision and his mckee craft's bow was elevated and plowing through the water. They stated they did not think operator2 was able to see clearly over his own raised bow. After the collision, operator2 came back to the kandy bar at operator1's request and provided his information. The passengers of the kandy bar stated operator2 seemed confused and was possibly overwhelmed with the situation. One of the passengers, a nurse, asked operator2 if he was alright and if he was suffering from any medical conditions. Operator2 indicated he was fine and not having any medical issues. Operator2 then returned on his vessel back to his dock. 

Operator1 brought his vessel to a nearby dock and met with law enforcement officers including myself shortly after the incident. Operator1 and all 3 passengers stated traffic on the river was very light and they had not seen any other vessels nearby at the time of the collision. I observed at the time of this interview that vessel traffic was light and sporadic. Damage to the kandy bar included a bent stainless steel rail located on the rear starboard side of the vessel and a badly bent stainless steel rain on the front starboard side of the vessel. There was also some fiberglass damage where the damaged front rail was mounted mid-ship to the starboard side. 

I then interviewed operator2 at his residence. Operator2 stated he was just taking his vessel out for a cruise, got too close to the kandy bar, and while overtaking it, a large wake created by another vessel pushed him into the kandy bar. When i asked if he remembered what the vessel which created the wake looked like, he was unable to give any description. Operator2 stated he took medication including aspirin for a heart condition but did not take any pain medication of sedatives. He also stated that he felt fine then and also at the time of the collision. He did not appear to be under the influence of alcohol or other impairing substances. While inspecting operator2's vessel, i observed several (6) gouges near the vessel's waterline on its port side starting at approximately mid-ship and extending towards the stern. Operator2's residence and dock are located approximately six tenths of a mile from the site of the collision. 

It appears this collision resulted from operator2's inattention, his failure to maintain a proper lookout and the restriction of his field of vision caused by his vessel's elevated bow.


BARDID: NC-2014-0119
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WILMINGTON
County: NEW HANOVER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On wednesday, october 8, 2014, of vessel 1 was cruising north on the icw just north of the figure eight island bridge along with two others. Operator1 was operating the side console vessel while occupant1 was positioned in the passenger seat on the port side behind the console, and victim was seated in front of the port side console. Two other large cabin cruisers, vessel 2 and vessel 3, were cruising south on the icw and caused a large wake. Operator1's vessel's bow dropped off in the trough of the wake making impact with the wall of the wake causing a sudden stop for operator1's vessel (v1). 

The force of the impact threw victim to the bow, nose, of the boat and into the floor breaking her left foot and right knee. Operator1 sought medical treatment for victim's injuries by transporting victim to cape fear foot and ankle doctor for victim's foot, then to cape fear hospital for victim's knee. 

Operator1 was unable to provide any descriptive information from vessels 2 and 3 other than the vessel names. I made contact with the uscg with the vessel names but there was no detailed information that could be gathered. 

There was no damage caused to operator1's vessel.


BARDID: NC-2014-0129
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On october 26, 2014 at approximately 2:30 pm, vessel 1 was heading south on the icw just south of the bradley creek marina.
 
Operator1 hit a shoal on the western side of the icw forcing the vessel to come to an abrupt stop.  When operator1 hit the shoal, it threw the passenger into the galley of the vessel hitting her head causing a laceration.  She was taken to new hanover regional medical center for treatment.  ***please note:  it is not known as to what victim struck her head on to cause the laceration.***
 
Operator1 was issued a citation for failure to report a motorboat accident within ten days on 1/26/2015 after several failed attempts to get him to comply with the law.


BARDID: NC-2014-0130
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-12-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OREGON INLET
NearestCityorTown: NAGS HEAD
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On january 12, 2015 at 1:33pm, i officer, spoke on the phone with the uscg.  USCG advised that a man recently submitted a uscg boating accident report to the uscg.  USCG emailed me the report that same day at 3:00pm.
 
On january 13, 2014 at 7:31pm, i spoke with Operator1 over the phone about the accident.  Operator1 reported that on december 27, 2014 his documented vessel was going underneath the bonner bridgeheaded towards the atlantic ocean.  He reported that as his vessel began going underneath the bridge, another vessel in front of his, which was almost through the bridge, suddenly stopped.  Operator1 reported he had to nearly stop his vessel to avoid getting too close to the vessel in front of him.  He reported the current quickly carried his vessel into the pilings supporting the bridge.  He reported his vessel collided with three different pilings at three separate times, one after the other.  Operator1 reported the starboard, right side of his vessel collided with the first piling.  He reported the bow, front, collided with the second piling and the port, left side of his vessel collided with the third piling.  He reported after each collision, he tried but struggled in correcting the direction his vessel was headed.  He reported at one point his vessel spun around 180 degrees and it was very difficult to avoid collision with the pilings.  Operator1 reported after the collisions, he drove his vessel back to the oregon inlet fishing center.
 
I was able to email Operator1 a boating accident 4/1 form which he quickly filled out and emailed back to me.  Operator1 also emailed me 3 pictures of the damaged areas of his vessel.  Looking at the pictures, it appears the bow was the most damaged part of the vessel along with scratches on both the starboard and port sides of the hull.
 
No charges were filed in this accident.


BARDID: NC-2014-1000
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-11-19 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Wilmington
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: unknown
Visibility: unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news article, an electrical fire occurred on a boat on 1/19 in the ICW, causing $150,000 damages.  NO one was onboard and no other boats were damaged.


BARDID: NC-2014-5000
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Masonboro Inlet
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a MISLE report (681987), $13,085 damage resulted from a vessel capsizing. The 18ft Carolina Skiff capsized in the vicinity of Masonboro Inlet, dumping three people into the water.  No pollution.

Winds were noted as strong, with 4ft waves.  A small craft warning was in effect.

One female suffered a cut to her head and was suspected of having either a dislocated or broken arm.

The subjects were picked up and the operator left the vessel, indicating that he would enlist a friend to help retrieve it later.


BARDID: NC-2015-0001
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-01-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANE CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WAXHAW
County: UNION
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On january 9, 2015 at approximately 12:30pm, a boating incident occurred at cane creek park lake near the shoreline of the cane creek park camping area in waxhaw. The vessel was a green in color 15 foot 6 inch canoe with two occupants on board at the time of the incident. The operator of the vessel was on board with his wife. Both occupants had been fishing when the operator of the vessel stood up for an unknown reason. The operator's standing motion caused the canoe to capsize to the port, left, side and eject both occupants from the vessel. Both the operator and the passenger were completely submerged in the water. Both occupants attempted to swim to shore, but the operator went under water and did not resurface. 

Subjects arrived at cane creek park in waxhaw at approximately 10:30am on january 9, 2015. They launched the canoe at the cane creek park day use access area. The operator was seated near the stern, rear, of the vessel while the passenger was seated in the middle portion of the vessel. The operator was maneuvering the vessel by means of a paddle. Both the operator and the passenger were engaged in fishing during their time on the water. Neither the operator nor the passenger were wearing personal flotation devices. Also, there were no personal flotation devices on board the vessel. The passenger stated that at approximately 12:30pm, they were fishing while adrift as the operator attempted to stand up in the canoe. At this time, the bow, front, of the vessel was heading in a northeast direction facing the cane creek day use boating access area. The passenger stated that she could see their vehicles and they were preparing to head back to the access area. She was unaware why operator attempted to stand. The passenger stated that as the operator stood up, the canoe capsized to the port, left, side ejecting both occupants and flipping on top of them. The occupant stated that they were both completely submerged in the water. Both the passenger and the operator were able to resurface. Occupant stated that as she resurfaced, she was entangled in fishing line. 

The passenger stated that she attempted to stay with the capsized canoe, but the operator began to panic. Occupant stated that her husband began to breathe very heavily. The operator began to pull on the passenger's arm. The second time the operator pulled on occupant's arm, she told him to let go. The operator began to quickly swim south towards the shoreline of the cane creek campground area in a state of panic. The passenger stated that she continued to hold on to the capsized canoe until it was completely submerged. She stated that she was yelling to the operator and could see his head as he was swimming away from her. As she continued to make an effort to stay afloat, she looked back towards where she had last seen operator and no longer saw him. 

The passenger stated that she was able to lie on her back and slowly swim towards the shoreline. As she reached the shore, she walked out on the dock located on the campground shoreline and was searching and calling out to her husband. She stated that she screamed for help but nobody was at the campground to assist her. The passenger, drenched and shivering, struggled to make it to one of the cane creek campground buildings. No park employees were present, which led occupant to use a fire extinguisher to break a window in order to access the building. In the campground building she was able to locate a handheld park radio and called for assistance. A cane creek park employee heard her call for help and called emergency services at approximately 1:13pm. 

Cane creek park employees launched a vessel at approximately 1:23pm to begin searching for operator. Multiple agencies responded to the incident scene. Rescue crews included monroe fire department, charlotte fire department, and jackson volunteer fire department. The search effort continued multiple days until operator was recovered by the charlotte fire de


BARDID: NC-2015-0002
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-01-24 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: LITTLETON
County: WARR
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On january 24, 2015 at around 12:00am, operator was operating a 21 foot parker boat on lake gaston.  Operator stated she and her husband had just left water view restaurant heading west towards their residence.  Operator stated that she had not operated a vessel much and was getting some operating time in before they go on vacation.  Operator stated that it was dark and raining and she could not see that good while operating.  Operator stated she wasn't sure what happened.  She was operating the vessel and all of a sudden they hit a boat house.  Operator stated after the collision, she was so upset that she had some wine to calm her nerves.  There were minor injuries just scrapes and cuts, but no medical attention was sought.  The boat house is going to have to be taken down and rebuilt.

Amount of damage to boat house is:  $20,000.00
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0003
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-02-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WILMINGTON
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On february 22, 2015 at approximately 2:05 pm, operator1 was operating his white 2000 model 266sc world cat fiberglass cabin motorboat, vessel 1, in the icw approximately 1 mile north of figure eight island bridge.  At the time of the incident, operator1 was sitting on board vessel 1 at the starboard helm and another person was sitting on board vessel 1 on the port side of the helm.  
 
Immediately prior to the incident, vessel 1 was cruising south in the channel at an estimated speed of approximately 25 mph.  Vessel 1 was being followed by an aqua blue 2007 model escape 220 sea hunt fiberglass open motorboat, vessel 2.  According to the operator of vessel 1 at approximately 2:05pm, he was cruising south at a speed of approximately 25 mph down the waterway when he heard a loud noise and felt a vibration.  Operator1 thought that he might have blown an engine.  At this point, he turned around and saw the bow of vessel 2 coming up very close to his stern.  
 
Operator1 stated that water came rushing in over his stern and was dripping off of the combing pads. 
 
According to the operator of vessel 2, he was cruising south at a speed of approximately 30mph behind vessel 1.  Operator2 then attempted to overtake vessel 1 when his vessel got caught up in vessel 1's wake causing him to lose control of the steering.  The wake of vessel 1 turned vessel 2 back behind vessel 1.  When operator2 finally got control of the steering on vessel 2, he slammed it in reverse nearly impacting vessel 1 in the stern.  He stated that a large wave of water then crashed over the stern of vessel 1.  Immediately after vessel 2 slowed down, vessel 1 did the same.  Vessel 2 then came along the port side of vessel 1 idling.  
 
According to operator1, the operator of vessel 2 said "got stuck in the wave, i apologize."  the operator of vessel 2 then throttled up and continued south on the icw towards the figure eight island bridge.  
 
Immediately after vessel 2 left the scene, operator1 realized the honda 225outboard engines on vessel 1 would not power up.  This was possibly due to the large wave of water that came crashing over the stern mounted engines of vessel 1 during the incident.  When operator1 realized his vessel was damaged, he attempted to contact vessel 2 on the marine radio to get his information, but was unsuccessful. Operator1 then idled back to the marina.

I conducted a visual inspection of the damage and safety equipment on vessel 1.  Both engines would run but the starboard engine wasn't idling properly and would not throttle up over 800 rpm  the port engine would not throttle up over 3900rpm.  According to operator1, both engines were running properly before the incident.  I asked him if he was positive that vessel 2 impacted vessel 1 and he said he wasn't sure.  Operator1 believed vessel 2 was trying to overtake his vessel but got caught in his wake.  
 
According to operator2, he was unaware that vessel 1 suffered any damage so he left the scene of the incident after apologizing.  Operator2 stated that he attempted to pass vessel 1 with plenty of time to do so, but the wake of vessel 2 was much larger than he anticipated.  The large wake caused him to lose control of vessel 2 and almost run into the stern of vessel 1.  He stated that his vessel, vessel 2, did not crash into vessel 1.
 
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0004
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE JULIAN
NearestCityorTown: ARDEN
County: BUNC
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On april 1, 2015 at approximately 14:00 hrs, two subjects and her son were in a rented paddle boat on lake julian. They were drifting in the cove near the rental docks eating lunch when a sandwich wrapper blew overboard. Subject leaned over the side of the paddle boat to retrieve the sandwich wrapper and began to lose his balance. Subject then grabbed the boat's steering lever, which broke off, and fell overboard. Subject was not wearing his personal flotation device and was unable to swim. The passenger on the paddle boat, jumped in the lake and was assisted by other paddle boaters and lake julian park officials in the recovery of subject. Once subject was on the boat, they began cpr until ems arrived. Subject was then transported to mission hospital in asheville, nc and pronounced dead upon arrival.


BARDID: NC-2015-0006
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NEUSE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NEW BERN
County: CRAVEN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Overloading
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On april 3, 2015, two people were camping at the flanner's beach camp site located in new bern, nc next to the neuse river. Weather conditions were sunny, clear, approximately 80 degrees farenheit air temperature, approximately 62 degrees farenheit, water temperature and strong ssw winds 15-25 mph with gusts between 25-30 mph. Sometime after 12:00pm and before 5:00pm, the two launched an intex explorer pro 200 inflatable raft constructed of pvc vinyl and rowed out into the neuse river in order to check a crab pot they had set earlier in the day. They were seated with one person in the front of the raft and one person in the back of the raft. The survivor cannot remember who occupied which specific spot. Despite strong winds, they were initially in calm waters as flanner's beach was the windward shore. 

According to survivor, they had taken a few beers with them and took their time getting to the crab pot. After getting near to the crab pot (n 34.861, w76.9428), strong winds blew them past it and further towards the lee shore across the river. Survivor remembers being blown out into the middle of the river past several visible poles which i believe were channel markers. Specifically marker #11, n34.9996, 2 76.9429. They were able to paddle to a point even with these poles twice but each time became exhausted and were blown back towards the middle of the river. The further they drifted from flanner's beach the rougher the water became with some waves being around 2' in height. They again attempted to row back against the wind towards flanner's beach but survivor lost one of their paddles. While attempting to retrieve the paddle, victim also lost his paddle, which he had set in one of the plastic oar locks on top of the raft's gunwales. Victim then jumped over the raft's port side, to the best of survivor's recollection, in an attempt to retrieve his paddle. The wind pushed the raft with survivor on it away from victim. At some point, victim told survivor he was drowning and survivor said he appeared to panic. Survivor attempted to paddle back to victim using her hands but fell overboard off the back of the raft and the raft then capsized. She proceeded to swim towards victim but he told her to get the raft instead so she turned and swam for the raft. However, strong winds picked the raft up and blew it too far away for her to retrieve. 

Survivor then lost sight of victim and so she began to swim/drift with the wind towards the lee shore which was the shore opposite from flanner's beach. After some time, survivor eventually reached the shoreline somewhere between kendall point and lower duck creek. She then traveled easterly towards lower duck creek towards houses that she could see in order to get help. While traveling down the shoreline, survivor sustained minor cuts and abrasions to her shins from bumping into logs and stumps on and near the shore. She then crossed lower duck creek and was able to summon help around 7:30pm. Search and rescue attempts were mobilized but did not find victim the day of the accident. Search and rescue crews located the raft on the shoreline of live oak bay up river but near to kendall point (n 35.0274, w 76.185). victim's body was later located in the neuse river near the mouth of broad creek on april 9, 2015 (n 35.0476, w 76.9652). 

Victim and survivor were not wearing pfds and there were no pfds on the raft. Both victim and survivor had been drinking alcohol that day. Survivor stated they had each drank one mixed drink in a can, and also consumed several beers (3-6 12 oz cans of beer each). The manufacturer's label indicates the raft was designed to hold up to 2 persons or 264 pounds. The raft was overloaded as survivor weight approximately 160 pounds and victim weighed approximately 170 pounds for a total weight of 330 pounds. Victim suffered from ptsd and also chronic pain in his back and feet. 

Several factors led to the occurrence of this boating incident including the consumptio


BARDID: NC-2015-0007
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WIGGINS MILL RES
NearestCityorTown: WILSON
County: WILS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the morning of friday april 3, 2015, five friends/co-workers traveled from la grange, nc to wiggins mill reservoir located in wilson, nc to go fishing. The five friends rented two jon boats and trolling motors from the boat dock and proceeded to go fishing. Three were fishing in one jon boat ( 1), and two were fishing in the other boat (boat 2). Exiting the boat ramp, both boats headed north fishing in spots along the right bank of the reservoir. Boat 2 stopped in two different locations, dropped the anchor, and fished for approximately 15 minutes each time they stopped. Boat 1 was fishing ahead of boat 2 by this point and when boat 2 reached the third and final spot, they anchored to fish. Boat 1 was close by and saw where they were located and moved further northwest out of boat 2's view. 

Subject1 was fishing in the front of the boat and Operator1 was fishing in the back of the boat. The bow of the boat was facing the main section of the lake. Subject1 and Operator1 were talking and subject1 looked over his shoulder and noticed Operator1's eyes looking up with his arms rigidly held out in front of his chest. Operator1 had suffered from seizures in the past but had not recently had one according to his family. Operator1 was sitting down facing out the right side of the boat. Operator1 started leaning forward over the side of the boat. Subject1 reached with his right arm trying to grab Operator1 with his right hand, but only brushed against Operator1's left side. Subject1 reached with his left hand and was unable to reach Operator1. Operator1 fell into the water and never resurfaced. Subject1 reached into the water in the area around the boat feeling for Operator1. Subject1 grabbed an oar and stuck it in the water to try and feel around for Operator1. Subject1 called his friends in boat 1, told them what happened and told them to call 911. After hanging up the phone, subject1 also called 911. Boat 1 arrived at boat 2's location and wilson police and ems arrived on scene. 

Two friends from boat 1 entered the water which was approximately 5 feet deep. The two felt around with their feet while holding on to the boat. They were able to locate Operator1 and bring him to the surface. Operator1 was under water for approximately 15 minutes. The wilson police department and emt transported Operator1 back to the boat ramp where an ambulance was standing by to transport him to the hospital in wilson. Two subjects were not wearing pfds, but there were two pfds in their boat. Neither of the men in boat 2 were able to swim.


BARDID: NC-2015-0008
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-02-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALBEMARLE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: MANNS HARBOR
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Accident occurred on 2/23/15.  The uscg was called and present on scene after the vessel collided with bridge.  Ncwrc was not notified of the accident.  On 3/6/15 at 4:55pm, i called up petty officer of the uscg to ask about and discuss a sunken vessel near manns harbor.  Officer advised me that he had been investigating the case and provided some information including the name of the owner of the sunken vessel.

On the evening of 3/6/15, i met operator2 at his residence and we discussed the accident.  Operator2 advised that on 2/22/15, he was in the process of selling his vessel, the nice n easy iii to operator1.  For purposes of this report, the nice n easy iii will be known as vessel 2.  Operator2 advised that on 2/22/15, at around 11:00am, operator1 began towing vessel 2 with another vessel, the christine, from colington harbor towards shallowbag bay.  For purposes of this report, the christine will be known as vessel 1.  
 
Operator1 and operator2 planned to finalize the sale of vessel 2 upon arriving at shallowbag bay.  Operator2 stated the reason vessel 2 needed to be towed was because the batteries on vessel 2 were dead.  While operator1 was operating vessel 1, operator2 was on board vessel 2.  Operator2 reported he did make efforts to control vessel 2 while it was under tow.  He also reported while in route to shallowbag bay, operator1 was going off course and going in circles.  Operator2 reported he told operator1 to drop the anchor and they would continue towing the following morning.  Operator2 estimated this was around 10:00pm.  At that point, operator1 dropped the anchor from vessel 1.  Vessel 1 and vessel 2 spent the night rafted together side to side.

Early the next morning, operator1 was preparing to continue towing vessel 2 with vessel 1when vessel 1 ran out of gas.  Operator2 reported by this point the wind had picked up to over 25 mph out of the northeast.  Operator2 reported that operator1 dropped his anchor again but the anchor line broke approximately 30 minutes later.  Operator2 reported that it was around this point that the wind caused the stern, back of vessel 1to collide with the bow, front of vessel 2.  Because of the wind, both vessels were drifting towards the manns harbor bridge.  Operator2 reported that while he was on vessel 2, it drifted into the bridge stern first and the port side of the stern collided with a piling underneath the bridge.  He reported that upon colliding with the piling, the swim platform was "torn off" and this caused vessel 2 to start taking on water.  Operator2 reported vessel 2 continued to drift south after the collision.  He reported operator1 had already called the coast guard by this point.  Operator2 reported when the coast guard arrived on scene approximately one hour later.  He boarded their vessel since his was taking on water.  Operator2 reported the coast guard attached an anchor to vessel 2 and anchored the vessel near manns harbor.  Over the next few days, vessel 2, took on water and sank.  As of now the vessel is resting on the bottom completely submerged and a total loss.  Operator2 reported tow boat us towed vessel 1 away from the scene.

On 3/29/15 at approximately 4:00pm, i spoke with the person in possession of vessel 1.  He stated that operator1 owned vessel 1.  Owner stated that he was in possession of vessel 1 because he used to own it and operator1 still owed him money on it.  Owner pointed out the damage that occurred to vessel 1.  I observed the rubrail had been torn off around the bow and the lifeline, metal hand rail, on the starboard side was missing.  Owner also reported that one of the cow vents was damaged and was missing.

On 4/9/15 at approximately 5:26pm, i spoke over the phone with operator1, the operator of vessel 1.  Operator1 was hospitalized due to an involuntary commitment shortly after this boating accident occurred and he was difficult to contact.  Operator1 did advise me of the events that led up to the boating accide


BARDID: NC-2015-0009
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FARM POND
NearestCityorTown: ALLENSVILLE
County: PERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was fishing with his friend at a farm pond at the intersection of old allensville rd and jack brann rd in the allensville area of person county on 3/21/15. The two men had been fishing for a few hours when at approximately 7:15pm Subject stood up and reached for some fishing equipment. He lost his balance and fell overboard and immediately went under. He was wearing his hip waders which caused him to go to the bottom of the pond very quickly. When Subject did not resurface, firend immediately called 911 for emergency assistance. The person county sheriff's department and person county ems responded. They searched for a few hours and finally were able to recover the body.


BARDID: NC-2015-0010
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CASHIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WINDSOR
County: BERTIE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On monday april 6, 2015 at approximately 3:00pm, i received a call from bertie county sheriff's office followed by a call from our raleigh dispatch regarding a boating accident on the cashie river between woodard road and brimerage road in windsor, nc. When i arrived on scene, victim was floating about 50 yards up river from his boat. 

The call came in from a local fisherman who had been fishing and had witnessed victim fishing alone throughout the day. The local fisherman was heading south of the cashie river towards the highway 45 boat ramp; he saw victim floating in the water with the vessel near the opposite bank of the river. After looking at the vessel, there was no evidence of any collision with another boat or with any debris in the river. The boat was brand new with no scratches on the hull. The trolling motor was out of the water as well as the anchor and there were fresh baits on the fishing rods. The motor of the boat was in neutral, so the vessel was not in motion at the time the incident occurred. 

From the investigation, i have concluded victim was drifting down river fishing. He was moving around in the vessel putting fishing baits on. He lost his footing in the vessel and fell overboard. There were adequate life jackets in the boat as well as a type iv throw cushion. No drugs or alcohol was found any where in the boat and not thought to have contributed to the accident.


BARDID: NC-2015-0011
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTHWEST CREEK
NearestCityorTown: NEW BERN
County: CRAV
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On april 11, 2015, at approximately 9:00am, operator1 and five other passengers departed from northwest creek marina on a 41 foot sailboat owned and operated by operator1 (two peas).  The intention of their trip was to be the lead vessel of a 24 foot boat flotilla in a fleet ceremony in fairfield harbour.  At approximately 11:00am, operator1 began his return into northwest creek marina.  Operator1's intention was to dock his vessel in his assigned slip, which was located on the southern side of the main dock, first slip, and third row of vessel back from the main channel of northwest creek.  As operator1 approached the main dock at a perpendicular angle, traveling at less than one mile per hour, he turned hard to port-left.  Once the vessel was at the appropriate angle, operator1 attempted to engage the engine in reverse.  His intention was to back his vessel into his slip to where the stern, back, of the vessel was against the dock.  Operator1 indicated that the engine increased rpms, but would not engage in reverse.  The vessel then continued moving forward at a low rate of speed, as the port side bow, left front, of two peas struck the starboard stern, right rear, portion of another vessel.  The point of contact on the kizmet was on the vessel's "life sling package", which was affixed to the vessel's railing.

After examining the cable responsible for engaging operator1's vessel "two peas" in reverse, i determined that it had malfunctioned, preventing the engine from engaging in reverse.

After examining the alleged damage to the "kizmet", it appeared that the lower right portion of the davit was disconnected from the hull, the right rear railing was bent forward, and one post of the railing had been disturbed at the base.

***i note that upon my inspection of the alleged damages to the "kizmet", i could not definitely substantiate that the damage was a direct result from the collision with operator1's vessel "two peas".
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0012
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FALLS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: RALEIGH
County: WAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/17/15 at approximately 2:00pm, vessel 1 owner, was preparing to load his vessel onto his trailer.  At this same time, vessel 2 operator, had unloaded his boat and was preparing to launch from the dock.

As operator1 was backing his trailer into the water, he heard a boat motor rev up very loudly.  He stopped and looked in his rear view mirror.  He noticed vessel 2 turn two counter clock wise circles between the docks and strike the bow of his vessel which was tied to the dock.  Operator2 was able to gain control of vessel 2 by pulling the throttle back to neutral.  Operator1 exited his vehicle and ran to assist operator2 back to the dock.  Operator2 was okay and both men loaded their vessels and pulled to the top of the parking.  I was called.

I responded to complete the accident investigation.  In speaking with both subjects, all stories matched.  I had both parties complete the mb4.1 forms while i took photos and started the mb4.2.  Upon operator1 completing his accident form, he left the scene.  I then turned my attention to operator2.  Operator2 said his vessel had cranked in gear with the choke in the full open position.  I examined the choke and throttle shifter.  I was unable to get the motor to fire with the throttle out of the neutral position.

I believe operator2 was attempting to crank his motor with the choke fully opened.  When the motor started and with the choke fully opened, the motor very rapidly revved up.  I believe operator2, instead of cutting back on the choke to slow the engine, pushed to throttle into forward gear causing the vessel to take off at a full throttle.  Vessel 2 turned two counter clockwise circles between the docks striking operator1's vessel, vessel 1.

There was no damage to vessel 2.  Vessel 1 did sustain damage to the trolling motor, trolling motor bracket and to the fiberglass on the starboard side as pictures indicate.  All information was exchanged between the subjects.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0013
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-04-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ALBEMARLE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: HERTFORD
County: PERQ
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Weather
OtherAccidentCause: Machinery
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/18/15 at approximately 5:30pm, subjects were preparing to launch his vessel into the albemarle sound from the holiday island boat ramp. A small storm had just passed leaving a 5 to 10 mile per hour wind out of the east causing the water to be choppy. Operator decided to go ahead and launch the boat and continue with their plans to fish. After launching the boat, they traveled approximately two miles west to the channel markers of the yeopim creek just off shore from the albemarle plantation golf community and started to fish. They fished for approximately an hour and a half and the water started to become choppier when they decided to head back to the boat ramp. As they started to travel back to the holiday island ramp, their 2.5 hp mercury outboard died unexpectedly causing water to rush over the stern of the vessel and into the boat. Operator was able to start the engine and again headed towards the boat ramp. This occurred 5 or 6 times each time more water would spill over the stern and into the boat. At one point, operator took off his boot and tried to scoop water out of the boat. He decided that using his boot was not working and started the boat directly towards the shore. When the motor shut off the last time and the water came over the stern, it continued to fill the boat. The bow, front, of the boat raised up into the air as the boat capsized throwing occupant and operator into the 50 degree water. Occupant was able to grab the two type 2 pfds and hold on to them. She also removed her phone from her pocket and held it out of the water. Operator grabbed onto the now upside down boat and crawled onto the hull. Occupant gave him her phone and operator called 911. At 7:27pm, perquimans county 911 received the call from operator stating that his boat had turned over in the albemarle sound and that he and occupant had life jackets on and were hanging onto the boat. The perquimans county dispatcher called the uscg and sgt with the ncwrc. The uscg launched a helicopter and a 25 ft boat from the elizabeth city coast guard air station. Sgt launched a 21 foot parker from the new hope access area to search for operator and occupant. The uscg helicopter arrived in the area at 8:10pm and after a short search rescued the two from the albemarle sound. Occupant was treated for mild hypothermia at the sentera hospital in elizabeth city, nc and was released. Operator did not suffer any injuries. The 12 foot aluminum bass tracker john boat, 2.5 hp motor, tackle boxes, fishing poles and operator and occupant's cell phones were lost and/or destroyed in this incident. Total property damage estimated at $3500.00.


BARDID: NC-2015-0014
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TOWN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: BEAUFORT
County: CART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/24/15, at approximately 1:00am, operator was operating a 38 foot catamaran in town creek, beaufort, nc.  Operator was navigating in the channel and heading southeasterly at approximately 2/5 knots towards a nearby anchorage when the bow of the vessel collided with two cement pilings.  These pilings had been placed by construction crews for the new gallants channel bridge which is currently being constructed.  Operator states the pilings were not lit or marked so as to be visible to vessels traveling during the night.  Operator was using a spotlight in addition to an electronic navigational chart to navigate the channel and i confirmed there were no reflective materials on the pilings which would have been visible to his spotlight.  These cement pilings were placed inside the channel as marked by the navigational aids and constituted a hazard to navigation.

After colliding with the pilings, operator inspected the damage, backed off the pilings and proceeded to anchorage. Damage to his vessel included a large puncture to the forward hull bulkhead above the waterline and a broken metal crossbeam at the bow.  Operator contacted the uscg and an alert to mariners was issued.

This collision was caused by unlit fixed objects which were not readily apparent to boaters during the night being placed inside the marked channel.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0015
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-03-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROANOKE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WELDON
County: HALI
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On march 21, 2015, at about 11:30am, the operator of vessel 1 and his passenger were canoeing on the roanoke river near weldon. Both operator and passenger were wearing their life jackets. The operator and the passenger paddled up stream from the highway 301 bridge until they came to some rapids. The current pushed the canoe to the port side causing it to capsize. Both occupants of the vessel fell out of the canoe. After several minutes they were able to right the canoe and empty out the water that was in it. The passenger then was able to climb back on board the canoe. The operator was not able to at that time. The passenger stated that she maneuvered the canoe to the northampton county shoreline to a stable area that was out of the current so that she could assist the operator with climbing back on board the canoe. The passenger was able to assist the operator with getting back into the canoe. The passenger then paddled the canoe back across the river to the halifax county shoreline where they were met by officer \ore of the weldon police department. Officer assisted both subjects on to the shore where the two boaters were treated by the weldon fire department and halifax ems. Both the operator and passenger of vessel 1 were transported to halifax regional medical center. The passenger did not receive any medical treatment. The operator was treated for hypothermia and for water being in his lungs. The operator was later transported to wake medical center for further treatment.


BARDID: NC-2015-0016
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTH EAST CREEK
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: ONSL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The person operating at the time of the incident was told me that he had met victim and the two females at the boat ramp around 1:00pm but he was unsure of the actual time he had arrived.  Victim is his friend and the owner of the vessel. Victim had been operating the vessel until right before the incident. I asked how many people were on board and he said four;the two females in the vessel were friends with victim. Operator said he had just met them that day. I asked operator if they were drinking and he said he wasn't sure, he thought so. I asked operator if he had been drinking and he said no. I did not detect any odor of an alcoholic beverage from his person. He did not appear to be impaired in any way. I asked operator where the incident occurred. He explained that the incident happened in between two bridges which i identified as the wilson blvd and the lejeune blvd bridges. 

Operator stated that he had just taken over as the operator of the vessel so victim could go check on something. Victim proceeded to the bow of the vessel to check on something. I asked operator what victim would be checking for in the bow of the boat. Operator said that earlier in the day the vessel's engine was over heating or something, he wasn't sure but it had not been running correctly. I then asked operator if they were having problems with the engine which is in the back of the vessel, why was victim looking over the bow of the vessel which is in the front of the boat? He said he wasn't sure. Operator then said that victim was sitting in the bow of the vessel they had been on plane for about 30 to 40 seconds and then they hit something in the water and the vessel jerked. Then victim was thrown backwards off of the bow. He went underneath the vessel and when he turned the vessel around, he saw victim holding his arm up out of the water and it was badly injured. He went back and they helped him into the vessel and they made a tourniquet from victim's shirt to help control the bleeding. Operator stated that "everything happened so quickly, he wasn't exactly sure what happened." 

A doctor came in and told us that victim was asking for his friend and wanted him to come see him. I was done asking him questions, so we went into the er room where victim was. They spoke to each other briefly, and then i introduced myself to victim, explained to him that i was there to investigate the incident and asked him if he felt like answering a few questions and explain to me what happened. He said that was fine. He said "i was sitting in the bow of the boat and we were running along. I asked him if the vessel was on plane and he said "yes". Victim stated that he thought they struck something in the water that caused the vessel to jerk suddenly but he wasn't sure what it was. I asked him if the engine was running properly, he said that the trim was messed up and they had just had the vessel worked on at tideline marina in jacksonville that morning. 

They went straight from tideline marina to the boat ramp. Victim made the comment that maybe something had gone wrong with the engine since it had been worked on that morning, causing the vessel to suddenly jerk while they were moving along. I asked him if the vessel stopped when it hit the obstruction in the water and he said "no it did not stop," i asked victim to explain to me how he was sitting in the vessel. He said that his left side was facing the driver. He had a hard time explaining his exact position. He stumbled around with the explanation that he had to sit in the bow of the vessel because of the design of the vessel "you have to distribute the weight evenly." he asked me if i had seen the vessel and i replied that i had not. There were other officers at the boat ramp looking at his vessel. 

I repeated the statement back to victim to make sure i had it correctly. I said victim "you were sitting in the bow of the vessel in a seat, not on the side right?". He replied "yes" and operator you were


BARDID: NC-2015-0017
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CARTERET
County: CART
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: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/5/15, two pwcs were being operated on the icw near cape carteret nc. Both pwcs are owned by the same person. Vessel 1 was being operated by operator1, son of owner, and seated behind the operator was owner. Vessel 2 was being operated by operator2, 13 year old minor. The other passengers on board vessel 2 were as follows: seated in the middle was a 12 yo minor, and on the back of the vessel was the only adult on board. The first part of the investigation took place at morehead general hospital. 
 
Operator1 stated that he was operating the vessel and upon approaching the high rise bridge, his dad owner told operator1 to slow down and stop to let the oncoming traffic clear the bridge before proceeding underneath it. Operator1 stated that the next thing that he remembered was waking up in the water and that he did not see vessel 2 make contact with his vessel. Upon speaking with the nurses assisting the family, one stated that the passenger on the second vessel said that the vessel he was on, vessel 2 ran right into the back of vessel 1. 
 
The second portion of the investigation was then conducted, in which the physical damage of the pwcs was documented. Vessel 1 had impact damage on the port side foot gunwale, damage to the port side of the rear seat structure, damage to the port side rear view mirror, and the steering column had substantial damage. After completing a survey of vessel 2, the impacting vessel, only one damaged area was observed. The starboard side of the hull on the bow portion had one damaged area that matched the size of the impact area on the foot gunwale on the port side of vessel 1. 
 
The operator of vessel 1 sustained a broken left arm and the passenger of vessel 1 later passed due to injuries sustained from the impact, severe blunt force trauma. No one on vessel 2 was injured. After reviewing all physical damage to the pwcs and injuries sustained, it appears that after vessel 1 stopped and vessel 2 was following too closely, making them unable to see vessel 1 stop, or was unable to make vessel 2 stop in time to avoid a collision. The evidence shows that the starboard bow of vessel 2 made contact first with the port stern of vessel 1 and continued on through its passengers causing damage to the port side of vessel 1. During the following hours, days, and weeks of this investigation, the involved parties have avoided contact and have not filled out the mb4.1, owner/operator form. This report will be amended as further information is received.


BARDID: NC-2015-0018
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-04-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROANOKE RAPIDS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: ROANOKE RAPIDS
County: NORTH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/25/15, at about 12:45am, the operator of vessel 1 was fishing below the gaston dam on the roanoke rapids lake. At that time, the gaston dam was generating, which caused the water below the dam in roanoke rapids lake to become very turbulent due to the discharge from the dam. A witness anchored below the dam stated that the operator of vessel 1 approached the base of the dam near the turbulent waters and threw his cast net at the edge of the dam in an attempt to catch bait. The operator threw his net and then ran his vessel back away from the dam. The witness stated that the operator of vessel 1 did this three times. The witness stated he heard the operator make a fourth attempt. On the fourth attempt, he heard the motor of vessel 1 accelerate, and then he heard a loud crash. The witness stated that the operator ran his vessel into a pylon near the dam. He then saw the operator's vessel move toward the dam at a slow rate of speed. The witness called 911 and attempted to locate the operator with the use of a spot light. About 15 minutes after the 911 call was made, the gaston dam stopped generating. The witness continued to search for the missing operator. The roanoke valley rescue squad and littleton fire department responded to the call. The roanoke valley rescue and the littleton fire department continued to search for the missing operator and also transported the vessel to the dominion power boat ramp. It was noted that the vessel had severe damage to the bow and the rope to the cast net was wrapped around the prop. It also was noted that a bait tank and barrell in the vessel were thrown toward the front of the boat and the cast net was trapped between the bait tank. It also was noted that the throttle handle was positioned at about 3/4 throttle. 

This search for the operator continued for several days. Many fire department and search and rescue teams from other parts of north carolina assisted in the search. After seven days of searching, the operator was located floating in the water near the dam on the north side of the lake. When the operator was found, he was wearing a black t-shirt with a camo shirt over the top of it, blue jeans, and a green bib type rain suit. It also was noted that the operator was not wearing a life jacket. The operator's body was taken to the halifax regional medical center, and it was later transported to vidant medical center in greenville, north carolina for an autopsy. The cause of the accident is still under investigation. 

************************************************************* 

please note: this accident report will be updated as more information is provided.


BARDID: NC-2015-0019
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: DENVER
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the surviving passengers of vessel 1 and based on my investigation, at approximately 2:00am on 4/30/15 operator collided vessel 1 into a dock after leaving from his dock and making his way out into the mountain creek area near the railroad trestle. Passenger 1 stated that everyone on board had been drinking back at the residence and had decided to go for a boat ride around 1:45am. They had made it out to the trestle and circled back to the cove they had just left and collided with the dock ejecting the operator from the vessel and lodging his head between the walk platform of the dock and the lower platform of the dock. Passenger 1 stated he looked everywhere in the boat for the operator after the collision and discovered him on the dock to the rear of the boat. He attempted to perform compressions and emergency breathing but stated his injuries were too severe and he could only feel a slight pulse which subsided soon afterwards and before the emergency personnel arrived. The neighbor next door stated she heard the commotion and started chest compressions on the operator with no response and no pulse. The collision began on the northwestern corner of the dock and snapped 4 of the 6 x 6 support columns and a 4 x 4 hand railing raking over the operator's position and doing the most damage to the starboard side of the vessel breaking out the windshield and ended with the vessel wedging between the last 6 x 6 column and the main support beam anchoring the dock into the sediment. One of the 6 x 6 columns in the middle of the dock must have dragged the operator out over the stern of the vessel and the passengers who were laying down in the stern of the vessel suffered few minor injuries not enough to merit medical attention. Passenger 1 stated he pulled out the kill switch after he recovered. Passengers 1 and 2 were intoxicated to the point their statements were difficult to understand and piece together. Both passengers were also intoxicated to the point they could not successfully complete an mb 4.1 form. The operator was declared dead at the scene and his blood toxicology results are pending with piedmont pathology. 

In my opinion, the alcohol was a major contributing factor to the accident as well as operation at excessive speed for the narrow cove and restricted visibility at that time of night. No charges will be filed in this incident.


BARDID: NC-2015-0020
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: SHERRILLS FORD
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator and the investigation, approximately 6:00pm on 5/2/15, while operating vessel 1 in the mountain creek area of lake norman, operator was pulling her daughter on skis. She was attempting to communicate with her daughter and turned her attention away towards the stern of the vessel momentarily causing vessel 1 to run aground along the rip rap rock. Vessel 1 lodged almost completely out of the water and sustained major damage to 2 of the 3 pontoons. The passenger inside vessel 1 sustained a minor scratch to the underside of his right arm just above the elbow which required no medical attention when he fell forward into the on board table breaking the table. The operator also broke the windshield in front of the operator's position grabbing it in an attempt to stop her momentum upon impact. 

I do not believe alcohol was a contributing factor to this accident, and there were no major injuries that required medical attention. No criminal charges will be filed in this incident. I believe improper lookout, operator inattention and excessive speed for the area were the cause of this incident.


BARDID: NC-2015-0021
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROANOKE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: NAGS HEAD
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday, may 24, 2015 at 4:25pm, while underway, i officer, received a radio call from raleigh dispatch. They had received a call from the dare county dispatcher of a boating accident involving injuries near the virginia dare trail with emts and nags head police on scene. Officer and i proceeded to virginia dare trail where the boating accident occurred. Once on scene we noticed that the boating accident occurred at kitty hawk kites, which involved two jet skiis. The emts were in the process of taking care of the operators and passengers involved in the boating accident. The emts advised us that they were taking them to outer banks hospital. After talking to the workers of kitty hawk kites and nags head police, we went to outer banks hospital to interview the people involved in the boating accident. 
 
After interviewing the people involved in the boating accident, vessel 2 was riding in the direction in which they were told, which was counter clockwise within the riding zone. Vessel 2 was riding when they saw vessel 1 coming in the same direction. Vessel 2 tried to steer away from vessel 1 and then let go of the throttle which made vessel 2 drift sideways. At this time, vessel 2 was broad side to vessel 1. Vessel 1 noticed vessel 2 was in the same route (path) that they were traveling in. Vessel 1 slowed down, then tried to turn to avoid vessel 2, while hitting vessel 2 broad side on the starboard side. No charges were filed.


BARDID: NC-2015-0022
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: HUNTERSVILLE
County: MECK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/10/2015 at approximately 3:00pm, a boating incident occurred on Lake Norman in the McGuire Nuclear Station Cove. The vessel was a 24-foot, 2008 Cobalt bow-rider. Operator's friends were seated near the bow (front) of the vessel at the time of the incident. While underway, the vessel struck a large rock structure and became completely grounded. The vessel sustained damage to the fiberglass hull and the transom plate. No bodily injuries were sustained.

Operator and his friends began recreationally cruising on Lake Norman on his 2008, Cobalt bow-rider at approximately 2:30pm on Sunday May 10, 2015. Operator stated that he wanted to show his friends around the lake. At approximately 3:00pm, Operator was operating in a southern direction in the McGuire Nuclear Station Cove. He stated that he saw other boats in the area and thought that it was a safe area to navigate. 
 
Operator stated that there were two or three other boats in the McGuire Nuclear Station Cove, so he decided to slow down. Operator stated that he was attempting to make a large circle through the cove in an effort to turn the vessel around and head back north. He said that after approximately one minute in the cove, he felt the boat hit the large rock structure. He stated that he had been watching his depth finder, and the water depth had been safe to navigate. 
 
Occupant, who was sitting on the port side of the vessel at the time of the incident, stated that he heard a loud noise and the boat suddenly stopped. At this point, the vessel was completely grounded on the rock structure. Neither Operator nor his passengers were injured when the vessel struck the rocks. Operator stated that the vessel did begin to take on some water in the bilge after the incident. He was unable to remove the vessel from the rocks and contacted TowBoat US of Lake Norman. The vessel sustained damage to the fiberglass hull, and it also appears that the transom plate was partially separated from the hull of the vessel. Operator stated that neither he nor his passengers had consumed any alcohol on this date. Operator expressed his concern that there was no danger buoy in the area to alert boaters of the rock hazard. 

It appears as though operator inexperience, operator inattention, and an improper lookout contributed to this incident. Upon investigating the incident site, several large rocks are visible above the water line and should have been visible to the operator on this date. Also, Operator stated that he has limited boat operation experience and is not familiar with this area of the lake. No one was charged as a result of this incident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0023
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Roanoke Sound
NearestCityorTown: Manteo
County: Dare
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating vessel 1. V1 occupant1 and V1 occupant2 were passengers on vessel 1. Operator2 was operating vessel 2. V2 occupant was the only passenger on vessel 2. Both vessels 1 and 2 were cruising around 20 to 30 miles per hour. They were both cruising parallel to Roanoke Island approximately 100 to 200 yards off the shore. Both vessels were headed towards each other. Possibly due to not paying attention, the operators did not see each other until they were at a very close distance. The operators of the vessels tried to avoid collision but were unable to. It was reported that vessel 2 lost traction on the water and began to slide. Vessel 1 collided with the port side of vessel 2 and went through and over vessel 2. 
 
Before the collision, V1 occupant1 jumped off the vessel into the water. At the point of collision, Operator1 was ejected off of vessel 1. Additionally, Operator2 and his occupant were ejected from vessel 2 when the collision occurred. After the collision, V1 occupant2 jumped in the water and helped Operator1 and V1 occupant1 load V2 occupant and Operator2 onto vessel 1. It was reported Operator2 was facedown in the water. V1 occupant2 then drove vessel 1 towards Manteo with V2 occupant, Operator2, and Operator1 as passengers. V1 occupant1 stayed behind with vessel 2. When vessel 1 arrived, 911 was called. 
 
While photographing the vessels on 5/17/15, I also inspected the vessels for damage. Vessel 1 had it''s front rubrail torn off and had scuffs and scratches on the underside of the hull. Vessel 2 had a large portion of it''s port side crushed in and torn off and the center console was completely torn off. 

Both vessels were seized as evidence the night of the collision. Nobody involved in this accident was believed to be wearing PFD''s. Alcohol was a contributing factor in this accident. Nothing further at this time.


BARDID: NC-2015-0024
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HYCO LAKE
NearestCityorTown: SEMORA
County: CASW
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:
Vessel had just returned to dock from tubing on the lake.  Turned off motor while switching occupants.  Attempted to start motor back only a few feet from the dock.  The operator heard an explosion from the motor compartment and began to see smoke and fire from the compartment.  1 adult female, operator, and 6 juvenile female occupants were on board at the time of the accident.  All jumped from the vessel wearing pfds.  Due to proximity of vessel to the dock, they were able to put out the fire with use of garden hoses from the dock.  No injuries were reported beyond minor skin burns which did not require treatment beyond first aid.

**************************************************************
There is no mention by the officer of this report as to what started the fire other than ignition of fuel vapor.


BARDID: NC-2015-0025
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PAMLICO SOUND
NearestCityorTown: SWAN QUARTER
County: HYDE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, he and his family departed from ocracoke island and were en route to belhaven, nc. Approximately 4 miles north of the lee high, operator struck a submerged object in the pamlico sound. He advised that his engine kicked up out of the water after the strike. He said that he did not see what they struck. The force of the strike caused operator's wife to fall and injure her foot. Operator advised that his engine ran for a few more miles and the lower unit locked up. At this time, operator contacted two different private towing services. Both companies advised that it would be 5-6 hours before they could reach his location. At this time operator advised that he started calling everyone he could think of for help. He said that he had his anchor out and dipped his bow four times. At that point, he raised the anchor and began drifting in the sound. Ncwrc, ncdmf and uscg responded to his calls for help. Ncwrc officers located operator and his family approximately 13.5 miles out in the pamlico sound at approximately 22:05 hrs. Three of passengers including his wife were transferred to the uscg vessel. Uscg transported his wife to belhaven, nc where ems picker her up. She was taken to vidant beaufort county hospital where she was treated for a broken foot. Ncwrc officers towed operator and his son back into the swan quarter access area. The use of alcohol and drugs did not contribute to this accident. The entire family wore type ii pfds after the vessel became disabled. Operator's vessel was inspected earlier in the day by the uscg at ocracoke. No violations were detected.


BARDID: NC-2015-0026
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NEWPORT RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BEAUFORT
County: CART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 17, 2015 at approximately 20:10 hrs, operator1 and his mother had departed by boat from a private ramp situated off of crab point loop rd on the southern shore of the newport river.  Operator1 was operating the vessel while v1 occupant was sitting to the left of the console facing to the rear of the vessel.  Their intention was to set flounder nets after sunset.  After departing the ramp, operator1 headed in a southeastern direction as he was traveling approximately 20 mph While running parallel to the southern shore line, approximately 100 yards from the bank.  

Operator2 had spent the day fishing near the cape, and was returning to the previously mentioned ramp.  He was alone as he was operating his father's center console vessel.  Operator2 was traveling in a north western direction.  As he was traveling approximately 30 mph while running parallel to the southern shore line approximately 100 yards from the bank.  

Somewhere between 20:30 and 20:45 hrs, operator1 and operator2 were operating their boats head on with low light visibility.  Both operators observed the other vessel as they were approximately 20 yards apart and both steered hard right in an effort to avoid collision.  As a result, the port side bow of operator1's vessel struck the back  four feet of V2 port side stern.  

During the collision v1 occupant was hurled about causing a clavicle strain and a minor concussion.  Vessel2 sustained a cracked gunwale to the port side stern.  Both operators then made their way back to the ramp where operator1 assisted v1 occupant into his truck, then he transported her to carteret general hospital where she was admitted into the emergency department. 

I note operator1 claimed his red and green bow lights were on at the time of the incident.  However, the lights were affixed in such a way that they would have been difficult to distinguish or observe from a straight on view.  Also, operator1's vessel was not equipped with an all around white light.  V2 vessel was not equipped with a bow light or an all around white light as he admitted that he was not displaying any source of light. 

I note that according to the ncwrc sunrise/sunset table, legal sunset for carteret county on that day was 20:05 hrs. 
,


BARDID: NC-2015-0027
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MOREHEAD CITY
County: CART
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday, may 17, 2015, operator and family members had launched their 21 foot skiff at taylors creek access area.   The family then proceeded to the eastern portion of shackleford banks where they spent the day on the beach.  The family departed the beach at approximately 16:30 hrs.  Operator was operating the boat at approximately 20 mph while running parallel to shackleford banks, approximately 200 yards off the shore line.  Once the boat was approximately 1.75 miles from beaufort inlet and at approximately 17:00 hrs, a large wave caught the boat and flipped it left to right.  Operator later advised that he thought the boat had taken on water causing the weight distribution to be off centered.  The boat floated upside down as it made its way to the shore.  Operator and family members swam to shore and was picked up by the park service.  Tow boat us recovered the vessel and transported it back to taylors creek access area.  Ems was dispatched but subject declined medical attention for minor cuts on her head.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0028
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Gaston
NearestCityorTown: Littleton
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24th around 11:30pm operator was operating her fathers 23 foot Nautic Star ski boat. She was headed south west at about 30mph when the vessel ran aground on the rocks at Eaton Ferry bridge. Occupant was sitting in the back of the boat with his girl friend at the time of the incident. operator stated that she had very little experience operating a vessel and that she could not see the bridge. No one was hurt. Occupant had been drinking.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0029
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Town Creek
NearestCityorTown: Leland
County: Brunswick
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May, 30 2015 2 vessels were involved in a boating incident on Town Creek.

Vessel 1 was traveling up stream on Town Creek. As he was approaching a bend in the creek vessel 2  was heading down stream both vessels entered the turn on the river approximately at the same time. Vessel 1 turned hard a starboard to avoid the collision vessel 2. Vessel 2 also turned hard a starboard to avoid vessel 1. Both vessels were unable to avoid the collision and struck one and other. 

Environmental conditions (sharp turn on creek) was believed to be the contributing factor in the incident; neither alcohol nor drugs were detected. Both vessels were equipped with all required safety equipment.


BARDID: NC-2015-0030
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Glenn Alpine
County: Burke
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24, 2015 about 1330 hrs., Master Officer received a call from Burke County Sheriff's Office that a boating accident had occurred on Lake James. After investigating and interviewing the operator and witnesses involved in the accident, Officer concluded that on May 24, 2015 at about 1300hrs, four people went for a ride on a pontoon boat (registration). With Owner operating the pontoon boat, they travelled about ½ mile west from the East Shores area toward the Lake James Dam. During the short ride, all four occupants were distracted by 2 small dogs in the boat. From Owner's, Occupant1's and Occupant2's statements, Owner and Occupant1 were trying to take pictures of the 2 dogs with Owner's cell phone when they hit the side of a dock. The pontoon was traveling approximately 20 mph at the time of impact. Occupant2 and Occupant3 were thrown forward about 5 to 6 feet into the front railing of the boat. After impact, Occupant2 was laying on the floor of the boat with his wife Occupant3 lying on top of his legs. Both had suffered head injuries. Occupant2 was conscious and Occupant3 was unconscious. From Occupant2’s statement after the accident, he said “Owner checked Occupant3's pulse and said she is just knocked out”. Occupant2 said that Occupant3 never regained consciousness. Then Occupant2 remembers Occupant3 yelling for help. At that time, a neighbor called 911. Shortly after, First Responders and Burke County EMS arrived on scene. Occupant2 was then transported to the hospital in Morganton. Burke County EMS administered CPR on Occupant3 at the scene then transported her to the hospital in Morganton where she later died. Occupant2 was later transported to CMC in Occupant1 where he was released the following day.


BARDID: NC-2015-0031
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chowan River
NearestCityorTown: Gatesville
County: Gates
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the day of May 09, 2015 at approximately 02:35 pm there was a multi vessel boat collision on the Chowan River near the Virginia and North Carolina border that resulted in 2 minor injuries and 2 fatalities. Vessel number 1  was traveling north bound on the Chowan River heading back in to Virginia. Vessel number 2  was traveling South bound on the Chowan River heading into North Carolina from the Highway 258 boat access area from the Nottoway River in Virginia. As vessel number 1 was approaching the Virginia line he was traveling on the left side of the river heading North as the river made a bend to the left. Vessel number 2 was on the right side of the river heading South. Vessel number 1 operator stated as they approached a bend in the river he saw vessel number 2 heading south bound also on the same side of the river. As the vessels approached each other at a fast rate of speed, vessel number 1 began to make a slight left turn to avoid collision. Vessel number 2 made a right turn just prior to collision with vessel number 1. Vessel number 1 struck its starboard side of the bow against the port side bow of vessel number 2. As vessel number 2 was struck, the bow of the boat dipped downwards towards the water and the bow of vessel number 1 went up and over vessel number 2. Due to the high rate of speed of vessel number 1 it ramped up and over vessel number 2 exiting the stern of the starboard side. The propeller on vessel number 1 struck the driver side console on the starboard side where the driver was seated. 
 
The passengers of vessel number 2 were seated side by side towards the rear of the vessel. The male was driving the vessel and was seated on the starboard side and the female passenger was seated on the port side. Vessel number 1 struck both passengers in vessel number 2, leaving the driver slumped over the side of the boat while remaining seated with his head over the side in the water. The female passenger was laying behind the driver seat facing upward arms open feet together and head laying on the starboard side of the boat. Vessel number 1 passengers were not ejected or harmed in the collision. The passengers of vessel number 1 sustained slight bruising but were mentally and physically shaken. There were alcoholic beverages present in vessel number 1, unable to determine if this contributed to the cause of this accident at this time. The weather conditions at the time of the accident were sunny and clear, winds N 5-10 mph.


BARDID: NC-2015-0032
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FALLS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WAKE FOREST
County: WAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Carbon monoxide exposure
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 23, 2015, five teenagers went out onto Falls Lake and started to swim and hang out at the back on the boat. One female laid out in the back seat while the other four exited the vessel. The operator took a seat on the starboard side of the ski platform while the other three got into the water. The male victim and the female victim were treading water holding onto the ski platform. They had been sitting at the back of the boat for approximately 20 minutes while listening to the radio, with the motor running. The operator stated that the victim2 passed out. At that time, the other two males in the boat pulled her into the boat. Then, they noticed the victim1 was starting to sink due to being passed out and not wearing a life jacket. He was pulled into the boat and then they proceeded to find help. 
The two victims were transport to Duke Hospital to receive medical attention due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The victims received oxygen and a two hour treatment in a hyperbaric chamber. After which, they were released.


BARDID: NC-2015-0033
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: White Lake
NearestCityorTown: White Lake
County: Bladen
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, May 25, 2015, I docked my patrol boat at White Lake Marina in order to go inside and purchase a beverage. As I was walking, I engaged in small talk about the amount of activity over the holiday weekend. During our conversation, she mentioned that a man had suffered a broken arm on board her boat on the previous Saturday. After learning this, I asked her to fill out a boating accident form. We walked into the store, where she filled out the accident form. 

According to Subject, she was attempting to pull away from the dock at Turtle Cove, victim was at the rear port side of the boat. He had his right arm between the "V" formed by the canopy support and was holding onto the dock piling. Subject was unaware that Victim was holding the boat to the dock and Victim was unaware that Subject had the throttle engaged and was attempting to pull away. Victim did not release the piling. Subject told me that she heard his arm when it snapped. 

Victim was transported to Bladen General and transferred to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. He was treated for a broken right arm and released that same day.


BARDID: NC-2015-0034
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BRICES CREEK
NearestCityorTown: NEW BERN
County: CRAV
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 7, 2015, two people and friends had set out on brices creek to engage in wake boarding. The group had constructed a floating ramp which was approximately five feet wide, ten feet long, and five feet tall. They had positioned the ramp in the "old rock quarry" which is a lake that adjoins to brices creek. The ramp was located in the northern part of the 20 acre lake with the ramp positioned north to south with the high end to the south. The group was taking turns being pulled behind a pwc and jumping the ramp. At approximately 17:30 hrs, operator was operating the pwc with victim in tow on a wake board. Operator was operating the pwc at approximately 25 mph as victim attempted to perform a back flip off of the ramp. Victim hit the water back first with his feet and wake board in the air. As a result, the front portion of the wake board struck victim in the forehead, approximately two inches above his hair line. The impact with the board caused a two inch laceration. Victim was then transported to carolina east medical center in new bern where he received seven staples and three stitches as a result of his injury. 

Note: there is no way of proving that alcohol played a contributing role, but it is worth noting that one member of the group did have a high bac of .23, and that victim seemed deceitful in his answer when asked how much he had to drink.


BARDID: NC-2015-0035
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN ISLE BEACH
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING WEST ON THE ICW WHEN IT STRUCK A WAKE CAUSING ONE PASSENGER TO BE THROWN OUT OF THE BOAT CAUSING INJURIES.  WAKE WAS BELIEVED TO BE THE CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN THE INCIDENT.  VESSEL 1 WAS EQUIPPED WITH ALL REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT.


BARDID: NC-2015-0036
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SHALLOWBAG BAY
NearestCityorTown: MANTEO
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 31, 2015, i officer, was on patrol by boat near baum point outside of shallowbag bay when a vessel approached me and advised me that there is something going on with the vessel in front of me. I went to the vessel and noticed one of the passengers laying down on the bow of the deck and also broken glass on the deck. At this time, the operator of the vessel was on the phone with 911. The operator informed me that the passenger fell in the boat and hit his head. The operator also advised me that the injured passenger was coming in and out of consciousness. I advised him to put the injured passenger in my boat so i could take him to manteo water front. Another boat came along side and dropped off a roanoke fire department employee with a radio. We then proceeded to the manteo water front where we met the emts. Once i moored my boat to the dock, the emts came on my boat and took care of the injured passenger. At that time they put the injured passenger on a stretcher and put him in the ambulance where they flew him to norfolk general hospital in virginia. The emts looked at the other injured passenger and took her to the out banks hospital. 

After interviewing the five people involved in the boating accident, vessel 1 was cruising out of shallowbag bay heading to a sand bar called banana island. The operator of the vessel noticed a slick spot on the water and started to slow down when the vessel hit the bottom and caused the two passengers in the folding tower of the boat to fall forward while holding on to the tower. At this time, the folding tower came loose and the two passengers on top fell forward. That's when the two passengers injured themselves as they hit the front of the boat. The tower that fell forward also damaged the vessel's front windshield. No charges filed.


BARDID: NC-2015-0037
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HIGH ROCK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: Southmont
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 around 6:45pm subjects were traveling in a north north easterly direction in Abbott's Creek along the eastern shoreline above the NC highway 8 bridge. Also, at approximately 6:45pm on May 20th, 2015, Operator2 and friends were attempting to start a wake boarder in a west southwestern direction from a fixed pier in a small cove on the eastern shore of Abbott's Creek on High Rock Lake. Due to Operator2'' direction of travel and the time of day, Operator2'' vessel was traveling directly toward the setting sun. Operator1 was operating an 18'' Glassport inboard/outboard open motorboat, vessel one (V1). Operator2 was operating an 18'' Dixie inboard/outboard open motorboat, vessel two (V2). As Operator1's vessel (V1) was crossing the mouth of a small cove, Operator2'' vessel (V2) accelerated to start a wake boarder. Upon acceleration of Operator2'' vessel (V2), the bow(front) of the vessel raised up into the air due to the force of the motor and resistance of the weight of the wake boarder at the stern (rear). As the bow(front) of Operator2'' vessel (V2) leveled off, it was directly in line for a perpendicular collision with Operator1's vessel (V1). 
 
A passenger aboard Operator1's vessel (V1), noticed the approaching vessel (V2) just prior to impact and advised Operator1. Operator1 attempted to accelerate his vessel (V1), but it was not in time to avoid collision. Operator2 vessel (V2) struck Operator1's vessel (V1) at the stern on the starboard side approximately 2 feet in front of the transom, leaving a void from the gunwale to just below the waterline. The void in Operator1's vessel (V1) is approximately 1.5 feet across and 2.5 feet vertically, as shown in the attached photo. Operator1 was able to get his vessel (V1) to the shoreline before it came to rest on the bottom of Abbott's creek with the bow ashore and the stern in approximately 1.5 feet of water. Operator2'' vessel(V2) had damage to the gel coat and fiberglass starting on both sides of the keel at the bow and trailing back toward mid ship. Operator1's vessel (V1) had two passengers. Operator2'' vessel (V2) had 5 passengers and a skier being towed. 
 
Contributing factors for vessel one (V1) include, operator failed to keep proper lookout and operated contrary to the rules of navigation. Contributing factors for vessel two (V2) include, operator failed to keep proper lookout and obstructed forward vision due to bow(front) of boat raised, passengers in bow area, and traveling toward the sun. All Pivots were used properly and there was no alcohol involved in this incident. There are no charges that have been filed at this time.


BARDID: NC-2015-0038
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: High Rock Lake
NearestCityorTown: Salisbury
County: Rowan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 9, 2015 at approximately 4:30 PM a personal watercraft (PWC) and another PWC were involved in a boating incident in Crane Creek of High Rock Lake 2(two) miles upstream of the mouth of High Rock Lake and Crane Creek in Salisbury NC. The total width of Crane Creek where the boat incident occurred is approximately 350 yards wide. (Vessel #1) was an 7-foot, 1988 Kawasaki 650 SX (personal watercraft) that was black and light green in color. (Vessel #1) had no passengers on board with him at the time of the incident. (Vessel #2) was a PWC that was red in color. It was being operated by a male in his late 20''s to early 30''s that had no passengers on board nor was pulling anyone behind him at the time of the incident, according to the witness. (Vessel #1) was jumping the wake of a ski boat, and after he jumped the wake of the boat and landed back in the water he lost control of the stand-up PWC. After the operator of (Vessel #1) landed in the water he made a sharp right turn at full throttle, and at this time is when (Vessel #2) the unknown PWC struck (Vessel #1) on the starboard side. 

Note: Refer to Summary in Attachments for full Synopsis of Incident. IT APPEARED THAT V1, JUMPED THE WAKE OF THE SKI BOAT (NOT INVOLVED IN INCIDENT), AND LOST CONTROL AS HE LANDED BACK IN THE WATER.  AS operator1 WAS LOSING CONTROL OF V1, HE MADE A SHARP RIGHT TURN AND WITH THE THROTTLE ACCELERATED TURNED INTO THE PATH OF V2.  THE LACK OF CONTROL AND OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE WAS A CONTRIBUTING ACTOR IN THIS INCIDENT.  THE OPERATOR OF V1 ADMITTED TO HAVING CONSUMED 2 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES DURING THE DAY BUT DID NOT APPEAR TO BE IMPAIRED WHEN I OBSERVED HIM AT THE HOSPITAL.  NO ONE WAS CHARGED AS A RESULT OF THIS INCIDENT.  THE INVESTIGATION IS STILL OPEN UNTIL THE OPERATOR OF V2 IS CONTACTED.


BARDID: NC-2015-0039
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Oak Island
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/06/2015 two vessels were involved in a boating incident on the ICW near Oak Island, North Carolina. 

Vessel 1  (open motorboat) was traveling west on the ICW. Traveling in the same direction was a party of PWCS traveling in a single file line. As the PWC party was passing vessel 1 one of the party members made a quick turn (near 180°) with the PWC causing it to change directions and stall its forward motion.  Vessel 2  PWC also a part of the PWC party was traveling behind the stalled PWC. 
 
As vessel 2 was closing the distance on the stalled PWC, the operator of vessel 2 turned hard TO port to avoid a collision. Vessel 2 then crossed the wake of vessel 1 and was unable to avoid the collision. Vessel 2 struck vessel 1 in the starboard side engine causing the operator to be thrown from the PWC and causing damage to the engine of vessel 1. 

Operator inexperience (vessel 2) is believed to be the contributing factor in the incident. Both vessels involved were equipped with all required safety equipment. The operator of vessel 2 was wearing a PFD that is required by law at the time of the incident. Neither alcohol nor drugs were detected. Neither operator nor passengers were injured.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0040
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: OAK ISLAND
County: BRUNSWICK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 2, UNKNOWN, WAS TRAVELING NORTH ON THE ICW.  AS IT WAS PASSING VESSEL 1, IT MADE A WAKE LARGE ENOUGH TO SWAMP AND SINK VESSEL 1.  VESSEL 1 WAS COMMERCIAL FISHING AT THE TIME AND WAS ABLE TO SEEK SAFETY FROM ANOTHER VESSEL IN THE AREA.  THE WAKE IS BELIEVED TO BE THE CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN THIS INCIDENT.  VESSEL 1 WAS EQUIPPED WITH ALL REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT.


BARDID: NC-2015-0041
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAPE FEAR RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BALD HEAD ISLAND
County: BRUNSWICK
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was attempting to dock at bald head island marina.  While entering the marina under mechanical power, the operator attempted to throttle down while approaching the dock.  The throttle shift became stuck in the forward position and the vessel was unable to slow down its motion.  The vessel struck the marina dock causing damage to the dock and vessel.  Fault of equipment is believed to be the contributing factor in the incident.  Vessel 1 was equipped with all required safety equipment.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0042
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: SHALLOTTE
County: BRUN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 17, 2015 at approximately 6:00pm, operator and three other adults, including the injured were heading back to tripps boat landing on the icw near shallotte. According to the injured and operator, they were almost to the boat ramp when a larger vessel met and passed them. The wake produced by the passing vessel pushed the small 14 foot aluminum boat operator was operating over into a channel marker. Victim, who had been seated beside operator at the rear of the tiller drive operated vessel, fell over the back of the vessel when it made contact with the channel marker. It appears that the propeller struck victim and caused an injury to her forehead above the right eye and to her left arm. Victim was pulled into the vessel and rushed to the shore where ems was called and she was then transported to new hanover regional medical center for treatment. Based upon witness statements and statements from the operator and victim, it appears that this incident was a result of the wake pushing the small vessel into the channel marker which resulted in victim falling from the vessel. It also appears that there was not a proper lookout as well, which resulted in the small vessel being too close to an upcoming channel marker upon encountering the large wake. The vessel was equipped with the proper size and amount of life saving devices. However, they were not needed in this particular incident. It does not appear that alcohol or drugs played any role in this incident.


BARDID: NC-2015-0043
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ROANOKE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: NAGS HEAD
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call at 2:15pm on june 15, 2015 from the raleigh dispatch office about a jet ski accident. The dispatcher received a call from dare county central informing them that the nags head fire and rescue and emts had arrived on the scene.  The operator had refused assistance from the emts, but then decided to go to the hospital to get checked out.  I proceeded to the outer banks hospital to interview the operator of the jet ski.

The operator of the vessel advised me that she and her passenger were cruising on the jet ski they rented.  She said she was going too fast when she made a sharp turn, and then the jet ski turned over.  While the jet ski was turning over, the passenger fell forward into the operator.  This resulted in the operator falling forward hitting the handle bar of the jet ski with her body.  The operator suffered injuries to her rib area and experienced shortness of breath.  No charges were filed.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0045
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MASONBORO INLET
NearestCityorTown: WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
County: NEW HANOVER
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Weather
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: anchor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of sunday, may 24, 2015 at approximately 8:00pm, operator was anchored up in the atlantic ocean near the south jetty wall of the masonboro inlet with his bow facing east.

Operator's anchor line broke causing his vessel to drift northwest towards the rock jetty wall.  Once the vessel began to drift, operator attempted to start his engine but failed to do so.  Operator's vessel then drifted into the rock jetty wall hitting engine first.  At that time, operator abandoned his vessel and swam to the jetty wall to safety.

Operator then walked down the jetty wall and found a person camping and told that person camping what had happened.  This person called the us coast guard, which then relayed the information to wildlife officer.  Tow boat us picked up operator and gave him a ride to the wrightsville beach access area.  Officer met operator at the access area and had operator complete the mb4.1.

Operator obtained no injuries.  Operator's vessel was then capsized by crashing waves onto the rock jetty wall and lodged into the rocks.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0046
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAWMILL PARK ACCESS
NearestCityorTown: ELIZABETH CITY
County: PASQ
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 27, 2015, at approximately 4:00pm, there was a report of a boating accident in sawmill park access area. The accident involved an individual that had been out bream fishing that day in newbegun creek. Three people had been out fishing on this sunny and slightly windy day (8-12mph). They were fishing newbegun creek, a tributary to the pasquotank river for bream. After they caught a few fish, they decided it was time to go back to the boat ramp to clean the fish they had caught. Upon arriving at sawmill park access, subject backed the boat trailer down the ramp. Operator was the operator of the vessel and occupant1 was sitting on a pedestal seat at the stern of the boat. Operator tried loading the boat once but had to back up and try again due to the wind. While operator was approaching the boat trailer for the second time, occupant1 stood up at the stern of the boat. Operator not being aware that occupant1 was standing, gave the throttle an abrupt forward motion to propel the boat further on the trailer. When this happened, occupant1 was thrown from the stern of the boat into the water next to the propeller which was engaged in forward gear. During his struggle to resurface, occupant1 got his shirt and left forearm caught in the spinning propeller cutting his arm very badly. Due to his shirt being hung in the prop, occupant1 was unable to stand up in the water. Operator had to get subject to pull the trailer up so that occupant1 could stand on the ramp and cut his shirt free from the propeller. The party called 911 and when ems arrived, they discovered the severity of occupant1's injuries. Ems immediately called for a helicopter to have occupant1 air lifted to norfolk general hospital where he had to have emergency surgery to repair tendons in his left arm. 

No alcohol or drugs were believed to contribute to the accident and no charges were filed.


BARDID: NC-2015-0047
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LOOKOUT SHOALS
NearestCityorTown: CATAWBA
County: CATA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator and the investigation, at approximately 8:40pm the date of 5/13/2015 on lake lookout shoals approximately 500 yards north of the wrc boat ramp in catawba county, operator was pulling victim, on a tube behind vessel 1. While turning the tube jumped over a wake and the victim's head contacted the water forcefully. The contact rendered the victim unconscious. The other passengers pulled the victim into the vessel and proceeded to shore to call 911. Claremont rescue squad responded to the scene and transported the victim to catawba valley medical center in hickory, nc where they were met and interviewed by sgt.. The operator and owner of the vessel were contacted by me and were interviewed in catawba. Both the owner and operator admitted to having been operating during the evening on the water and both were given standardized field sobriety tests indicating neither one was intoxicated. 

I believe the accident was caused by inexperience on the part of the victim in the activity she was participating in, as well as dark conditions, which are still legal to operate in. I do not believe alcohol nor drugs to have been factors in the accident. No charges were filed in the incident.


BARDID: NC-2015-0048
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: CAROLINA BEACH
County: NEWH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon investigation, it was found that vessel 1 was heading in a southeastern direction at 30-40 mph. Vessel 2 was traveling in a southerly direction approximately 30 yards to the left and behind vessel 1 at 30-40 mph on the icw. Operator1 was attempting to jump a wake from a large vessel (vessel 3 unknown) traveling north in the oppo0site direction from the pwcs. 

Operator1 was attempting to jump the wake from the large vessel, but cut in front of the path of vessel 2. Vessel 2 was traveling in a south direction and did not see vessel 1 coming at him until the last second and tried to turn to the left in an attempt to avoid impact. 

Vessel 1 made impact with vessel 2 at approximately 70-80 degree angle. Vessel 1 hit vessel 2 in the middle of the pwc going over top of vessel 2 and hitting the operator knocking operator2 off the pwc. Operator2 was helped back onto the pwc by operator1 and taken back to north end jet ski rentals. He does not remember if he was knocked unconscious or not. 

Father transported his son to cape fear hospital in wilmington for medical treatment. Operator2 suffered two broken right ribs and received 14 stitches above his left eyebrow. 

Charges: 
Operator1 - operate any motorboat or vessel on the waters of the state in a reckless or negligent manner as to endanger life, limb or property of any person. G.s. 75a-10 (a).


BARDID: NC-2015-0049
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-20 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fontana Lake
NearestCityorTown: Almond
County: Swain
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling in an area between Forney Creek and Point 9 on Fontana Lake. Operator was pulling a female skier behind vessel. The vessel was producing a wake and the skier was wake surfing behind vessel. The vessel was traveling around 10 mph. The skier had some slack come into the rope that she was holding while wake surfing. The slack that was let out caused the skier to pull the rope having a T bar attached to the right side of her body and up around the neck area. As the skier done this, the slack was taken back up and she was pulled forward and her neck was hyper extended. She complained of neck pain and was transported by the boat to Almond Boat Park. As a precaution, the injured skier was transported by a helicopter to Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC where she was checked out and released. She had pain and stiffness to the neck for a few days but is feeling better at this time. The Skier was wearing a Type III personal flotation device and there was no alcohol involved in this accident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0050
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tillery
NearestCityorTown: Badin
County: Stanly
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 23, 2015 at approximately 07:00 P.M., I received a call from Raleigh Dispatch in reference to a boating incident on Lake Tillery near the Falls Dam. 

Vessel 1 was traveling north approximately 20 yards from the shore line near Stanly County when it struck a submerged rock. Both occupants were ejected from the vessel. The operator landed on another submerged rock making contact with his face. The passenger was able to pull the injured operator on board and travel back to the owner/operators pier. The operator was transported to Stanly Regional Hospital via ambulance. Both occupants were wearing their life vest. I believe alcohol may have been a factor in this incident due to being misled by the operator and his wife the evening of the incident as well as the operator admitting four days later that he was in fact the operator at the time of the incident. On May 27th, 2015 the operator also admitted to have been drinking alcohol on the day of the incident. The operator also stated that he was familiar with the area. 

See Attachment for more details. There was slight damage to the hull of the vessel. The majority of damage was in the very front end due to collision with a rock under water. My estimated damage to the vessel is $500.00.


BARDID: NC-2015-0051
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOGUE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: NEWPORT
County: CART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 10, 2015, operator had launched his 18'coastal skiff from a private landing at the end of cannon street in newport.  Operator proceeded to the emerald isle area where he picked up a couple of clients to take fishing.  At approximately 13:30 hrs, operator returned his clients back to shore in the emerald isle area, then proceeded north on the icw while heading back to the landing he had launched from.  Operator was traveling at approximately 20 mph in the center of bogue sound near wood island when he noticed a small piece of paper causing a blockage in his live well.  
 
Operator stepped to the right side of his center console and let go of the steering wheel in an effort to remove the blockage.  While still traveling at approximately 20 mph, the boat made a sharp left turn causing operator to be thrown from the boat over the starboard gunwale.  Note that operator was not wearing a pfd.  The boat then proceeded to operate unmanned in a counter clockwise circle a short distance from operator.  Operator then swam to the circling boat in an effort to re-board the moving vessel.  Operator grabbed on to the rear portion of the starboard gunwale.  He then attempted to pull himself back into his boat, but was overcome by the movement of the boat.  Operator lost his grip and went feet first under the boat where he was struck by the boat's moving propeller.  As a result, operator received a small cut to the top of his left foot, and three deep cuts approximately four inches long to his right lower leg and outermost portion of his knee.  Note that the cut to the knee severed several tendons and ligaments.  After the boat motor made contact with operator, it shut off.  Operator was then able to re-board his vessel, then transport himself back to the landing.  Ems was dispatched and operator was transported to carteret general hospital.  Operator received multiple stitches and underwent surgery for the knee injury.  

Note:  as of 6/16/15 at 10:00 hrs, operator was in raleigh hospital due to an infection he had contacted.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0052
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOGUE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CARTERET
County: CART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 9:00am on may 31, 2015, operator was operating a 21' southern skimmer flat bottomed skiff heading in an easterly direction in a creek which was near to and ran parallel to the icw in the area of bogue sound.  Operator was bringing the vessel which belonged to his friend back to dock which.  In order to get to that dock, operator had to navigate around a shoal.  This would require him to travel east in the creek's main channel past the dock and the shallow shoal to turn to port and to return west down the creek in a secondary channel to the dock.  
 
Operator attempted to make the turn to port sharply and at an estimated speed of 20-25 mph.  While making that turn, the vessel's flat bottom started to slide on the water's surface which caused the starboard side of the vessel to suddenly and momentarily dig into the water before continuing to slide.  This digging action caused the vessel to suddenly slow down and threw operator over the starboard side of the vessel, out of the vessel and into the water.  The vessel continued running and began to circle around operator.  After circling operator twice, the vessel which was still traveling at an estimated speed of 20-25 mph struck the pylon of a dock on the starboard side of the front of the bow.  The vessel then became stuck on the dock.

Good sam ran over and turned the engine off.  Operator swam to shore and met with a cape carteret pd officer who took down his information.  Operator then inspected the vessel, found it to be still operational and took the boat back to his intended destination - the dock.

Operator stated there was no vessel traffic, waves, wakes or noticeable wind at the time of the incident.  Operator also stated this was maybe his third time operating this vessel and he was not familiar in general with operating vessels with flat bottomed hulls.  Alcohol and drugs were not suspected to be contributing factors.  It appears this incident resulted from operator making a sharp turn at high speed while not being familiar with the handling dynamics of a flat bottomed skiff.

The dock which was struck by the vessel sustained major damage.  At least one pylon was pushed over and the frame and walkway of the outer portion of the dock appeared to have sustained major damage.  Most of the damage to the vessel occurred to the starboard side of the front bow where the fiberglass was crushed and caved in.  The rubber rub rail on the starboard side of the vessel had also been knocked mostly loose.  The bracket on which the fire extinguisher was mounted near the transom was also broken from the impact.  Operator sustained no injuries.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0053
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOGUE SOUND
NearestCityorTown: MOREHEAD CITY
County: CART
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator launched his 19' bayliner trophy center console boat which was powered by a 120 hp outboard engine from the wrc morehead access area at approximately 9:00am on may 23, 2015. After launching the boat off of his trailer from the right ramp, right ramp as you look towards the water, he tied off on his starboard side to the center dock located between both ramps. His bow was pointed inland. Operator was the only occupant of the vessel and his father was standing on the center dock next to the starboard side of the vessel. Operator had just recently filled the vessel's gas tank full (approximately 55 gallons of fuel) at about 8:00am. 

Operator attempted to start the engine but during the first series of cranks, it would not start. After waiting a minute, he tried cranking the engine again, and while cranking the engine, realized he did not have the clip attached to the kill switch meaning the kill switch was engaged. Before he could finish cranking the engine, the second time and before attaching the clip to the kill switch, an explosion occurred inside the hull under his feet where the fuel tank was situated. The explosion blew the center console up and off the hull and it settled inside toward the port side of the vessel. The explosion also blew the hatches off multiple compartments in the boat including the compartment under the center console and the hatch located just forward of the transom which allowed access to the fuel tank. There were flames inside of each of those compartments. Operator jumped out of the vessel onto the dock after explosion. His father then told him he needed to extinguish the flames so operator jumped back into the vessel, retrieved the fire extinguisher from the front of the vessel and extinguished the flames under the console and under the hatch to the fuel tank. 

Damage to the vessel included the following: cap separated from the hull on the starboard side from stern to bow; hatch doors blown off of nearly every compartment; center console separated from hull, fire damage to center console and the wiring underneath it, fire damage to fuel tank and associated wires and hoses, cracks and abrasions to port side exterior of hull from another vessel attempting to quickly maneuver away from the burning vessel, and large cracks in the transom. 

Operator was standing slightly port of the center of the vessel behind and to the side of the center console with the right side of his body facing towards the bow at the time of the explosion. The flames from the compartment under the center console caused mostly superficial burns to both of his legs with the worst of the burns being to his right leg. He also suffered singed eyebrows. Father had singed leg hairs from his close proximity the starboard side of the vessel where the cap blew off from the explosion.


BARDID: NC-2015-0054
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tillery
NearestCityorTown: Norwood
County: Stanly
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/30/2015 at approximately 6:40 pm, a boating incident occurred on Lake Tillery near the Norwood Cove in Stanly County. The incident involved two vessels. Vessel 1 was a 10 ft, 2014 Yamaha Sea Doo. Vessel 2 was a 11 ft, 2011 Bombardier Sea Doo. Both vessels were headed south on Lake Tillery, when vessel 2 got about 10 yards in front of vessel 1 and vessel 2 made a right turn in front of vessel 1 causing vessel 1 to hit the starboard side of vessel 2. 

Both operators had been riding the Sea Doos for several hours on Lake Tillery before the incident occurred. Both vessels were traveling south on Lake Tillery at about 40-45 mph, when vessel 2 made a right turn in front of vessel 1 causing vessel 1 to hit the starboard side of vessel 2. As the two vessels collided everyone on both vessels were ejected from their vessel. Everyone was able to get back on their vessel and called 911 to come to the aid of the operator of vessel 2. 
 
Stanly County EMS arrived to the scene and transported operator2 to Carolina Medical Center- Main in Charlotte NC for a broken right femur. operator2 was released from Carolina Medical Center on Saturday July 4, 2015. No one else was injured from this incident. The initial analysis of vessel 1 was that there was no damage to the vessel. The analysis of vessel 2, was a broken plastic compartment under the steering wheel, broken plastic on the steering wheel, and the starboard side of the vessel had some fiberglass damage from the impact of the incident. Both vessels had all the required safety equipment and both operators had successfully completed the required Boater Safety Course.

It appears as though the incident was caused by carelessness and or the inattentiveness of the operator of vessel 2. The operator of vessel 2 failed to give way when turning right in front of vessel 1. It appears that alcohol may have contributed to this incident. I have discussed this incident with the AD in Stanley County and no charges are warranted.


BARDID: NC-2015-0055
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wylie
NearestCityorTown: Charlotte
County: Mecklenburg
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2015 at approximately 2:45pm, a boating incident occurred on Lake Wylie near the Allen Steam Plant. The vessel involved was a 2004, 26ft. Chaparral Sunesta 274. At the time of the incident, Operator was operating the vessel while towing her son-in-law, Subject1, and his juvenile son on a two passenger tube. The tube struck a wake from the vessel causing Subject1 to fall off the tube and into the water. Subject1 immediately began experiencing severe back pain. 

Operator had been towing her son-in-law, Subject1, and his juvenile son on a two occupant tube near the Allen Steam Plant on Lake Wylie. Operator stated that while she was operating the vessel, her daughter, was sitting near the stern (rear) of the vessel observing the skiers. Operator stated that she was navigating north, past the Allen Steam Plant, and began to turn counter-clockwise in an effort to turn the vessel around and begin heading back south. She stated that she was navigating at a slow, controlled speed while maneuvering the vessel. As Operator began completing her counter-clockwise turn and navigating south, the tube with both occupants on board struck a wake from the vessel. The observer, stated that as the tube hit the wake, her husband, Subject1, rolled out of the tube and into the water. Lookout stated that it was not a very large wake. The juvenile occupant on the tube was not ejected and sustained no injuries. Subject1 immediately began experiencing severe back pain. Lookout helped her husband re-board the vessel. Operator slowly navigated the vessel back to their private dock in Charlotte. Lookout called emergency services, and Subject1 was subsequently transported by the Charlotte Fire Department vessel to Charlotte Fire Station 38. Subject1 was then transported by ambulance to Carolinas Medical Center Main in Charlotte. 

There were no reckless or negligent factors contributing to this incident. There was no alcohol involved in this incident. It appeared as though the victim's injuries were a result of the tube impacting the vessel wake. This appeared to be a risk that the victim was taking by participating in this activity, and was out of the operator's control. No one was charged as a result of this incident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0056
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: LITTLETON
County: WARREN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements made by the operator of vessel 1, Operator, he was operating his ski boat in Lizard Creek around 3pm towing a 15 year old male for his first time water skiing.  As they neared the mouth of Lizard Creek, vessel 1 made a u-turn.  As the skier hit the wake caused by the boat making the turn, his skis became crossed and he fell.  The skier immediately reported that his right leg was hurting.  He was transported back to dock where EMS responded and transported him to Halifax Regional Hospital.  He was treated and released for a pulled hamstring.  The skier was reportedly wearing a USCG approved Type III PFD at the time of the accident and alcohol and/or drugs is not believed to have been a contributing factor.  No charges were filed as a result of the accident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0057
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Currituck Sound
NearestCityorTown: Duck
County: Dare
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
operator was operating the personal watercraft  in the Nor Banks Sailing and Watersports riding zone in Duck, North Carolina.  Operator made a sharp turn with the personal watercraft and fell off into the water.  While attempting to re-board the personal watercraft Operator hit her head on the side of the vessel causing a cut over the right eye.  The Nor Banks safety patrol boat went to assist and Operator was able to operate the personal watercraft back to the Nor Banks dock where she received medical treatment and went to Outer Banks Hospital.  At the Outer Banks Hospital Operator received stitches over her right eye due to a laceration from hitting the side of the personal watercraft.  Alcohol and or drugs were not contributing factors in this accident.  Operator was wearing PFD.  No charges were filed.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0058
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Gaston
NearestCityorTown: Littleton
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
According to statements made by (Owner/Operator of Vessel 1), Vessel 1 was traveling in north in Lizard Creek off of Lake Gaston, near the Virginia State Line.  Vessel 1 was towing an inflatable tube with 2 occupants.  As the vessel neared the Virginia State Line, Operator stated that he made a sharp turn, which put the tube "in the whip," or a fast turn. It was at this time that one of the occupants of the tube fell out of the tube, impacting the water and dislocating his right shoulder. Opeartor then retrieved the injured person from the water and transported him by boat to the his private dock.  Halifax County EMS then transported the injured person to Halifax Regional Hospital where he was treated and released for a dislocated shoulder.  At the time of the incident, the injured person was wearing a wake boarding vest, which was not US Coast Guard approved.  Drugs and/or alcohol are not believed to have been a contributing factor.  There were no charges filed.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0059
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: John H. Kerr Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Henderson
County: Vance
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of Vessel 1 filled Vessel 1 with fuel.  Operator of Vessel 1 ran blower for three to four minutes and started vessel one.  Operator of Vessel 1 drove Vessel approximately one and a half miles and shut Vessel 1 off and left the blower running.  Vessel 1 was shut off approximately two minutes with the blower running.  Operator of Vessel 1 attempted to start Vessel 1 and the engine compartment of Vessel 1 exploded.  Operator of Vessel 1 got the passenger and dog out of Vessel 1 and then exited Vessel 1 by jumping into the water.  Passengers and operator of Vessel 1 were picked up by a nearby vessel.  Vessel 1 drifted to shore where Vessel 1 burnt to the water line.


BARDID: NC-2015-0060
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: High Rock Lake
NearestCityorTown: Lexington
County: Davidson
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24, 2015 at approximately 7:30PM a pontoon boat (Vessel #1) and a personal watercraft (PWC) (Vessel #2) were involved in a boating incident in the Abbotts Creek area of High Rock Lake 2(two) miles upstream of Holloway Church Rd Bridge on Abbotts Creek in Lexington NC. The total width of Abbotts Creek where the boat incident occurred is approximately 200 yards. (Vessel #1) was a 24-foot, 1988 Sea Nymph pontoon boat that was white and burgundy in color. 
(Vessel #1) being operated by the owner had 8(eight) passengers on board the pontoon in addition to himself. (Vessel #2) was a 10-foot 6 inch, 2005 Honda personal watercraft (PWC) that was red, black, and white in color. 
(Vessel #1) was traveling at idle speed downstream in Abbotts Creek when they observed (Vessel #2) traveling at a high rate of speed coming straight towards their vessel. (Vessel #2) collided with (Vessel #1) as he tried turning to the left to avoid hitting (Vessel #1) at the last second. 

Note: Refer to Summary in attachments for full Synopsis of Incident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0061
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Norman
NearestCityorTown: Cornelius
County: Mecklenburg
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/24/2015 at approximately 11:00am a boating incident occurred on Lake Norman in the Rusty Rudder cove in Davidson Creek. The incident occurred within 200'' of the fuel dock. The incident occurred when a 28'' 2006 Chaparral with a 375 HP inboard outboard motor struck a docked 33'' 1991 Wellcraft. 

Operator1 had just completed fueling his vessel and had backed out of the fuel dock. He had his daughter, and her boyfriend, along with a puppy on board with him.  He was traveling at no wake speed traveling parallel to a dock that had approximately 40 vessel slips on it. Operator1 stated that he became distracted by his daughter playing with the puppy at the back of the vessel. He was looking back at his daughter and the puppy when he heard yelling from the dock. He looked up to see that he was about to collide with a docked vessel.  Operator1 put his vessel into reverse but it was too late to keep the vessels from contacting. The port side windshield of Operator1's vessel struck the bow and anchor of the docked and unoccupied 33'' Wellcraft. The impact broke the windshield of Operator1's vessel and caused minimal gel coat damage to the 33'' Wellcraft.  Cornelius Police department responded and gathered the information on all involved parties. Operator1 was contacted at his residence later that day to complete the investigation. 

It appeared that operator inattention is the leading cause in this incident. No alcohol or drug use was a factor in this incident. No one was charged as a result of this incident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0062
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Norman
NearestCityorTown: Mooresville
County: Iredell
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/04/2015, at approximately 8:00pm, Victim was struck by a pontoon vessel (vessel 2) while knee boarding on Lake Norman and subsequently died at the scene from her injuries. She was being towed by a Mastercraft ski vessel (Vessel 1). The pontoon vessel was being operated by an impaired person at the time. 
 
About 6:30 pm on the afternoon of 7/4/15, Operator1 took his vessel out with seven other people to go knee boarding on Lake Norman. They were operating in the McCrary Creek area of Lake Norman. His vessel (Vessel 1) is a 1987 Mastercraft 19 feet in length. It is a Prostar 190 with North Carolina registration.
 
They were taking turns knee boarding in McCrary Creek. Just before 8:00pm, Victim took a turn at knee boarding. Operator1 was the operator towing her at the time. It was partly cloudy as there had been some thunderstorm throughout the day. There was not much boat traffic in this area at the time as well. 
 
The vessel 1, operated by Operator1 was heading upstream further into McCrary Creek. As Vessel 1 was traveling east in the channel, it was towing Victim. Victim was knee boarding. According to the witnesses this was her first time knee boarding. She was wearing a type 3 USCG approved PFD while being towed. 
 
Vessel 2 is a 24 foot Bentley Pontoon vessel. It is a model 240 Cruise with North Carolina registration. There were a total of 5 people on Vessel 2. Vessel 2 was headed in the same direction as Vessel 1 and was about 175-200 yards behind it, according to Operator1. He stated the Vessel 2 was behind him and off set to his left. Vessel 2 was traveling about 20 mph. Vessel 2 was the give way vessel and Vessel 1 was the stand on vessel in this incident. 
 
Vessel 1 then made a turn to the port (left) to head back to their residence. Vessel 1 was still towing Victim while turning to the port. Vessel 1 was still the stand on vessel. While turning Operator1 stated that he looked back and saw Vessel 2 still heading in the same direction. He stated that he realized that Vessel 2 was not changing course of speed and might hit his vessel. Operator1 stated that he then straightened the vessel, which put them on a northerly heading. He stated the Vessel 2 appeared to turn to their port slightly in the direction of Vessel 1. At this time it was apparent that Vessel 2 may strike Vessel 1. Operator1 stated that he thought that Vessel 2 was going to possibly just run over the tow line and miss his vessel and also miss Victim, who was still being towed by Vessel 1 on a knee board. 
 
At the last second before impact, Vessel 2, operated by Operator2, turned to the starboard (right). This turn put him in line with Victim being towed on the knee board. Vessel 2 struck Victim with its left pontoon according to Operator1. She then went under the vessel and was struck by the propeller. She was struck by Vessel 2 about 8:00pm. 
After Victim was struck, Vessel 1 made a hard turn to the port to turn around and check on Victim. One passenger and Operator1 jumped out of Vessel 1 to assist Victim. Vessel 2 went passed Vessel 1 and then turned to its port (left). Vessel 2 circled back around and headed to the west. This course of travel got Vessel 2 stuck on a sand bar/ shoal. 
 
Operator1 and the passenger were able to get Victim back into Vessel 1. Operator1 stated that she had very bad wounds from the propeller and he believed her to be dead. He covered her head an...
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0063
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JORDAN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: PITTSBORO
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1830 hours on 21 June, 2015 I, a Wildlife Enforcement Officer (WOE) with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, was dispatched to Ebenezer Boat Ramp on B. Everett Jordan Lake in reference to a boating accident which allegedly occurred East of Ebenezer Boat Ramp and Beaver Creek Road. Upon my arrival at Ebenezer Boat Ramp at approximately 1840 hours I spoke with (Vessel 1 operator), (Vessel 1 passenger), and (Vessel 2 operator). 

Vessel 1 operator stated he was towing four (4) children on a tube with two (2) passengers on board his vessel at a slow speed, under 10 miles per hour (mph), traveling in an Easterly direction. Vessel 1 operator stated he noticed vessel 2 ahead of him and offset to the port side of his vessel, distance unknown. As he was approaching parallel to vessel 2, vessel 1 operator states he noticed vessel 2 slowing to almost a stop. Vessel 1 operator stated he guided his vessel farther to the right to ensure a safe clearance between both vessels as he passed. As he neared vessel 2''s location, vessel 1 operator states vessel 1 made a sudden sharp turn to the right striking vessel 1. Vessel 1 operators'' description of the accident was collaborated by vessel 1 passenger. 

Vessel 2 operator stated she was traveling alone in an Easterly direction at a speed of less than ten (10) mph when she noticed her vessel was running low on fuel. Vessel 2 operator stated she was going to return to the Ebenezer beach area due to her fuel situation. Vessel 1 operator stated she looked over her right shoulder to ensure there were no other vessels behind her before she made a turn to the right. Vessel 2 operator did note the sun was glaring off the water when she looked to her rear but did not see any other vessels before she turned. Vessel 2 operator stated she made a turn to the right and the front of vessel 2 was struck by vessel 1. 

Vessel 1 was the give way vessel in this accident as it was apparently approaching from the rear area of vessel 2 which was the stand on vessel. It appears operator inexperience (vessel 1 operator), sun glare, and a sharp turn by vessel 1 were contributing factors to the accident. No proper lookout on vessel 2 may have also been a contributing factor as well. 

There were no injuries reported and no evidence in this investigation revealed the use of alcohol or illegal drugs as contributing factors to the accident. There was no indication of equipment malfunction and all parties involved stated personal flotation devices were serviceable and used at the time of the accident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0064
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Gaston
NearestCityorTown: Littleton
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2015 at approximately 1:30pm, operator was operating a red Mastercraft Boat in Big Stone House Creek on Lake Gaston with Victim wake surfing and wearing the appropriate PFD behind Operator's Mastercraft. Operator's wife and three friends were also on the boat at the time of the incident. 

The operator was operating a red Mastercraft in Big Stone House Creek heading north to the main lake with registration at the time of the incident. The operator was letting Victim wake surf behind his Mastercraft boat at a speed of nine to ten miles per hour.  Operator was going straight in Big Stone House Creek near a bend at the beginning of the creek and a black Mastercraft boat was coming from the main lake at a high rate of speed cutting across the front of Operator's Mastercraft causing Operator to pull the throttle to neutral and cut the engine off immediately.  
 
When Operator's Boat stopped the wake surfer Victim's momentum continued forward causing her to fall and go underwater momentarily. Operator hit the back of her head on the platform at the stern of Operator's Mastercraft Boat. At this time, one of the passengers on Operator's Mastercraft boat called 911. Warren Co. Rescue Squad responded to the call at or about 2:00pm carrying victim to Halifax Regional Medical Center at or about 3:15pm. Victim was placed in trauma room 1 where she was given a Cat Scan to look for head trauma. Victim's RN, said the results came back negative for any type of head trauma. Victim was released from Halifax Regional Medical Center with a prescription for pain.  

Due to my investigation, operator/witness statements and interview, I have found that victim was wake surfing and fell due to a sudden reduction of speed of Operator's Mastercraft causing minor injury to the back of her head and operator inattention from the unknown black Mastercraft.s


BARDID: NC-2015-0065
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Gaston
NearestCityorTown: Littleton
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 9th Operator was operating a 21' ski boat while towing six people on two tubes. Operator was headed south on Little Stonehouse creek when she slowed the vessel to make a sharp turn and headed back north when the tubes hit a wake causing the people on the tube to bump heads. Tuber1 hit his mouth and chin. His neck was hurting so they called 911. He was taken to the hospital to get checked out. Pfds were worn by the passengers on the tubes. There was no alcohol involved.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0066
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Roanoke Sound
NearestCityorTown: Nags Head
County: Dare
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/18/15 at 2:21 PM, I received a call from Raleigh dispatch.  Raleigh advised that a boating accident had occurred and that one person was injured and being transported to the Outer Banks Hospital.  I patrolled to the Outer Banks Hospital and spoke with the victim.  Victim was being treated for severe lacerations on both of his legs.  Victim reported he was a passenger on a rented pontoon boat earlier that day.  He reported he was sitting on the bow (front) of the pontoon boat, known as vessel 1.  Victim reported he was squatting on the outside of the front guard rail of vessel 1.  He reported vessel 1 was cruising about 10 mph when he fell overboard and was ran over by vessel 1.  He reported the propeller ended up cutting his legs in several places.  Officer spoke with the operator and several of the passengers that same day at a house the group was renting in Rodanthe, NC.  The operator reported that he and several others on board vessel 1 were telling Victim to sit down and to not ride on the bow of the vessel.  No charges were filed in this matter.  Alcohol / drugs were a contributing factor to this accident.  No parties on board were wearing PFDs.  Nothing further at this time.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0067
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Roanoke Sound
NearestCityorTown: Nags Head
County: DARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
July 18th, 2015 at approximately 1:15 p.m., two people were riding two rented Yamaha PWCS on the Roanoke Sound.  They were traveling North with Operator1 closest to the shore line on Vessel #1 and Operator2 approximately 100ft to her left farther into the sound on Vessel #2.  They were approaching the outer limit of the operation area boundary set be the rental company.   Vessel #2 made a right turn towards the shore line in attempt to turn around.  At that time vessel #1 made a left turn inside of vessel #2 both vessels were travelling at 10-20 mph.  Vessel #1 was headed towards the bow of vessel #2 and was unable to take the appropriate action to avoid a collision.  Vessel #1 impacted vessel #2 on the starboard side approximately 1 foot from the bow.  Upon impact the bow of vessel #1 began to travel under vessel #2 and caused extensive damage to the underside of vessel #2.  Vessel #2 then slid back off of vessel #1 and each vessel continued in opposite directions.  Neither operator was injured nor thrown from their respective vessel.  The operators returned to Island Breeze Water Sports and reported the accident.  Officer received the report of the accident at 2:08 pm and proceeded to Island Breeze Water Sports.  I arrived at 2:30 pm and completed the investigation.   

the owner/operator of Island Breeze Water Sports estimated the damage on Vessel #1 to be $1250.00 and the damage to Vessel #2 to be $6000.  No alcohol or drugs contributed to the accident, both operators were wearing PFDs.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0068
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Topsail Beach
County: New Hanover
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading in a East direction out the New Topsail Inlet at approximately. 20 MPH.  While heading out the inlet a he caught a medium size wave that through the vessel up into the air.  victim was a passenger in the vessel that was sitting in front of the center console.  When the Operator hit the wave, Victim turned to the right and grabbed part of the T top rail in an attempt to hold on.  When the boat came back down Victim landed back down hard on the seat and felt his back hurting.  The passengers laid Victim on the floor of the boat and called 911.  Operator drove the boat back and met EMS.  Victim was transported to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Porters Neck for treatment.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0069
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Currituck Sound
NearestCityorTown: Duck
County: Dare
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Around 2:30 pm I arrived at Sunset Water Sports in Duck regarding a PWC accident that occurred around 1:30 pm.  Vessel #2  was traveling from South to North while Vessel #1 was sitting to the West of the path of travel to Vessel #2 . Vessel #2 made a right handed u-turn to travel back toward the direction of Sunset Grill. Vessel #1 started traveling in a North Eastern direction crossing into the path of Vessel #2 striking his PWC in the right rear. Neither operator was injured, the damage to vessel #1 was minimal. The damage of Vessel #2 was calculated at $1995.00
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0070
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hyco Lake
NearestCityorTown: Roxboro
County: Person
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Other
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
operator was pulling his son and his daughter on a tube behind their new Stingray boat. They went to turn and it pushed the tube over the wake of the boat and the tube was projected into the air approximately 5 to 6 feet. When the tube came down and impacted the water the boy went to screaming. They stopped the boat and pulled the tube in to find that his right leg was twisted and that his knee cap was located on the side of his leg. They then called the lake authority and headed to the ramp. The lake authority called 911 and had EMS come and pick victim up and take him to Duke. They diagnosed it as a dislocation and fixed it and sent him home.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0071
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Wrightsville Beach
County: New Hanover
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 4, 2015 at approximately 1830 Sgt. was at the Wrightsville Beach Boating Access area performing field sobriety tests on a subject.  While he was performing the sobriety tests he heard a loud crash behind him at one of the boat ramps.  He turned around and observed a Carolina Skiff vessel operated by a male subject with the bow of the vessel up on the northern most dock at the access area.  He made note of the subject driving and finished performing his field sobriety tests on the subject he was with.  During this time a female subject got in the vessel and loaded it on to the trailer.  The male subject that had been operating started walking up the parking lot.  Sgt. approached the male subject and asked what he was doing.  He stated that he was going to put some things up in the vehicle and was planning on coming to Sgt. and informing him of the crash.  He stated that his friend had asked him to drive the vessel onto the trailer when she backed the trailer into the water.  He stated that he was not familiar with the vessel and ended up running the vessel onto the dock.  Sgt. asked  the subject how much alcohol he had to drink and he responded "a good bit".  Sgt. then performed field sobriety tests on operator and placed him under arrest for operating a vessel while impaired and operating a vessel in a reckless manner causing property damage.  operator was taken to the Wrightsville Beach Police Department where he blew a .15 blood alcohol content on the Intoximeter. 
 
    There was considerable damage to the dock and to the bow of the boat.  No one was injured in this incident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0072
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bogue Inlet
NearestCityorTown: Emerald Isle
County: Onslow
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, June 30th 2015, three jet skis left out of the Emerald Isle boat ramp. They headed towards Bogue Inlet, each jet ski was operated by one person. Victim was the last of the jet skis when they headed out the inlet into the Atlantic Ocean. While the other two jet skis were cruising around, Victim fell off his jet ski and began to panic in the water. One of the other jet skis came over to assist Victim in re-boarding his jet ski. Victim was unable to re-board his jet ski, even with the help of Subject. Subject tried to assist Victim in re-boarding his (Subject) jet ski, since his (Subject) had a fold down step located at the back of the jet ski. Victim was still unable to board the jet ski. Subject boarded his jet ski and began to tow Victim through the water towards land. Victim was holding on to the handle that is attached to the back of the seat, Victim continually let go of the handle and complained that the water from the jet kept hitting him in the face. At this time they attempted to tow Victim with a rope attached to Subject's jet ski. 

Victim could not hold on to the rope, while the jet ski was in motion, even though they were travelling at low speeds. Victim let go of the rope one final time and began to drift in the water towards Bear Island (Hammocks Beach State Park). Subject jumped into the water and took his PFD off and placed it around Victim to give him extra buoyancy- in addition to the PFD that Victim was already wearing. Subject was supporting Victim head at the time his (Victim) body went limp in the water. Subject stayed with Victim till the US Coast Guard arrived on scene.

The Coast Guard started CPR en route back to the station, where Carteret County EMS transported Victim to Carteret General Hospital in Morehead City, North Carolina. CPR was continued by EMS during transport, but was unable to revive Victim.

After an autopsy the cause of death was ruled to be from a massive heart attack that the victim suffered while in the water.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0073
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Neuse River
NearestCityorTown: Vanceboro
County: Craven
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator launched his 19' Tracker Marine Q4 Tahoe with I/O engine from Cowpen Landing Access Area on the Neuse River at about 10:00 A.M., On June 26th, 2015. He and his passenger, Occupant, headed up river a short distance, anchored on the northern bank of the river and began fishing. At about 10:30 A.M., Operator decided to change fishing locations. While still at anchor, he attempted to start the engine. While turning the key in the ignition, he heard a loud pop coming from the rear of the vessel. Operator turned around and saw smoke coming out of the rear hatch to the engine compartment. He then opened the hatch and flames erupted out of the compartment. operator could not get to the fire extinguisher because it was stored near to the engine compartment.

Operator and Occupant, who were already wearing PFDs, then jumped overboard into the river and began floating down river. A plane flying overhead spotted the burning vessel and called 911 who then dispatched emergency services. Operator and Occupant floated/swam/waded to the boat ramp and arrived at the ramp at about the same time emergency services arrived on scene. The vessel by this time had burnt free of its anchor line and floated down river. It ended up aground on the south side of the river across from Cowpen Landing Access Area. Both Vanceboro and New Bern Fire Departments responded. New Bern Fire Department's fire boat extinguished the flames while the vessel was aground.

Operator stated this was the first time he had taken the vessel out this year. He indicated he had not filled the vessel up with fuel since last year. He also said he did not run the fuel ventilation system prior to starting the vessel. Impairing substances are not suspected to have contributed to this incident. I suspect residual fumes from fuel vapor ignited while Operator attempted to start the vessel leading to the engine compartment catching on fire.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0074
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intercoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: Sneads Ferry
County: Onslow
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 had just been unloaded from the trailer and was idling at the dock. Another vessel began to back down the boat ramp, Operator1 began to idle away from the dock into the open area in the marina. While maneuvering his boat away from the dock another vessel began backing out of the slip, and began coming towards Operator1's vessel. In order to avoid a collision with a larger vessel, Operator1 pushed the controls forward and headed towards the opening of the marina, while driving towards the opening, he struck the large piling at the opening of the marina. 

During the collision, Operator1 suffered several lacerations to his face and (vessel occupant) struck the bow compartment and was complaining of chest pains. Onslow County EMS responded to the scene and Operator1 and occupant refused transport to the hospital. After the incident both Operator1 and occupant went to the local urgent care and received medical treatment for their injuries.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0075
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bogue Sound
NearestCityorTown: Newport
County: Carteret
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject’s house is located on the waterfront of Bogue Sound and the ICW and he has a large dock extending from his property. On July 1st, 2015, at approximately 14:00, Owner saw his dock had been extensively damaged by what appeared to be a vessel having collided with it at some earlier time. To Owner's recollection the dock was not damaged on June 30th, 2015. His wife was at the house all night the night of the 30th and went to sleep at approximately midnight. She did not report seeing or hearing a vessel collide with the dock before that time. Owner believes the dock was mostly likely damage late that night sometime after midnight. 

Damage to the dock included two large support pylons being snapped off, support timbers being broken and buckled, and decking being broken and buckled. Damage to the dock was extensive. A wooden chair was also damaged from one of the snapped off pylons flying through the air and striking the chair after the vessel collided with the dock. The vessel left behind a decent amount of chips of fiberglass and blue paint which was collected as evidence. 

Damage to the dock indicates the vessel was traveling at high speed and in a westerly direction. The vessel most likely sustained significant damage to its starboard side. At this time the vessel, its operator, and any occupants are unknown.

*************************************************************
AT THIS TIME ALL VESSEL INFORMATION IS UNKNOWN
AT THIS TIME, VESSEL OWNER AND/OR OPERATOR/OCCUPANT INFORMATION IS UNKNOWN
ALL INFORMATION THAT HAS BEEN PROVIDED FOR THIS REPORT IS ALL THAT CAN BE PROVIDED BY THE OFFICER OF THIS REPORT. 
.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0076
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: High Rock Lake
NearestCityorTown: Salisbury
County: Rowan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26, 2015 at approximately 1700hrs a boating incident occurred on High Rock Lake at Tamarac Marina in Salisbury, NC. Operator1 of Denton, NC was the operator of Vessel 1 a 2012 22'' Xpress Pontoon with a 90 HP Outboard Engine. At the time of the incident Operator1's vessel was beached up on the shore at Tamarac Marina. He was in the process of getting his family off the front of the vessel to go get food when his vessel was struck by Vessel 2. Vessel 2 is a 2002 24'' Oasis Manitou Pontoon with a 60 HP Outboard Engine.  Operator2 was attempting to dock at the fueling dock at the marina when she collided with Vessel 1. 

Before the incident occurred Operator2 had pulled up to the fueling dock to unload her son so he could assist her get the vessel into the correct position to receive fuel. Operator1 was beached up to the shore at Tamarac Marina so that he and his family could go get lunch at the restaurant. There were multiple vessels docked already at the fueling dock and multiple vessels waiting in the area to receive fuel. Once a spot opened up at the fueling dock Operator2 (Vessel 1) proceeded to maneuver the vessel into the tight spot. She was receiving assistance from her son, and also the fuel attendant on how to position the vessel into the spot. Operator2 stated that since there were multiple vessels in the area she was concentrating on avoiding those vessels while also listening to the people on the dock giving her directions. As she got closer the fuel attendant was attempting to tell her how to back the vessel into the spot so that it would be easier to get gas. At this point she put the vessel in forward instead of reverse and collided with Vessel 1. At the point of contact Operator1 was in the process of helping his family off Vessel 2. The collision was so hard that some of the small children on board were thrown onto the floor of the vessel. At this point Operator2 shut the vessel off and the authorities were called. Vessel 1 had damage to the left rear panel and a minor dent to the gas tank. Vessel 2 had damage to the front right pontoon, the edge of the pontoon was slightly bent in.

From my investigation and after talking to Operator2, I feel that operator inexperience was the cause of the incident. When talking to Operator2 she said that she got a little flustered with all the boats and having to fit into a small spot on the dock. Also she stated that she accidentally put the vessel in forward gear instead of reverse. No one was charged as a result of the incident. No one on either vessel was injured due to the incident.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0077
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Belews Lake
NearestCityorTown: Stokesdale
County: Stokes
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Six adults and two children were occupying a pontoon boat.  While cruising at approximately 20-25 mph on Belews Lake near the hot water discharge, Victim stood up to take a picture with his phone.  Victim stated that he was standing near the bow while facing the stern in an attempt to take a picture of the vessel passengers. It was at this time that he started to step up on a small ice chest. Victim then lost his footing and began to fall over the bow of the vessel. Operator immediately pulled back on the throttle in an attempt to slow the vessel. The momentum of the vessel carried forward as Victim passed between the two metal pontoons. Victim was then struck by the propeller along the right side of his body multiple times. As Victim passed through the under side of the vessel going beyond the stern, he began to scream for help. As Operator became panicked, (the owner of the vessel) began to drive the boat back to Victim where some of the occupants were able to pull Victim back on board the vessel. 
 
Operator then took back over the operation of the vessel and drove the boat to Carolina Marina, in Rockingham County where they were met by paramedics. Victim was then transported to Baptist Hospital where he received a breathing tube and several stitches. Victim ultimately suffered three lacerations at his right hip area, two more lacerations on his right side at the rib area and one under his right arm. Victim also suffered four broken ribs a punctured right lung and later a collapsed left lung. He currently remains in the hospital and is projected to return home on 08/14/2015.

During my initial observation of the vessel I noticed several empty alcoholic beverage containers. It was very evident to me that Operator was not appreciably impaired by alcohol or any other impairing substance. She stated that she had consumed two beers throughout the evening. One occupant stated that all the adults, except for the operator had consumed several beers and that Victim had consumed approximately eight to ten beers prior to the incident. I was unable to assess Victim's level of impairment due to the injuries that he sustained and the immediate need for medical treatment beyond first aid.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0078
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Harris Lake
NearestCityorTown: Corrinth
County: Chatham
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At about 4:36pm on July 5th 2015, I received a call from Raleigh communications stating that a boating accident with injuries had occurred at Harris Lake in Chatham County. I arrived at Cross Point access area around 4:54pm and the paramedics were putting their boat on the water to go pick up the injured skier. While waiting for them to return I spoke to the observer that was riding on the Jet Ski at the time of the accident. The observer stated that the skier was on a wake board being towed by the Jet Ski. When coming out of a cove, the operator turned slightly right to head south. The skier then drifted left and went outside of the wake being caused by the Jet Ski. The skier lost balance and fell off the wake board into the water, injuring her back to the point where she could not feel her legs. 
 
In fear that they would injure the skier further, the operator and observer did not move her out of the water and called 911. When the paramedics returned with the operator of the Jet Ski and the skier, the skier was placed on a back board and moved from the boat to ambulance. While the skier was being taken care of Officer received the skiers contact information. I spoke to the operator and had her fill out an accident report form before the ambulance left. I then asked the operator for a few more details about the events prior. The operator stated that the injured skier had back surgery about a year prior to the accident. The operator also advised that she herself had not been drinking nor was she operating the Jet Ski in a reckless manner. The operator, observer and skier were all wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the accident. After gathering all the information I needed, Officer and I released the family to follow the ambulance to the hospital and we cleared the scene. I have come to the conclusion the Jet Ski wake mixed with the rain and wind caused the water to be a little more choppy than usual, which could have contributed to the accident.
 
    On a follow up call made to the operator, I found that the skier will be fine and will fully recover. The injuries sustained where explained as the equivalent to a car accident with bruising, soreness and a whiplash.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0079
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mountain Island Lake
NearestCityorTown: Mount Holly
County: Gaston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24, 2015 at around 08:00 PM, Vessel 1 was recreational cruising Southward on Mountain Island Lake in North Carolina. The vessel was ran onto a sand bar and began taking on water. A small Oil and Gasoline leak started to appear in the water. The vessel operator and the two occupants jumped out of the vessel. They were able to stand up in the water and catch the attention of another boater. They were taken to River bend Boating Access Area with no injuries. After speaking with all three occupants I found no sign of alcohol or any other impairing substance that contributed to the incident. This incident occurred due to the operators inexperience on this Lake. 
I have attached photos due to this incident.


BARDID: NC-2015-0080
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Hickory
NearestCityorTown: Hickory
County: Caldwell
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This boating incident occurred on Lake Hickory about .25 miles above the US 321 Bridge.  There were six persons on the boat.  Three adults and three children.  According to the operator the boat started running roughly and handling poorly in the water.  Operator stopped the boat and opened a compartment in the stern of the boat and found that compartment to be full of water.  Operator attempted to bail water from the boat but was unable to keep up with the amount of water coming into the boat.  PFDS were distributed to and used by each passenger.  The boat then quickly sank and rolled over in the water coming to rest just below the surface of the water.  The forward portion of the keel was right at the surface of the water.   

Up on inspecting the boat I located a large hole in the forward portion of the keel of the boat.  There was obvious indications of repair work having been done to the keel of the boat previously.  This was evidenced by the paint that had been applied to the area. There was still attached to the boat by what appeared to be either fabric or duct tape like material a flap of fiberglass material that had been previously applied to the hole in the keel.  The repair work failed opening a large hole in the keel allowing water to enter the boat.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0081
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: Littleton
County: Halifax
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Ventilation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2015 at approximately 4:00pm, Operator was operating while unloading Sea Ray Boat from the boat trailer. She was south of Goat Island in Osprey Cove on Lake Gaston.  
 
The operator put the blower on before cranking the boat on the trailer. Once the boat was cranked Operator proceeded to take the boat off the trailer while two others were still ashore.  Operator proceeded north towards Goat island for approximately 200 to 300 yards with the blower still running. When Operator turned around and headed south to boat house Operator then cut the blower off and continued approximately 200 to 300 yards back to the boat house. 
 
 Operator was 15 to 20 feet from the dock, put the boat in neutral, and was waiting for Occupant1 to get to the boat house to help her dock the Sea Ray Boat. While the Sea Ray Boat was in neutral Operator heard a loud pop and boom. At that time, the seat cushions flew up in the air and then came down striking Operator on top of the head. Occupant1 heard the explosion and saw the cushions in the air when he was 10 to 15 yards from the dock. Operator was looking for the fire extinguisher and trying to get it out while the stern of the Sea Ray was burning at a fast rate. Occupant1 was hollering and telling Operator to jump out of the boat. Operator jumped and swam to the dock.  By the time Operator reached the dock the Sea Ray was engulfed in flames. Occupant1 called 911 at or about 4:15pm. Fire Station 21 responded and arrived at or about 4:30pm. I received  the report at 4:11pm from Raleigh Dispatch and arrived on the scene at or about 5:30pm.  No injuries occurred beyond first aid. 

Due to my investigation, operator/witness statements and interviews, I can only come to a conclusion that there was come kind of mechanical failure. After looking at the Sea Ray Boat the next day there was one part of the engine and exhaust system that stood out. The starboard (right) side manifold looked to be made out of cast iron 90 degree fitting had a big hole in it and was burned severely. The port (left) side manifold looked to be in excellent condition.  I feel like the right manifold could have contributed to the pop that Operator heard and the explosion directly afterwards.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0082
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: Henrico
County: Northampton
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2015 at approximately 9:47pm Operator1 was the operator of vessel #1, a Skeeter Bass boat. He was accompanied while in a bass tournament on Gaston Lake. Operator2 was the operator of vessel #2 and accompanied by his wife while watching for meteor showers. They were on the main lake near mile marker one (south of Jimmie's Creek) with no navigation lights on. Two people were witnesses of the incident while they were fishing near Four Seasons Point at the mouth of Jimmie's Creek. 

The operator of vessel # 1 was operating a Skeeter Base Boat with registration at the time of the incident. Witness1 was fishing near the dam not having any luck and decided to move to another spot. Operator1 started his boat and headed west form the dam on the main lake at approximately 40 MPH. As he got to the mouth of Jimmie's Creek (or a little passed Jimmie's Creek) Operator1 saw the glow of his starboard (right) side green light on another boat.  The boat he was Operator2's, the operator of vessel #2, Tahoe Tracker ski boat registration with no lights on.  As soon as Operator1 saw Operator2 boat, Operator1 made a hard left turn striking the back port (left) side of Operator2 boat. The impact caused the fiberglass to be cracked on vessel # 2 which also damaged the starboard (right) side of Operator1's Bass Boat and left a deep scratch from the bow to the stern on the bottom portion of vessel #1. After the impact, Operator1 on vessel #1, turned around to check on Operator2 vessel #2 when he noticed all of Operator2's navigation lights had been turned on.  Operator1 called 911 at or about 9:50pm.  Raleigh Dispatch contacted me at 9:53pm. Lt. and I arrived at the scene at or about 11:05pm. There weren't any injuries and there is an estimated 3000.00 dollars worth of damage to vessel #1 and vessel # 2 combined. 

Due to my investigation, operator/witness statements and interviews, I have found that Operator2, the operator of vessel #2, did not have any navigation lights on at the time of the crash. Operator1, operator of vessel #1, did maintain proper look out and prevented a fatal crash.  Also it was on a very dark night due to no moonlight.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0083
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GASTON
NearestCityorTown: Henrico
County: Northampton
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 August 15, 2015 at approximately 1:00pm, operator was operating a Bayliner Boat in Pea Hill Creek on Lake Gaston with one 11 year old child and her father being towed on a Ravenger tube. Both were wearing personal flotation devices. Victim's 14 year old daughter was also in the boat with Operator at the time of the incident. 

The operator was operating a blue and white Bayliner Boat with registration at the time of incident. The operator was pulling the tubers in a Revenger tube at a moderate speed. Victim was sitting in the cubby hole on the left side of the tube. He stuck his left foot out of the tube causing the force of the water and speed to catch his left foot and leg. This caused him to be jerked out of the tube in a split like motion. The operator turned around to pick up Victim. As Operator approached Victim and tried to get Victim in the boat, Victim was complaining of severe back and hip pain. Victim could not board the boat due to pain. Operator then gave Victim another flotation device and idled back to the dock while Victim was holding on and floating beside Operator's boat. When they arrived at the dock, Victim still could not exit the water due to pain. Operator's neighbor then called 911 at or about 2:30. EMS arrived at or about 3:05. Victim was transported to Halifax Regional Medical Center. I was contacted by Raleigh dispatch at 3:37pm and arrived at Halifax Regional at or about 3:50pm. Victim's RN contacted me at 4:47pm and informed me that Victim had a cracked pelvis and was going to be transported to Vidant Medical Center for further testing. No other injuries are known of at this time. 

Due to my investigation, operator statements and interviews, I have found that victim struck his left foot in the water while the boat and tube was traveling at a moderate speed causing Victim to be jerked out of the tube. That split like motion caused Victim to have a cracked pelvis and severe back and hip pain.


BARDID: NC-2015-0084
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wylie
NearestCityorTown: Belmont
County: Gaston
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 7, 2015 at approximately 10:30pm a small open motorboat (vessel # 1) and a large cabin boat (vessel # 2) collided at the mouth of Withers Cove on Lake Wylie, NC. The passenger of vessel # 1 was severely injured and was later transported to the hospital. Vessel # 2 continued travelling North failing to render any assistance. Witnesses stated both vessels were displaying navigation lights at the time of the incident. Vessel # 2 has yet to be located however we are following up on possible leads.
 
*****************************************************
TYPE OF ACCIDENT FOR THIS REPORT IS...........COLLISION WITH VESSEL................BARD DID NOT RETAIN THIS INFORMATION WHEN TRANSFERRED FROM REPORT BEAM.


BARDID: NC-2015-0085
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Masonboro Inlet
NearestCityorTown: Wrightsville Beach
County: New Hanover
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the 4th day of July, 2015 at approximately 4:30 P.M. In the afternoon, operator1 (Vessel 1) was operating out of Masonboro to Masonboro Inlet while (Vessel 2) was operating into Masonboro from Masonboro Inlet. The waters were highly congested during that time. It was mid to low tide, therefore only a narrow channel was available to enter and exit the Masonboro area. (Vessel 2) was angled towards the port side of (Vessel 1) while (Vessel 1) was heading out of Masonboro along with many other vessels operating in and out of Masonboro. 

As (Vessel 2) operated towards the entrance of Masonboro at a speed under 10 MPH, (Vessel 1) throttled up to plane and began making way out of Masonboro. Once (Vessel 1) got on plane, (Vessel 1) turned to the left to pass (Vessel 2) on the starboard side of the vessels. During (Vessel 1) maneuvering, (Vessel 1) was intercepted on the port side by a wake, (Vessel 1) then made contact with the starboard stern of (Vessel 1) to the starboard stern of (Vessel 2). 

(Vessel 1) did not stop and continued into the inlet after the collision. (Vessel 1) was then stopped by New Hanover County Sheriffs'' Office Patrol Boat. I was then notified of the incident and responded from Motts Channel to the Wrightsville Beach Coast Guard Station where both (Vessel 1) and (Vessel 2) were located. 

Operator1 was then given Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Operator1 was then arrested and charged with Operating While Impaired, Careless Operation, and Failure to give Information to other Vessel involved in the Occurrence. 

As a result of the collision, (Vessel 2) suffered busted fiberglass damage to the starboard stern while (Vessel 1) suffered no damages.

*************************************************

TYPE OF ACCIDENT FOR THIS REPORT IS...........COLLISION WITH VESSEL...............BARD DID NOT RETAIN THIS INFORMATION WHEN TRANSFERRED FROM REPORT BEAM.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0086
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Currituck Sound (Whale Head B
NearestCityorTown: Corolla
County: Currituck
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
operator was operating a jet-ski at North Beach Watersports in Corolla, North Carolina. She had a passenger with her named Occupant. Operator made a sharp turn at high speed causing Occupant to hit Operator from behind. As they were falling off the jet- ski, Operator hit the handle bar injuring her ribs. Operator and Occupant got back on the jet-ski and continued to ride. Operator drove back to the North Beach Watersports dock were Occupant wanted to get off. The worker at North Beach Watersports asked Operator and Occupant if they had fun, and they replied yes. He then advised Operator that she had 15 minutes left. Operator then took her grandfather out for a ride and returned to the dock. The worker asked again if they had fun, they both replied yes. Operator grandfather took Operator and Occupant back to the cottage. While driving back to the cottage, the grandfather hit a bump. Operator then complained about pain in her side. The grandfather asked Operator how bad was the pain on a scale of 1-10, and she replied 11. Operator grandfather stopped at Corolla Fire and Rescue and advised them of the situation. The EMTs at the fire station advised the grandfather that Operator needed to get checked out. Operator was flown to Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, VA. Operator was examined at the hospital and she was diagnosed with sprained ribs from hitting the handle bar of the jet ski as she was falling off. Alcohol and drugs were not a contributing factor in this accident. Operator was wearing a PFD. No charges were filed.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0087
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bogue Sound/ ICW
NearestCityorTown: Swansboro
County: Carteret
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 12, 2015, at approximately 1140 hours, Operator1 and friend launched their 15'' Skeeter boat from the Wildlife Access Area located at 144 Cedar Point Boulevard in Cedar Point. The two then made their way across the ICW and approximately 0.35 mile south east where they were in between channel marker 45 and 46. After anchoring on the east side of the channel with the intention of fishing, Friend noticed that the boat was taking on water at approximately 1200 hours. The two men began to bail water with a bucket they had. During this time, a large boat passed their location causing a large wake to come over the stern of the boat. 
 
Note: Operator1 had improperly anchored his vessel by attaching the anchor line to the stern of the boat. As a result of the leaking boat and the large wake, the boat sank in about five feet of water. Operator1 and Friend were picked up by a passing boater, and then taken back to the boat ramp by the Coast Guard. Friend stated that he specifically remembered putting the plug in the boat, but felt that if must have came out.

**************************************
PLEASE NOTE:  TYPE OF ACCIDENT IS.............SINKING..............BARD REPORT DID NOT RETAIN WHEN SAVE WAS CLICKED.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0088
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tillery
NearestCityorTown: Norwood
County: Stanly
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26, 2015 around 1:00 P.M. Operator was operating a 2012 Sea Doo GTXs Bombardier on the southern portion of Lake Tillery.  The personal watercraft is the property of Operator Father-in-Law.  Operator and his family were at the property of (the father-in-law).  The vessel began having problems a week earlier.  Operator intentions were to operate the vessel from the above location to the Lillies Bridge access to be taken out of the water to be serviced.  Operator stated the vessel could only reach a speed of 4 mph.  Half way across the lake the vessel began smoking.  An unknown mechanical issue occurred which caused water to enter into the engine compartment.  Within a minute the vessel began to sink.  The vessel ended up floating with just the front end out of the water.  A passerby towed the vessel back to the pier where Operator was able to put it back on the lift.   

All safety equipment was present and accounted for.  Alcohol was not a factor in this matter.  No charges where filed.  It is unknown as to why the vessel sank.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0089
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Glen Alpine
County: Burke
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 30, 2015 at around 1830 on Lake James near Goat Island, a PWC (vessel #2) operated by Operator2 collided with a 24'' Master Craft ski boat (vessel #1) that was aground on the beach at Goat Island (GPS coordinates: N 35.4420 W 081.5112). Vessel #1 that was aground on the beach was owned and operated by Operator1. At around 18:30, operator2 got on a 10'' Yamaha PWC, vessel #2, without any permission and proceeded to operate it in a careless and negligent manner by taking off at greater than no wake speed from the beach on Goat Island. Operator2 then went out on the PWC, vessel #2, about fifty yards before making a u turn towards the right. Operator2 then proceeded to head back towards the beach on the PWC, vessel #2, at greater than no wake speed as if to splash some of the swimmers around Operator1's vessel, vessel #1. Vessel #2) operated by Operator2 then quickly approached Operator1's vessel, vessel #1, from the stern resulting in a collision. 

Vessel #2 collided with Operator1's vessel,  vessel #1 from the stern on the starboard side which through Operator2 off the PWC,  vessel #2 towards the beach. Operator2 was not injured.  However, the collision resulted in an estimated $4,500 worth of damage to Operator1's vessel, vessell #1, and around $300 worth of damage to vessel #2. The damage on Operator1's vessel, vessel #1 included damage to the wooden stern ski platform, a hole and scratches in the gel coat as well as some possible damage underneath the ski platform. The damage to vessel #2 was some minor scratches and the emblem torn off the front as well as the front bumper torn. 

Moreover, immediately after the collision, Operator2 was approached by Operator1 who was clearly upset about the incident. The two exchanged some words which resulted in Operator2 leaving the scene for good without ever giving Operator1 any of his information. In addition, witnesses stated that Operator2 had been drinking alcohol and was in their opinion impaired. Furthermore, Operator1 was uncooperative with Master Officer later that evening concerning this incident. 

In conclusion, after investigating this incident, I believe based on my experience and all the facts from witnesses as well as the damaged vessels at the scene, that Operator2's careless and negligent operation of vessel #2 which he had no permission to be on and no business being on due to his inexperience, without a doubt was the cause of this incident. Lastly, it should be noted that charges are pending due to further investigation by Officer and myself.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0090
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNOWS CUT
NearestCityorTown: CAROLINA BEACH
County: NEW HANOVER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On the morning of sunday june 21, 2015, at approximately 11:15am, Operator2 was cruising east/northeast on his 19' maycraft center console, vessel 2, through snows cut between the cape fear river and the icw at carolina beach making way from the cape fear river to the icw at carolina beach.  On board operator2's vessel were three passengers.

During the same time frame, operator1 was operating a rental pwc, vessel 1, from north end jet ski rentals.  Operator1 was operating between the snows cut bridge and the icw close to the northern bank of snows cut channel.  Along with operator1 was two other rental pwcs which were ahead of operator1 in snows cut.

Please note:  the other two pwcs mentioned here are not involved in this accident.

As operator2 in vessel 2 crossed under the snows cut bridge making way at approximately 10 mph in the main channel of snows cut.  Operator1 on vessel 1 was ahead and to the left of vessel 2 maneuvering in circles hitting wakes created by other vessels.  As vessel 2 continued in its line of travel, vessel 1 made a hard right turn which put itself in the line of travel of vessel 2.  Vessel 2 attempted to avoid a collision by making a hard right turn and then slamming the throttle into reverse.  Vessel 1 continued its line of travel making the hard right turn.

As a result of the hard right turn of vessel 1 putting itself in the line of travel of vessel 2.  Vessel 1 collided with vessel 2 at a 45 degree angle at approximately 10 to 15 mph.  The front of vessel 1 made initial impact with the front left side of vessel 2 and skimmed down the left side of vessel 2.

As a result of the impact of the two vessels, vessel 1 suffered damages to the front hood, a rub to the left mirror and two rub marks on the gunnel just behind the tas cap.  Vessel 2 suffered fiberglass damage at the location of the point of impact which caused a two inch by a half inch gauge in the fiberglass along with a rub mark from the point of impact down the boat approximately six feet.  Vessel 2 propeller was spun due to operator2 slamming his vessel into reverse.

No injuries occurred as a result of this incident.

Vessel 1 then fled the scene and went back to north end jet ski rentals while vessel 2 was towed to north end jet ski rentals.  Operator2, the operator of vessel 2, reported the incident to new hanover county sheriff's office and i was contacted by wildlife officer which was off duty.  I then responded to north end jet ski rentals to investigate the incident.

the operator of vessel 1, with n.c.g.s. 75a-10(a) reckless and negligent operation and n.c.g.s. 75a-11(a) failure to render aid.

*****************************************************
Please note the type of accident for this incident is.......collision with vessel..................bard did not retain this information when entered and clicked on save.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0092
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wylie
NearestCityorTown: Mount Holly
County: Gaston
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Around 13:00 hours on Sunday July 26, 2015, the vessel was traveling north towards the Highway 27 bridge and began to slow down for the upcoming no wake zone at the first rail road trestle. Just before entering the no wake zone, the vessel struck a submerged train, which disfigured the rudder and propeller, breaking off one of the blades of the propeller. A two foot by two foot section of the hull was also delaminated along with some other fiberglass damage. operator was unable to steer the vessel after impact although the engine was still running. I was contacted around 13:00 hours on August 5 about this incident by phone.

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TYPE OF ACCIDENT IS:  STRUCK SUBMERGED OBJECT.....BARD DID NOT RETAIN THIS INFORMATION AFTER CLICKING ON SAVE
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0093
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bogue Sound
NearestCityorTown: Morehead City
County: Carteret
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 2nd, 2015 Operator1 (operator) and Occupant (passenger and co-owner) were breaking in their newly purchased 22 foot Sea Hunt. The couple had been riding all morning and decided to travel to the Morehead City waterfront to eat lunch. As Operator1 began her approach to the bridge (traveling from west to east) she noticed another vessel also entering the bridge channel traveling in the opposite direction (coming from Morehead City.) Due to both of the vessels direction of travel, neither operator saw the other until they were between the pilings underneath the bridge. Operator1 immediately applied additional throttle and began to turn right in an attempt to get out of the other vessel's way. Operator1 was then unable to turn the vessel quickly enough to avoid collision with the bridge channel pilings. 
 
At the time of impact, Operator1 was sitting on the seat behind the wheel and Occupant was standing up beside the passenger seat holding onto the T-Top located directly over the center console of the vessel. Once the vessel made impact, Occupant was violently thrown from the vessel into the wooden barriers. Operator1 was thrown from the seated position to the starboard side gunwale of the vessel. 
 
After the collision the witnesses immediately turned their vessel around and began to give assistance. At first, Operator1 was still lying in the floor of the boat and Occupant was not yet visible in the water. The witnesses then proceeded to look for Occupant until they finally saw him resurface. Occupant was face down, unconscious, and floating in the strong current. Two of the witnesses then jumped in the water, turned Occupant face up, and attempted to get him breathing. Shortly after the collision the USCG arrived on scene and was able to backboard the subject and get him on board their vessel. Once on board, CPR was started and Occupant once again had a pulse. Occupant was transported to the MHC Wildlife Access Area to meet Occupantet EMTs. Occupant was then transported to MHC General Hospital and shortly thereafter flown to Vedanta Medical Center in Greenville, N.C. for treatment. 
 
Operator1 was transported to MHC General Hospital where she was treated for minor lacerations and later released. Occupant was finally released on the afternoon of August 5th, 2015. Occupant sustained a brain hemorrage, cervical spinal fracture, eight broken ribs, and multiple lacerations. I spoke with Operator1 and Occupant again on the morning of August 6th and collected the completed MB 4.1. At that time Occupant was in stable condition, but still in a lot of pain. After speaking with all witnesses, operators, and passengers, as well as investigating all the physical evidence, I made the determination not to file charges. Operator1 did in fact see the other vessel and made an attempt to avoid collision, however she ended up running into the pilings. The damage to the vessel shows that the vessel made contact with the pilings about three feet from the front of the bow. The damage then continues all the way to the stern of the vessel.

**************************************
TYPE OF ACCIDENT FOR THIS REPORT:  COLLISION WITH FIXED OBJECT..............BARD DID NOT RETAIN WHEN CLICKED ON SAVE
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0094
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE NORMAN
NearestCityorTown: TROUTMAN
County: Iredell
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 20, 2015 at approximately 7:51 PM, (Operator) was operating a 2004 Sea Ray in the Rocky Creek portion of Lake Norman. The operator was in the vicinity of marker S3 and was pulling two tubes with five teenage females on board. At the time of the accident the operator was maneuvering the boat in a circular fashion in a clockwise direction. The five females were jumping back and forth on the tubes while the operator was making the circles. (Victim) was one of the female passengers on the tubes. The victim apparently fell off of the tube without the operator or (Passengers) knowledge. 
 
The operator continued to make a circle with the boat. Just before the operator made it around to the victim a second female fell from the tubes. The operator and passengers saw the second female fall into the water. The operator continued to complete his circle and struck the victim with the right side of the boat and eventually the propeller. Neither the operator nor the passengers had realized that the victim was in the water or that she had been struck. 
 
The operator continued his circle so that he could come around to pick up the second female that had fallen into the water, slowing the boat as he approached her. As the operator was pulling up to the second female the victim screamed that she was bleeding. According to the operator and the passengers the victim was at approximately the 2:00 o'clock position off the front starboard side of the boat. The operator and passengers escorted the victim to shore, where 911 was called. 
 
All persons that were on the boat and on the tubes were interviewed and no one really knew what happened except for the victim.

********************************************
TYPE OF ACCIDENT FOR THIS REPORT:  PERSON STRUCK BY VESSEL..................BARD DID NOT RETAIN THIS INFORMATION WHEN CLICKING ON SAVE.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0095
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: Cedar Point
County: Carteret
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and vessel 2 were docked at Dudley's Marina in Swansboro, (Vessel 1) tried to crank his boat but noticed that the battery appeared to be dead. He then notified Marina personnel to change the battery in his boat. After replacing the old battery with a new one, he tried to crank the boat again. This time when he started the boat the cowling on the outboard motor blew off due to an internal explosion. The cowling traveled in an upward motion and came down and landed in Vessel 2. Vessel 2 was unoccupied at the time of the incident. The cowling went through the driver side windshield on vessel 2 and shattered the windshield.  Factors that contributed to the incident were mechanical issues inside vessel 1''s motor. Vessel 1 was occupied by 6 individuals and no one was hurt.

********************************
PLEASE NOTE:  BARD DID NOT RETAIN TYPE OF ACCIDENT WHEN SAVED.  TYPE OF ACCIDENT FOR THIS REPORT IS FIRE/EXPLOSION (FUEL)
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0096
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: Harkers Island
County: Carteret
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 22, 2015, Operator1 and friend had launched their 19'' Swan Point boat from Radio Island Marina with the intention of trolling for fish near Cape Lookout. Near the same time, Operator2 had launched his 25'' Regulator from his residence located in Atlantic Beach, with the intention of going to Cape Lookout. He was accompanied by his wife, and another couple. The weather conditions for that day were light wind, sunny skies, with the temperature in the mid-eighties. 
 
Around 2:00pm, Operator1 was operating her vessel in an easterly direction while traveling at approximately 5 miles per hour near the north western portion of the Cape. At the same time, Operator2 was operating his vessel in the same direction while traveling at approximately 25 miles per hour, just west of the location of Operator1's vessel. Operator2 did not see Operator1 as he reduced his throttle, causing the bow of his vessel to obstruct his forward view. As a result, Operator2's vessel collided with Operator1's vessel. Operator2's bow struck Operator1's stern and outboard engine, breaking the back rest and pushing over the console as the 25'' Regulator climbed on top of the 19'' Swan Point. Operator1 and occupant saw the 25'' Regulator prior to impact, giving them enough time to jump from the vessel. Operator2 towed Operator1's vessel close to Radio Island Marina, then a boat towing service towed the vessel the rest of the way. 


Damage to Operator1's vessel: 
Busted hood on outboard engine, plus emmersion in salt water. Broken wooden back rest. Destroyed center console and windshield. 

Damage to Operator2's vessel: 
Small gash in the gel coat of the bow, plus cosmetic scratches. 

Note: 
I arrived at Operator2's residence at approximately 6:00pm (4 hours after the incident). I would note that he had a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his person, red glassy eyes, and asked the same questions repeatedly after an answer had been provided. There is no way to substantiate Operator2's level of impairment, or lack thereof at the time of the incident, or the amount he had consumed after the accident had occurred. But, I would note that based on my training and experience, there was some level of impairment at the time of our interview.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0097
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: KERR SCOTT RES
NearestCityorTown: Wilkesboro
County: Wilkes
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 08-29-2015 at approximately 1530 hours a skier mishap occurred on Kerr Scott Lake in the main channel near Bandits Roost Campground. The boat traffic was low on Kerr Scott lake. The weather was clear and warm. The water was calm in the area .
 
    I responded from Lake Hickory to Wilkes Regional Medical Center. I spoke to Victim in the emergency room of the hospital. He explained what occurred. Victim was attempting to ski. He was wearing a PFD. He was in tow from a 21 ft. Tracker Tahoe I/O. His wife was operating the boat. Victim had not skied in a while and was trying to learn again. While being towed on two skis he rose up on plane in the water.  Shortly after starting on two skis he attempted to switch to using one ski. He lost balance falling onto the water. His left leg stretched pulling his hamstring. He did not lose consciousness. No open wounds were visible. His upper left leg was in a lot of pain. The boat turned back picking up Victim and returned him to shore at Bandits Roost Campground. He was transported by ambulance to Wilkes Regional Medical Center. Xray showed no broken bones. He had only a pulled hamstring in his left leg. He was released that evening to follow up with his doctor. I contacted Victim on 09-02-2015 at 1130 hours at his residence. He advised he was doing well and had to meet with his doctor this evening. No other injuries were reported. I spoke to the operator and passenger/owner who advised similar information.
 
    In conclusion the skier mishap occurred due to skier unfamiliar with operating skis. No violations occurred and no citations were issued.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0098
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JORDAN LAKE
NearestCityorTown: PITTSBORO
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On thursday morning the 27th of august 2015 at approximately 09:00 am victim left his home to go kayaking on jordan lake. At 12:25 pm subject launched his kayak from farrington point access area, the weather was clear, the air temperature was approximately 83 degrees with a moderate wind approximately 7 to 14 miles per hour and the water was calm, approximately 80 degrees. He paddled out about a mile and a half and then turned around and paddled back to farrington point access area. While heading back to the ramp he noticed a green kayak floating upside down approximately 400 to 450 yards out in front of the access area. He paddled up to the kayak and investigated the scene, he begin looking for its owner, after a few minutes of looking subject decided to take the kayak back to the access area. After returning to farrington point, subject looked in the kayak and found a set of car keys, he searched for the owner for a few more minutes and then called 911 and waited at the access area for authorities to arrive. Chatham county dispatch received the call at approximately 13:13 pm, north chatham fire department and a chatham county sheriff's deputy arrived on scene at approximately 13:23 pm. I arrived on scene at approximately 16:00 pm. I inspected the kayak that \ and found a camouflage back pack with snacks, binoculars, a thermos and a first aid kit inside. The kayak paddle was attached to the kayak and there was another thermos a tank top shirt and an orange type ii personal flotation device located inside of the kayak. According to the victim’s wife, he was in good health and physical condition and for the past 2 years he went kayaking at jordan lake 3 to 4 times a week for approximately 4 hours at a time. I was later informed that the victim was hiv positive and had cancer. I was unsuccessful in finding a witness that saw what happened to victim or exactly where he was on the lake at the time of the accident. His body was recovered by the north chatham fire department at approximately 17:00 pm on friday august 28th 2015, approximately 200 yards out from farrington point access area near were his kayak was found the day before.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0099
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kerr Lake
NearestCityorTown: Henderson
County: Warren
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26th Operator was operating his 19'' Master Craft ski boat on Kerr Lake heading north east in County Line creek, just out in front of the County Line boating access area. Operator was towing victim on skies. Victim was in the process of getting pulled up onto the skies when she felt something pull and pop in her lower back. Victim stayed in the water while the vessel circled back around to her. The spotter in the vessel jumped in to assist Victim. The spotter then swam Victim to shore at the County Line boating access area and waited for EMS to arrive. EMS removed Victim from the water about 30 minutes after the accident. Victim was wearing her PFD and there was no alcohol involved.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0100
State: NC
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: High Rock Lake
NearestCityorTown: Salisbury
County: Rowan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the night of Friday August 14, 2015 at 11:30 pm, vessel #1 was in the vicinity of the mouth of Dutch Second Creek on High Rock Lake. Vessel #1 had dropped one anchor and was moving slowly attempting to drop a second anchor. Proper navigation lights were in operation on vessel #1. A total of 3 people were on board. No alcohol on board.
 
Vessel #2, was travelling downstream (SW) in the main channel of High Rock Lake and planning on entering the mouth of Dutch Second Creek. The vessel speed was moderate and resulted in the vessel being on plane as it moved. The reported operator had only driven a boat twice and never at night. The other occupant who was acting as the lookout, was very impaired by alcoholic beverages and most likely had been the true operator of the vessel, but because of lack of witnesses this could not be proved. Vessel #2 had all navigation lights in operation. A total of 2 people were on board.
 
As Vessel #2 entered the mouth of Dutch Second Creek, the operator stated he was looking at the fish finder (sonar) and suddenly the boat hit something. Vessel #2 began to fill with water, then suddenly turned over. Both occupants jumped/fell into the water. No PFDs were being worn. Vessel #2 occupants were then rescued by the occupants of Vessel #1.
 
At the time of the collision, the starboard bow of Vessel #2 struck the port stern corner of vessel #1, then continued to travel less than 100 yards in a circular route before filling with water and overturning. Damage to vessel #1 was a small dent less than 12 inches in length. No passengers injured. Damage to vessel #2 was a large hole in the starboard bow that was almost 24 inches in width and 12 inches in height. Vessel #2 overturned resulting in the loss of personal equipment and damage to outboard motor. Vessel #2 would be considered a total loss. No injuries to occupants of vessel #2 that required medical attention beyond minor first aid at the scene.
 
No criminal charges were filed. No occupant information was collected during the investigation.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0101
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Core Creek
NearestCityorTown: Newport
County: Carteret
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 13th, 2015, at approximately 11:15 A.M., operator was operating a 33'' sailboat under power of the vessel''s motor and heading south down Adams Creek/ICW towards the Newport River at a speed of <10 mph. Weather conditions were calm and clear and the water was calm with little to no boat traffic. 

Operator had the vessel on auto pilot while he observed from the helm. Operator then briefly left the helm to retrieve water from a cooler inside the cabin area. While Operator was retrieving the water and away from the helm, his vessel made a turn to starboard and struck the dock. After striking the dock, the dock''s owner, came over and they exchanged contact information.

Damage to Operator''s vessel included a torn sail, bent bow pulpit rail, and damaged head stay. Damage to the dock included one of the major support pylons being broken off, abrasions to other pylons and possible buckling of the remaining pylons. One bunk on the boat lift was cracked/broken and the metal frame of the boat lift sustained damage including bent and buckled beams.
 


BARDID: NC-2015-0102
State: NC
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Spring Creek
NearestCityorTown: New Bern
County: Craven
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26, 2015, at approximately 12:00pm, two people departed from their residence by way of their 35'' dark blue in color sail boat. Operator1 operated his boat out of the harbor and into open waters. At approximately 6:30pm, Operator1 began to return to his residence. As he turned into Spring Creek off of North West Creek, he indicated that he was under sail. As Operator1 approached Operator2''s dock, he indicated that his wife was below deck as he was positioned at the mast preparing to lower the main sail. While Operator1 was away from the controls, his boat veered to the right, colliding bow first with Operator2''s 22'' Sea Hunt and wooden dock. 

On August 2, 2015, I made contact with Operator1 at his residence. During our initial conversation he indicated that he and his wife did not recall hitting anything as they were entering the harbor on the previous Sunday evening. I then began to explain the evidence I had suggesting that Operator1 had collided with Operator2''s property. Operator1 then indicated that he must just not have remembered the collision.  I then asked if he had been drinking and if he thought that his memory could have been clouded, to which he indicated he had been drinking and that it was a strong possibility that his consumption of alcohol had caused him not to remember the event. I then asked Operator1 if we could walk down to his boat so we could look at the damage to his bow. When I pointed out the damage, Operator1 indicated that the damage was new, it that he must have been the one who collided with Operator2''s property. The following day, I revisited Operator1, to which he was able to remember collision. 

Damage To Operator2''s Boat: Scuff marks on the starboard stern gunwale, extensive cracking of fiberglass around the starboard stern cleat, cracked hood on 150HP Yamaha outboard engine, and possible bending of lower unit of outboard engine.

Damage to Operator2''s Dock: Displacement of 2 pylons, (one at a 30 degree angle, and other at 10 degree angle), and compromised structural integrity of wooden dock.

Damage to Operator1''s Boat: 2'' x 3'' deep gash in the bows fiberglass, and multiple cosmetic scratches.
 


