# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: FL-2019-0259
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAINT JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/27/2019 I was dispatched to a boating accident that occurred on the Saint Johns River in the vicinity of the Marathon Fuel Terminal that had been called in by a water patrol officer of the Jacksonville's Sheriff's Office.

My first interview was with Operator1 who stated he was operating his vessel in the vicinity of the cruise ship terminal when a Crowley (name of a shipping company) ocean going ship passed his location.  Operator1 stated the ship was traveling very fast and created a 10 foot wake that capsized his vessel.  Operator1 stated that during the incident he was under way and was traveling approximately 5 miles per hour.  Operator1 stated that after his vessel capsized he was picked up by an unknown good Samaritan.  Operator1 stated that later a Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Patrol Vessel picked him up, aoperator1 with the other POBs and transported them to the Lion's Club Boat Ramp.
One of the occupants stated he had visible injuries from the incident consisting of abrasions he had received from falling out of the vessel when it capsized.  I photographed injuries and they are attached to this report.

I directed Operator1 to contact me when he had recovered his vessel so that I could conduct a follow up investigation.

On 6/5/2019 I was contacted by Operator1.  Operator1 stated that his boat was a total loss and that the vessel cost him $5,000.

My investigation revealed that due to a wake generated by a large vessel  that Operator1's inexperience as a boat operator caused the capsize.

The amount of water in the wave generated by the ocean going vessel in the main channel of the Saint Johns River, when it reached the shallow water where the vessel was located, generated a larger wave than anticipated by the Operator1 causing the capsize.

No citations were issued.

Case status:  Closed.

Victim had minor lacerations that he refused treatment for.  Photograph of his back where the lacerations occurred is attached to this report.


BARDID: FL-2019-0260
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: MARY ESTHER
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 17, 2019, I, Officer responded to a complaint of a personal watercraft  that had struck another personal watercraft (PWC). Operator1 had rented a PWC from Hurlburt Field Marina, along with his friend operator2, who had also rented a PWC. While riding in the Santa Rosa Sound, Operator1 struck Operator2's PWC, causing an estimated $2,400.00 in damages. There were no injuries.

When I arrived at Hurlburt Field Marina, I was able to speak to the operator of one of the rented vessels. Operator1 stated that he and his friend had rented two Personal Watercraft (PWC) from Hurlburt Field Marina and had driven them through the Santa Rosa Sound. Operator1 stated that they stopped when they arrived at Spector Island, one of the islands located in the Santa Rosa Sound, near channel marker #39. 

Operator1 said that his friend, Operator2 stopped her PWC and got in the water to go for a swim. Operator1 said that while Operator2's PWC was stopped and unoccupied, he was driving his PWC around a corner of the island and did not see Operator2's PWC was directly in front of him until the last second. Operator1 was unable to avoid collision and struck the starboard side of Operator2's PWC. 

Operator1 said that during the collision, he intentionally fell off the starboard side of his PWC. Operator2 remained unharmed and away from the accident. After the accident, Operator2 and Operator1 returned their PWC's to Hurlburt Field Marina and notified the livery employees of the accident


BARDID: FL-2019-0261
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was traveling on Black Creek pulling a wake boarder. V1 was following behind V2. The wake boarder fell directly behind V2. V1 did not see the wake boarder in the water until the last second and made a hard turn to the right, trying to avoid the wake boarder. The wake boarder attempted to dive down to avoid being hit by V1. The wake boarder was struck by V1 and the prop contacted the skiers left leg at the knee resulting in serious injury requiring surgery and rehibilitation.


BARDID: FL-2019-0262
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, 4/30/19 at approximately 1730 hours, Boating Accident #FWSA-19-OFF-004947 occurred on the Intercoastal Waterway and the Middle River, Fort Lauderdale, FL, in Broward County. The accident occurred from the operator of the jet ski driving into the seawall. Approximate latitude N26 7.7824, W80 6.5613. The operator of the jet ski involved in the accident said there was another vessel approaching him and he attempted to move out of the way and that’s when he hit the sea wall.  The operator lost control of the vessel at a high rate of speed, in which caused the jet ski to slam into the seawall. Both the operator and the occupant were thrown from the jet ski into the sea wall then into the water. There were injuries to the operator and the passenger of the jet ski. The operator’s injuries consisted of bruising to his ribs and the passenger’s injuries consisted of a sprained ankle.


BARDID: FL-2019-0263
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was towing two skiers on the Atlantic ocean, 1/2 mile offshore Lantana.  One of the skiers fell forward into loose rope he was holding in his hand.  The rope entangled around the victims neck and dragged him for a few seconds before the vessel stopped.  An occupant from the vessel who was spotting the skiers jumped in and brought the victim to the vessel.  The remaining occupants pulled the victim into the vessel and they brought him to paramedics at a boat ramp.  Victim sustained rope burns and bruising around his neck but no major injuries.; .


BARDID: FL-2019-0264
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: TREASURE ISLAND
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel was entering a choppy pass and sunk as a result of swamping and mechanical error.

Subject stated that he and two females left from Maximo Boat and headed towards Johns Pass to visit the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.  At approximately 1530 hours, as Subject entered into the Johns Pass Channel between markers 1 and 2, his vessel ran out of gas.  Subject immediately began to switch the gas tanks to get the motor started again.  During the time the vessel was not under power, waves began to crash over the stern of the vessel (V1) causing the vessel to swamp.  Subject realized at this moment that his vessel (V1) was going to sink so he put his PFD on and flagged a nearby vessel.  The good Samaritan vessel arrived and rescued the three occupants and took them to the Freedom Boat Club dock on Treasure Island. During my interview with Subject, he stated that his bilge would only work if he manually connected it to the battery.  Subject stated that his bilge was never on because it was not connected and that he never attempted to connect it because his battery was under water.  

It was explained to Subject the importance of locating his vessel (V1) and removing it. No information was obtained about the good Samaritan vessel.  Officer of the Treasure Island Police Department stated that the vessel (V1) was last seen between markers 1 and 2 with part of the vessel (V1) sticking up out of the water.  I searched the area for the vessel (V1) but was unable to locate it.


BARDID: FL-2019-0265
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading West in the Gulf of Mexico he hit a wave and water splashed in his eyes and didn't see V2. 

V1 struck V2 on the back starboard side hitting the right leg of the operator on V2.

On May 31, 2019 at approximately 1534 hours two jet skies were playing on the Gulf of Mexico.  V1 was heading West in the Gulf of Mexico. V1 hit a large wave and water splashed in his eyes the operator went to wipe his eyes and as he was doing that he didn't notice V2. 

V1 hit V2 on the starboard back side doing damage to the Jet ski. Also the jet ski impacted on V2 operators right leg causing scratches to his leg. V1 and V2 were able to get back to shore. The operator spoke with EMS and refused treatment. Later V2 operator went to Gulf Coast Hospital and was treated and released.

When V1 struck V2 the operator of V2 abstained a bruise and scratches to his right leg.  He was transported by his friends to Gulf Coast Medical hospital and was treated and released.


BARDID: FL-2019-0266
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One was operating in the Intracoastal Waterway when the operator and occupant fell over board. The vessel continued to operate with no one on board in circles. The vessel struck one of the occupants on board who sustained minor injuries. The vessel eventually capsized.

 I interviewed Victim, to which he stated he was sitting toward the bow of the vessel in the seat when he observed trash in the water. Victim stated he leaned over to retrieve the trash from the water and the vessel tipped over. Victim stated that operator was ejected immediately and he attempted to get to the motor due it still being in gear. Victim stated he was unable to get to the motor and was ejected into the water also. 
Victim sustained very minor injuries to his right ring toe. Victim stated that his foot was struck by the propeller when the vessel was doing circles around him. Victim declined medical attention. I observed a small cut to the underside of Victim’s right ring toe. I applied a gauze pad to the wound and secured it with adhesive tape.


BARDID: FL-2019-0267
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was offshore of ponce inlet drifting not under power. The captain of the vessel energized the outboards to get underway and an explosion occurred below deck. The explosion caused flash flames to exit many hatches on the boat. The two passengers were standing at the stern when the flames engulfed their lower extremities.
After the explosion, the crew fought the fire with fire extinguishers and a blanket. Extinguishing the flames they next hailed the coast guard for assistance on marine channel 16.
Passenger suffered burns to lower extremities and chest area. Subject2 had minor to his feet.
Uscg responded offshore and removed all passengers of the vessel returning to us coast guard station ponce. The vessel was left at anchor. An attempt to return to the vessel with a commercial towing service was thwarted by a storm.
The vessel was removed at a later day.
Cause of ignition of flames is unknown. It should be noted that the vessel had been recently re powered and fuel smell had been detected throughout the day of the voyage.
Nothing further.


BARDID: FL-2019-0268
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: OSTEEN
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
SUBJECT WAS OPERATING VESSEL (JET SKI), CRUISING ALONG THE RIVER CHANNEL.  SUBJECT CHOSE TO TAKE SIDE TRIBUTARY, INSTEAD OF MAIN CHANNEL, TO AVOID SLOW SPEED AREA.  SUBJECT WAS UNAWARE, THE WATER LEVEL HAD REACHED A LOW POINT AND A SANDBAR NOW EXISTED IN THE TRIBUTARY.  SUBJECT IMPACTED SANDBAR AND WAS THROWN INTO THE JET SKI'S EXTERNAL STRUCTURE.  IMPACT TO SUBJECTS BODY CAUSED BROKEN LEG BONE (TIBIA), CONTUSIONS, AND LACERATIONS.  SUBJECT'S JET SKI WAS NOT DAMAGED.;


BARDID: FL-2019-0269
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 anchoring when occupant jumped off starboard bow to adjust anchor, injuring right arm beyond first aid. Right forearm puncture and laceration from impact with starboard forward cleat


BARDID: FL-2019-0270
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was anchored at the north-end of the seven-mile bridge. Due to heavy wind, rain and currents from a rain-storm, the vessel began to take to take waves over the side. The vessel filled with water and overturned. The four occupants were rescued uninjured.


BARDID: FL-2019-0271
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK WATER SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one (V1) a 15 foot chanooee, a canoe with an engine, was navigating south west past Jewfish Creek near ICW marker 36 in Key Largo.  The area was heavily congested with boat traffic.  Once V1 reached the Normal Operating area after the Slow Speed Minimum Wake Zone, the vessel encounter large wakes from other vessels in the area.  The combination of different wakes from different angles capsized and flipped over V1. Both operator and occupant were thrown overboard as V1 flipped.  Both occupants received minor injuries as their bodies made sudden contact with an unknown vessel surface or gear.   superficial cuts-lacerations
Note:  It is my belief, and in accord with my experience and the facts on this accident, the chanooee was top heavy.  The center of gravity of the original vessel was alter by adding a large cooler on front, adding a poling platform and seat above the gunwale, and the weight of the 30 horse power engine, also above the gunwale, and the weight of two adults, one above the gunwale and the other was sitting on a bean bag. . All this changes and additions raised the center of gravity away from the water line, making it easier for the vessel to flip as it encounter the right circumstances, in this case a wake.  Operator had about a seven inch shallow laceration on left shoulder.  Bandage by EMS, operator refuse transportation to hospital.  Operator and occupant were injured by an unknown vessel part after the vessel was flipped over by a combination of wakes.; Occupant had Minor injury or shallow laceration on her upper left thigh. The vessel was flipped over by a wake while moving forward, occupants were thrown overboard.  Occupant body sudden contact with an unknown part of the boat produced the injury. Refuse transportation to the hospital by EMS.


BARDID: FL-2019-0272
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I was dispatched to a boating accident at the Oyster Bar Marina in Escambia County.  While enroute,  I spoke with the complainant, Operator1, who stated he was inside the cabin area of the 75' vessel when he heard a loud noise and felt his vessel shake.  Operator1 stated that when he went to the weather deck, he observed a smaller recreational vessel nearly under his vessel's bow and it had apparently collided with the port side ballast which protrudes under the bow area, at the waterline.

When I arrived at the scene, a USCG vessel was docked nearby and the Petty Officer in Charge informed me that he had additional information regarding the boating accident.  Operator1 met me and showed me the damaged area to his 75' vessel and he stated it would be $10,000 to repair.  I observed multiple cracks in the fiberglass around the tip of the port ballast.  I took several photographs of the damaged area. Operator1 also provided me with a list of witnesses to the event:

The witnesses were no longer at the scene and I did not speak with any of them about the accident since video camera footage was available.

Officer arrived on scene to assist with my investigation and the USCG informed him that the Oyster Bar Marina security video had footage of the boating accident.

I then met with the operator of the vessel which struck the 75' vessel.  Operator2 and his wife stated they were on the 26' vessel which was rented from Freedom Boat Club in Orange Beach, AL and decided to dock at the marina.  Operator2 claimed he was a great operator with years of experience and both he and his wife stated that they did not hit the other vessel. 

While I was speaking with Operator2, Officer spoke with the manager of the marina and reviewed video camera footage of the accident.  Ofc informed me that the video clearly showed Operator2's vessel impact both the dock and Operator1's vessel while he was attempting to come alongside the dock.

I issued Operator2 a UBC for careless operation, citing violation of Navigation Rule 8; action to avoid a collision.  Operator2 didn't believe he hit the other vessel and wanted to see the video camera footage.  I informed him he could ask the manager of the marina and it was their choice to let him view it.  I also informed him that he could make a public records request to the FWC regional office next week and provided him the offense number for this accident.

 I subsequently reviewed the camera footage provided to me from Officer via his body camera recording while writing this report and observed Operator2 approach the dock with too much speed, resulting in the port side aft section of his vessel impacting with the ballast area of the vessel Operator1 was on.  I called Freedom Boat Club in Orange Beach, Al and spoke with the manager whom said he would have the vessel pulled out of the water and inspected for damage below the waterline. The following day a Freedom Boat Club person emailed me a photograph of the hull area of the impacting vessel operated by Operator2.  The underside of the hull had large rub marks consistent with the video footage where the vessel ran atop of the impacted vessels ballast. 

End of report.


BARDID: FL-2019-0273
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER ISLAND
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck V2 almost head on making contact on both vessels starboard side.
V1 was travelling southbound In the ICW following the witness vessel. V1 exited the wake of the witness vessel on port side. V1 then travelled across the channel and was riding on the east side of the channel. The witnesses advised the occupants of V1 were cheering and trying to talk to the subjects on and wakeboarding behind the witness vessel. 

V2 was travelling northbound in the east side of the channel. The operator advised he saw V1 travelling in his direction from the east side of the channel. He advised he slowed his vessel and was swerving to try to get V1’s attention. He advised V1 was looking at the witness vessel and was not looking forward. V2 took immediate action to avoid collision by pulling back on the throttles and turning the vessel portside because of draft restraints. 

V1 Starboard side struck V2 starboard side. Both occupants of V1 were ejected off the pwc. V1 and the occupants got back on the pwc and attempted to keep travelling southbound. A vessel was able to catch them and convince them to go to Jupiter Pointe to be seen by the ambulance. 

Occupant on v1 was seen by the EMT and refused treatment at the scene. I took photographs of the lacerations around his left eye and bruising. Operator advised he was uninjured at the scene but then advised later that he was very sore the days following the accident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0275
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Single tourist Jet Ski accident. Operator hit a wake without letting off the throttle causing her and the passenger to be ejected from the water craft. Her left foot most likely wedged into the railing causing her leg to break when she fell off. Subject broke her left tibia and fibula at the ankle


BARDID: FL-2019-0276
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:05:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: HENDRY CREEK
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
NOTE: All times and distances are approximate.  All diagrams are not to scale.

SYNOPSIS:On Friday, March 8, 2019, at approximately 1905 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a single vessel accident at Hendry Creek, located in Lee County, Florida. A 2007, 21-foot Maverick vessel (V1) was being operated on plane with one subject on board. While proceeding upstream, the operator failed to successfully navigate a turn causing the vessel to run aground and collide with several mangrove trees. The operator was ejected without wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) and later recovered floating face down in the water. He was administered CPR by Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) and transported to Health Park Hospital by EMS, where he subsequently died from the extent of his injuries.  

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, the accident is a result of the following:
1. On March 8, 2019, Operator operated V1 upon the waters of the State of Florida with an unlawful blood alcohol level. Toxicology confirmed elevated ethanol concentrations in Operator’s blood (0.170 g/100 ml).
2. Operator operated V1 at a high rate of speed while preceding upstream along Hendry Creek during low light conditions with no spotlight. He failed to successfully navigate a turn and ran the vessel into the shoreline striking a fixed object (mangrove trees). Operator was ejected into the water, without a life jacket. According to family members, he knew how to swim. According to the District 21 Medical Examiner’s Office, the preliminary cause of death for Operator was drowning.  Conditions that contributed to Operator’s death was blunt trauma of the head and neck.

Elevated ethanol concentration (0.170 g/dl) in postmortem iliac blood  Operator’s injuries were noted during the autopsy. The injuries were consistent with Operator standing near the helm at the time of the collision. He was thrown into the console and subsequently ejected into Hendry Creek.  He was treated for the injuries at Health Park Hospital. He was not wearing a personal flotation device and the engine cut off safety lanyard was not attached to Operator at the time of the accident. According to relatives, Operator had over 100 hours of vessel operating experience and knew how to swim. The District 21 Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that he died from drowning. A contributing cause of death was blunt trauma to his head and neck. Operator’s manner of death was ruled an accident. The toxicology report concluded that there were no common drugs of abuse discovered in Operator’s blood or urine at the time of the autopsy. There was an elevated Ethyl Alcohol concentration (0.170 g/100 ml) discovered in Operator’s postmortem iliac blood at the time of the autopsy. There was 5.8 ng/ml of Eszopiclone / Zopiclone along with caffeine discovered in Operator’s postmortem iliac blood at the time of the autopsy.


BARDID: FL-2019-0277
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE SARASOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 31st, 2019, a two-vessel accident occurred in Sarasota County’s Little Sarasota Bay. V1, a 20 FT 2015 NauticStar was traveling south in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) at a slow rate of speed when V2, a 27 FT 2004 Pro Sport LLC  approached V1 from the stern at approximately 26 knots. V2 struck and ramped V1 from the stern and came to rest on top of it. The impact of V2 ejected all the passengers of V1 into the water and three occupants of V1 were transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH). 

Operator 1 - Injured: Fractured ribs, lacerations to both legs, and broken left hand. He was transported to SMH
Occupant - Injured: Broken ribs, puncture to the neck, fracture to spine, broken clavicle, spleen removed, broken shoulder, nerve damage in both arms, and hip fracture. She was transported to SMH
Occupant - Injured: laceration to head, right leg, sprained ankle, and bruised collar bone. She was transported to SMH
Occupant - Left finger middle fracture 


BARDID: FL-2019-0279
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: APOLLO BEACH
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/24/19 at approximately 2327 hours, V1 (FL 3848 GX) a 1990, 20 foot in length pontoon boat, caught fire while moored on the water behind camp site 44 at Simmons Park in Hillsborough County. There were no persons on board the vessel at the time of the fire. The fire appeared to originate within the outboard motor and proceeded to burn towards the transom before being extinguished by the owner of V1. Hillsborough County Fire Engine 17 responded to assess. As a result of the fire, V1 sustained damages estimated to be approximately $8,000.00.


BARDID: FL-2019-0280
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one (V01), FL4154LW, a 2002 Sailfish, was traveling in an east or northeast direction.   Vessel two (V02), FL7408RW, a 2019 Triton, was traveling in a south or southwest direction.  Prior to the crash, the operator of V01 changed the direction of travel in a northeast or north direction.  The midship starboard of V01 struck the port side bow and forward starboard of V02.

  It was reported, prior to the crash, V01, fifteen feet from the green marker, had departed Sandsprit Park, and was traveling in an east or northeastern direction.  After V01 cleared the slow speed manatee zone, the operator began accelerating/plowing the vessel, but never came on plane.  

     V02, approximately one hundred feet from red marker was en route to Sandsprit Park, traveling in a south to southwest direction.  Operator2 reported seeing V01 approach his location, and became concerned.  With a distance of approximately forty to fifty yards between V01 and V02, Operator2 shifted his vessel to neutral, began yelling, and repeatedly activated the horn.  Operator2 advised, at the time of crash, his vessel was less than ten miles per hour, and possibly drifting.  

     At this time, Operator1 reported observing V02 at the last second.  Operator1 made an abrupt and sharp turn towards port side in an attempt to avoid a collision.  This action resulted in the collision of the two vessels, causing v2 occupant  to be ejected into water.  Operator1 advised his speed of travel was between ten and twenty miles per hour.

     Two of the four persons involved sustained injuries as follows;  Operator1 reported striking the turning knob of the steering wheel with his face, causing a swollen black eye.  Operator1 received EMS treatment by Martin County Fire Rescue but refused further treatment.  

V2 occupant complained of a bruised hip.


BARDID: FL-2019-0281
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOASTAL WATER WAY
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 struck vessel 2 on the starboard side while loading at Sisters Creek Boat ramp.

The accident occurred while two boaters were taking their vessels out of the water at the boat ramp. Vessel #1 was a 2019 Everglades, which was not yet registered from being purchased a day earlier, struck Vessel #2 FL9834. 

Vessel #1 missed the trailer at the ramp and struck the starboard side of Vessel #2. Vessel #2 sustained heavy damage ($10,000 estimate), the vessel damage included: a large hole in the starboard side, glass windows broken, window frame bent, large gouges down the starboard side, spider cracks all under the vessel. Property damage ($3,500 estimate) for Vessel #2 includes a bent trailer frame and a broken bimini top. Vessel #1 had minimal damage ($500 estimate), a large scratch on the port side.


BARDID: FL-2019-0282
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis Narrative
V1 heading northbound on the ICW ran through a marked “Idle Zone” to beat a closing draw bridge causing wake damage to dock and docked vessels V2-V7.  One person was injured while attempting to keep his vessel from hitting the dock and was transported to the hospital.

Vessel (1) Named ZENJA, an Azimut 62-foot motor yacht, ran northbound through a marked "Idle Zone" at a high rate of speed to beat a closing draw bridge (Commercial Blvd). The vessel caused a very large wake (approximately three to five feet) to crash into six (6) vessels tied to the dock at the restaurant Kaluz, 3300 E Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308. The wake caused the vessels to rock violently and smash against the dock. This action caused damage to several of the vessels. This action also caused damage to the restaurant dock, breaking some of the decking and causing a ten (10) inch cleat with its bolts to be pulled from the concrete support under the deck wood. While trying to save his vessel from being severely damaged, Victim injured his right ankle/foot and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment.Contusion / sprain to right ankle and foot.


BARDID: FL-2019-0283
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/11/19 I made contact with subject who reported to this agency that his vessel struck something in the water resulting in significant damage earlier in the day.

According to Subject he was operating his vessel northbound on the Intracoatal Waterway just south of the NE 79th St. bridge, with his 40 y/o/ sister, 8 y/o daughter, and 7 y/o nephew all seated directly in front of the vessel center console. Subject advised he felt two impacts just south of the NE 79th St. Bridge. He advised his vessel hull struck an unknown object first, then his outboard lower unit struck the object causing it to stall. None of the passengers were injured but the impact caused his motor to stall. Subject advised his motor started back up and he continued to his destination at Haulover Boat Ramp. While enroute he noticed his bilge pumps began discharging water from the vessel, at which time he instructed his passengers to put on personal floatation devices.

He was able to return the vessel to the Haulover Boat Ramp and put it on the trailer, at which time he noticed a gash in the vessel keel with water pouring from it.

Subject advised he has no idea what his vessel struck and did not see anything floating. he further advised that was operating within the marked ICW channel.


BARDID: FL-2019-0284
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GRANT
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 10, 2019  I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on patrol at Christianson’s Landing boat ramp in Grant-Valkaria, Fl. At approximately 12:35pm I was approached by a boater, who was returning to the boat ramp, who stated that a large black and white cabin vessel had just ran over a channel marker outside the boat ramp. 

He mentioned that the channel marker was located in the channel of the Indian River Intracoastal waterway (ICW). The boater then stated that he observed the vessel attempting to lower its anchor and he was unsure of the damage to the vessel. At this time, I made my way down the boat ramp to get a better view of the vessel and the channel marker. MY initial observations of the vessel were that it was not on anchor but was now maintaining course in the channel and heading north in the Indian River ICW. 
The state of Florida defines a boating accident as the following:


A collision, accident, or casualty involving a vessel in or upon, or entering into or exiting from, the water, including capsizing, collision with another vessel or object, sinking, personal injury, death or disappearance of any person from on board under circumstances which indicate the possibility of death or injury, or property damage to any vessel or dock.
	Furthermore, the Coast Guard states that federal law requires the boat operator to submit a casualty or accident report to the State reporting authority when as a result of an occurrence that involves the vessel or its equipment. If the operator is unable to submit the report then the owner must submit the report.
	During this time, I notified dispatch of the circumstances of the boating accident and told them it appeared the vessel was leaving the scene of the accident and was failing to report it. I then returned to my patrol vehicle and began heading north on state road US1 tracking the vessel. While I was attempting to make contact with the vessel through VHF marine radio I was contacted by Investigator (FWC) who asked me if I needed a patrol vessel to make contact with the vessel involved in the accident. I told him that the vessel’s captain was not responding to VHF radio and that I would need a patrol vessel. Inv. told me that he would pick one up and meet me at Front Street boat ramp located by the SR192 causeway. At approximately 1:15pm, I arrived at Front Street boat ramp where I was accompanied by Inv. and Officer (FWC). We then launched our patrol vessel and headed south to intercept the vessel who was involved in the boating accident. At 1:40pm I observed the black and white cabin vessel still heading north in the Indian River ICW. A vessel stop was made in the Indian River ICW across from Turkey Creek in Palm Bay, Fl. The distance from the scene of the accident and the location of the vessel stop is approximately 8.2 miles and approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes had elapsed. 

Upon making contact with the vessel I observed that I was being operated by an elderly male and also occupied by an elderly female. I asked the captain/operator if he knew why we were stopping him today and the captain stated that he did not. I then asked the captain if he ran over a channel marker and he stated that he did. I then asked the captain for his driver’s license and vessel documentation.

The vessel was identified through its Coast Guard and Florida vessel documentation as a:
2003 Black and White 34’ cabin vessel, manufactured by TOMCO, with hull identification number TQG34048D303. The vessel’s documented name is Wabi Sabi. 

	After identifying the captain and vessel I asked operator where on the vessel he struck the channel marker and he stated, “Right on the bow”.  I then asked him if he had a working VHF marine radio onboard or working cellular phones. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0285
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU GRANDE
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Two PWC collided in Bayou Grande.
Operator1 was operating his PWC heading North in Bayou Grande.  Operator1 was following Operator2 who was also operating a PWC.  Operator2 was told to by his passenger to stop the PWC and take him back to land.  Operator2 then stopped his PWC which made a port side turn when he let off the throttle.  Operator1 noticed him slowing down but was too close to him and was not able to turn his PWC in time to avoid collision.  When Operator1 collided with Operator2's PWC he hit the left leg of V2 occupant causing a gash in his left leg and a bruise on his left buttocks. 

Operator1's PWC had minor damage on the under side of his PWC.  PWC2 had damage to the port side rear, the seat of the PWC, the port side fiberglass and the handle bars.

Citations were issued to Operator1 for violation of navigation rule resulting in an accident lst offense and not having a boating safety ID card.  


BARDID: FL-2019-0287
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTH FORK SAINT LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. LUCIE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
single vessel struck submerged object with lower unit of outboard motor
I met with the Owner, who advised that the crash occurred on 5 June, 2019 at approximately 1900hrs. Subject advised that he did not report it at the time of the crash because he was not able to observe damage immediately. Once he was able to inspect his vessel at his residence, he observed a fracture in the lower unit of his outboard motor. The fracture has rendered the motor inoperable.
The cause of the damage was reported to be collision with a submerged object in the vicinity of channel marker 32 on the North Fork Saint Lucie River.

He reported the incident as soon as the damage was found. There is no evidence of any violation and there is no damage to other vessels or human injury.


BARDID: FL-2019-0288
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: STOCK ISLAND
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was to move the 158’ vessel “Legacy” (vessel 2) to 3D Boat Yard and off Stock Island Village Marina property (NOTE: Vessel 2 has no means to make way on its own). Operator1 (Vessel 1 operator) connected the 46’ vessel “Mongoose” (vessel 1) to the stern of vessel 2. vessel 3 operator connected the 28’ Pro-Sport (Vessel 3) stern to the bow of vessel 2.

Vessel 1 began underway eastbound in the south channel of Stock Island Villages Marina. Vessel 1 was pulling vessel 2 backwards in a stern tow. Vessel 3 was being pulled backwards by vessel 2. 

Vessel 1 began pulling too fast, causing vessel 3 to take on water over the stern. As vessel 3 began to sink, vessel 1 ceased making headway, resulting in a loss of control of vessel 2. Vessel 2’s uncontrolled momentum resulted in its movement towards the moorings and docks on the north side of the channel.  

Vessel 2 pulled vessel 3 into the mooring area. As the capsized vessel 3 entered the mooring, it snagged the 33’ Performance sailboats (Vessel 4) bow line and pulled vessel 4 from its slip. As vessel 4 was being pulled, it pushed Stock Island Marina Village’s finger dock into the 36’ Catalina Yacht (vessel 5) forcing vessel 5 into the seawall causing damage to its bow. Vessel 3 is cut free and vessel 1 tows vessel 2 from the mooring.  As vessel 1 regained control of vessel 2, vessel 2 runs aground on a small patch of shallow water on the south east corner of the waterway off Robbie’s Marina. Operator1 frees vessel 2 from the grounding and navigated both vessels to 3D Marina without further incident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0289
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: BIG PINE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was adrift. Occupant jumped overboard to swim. Cut thigh on propeller when returning to vessel. On June 02, 2019, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was dispatched to a vessel accident near Sushine Key, Monroe County Florida. When I arrived on scene to Sunshine Key RV Park the Monroe County Sheriff Department (MCSO) and Monroe County Fire Rescue (MCFR) were already on scene. 

From witness statements it was determined when the incident occurred the vessel was stopped and drifting with the outboard turned off. The three male occupants decided to exit the vessel to swim once more before pulling into the marina. Victim was swimming back to the vessel and cut his leg on the propeller of the outboard engine. The other males occupants helped him get back into the vessel. They tried to apply pressure with a towel to stop the bleeding. They then used a t-shirt as a make shift tourniquet and the bleeding was stopped. Once at the dock an MCSO Deputy placed a tourniquet on the victims upper thigh and fully stopped the bleed until MCFR arrived. He was transported to Jackson South Medical Center in Miami where they performed surgery to repair the injury. The following day he regained a pulse in his lower leg and is expected to make a full recovery.


BARDID: FL-2019-0290
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WHEEL DITCH AT ROBBIES
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was eastbound in Robbie’s Wheel Ditch, when the steering failed resulting in V1 hooking to starboard and colliding with the mangroves on the south bank of the waterway.   

He was operating his 18’ Maverick eastbound in Robbie’s Wheel Ditch, when his steering failed resulting in his vessel hooking to starboard and colliding with the mangroves on the south bank of the waterway.  His daughter was thrown to the deck resulting in a severe laceration and contusion to the left side of her face. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0291
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: DIXIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/25/19 at approximately 3:30 pm, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) dispatch received a call from the Dixie County Sheriffs Office in reference to a single airboat accident that occurred in the Salt Creek channel in Suwannee.  Three people were on board, of which 2 were air lifted to Shands in Gainseville.  

The operator drove himself there. Operator stated to Investigator at Shands hospital, that he had encountered a steering problem involving the steering lever located on the port side of the operator seat and over corrected as he turned out of a right turn causing the airboat to impact the tree.  

Investigator and I inspected the steering mechanism and found no mechanical failures.  The steering was free and functioning properly.  We did observe that the steering lever, if pulled into the operator seat and a significant amount of pressure applied, it would make moving the lever difficult.  We also observed there are no stops on the steering cross bar to keep the steering lever from making contact with the operator seat.  When the cross bar is pushed to the starboard side, the steering lever will contact the operator seat and could prevent a turn to the port. 

 Occupant1:FRACTURED LEFT ANKLE DISPLACED FRACTURE TO THE HUMERUS SURGICAL NECK, LEFT ARM - SHOULDER ; Occupant2:Sustained a cut to right upper arm and a contusion to the back of head on left side.


BARDID: FL-2019-0292
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling roughly parallel to the shoreline in very shallow water in close proximity to the shoreline.  V1 was being operated on full plane and was moving between 20 and 40 miles per hour.  O1 failed to recognize the decreasing depth of water and V1 impacted the bottom and slowed significantly.  

O1 continued forward over the handlebars and impacted the bottom in very shallow water.  O1 sustained lacerations to his head from the impact with the sand, as well as a broken clavicle, dislocated shoulder, fractured vertebrae, and contusion to his left knee. Operator was reported to have consumed alcoholic beverages earlier that day, he refused to answer questions or tasks in reference to BUI.  Toxicology pending

Operator sustained lacerations to his scalp and left leg as he was thrown over the top of his PWC.  He also broke his left clavicle and sustained hairline fractures to one of his neck vertebrae.  His left shoulder was dislocated.


BARDID: FL-2019-0293
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel two was hip towing vessel one. Operator did not call bridge to get bridge opened and due to operator inattentiveness operator did not notice it would not make it underneath bridge. Operator ran vessel one’s mast into Flagler bridge Navigation light causing damage.


BARDID: FL-2019-0294
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The listed vessels were involved in a minor collision.

I made contact with the operator of vessel #2, who advised the following: Their vessel was at anchor with the bow oriented eastward and another yacht, (vessel #1), was anchored approximately fifty yards behind them, also with the bow oriented eastward. Vessel # 1 began moving and appeared to be attempting to raise his anchor and pass along the port side of vessel one when their anchor lines became entangled. This resulted in the vessels coming together and vessel #1 colliding bow to bow with vessel #2, causing minor damage to the bow pulpit of vessel #2.

I made contact with the operator of a vessel #1 who advised the following: He was attempting to raise anchor and leave the area and his anchor line became entangled with the anchor line of vessel #2 as he was maneuvering around vessel #2. He advised when this happened he also lost engine power and that's when the bow of his vessel collided with the bow of vessel #2.

All passenger interviews and written statements appear to corroborate both operator accounts of this incident, (see attached written statements).

I observed minor visible damage to the bow Pulpit of vessel #2 (see attached photographs). I issued UBC for careless operation of a vessel in violation of USCG navigation rule #8.


BARDID: FL-2019-0295
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 26, 2019 at approximately 1940 hours, i florida fish and wildlife conservation commission (fwc) officer was dispatched to a call reference a vessel incident resulting in an injured passenger. 

Victim was also interviewed by telephone due to unavailability to coordinate a physical meeting. Victim stated that she asked operator to stop the boat so that she could get in the water briefly. Victim stated that when the boat came to a stop, she started to climb down the swim ladder and slipped and fell.

 Victim stated that as she was swimming back to the swim ladder, she felt a "flap of skin" on her right foot. When victim climbed back up the swim ladder and onto the boat, she noticed a laceration to her right foot, with a flap of skin loosely attached. She described the laceration as an open wound to the top of her foot from her toes to her ankle. She described the laceration as a flap of skin removed from the top of her foot and hanging to one side. Victim stated that she was treated at mount sainai hialeah hospital, the laceration received stitches, and victim was released from medical care.

Victim did not know what caused the laceration to her right foot, but assumed that she scraped her foot on the swim ladder when she slipped off while climbing down into the water.

After multiple attempts, victim was not available for any further interview or documentation of her injuries.

Subsequent to an inspection of the vessel involved, and the area of the vessel where the incident occurred, i could not find any manufacturer errors in construction or otherwise sharp or damaged areas to cause a laceration injury. It is my conclusion that a fall by the injured person, and directional friction of a component of the telescoping swim ladder on the top portion of the injured person's foot caused the laceration, similar by description to an avulsion injury.

With the information and circumstances currently available, this concludes the fwc involvement in this investigation.


BARDID: FL-2019-0296
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MEXICO BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
A recreational fishing vessel launched out of the public ramp at the Mexico Beach Canal with 5 people on board. While fishing approximately 7 miles out near MB55 marker, the vessel took a rogue wave from the stern of the vessel causing swamping and a list to the port side. The vessel was in gear but at idle speed to maintain direction when the incident occurred. The captain ordered the passenger's to the starboard side to compensate for the listing. At the same time the passenger's moved to starboard a second wave came over the stern completely swamping the vessel with water. All the water in the deck of the vessel went to port side and caused the vessel to immediately roll and capsize to the port side. 

 The vessel had floatation and remained capsized on the water’s surface. All people on board agreed that there was no time to retrieve PFD's from the storage bin resulting in all person's going into the water with no PFD. The captain was sitting on the foot of the outboard was able to climb onto the hull. The remaining occupants were floating and holding onto the vessel. 

  Subject was able to take his shirt off, waive the shirt and yell to signal a nearby vessel at approximately 1500 feet for assistance. The nearby vessel heard him yelling and saw him waiving the shirt. He could tell that the vessel had capsized and went to them. He recovered all people from the water and determined that there was no injuries. He called Boat US for assistance. Time in the water for all occupants was 30-45 minutes. 

The vessel was located and due to weather changes, was brought to the Port St. Joe city boat ramp. The vessel owner and other occupants moved to the St. Joe ramp as well.


BARDID: FL-2019-0297
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 came in contact with seabottom causing damage to port side prop and rutter.

I spoke to operator, he informed me that he was operating the vessel out of South Sound Creek towards the ocean when he hit the sea bottom. The vessel started taking on water, which was to much for the bilge pump to control. 

He notified the coast guard, when the coast guard arrived they helped him pump out most of the water so that he was able to make it the rest of the way to the marina. He showed me his chart plotter, he marked the point in where he hit the sea bottom. I asked him about the extent of the damage to his vessel. He informed me that he knew that his rudder had been bent and that the prop had probably been damaged as well. I asked the dock master at Mariners Club Marina if he had experience with large vessels, regarding an estimate of how much damage repairs would cost. He stated that he had a good amount of experience and that it could cost between 15 and 20 thousand dollars.


BARDID: FL-2019-0298
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIVATE CANAL / ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was returning to a residential dock after a day of fishing. Vessel operator experienced a malfunction in the throttle system and collided with his dock and neighboring residential docks.  
The two individuals were returning to their residential dock from a day of fishing. Subject was operating the vessel from the tower helm. Subject explained that he “attempted to spin the boat by engaging the port throttle in forward and the starboard throttle in reverse”, when he noticed that the “starboard control was malfunctioning”. Subject than attempted to put the starboard throttle in reverse, then “it sent the boat forward”. 

Subject than yelled for Subject2, who was located on the lower deck at the time, to take control of the vessel. Subject2 than went to the main helm and attempted to gain control of the vessel. Subject2 was able to gain control of the vessel at first, however as they neared the dock, Subject2 explained that “I lost control at the helm as well” and that “no neutral and no reverse” was functioning. 

While Subject2 was attempting to control the vessel, subject went to the bow to “get ready to grab the dock lines”. The vessel collided first with the residential dock to the west first, continuing into the residential dock of the vessel owner, Subject2, and finally colliding into the residential dock to the east where the vessel’s movement stopped. At this point, Subject2 was able to shut off the engine, as subject was able to jump the nearby seawall and walk the vessel back to their dock using the deck lines.


BARDID: FL-2019-0299
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE KISSIMMEE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 5th, 2019 I conducted an interview of the operator of V-1 at St. Cloud Regional Medical Center.  HE stated the following: (paraphrased)
·	I was running my boat and the water got to shallow, so I came off the throttle 
·	When my boat stopped I tried to use my trolling motor to get to deeper water, but it didn’t move the boat
·	I pushed my boat to deeper water where I could use the motor again
·	Just before I got back into the boat I tripped, and the propeller cut my leg
·	The motor was off and trimmed up
·	The airboat guide gave me a ride back to the ramp
·	My friend should be there now picking up my boat
·	I got stitches in my left thigh


BARDID: FL-2019-0300
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DURBIN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 15th, 2019, at approximately 1620 hours, a PWC accident occurred in Durbin Creek on the shore of St. Johns County.  (V1) a 10’ PWC bearing Maryland registration numbers MD. 1520BT. V1 was cruising east on Durbin Creek (N30.11’7575/W81.56’2943) in State waters. Weather conditions were clear with 0 to 6mph winds out of the south and calm sea state.
V1 was cruising east on Durbin Creek when he passed a 22’ Sea Ray(V2. V2 was off plane and was at a slow speed due to the narrow conditions of Durbin Creek.  V1 and V2 passed port to port without incident. V1 lost control due to excessive speed for the narrow operating conditions, operator error and crashed into the shore line where Operator1 was ejected from V1. V2 passenger, Passenger1 noticed that V1 had disappeared and was no longer headed east down the creek. V2 turned around and went about 400 yards until v2 subjects observed V1 now facing west bound in the trees along the St. Johns County side of Durbin Creek and V1’s operator Operator1 face down unconscious in the water approximately eight feet east of V1. V2 subjects were able to load Operator1 onto V2 and transport Operator1 to the 3255 Bishop Estates Rd approximately 1 mile west of the accident location.
Operator1 was life flighted to Orange Park Memorial Hospital where he was treated for a compound fracture in his left arm, a shattered knee cap in his left leg and a concussion. A PFD and kill switch were used by Operator1.  At this time this concludes my involvement in the matter.


BARDID: FL-2019-0302
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS PUT INTO FORWARD GEAR IN AN EFFORT TO STOP DRIFTING INTO A VESSEL AT V1S STERN. V1 WENT FORWARD AND TO STARBOARD RESULTING IN V1 GOING ON TOP OF V2 WHICH WAS TRAVELING IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION.


BARDID: FL-2019-0303
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN RIGDE
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
WHILE FISHING THE OPERATOR OF V1 NOTICED THERE WAS WATER COMING UP THROUGHT THE HATCHES. AFTER OPENING THE HATCHES, HE SAW THAT THE BILGE AREA WAS COMPLETLY FULL OF WATER. THE BILGE PUMPS WERE ON BUT UNABLE TO KEEP UP. IN AN ATTEMPT TO MAKE IT TO THE SHORE V1 ULTIMATELY SANK.


BARDID: FL-2019-0305
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was at anchor. Vessel was attempting to remove anchor and anchor line became caught in propeller. Outboard on vessel continued pulling vessel deeper into water. The vessel took multiple waves over stern causing it to become unbalanced. The vessel then capsized.

Operator explained that they were at anchor and were getting ready to move to another fishing spot. Operator went to the bow of the vessel to pull the anchor line. Subject2 put the vessel in forward motion to make obtaining the anchor easier. The anchor line then became entangled in the propeller of the boat. The anchor stayed attached and pulled the vessel around and down at the stern. A few waves broke over the stern causing the vessel to fill with water, become unbalanced and then capsize.


BARDID: FL-2019-0306
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HAULOVER INLET
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday June 25th 2019 at approximately 9:00pm I FWC officer was dispatched to a sinking vessel off Haulover inlet. Reports came in that a towboat captain had helped the occupants of the sinking vessel and brought them to Haulover fuel dock. Upon arrival to Haulover fuel dock I found the vessel occupants safe and uninjured sitting on the seawall. The Owner of the vessel stated that he was fishing right out side of haulover inlet when his vessel bearing FL 5002BU started to take on water. The Sea tow captain just happened to be driving by when he saw the occupants of the sinking vessel signaling for help. They boarded the Sea tow vessel and were taken to Haulover fuel dock. operator also stated that there were no valuables on the vessel. I was unable to locate the vessel but USCG Miami provided coordinates of N 25 39.556 W 80 06.066 as to where the vessel had sunk. FWC has no further involvement at this time.


BARDID: FL-2019-0307
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityorTown: BAY PINES
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 10:00 pm on 6/29/2019 the 35ft Cooper started taking on water while at anchor. The owner called Sea Tow for assistance. Sea Tow arrived and transported him to the nearby McDonald's dock and took no further action. He believes that a shaft seal may have been the cause of the leak. The Cooper is not currently fitted with a bilge pump. The next morning at approximately 10:00 am (6/30/2019) he returned and the Cooper was on its side, half full of water. There is NO fuel or oil in vessel. He is currently working on a salvage plan.


BARDID: FL-2019-0308
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the statements of both operators, V1 and V2 was heading southbound in Meloy Channel. V1 was  west of V2 as they both were approaching Macarthur causeway bridge. V1 changed direction to head back to the rental location which was on the south east of Meloy and Macarthur Causeway bridge. V1 collided with V2's starboard bow. V1 operator injured upon impact with other vessel; Laceration to the left side scalp.  Minor fracture to the T1 vertebrate


BARDID: FL-2019-0309
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLEARWATER PASS
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 hit a wake causing the bow of the jet ski to strike a channel marker.

 On 6/26/2019, I was dispatched to Clearwater Beach Waverunner Rentals at 25 Causeway Boulevard, reference a jet ski accident.  I spoke with the guide providing the jet ski tour.  he stated that he told all the operators that they could ride anywhere from the slow speed zone (channel marker 6) out to the Gulf of Mexico.  He said that the operator of Vessel-1 (V-1) hit the channel marker with the bow of the jet ski.  He did not see the accident happen.

I spoke with the operator of V-1, who spoke only a little bit of English.  He said that he hit a wake causing him to hit the channel marker.  He did not know how fast he was going, and he was not ejected off the jet ski.


BARDID: FL-2019-0310
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: ATLANTIC BEACH
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was anchored approximately 9 miles E of the inlet at Montgomery Reef.  V-2 was on a plane and crashed into V-1. One occupant on V-1 was ejected, and one occupant sustained injuries.

Op V2 said that he was putting the coordinates in his G.P.S to go to the south side of Montgomery Reef. When he looked up, he saw that he was heading toward a vessel that was in his direct path of travel. He made a sharp left turn crashing into the starboard side of V-1. 

He said that a young kid that was on V-1 either jumped or was ejected into the water but was able to swim back to the boat and he was pulled from the water. Operator2 said that after he crashed into V-1, he went back to check on the occupants. He gave operator1 his registration number exchanged information and headed back home because of the damage to his vessel. v1 victim :Abdominal bruising. Victim was seen by doctor and released from Memorial Hospital same day.


BARDID: FL-2019-0311
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE BIG ECONLOCKHATCHEE RIV
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 was traveling northbound on the Little Big Econlockhatchee River approaching a sharp bend. V02 was traveling southbound on the same river approaching the same bend. 

V01 entered the sharp bend at the same time as V02. V01 and V02 took an evasive maneuver on the starboard side of the vessel to avoid a collision. V01 collided with the high banks of the river ejecting all the people on board. V02 continued traveling southbound on the river.


BARDID: FL-2019-0312
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SHERMAN COVE
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
While launching V-1, Operator1 left his vessel, a 2003 17' Cape Horn (V-1), in gear almost striking a vessel moored to the dock immediately south of his location after launching. After placing the vessel in forward and steering eastbound, V-1 could not make the starboard side turn due to windy conditions and the congested area he was operating in. 

V-1 placed the vessel in reverse to move north west away from the floating dock he was about to be blown into and after creating distance away from the dock, placed his vessel in approximately 1/3 full throttle and steered hard over to the starboard side, steering his bow away from the floating dock and Southbound, while pushing his port side stern into a moored 2016 21' Sea Ray (V-2) who had a 2016 Mercury 150 outboard lifted out of the water. 

V-1 struck V-2's outboard's lower unit, breaking off the tip of the skeg and inserting the skeg into the port side of V-1. Due to V-1's speed and close proximity to the moored vessel, he collided with the vessel causing approximately $4,000.00 dollars in damage. V-1 was issued a warning for Careless operation in congested waters, citing USCG Inland Navigation Rule #6: Safe Speed


BARDID: FL-2019-0313
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: ALACHUA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 26th, 2019 at approximately 05:10 PM, Officer responded to Santa Fe Lake Park boat ramp to investigate a boating accident involving a single personal watercraft (PWC) involving injuries. 

The following day, May 26th, 2019, at approximately 12:30 PM, I interviewed Operator and her father Father at Shands Children's Hospital.  Operator was in recovery from surgery the prior night to repair her right femur which was fractured just above the knee.  Operator stated she was operating the PWC with her sister riding behind her.  

She followed Subject into Black Lake, but did not see which direction he went.  She proceeded straight southward toward the opposite shore and then proceeded to the west along the shore searching for Subject.  Operator stated she was looking back over her shoulder when she veered from the lake and into the emergent vegetation along the perimeter.  She said she released the throttle, but the PWC continued to travel over the vegetation toward some brush and trees.  She lost steering control and the PWC collided with a tree on the port side gunwale of the bow.  Operator's right leg impacted another tree to the right of the PWC which caused the fracture of her femur.  The collision caused Operator and occupant to be ejected from the PWC into some flooded trees and brush.    The PWC came to rest about three feet to the north of the impacted tree with its bow facing northward.  

Father said Operator had operated the PWC about four times previously on a small private lake.  She had previously completed a FWC endorsed boating safety course and possessed her FWC Boating Safety ID card.  I issued Father a misdemeanor citation for F.S. 327.39(6)(a) Owner/Person in charge of PWC allowing person under 14 years of age to operate.  

Occupant received minor abrasions from tree limbs on both legs and her right arm. Operator’s injuries consisted of a broken right femur just above the knee,  abrasions on the right leg and thigh, a laceration above the right eye, and a bruised right eye.  Surgery was performed where several screws were attached to the broken femur bones.


BARDID: FL-2019-0314
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On or about 5/20/19 at approximately 1600 hours, a blue in color center console vessel was turning around in a canal located off of the Indian River Lagoon in Indian River County just north of the 17th street Bridge when it stuck a seawall on the north side of the canal. 

Surveillance video located at a home across the canal showed the vessel, occupied by one male and one female, was attempting to turn around in the canal when the vessel suddenly accelerated and struck the seawall climbed out of the water. The vessel was later observed with deep cuts and abrasions on the keel of the hull. The seawall also showed signs of damage. As the vessel came down off the seawall it drifted backwards and appeared to strike the pylon of a vessel lift located in the canal. Damage to the gel coating of the vessel located on the lift was found. 

The vessel then departed the area with out stopping to notify the owners of the property or law enforcement.


BARDID: FL-2019-0315
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHARLOTTE HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling East into Charlotte Harbor just outside Turtle Bay. At approximately 9:00 pm, V1 started taking on water over the stern from strong winds and heavy rain. They were unable to keep up with the incoming water, due to failure of the bilge pumps. At 9:30 pm all 4 occupants dawned PFD's and entered into the water. They swam to a nearby sand bar where they were rescued by a good Samaritan shortly after. There were no injuries to the occupants.


BARDID: FL-2019-0317
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/29/19 I responded to a residence for inspection of a single vessel accident that occurred approximately 20 miles from Bean Point/Anna Maria Island, in the Gulf of Mexico.  The vessel was overtaken by a series of waves and all three occupants were forced to abandon the vessel and wait to be picked up.  SeaTow was able to recover the vessel and tow it back to Anna Maria Island. No injuries were reported by the three individuals involved.


BARDID: FL-2019-0318
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: QUIETWATER BEACH
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 (give way) was traveling at excssive speeds for conditions and struck V2 (Stand on) at approximately 40 degrees abaft the starboard beam (overtaking scenario).  

V1 momentum continued in an upward direction and over Stbd side of V2 forward of handlebars, causing both operators to be ejected form vessels.  V1 clockwise and V2 counterclockwise rotation at impact caused secondary impact damage to port side of V1 and stbd side of V2.; 

Operator1:Laceration to Left side of scalp/hairline.  Contusion to buttock.; Operator2:Contusion to left thigh, small hematoma and cut to right shin, abrasion to left posterior armpit area, and neck sprain.


BARDID: FL-2019-0319
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ESCAMBIA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JAY
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling down river on the Escambia River.  In this area, the river is narrow and shallow.  O1 was standing on a rear deck that was constructed on the back of V1.  O1 was operating at idle speed, holding the extended tiller handle of the outboard motor.  

V1 struck a submerged log causing O1 to loose his balance and fall into the river due to no support structure above the deck.  As O1 fell, he pushed the tiller handle to the port side and rotated the throttle to a faster speed before loosing his grip on it.  

He was not wearing the kill switch lanyard.  As a result, V1 turned to the right and circled around towards O1 as he tried to swim out of the way of V1.  O1 was unable to leave the path of V1, and turned to try and fend it off.  V1 struck O1 with the propeller along his right hand and wrist causing severe lacerations to his hand and wrist.  V1's passenger finally reached the kill switch and stopped V1. The propeller also broke one metacarpal.


BARDID: FL-2019-0320
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: FLAGLER BEACH
County: FLAGLER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday 6-20-19 at approx. 2:30PM, a single vessel fire occurred in Flagler Beach, Flagler County Florida.  V1 was a 1972 45-foot Whitcraft with dual Chrysler 360HP engines. V1 was heading south on the Intracoastal Water Way near State Road 100 and the Moody Boat Ramp. V1 was the sole vessel involved in the accident. 

Subject advised he gave the vessel gas and began to smell smoke coming from the engine compartment located at the stern. Subject went to the engine compartment and opened the hatch and saw white smoke coming from the engine. Subject put V1 into neutral and grabbed a fire extinguisher and tried to extinguish the fire.

 V1 drifted near a fishing pier, where Subject set the anchor and jumped off. V1 became stuck in the mud due to low tide and the wind. The fire spread from the stern to the bow. Subject hoped off V1 and Flagler Beach Fire Department arrived on scene and tried to extinguish the fire. It took approximately 2 hours to fully extinguish the fire.  Flagler Beach Fire Department called the State Fire Marshal.  Detective arrived on scene and provided me with their Case Number (19-1685). 

 I conducted an interview with Subject. During the interview, Subject admitted to doing mechanical work on the rods and changing the oil a few days prior to his departure from Deland, FL. Subject informed me there was a small oil leak, but it was due to the age of the vessel. Subject was not the owner of V1. I contacted the owner, and informed her of the situation pertaining to her vessel. The cause of the vessel fire is unknown as of this report, the State Fire Marshal Office is investigating also.


BARDID: FL-2019-0321
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, July 11th, 2019, at approximately 1200 hours, vessel accident FWSB19OFF009057 occurred within Florida’s state waters, approximately five miles west of Caxambas Pass, in Collier County. The incident involved one 51ft vessel (DO1293223). There were four occupants onboard. The vessel was traveling south to the Bahamas when a male occupant suffered an injury to his right ankle. Victim was attempting to put his pants on when the cruising vessel hit a large enough wave to make Victim lose his balance. In an effort to regain his footing, Victim rolled his right ankle. The owner/operator of the vessel turned back north to meet Fire EMS at the mouth of Marco Pass. Fire EMS escorted the vessel back to Rose Marina where Victim was subsequently transported to the hospital. Victim suffered a broken right ankle and was released the same day.


BARDID: FL-2019-0322
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/5/2019 at approximately 1645 hours in Hillsborough County.  I Officer was dispatched to a boating accident at 5320 Interbay Blvd.  The accident involved a single vessel versus a dock.  

Florida Vessel FL 1802 RG a 29’ Black fin was returning to his home port Tampa Bay Yacht Club.  The Owner/Operator normally backs his vessel into the slip but due to weather conditions he was bowing his vessel into the slip. While docking the vessel the port side engine stalled. OPERATOR1 placed both engines into neutral to restart the port side engine. When OPERATOR1 restarted the vessel engines the wind blew the bow of the vessel to the west. OPERATOR1 placed the starboard engine into reverse and the port engine forward to right the bow.  The port engine failed again, OPERATOR1 placed both engines into neutral and restarted the engines again, the vessel was engaged in gear and ran into the electric box on the dock. The vessel had little damage, the anchor is what caused the electric box damage.  The transfer marks on the vessel and the location of the impact on the electric box confirm OPERATOR1’s statement. 

After the incident OPERATOR1 restarted the vessel and found that the vessel was engaged in gear while in neutral.  The vessel had a mechanical issue that was causing the vessel to stay in gear.

I interviewed the dockmaster and his story was consistent with OPERATOR1’s statement.  

End of report


BARDID: FL-2019-0323
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: VAMO
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Two subjects ejected from PWC after jumping large boat wake; both injured.
Operator1 was the operator and his wife was the only occupant; sitting directly behind him.  They, and their group, were returning to CB's at the time of the accident.  While headed North in the ICW, about half way between Stickney Point Bridge and the Blackburn Point Bridge, Operator1 jumped the wake of large vessel (approx. 40').  

The large vessel was headed South in the ICW on Operator1's port side.  At approximately 25 mph, Operator1 jumped the wake while turning slightly to the starboard.  At some point, Operator1 broke his left ankle, and his wife's chin struck the back of his head, causing a cut on Operator1's head and wife sustained a possible concussion.  Both were ejected from the PWC, and recovered from the water by the people they were riding with.  There was no damage to the PWC or any other property. 

Occupant was ejected from PWC, in the process striking her chin on the back of Operator1's head.  She lost consciousness for a short time and was experiencing nausea afterwards. Operator1 has a broken left ankle, and four staples to the back of head.


BARDID: FL-2019-0324
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FORT PIERCE CITY MARINA
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was attempting to dock in a slip at Fort Pierce City Marina. Before the operator could start to back into the slip, the current and wind pushed him close to the bow of docked vessels. V1 the struck the anchor platform of V2, getting the railing stuck on V2 as the vessel pulled forward away from the docked vessels.


BARDID: FL-2019-0325
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST BAY
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 0230 hours, V1 was traveling Southeast in East Bay, approximately 1/2 mile East of the Garcon Point Bridge, when it rounded Garcon Point and encountered rough seas (2'-6') created by a East / Southeast wind blowing at 20mph-30mph.  

V1 took waves over it's bow and sank, becoming grounded just Northeast of Garcon Point.  Both the operator and the passenger put their life jackets on and swam approximately 25 yards to shore where they attempted to secure V1 and the contents.  The operator was able to call Santa Rosa 911 and request assistance, that arrived approximately two hours later at 0430 Horus.   

Nothing further.


BARDID: FL-2019-0326
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: DELRAY BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/22/19 at approximately 9pm, three people were attempting to leave the dock at Veteran Park on their Formula boat in Delray Beach. Two people were on the dock releasing the lines as Subject1 stood near the helm talking to Victim. The boat began to go in reverse and Victim told Subject1 to put the boat into Neutral. Subject1 mistakenly put the vessel into forward gear causing it lurch forward and strike the “Lady Delray” that was moored in front of them. The Formula received damage to its anchor and anchor roller, and the “Lady Delray” received a puncture into its steel stern. 

; Victim:Minor rope burn to hands.


BARDID: FL-2019-0327
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CRYSTAL BAY
NearestCityorTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS TRAVELING NORTH WHEN IT WAS OVERTAKEN FROM WAVES ON THE PORT SIDE.  THE WAVES WERE A RESULT OF A WEATHER STORM SYSTEM OVER THE AREA WATERS.  THE OPERATOR NAVIGATED TO A SAND BAR WHERE THE VESSEL CAPSIZED AND SANK IN 5 FEET OF WATER. ALL REQUIRED SAFETY GEAR WAS ABOARD.


BARDID: FL-2019-0328
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WEIR
NearestCityorTown: WEIRSDALE
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 15, 2019 at approximately 1940 hours a boating accident involving two jet skis occurred on Lake Weir located within Marion County. The nearest town is Ocklawaha. 

Operator1 was operating a silver in color 2016 Yamaha jet ski. Operator2 was operating a white in color 2000 Yamaha jet ski. The two vessels struck each other head on. Operator1's vessel continued up onto and along side of Operator2's vessel, resulting in Operator2 getting struck on the left side of his body. 

Both operators were ejected from their vessels. The collision caused damage to the bow and port side of both vessels. Operator2 was transported and admitted into the hospital for his injuries. Operator of V2, sustained a laceration to his left tricep, four fractured ribs, left lung punctured and slightly collapsed, and a tear to his spleen. He was transported and admitted to Ocala Regional Medical Center.


BARDID: FL-2019-0329
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. LUCIE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One was operating at a high rate of speed when it crashed into Mangrove trees in the St Lucie River just north of Riverside Boat Ramp, in Port Saint Lucie, Florida.

Subject stated that he was teaching his friend how to drive the boat. Subject stated that he put the boat in the water at Veterans Memorial at approximately 9:30 or 10:00 that morning. Subject stated that they were floating around all over the place that day. Subject stated later that they went to lunch in Ft Pierce and came back. Subject stated that they hit a wake and they were both ejected from the vessel on the port side. Subject stated that the damage sustained was to the Bimini top and the bow rail. 

I asked Subject2 what happened before the crash occurred, to which he stated he went to the bow of the vessel, leaned over and reached in the cooler to get a water. Subject2 stated that while he was reaching in the cooler the vessel sped up very rapidly. Subject2 stated then the boat crashed into the Mangroves and he remained on the vessel. Subject2 stated he did not know where Subject was until he swam over to him after the crash. 

	PSLPD Officers explained that the vessel was completely in the Mangroves just a little north of Veterans Memorial Boat Ramp. They explained to me that the vessel will need to be towed out of the Mangroves. I contacted SeaTow and they arrived on scene to remove the vessel. I observed significant damage to the vessel’s bow. The initial impact of the vessel was head on into the mangroves at a high rate of speed. I observed the Bimini top to be completely destroyed, and the vessel had hull failure and was taking on water. 

	Based on my investigation, Subject was operating the vessel at the time of the accident. Impairment, speed, and improper lookout were the cause of the crash. Subject was arrested for boating under the influence and issued citations for Navigational Rule 5 - No Proper Lookout and Navigational Rule 6- Safe Speed.


BARDID: FL-2019-0330
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:44:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: TERRA CEIA BAY
NearestCityorTown: PALMETTO
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, 4/27/19, a single vessel accident occurred in Terra Ceia Bay in Manatee County. V1, a two-person canoe occupied by two (2) juveniles and two (2) adults, was traveling south towards Emerson Point when a wave capsized it ejecting all the occupants. 

One occupant assisted subject2 to safety while Operator (Operator) attempted to rescue Subject3 (Caleb). Operator was unsuccessful in his rescue attempts and lost contact with Subject3. Subject1, Subject2, and Operator were safely brought to shore by first responders. Subject3 was found deceased by Eckerd College Search and Rescue Team approximately two hundred (200) yards away from V1. 

INVESTIGATION
NOTE: All times and distances are approximate. All photographs are taken by Investigator unless otherwise indicated. All diagrams are not to scale and created by Investigator unless otherwise stated. 

INVESTIGATION CHRONOLOGY

Saturday 4/27/19 

2207 hrs. I was notified by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Lt. of a boating accident with a fatality at Emerson Point in Manatee County. 

2210 hrs. I spoke with on scene FWC Officer who advised that four subjects were on one kayak when it capsized. Three subjects were recovered from the water and one three-year-old subject was still missing. He advised that alcohol does not seem to be a factor. 

1125 hrs. I arrived on scene at Emmerson Point. 

2334 hrs. The body of the missing juvenile, Subject3, was found by Eckerd College Search and Rescue Team. 

2344 hrs. I requested the Manatee County Medical Examiner to meet me at the Bradenton Yacht Club.

2355 hrs. Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MSO) enroute Cuts Edge Marina to make positive identification on victim before death notification.

Sunday 4/28/19

0014 hrs. I received the paddle from V1 from a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MSO) Dive Team. 

0020 hrs. Positive identification of the victim was confirmed by MSO Deputy.

0024 hrs. Myself along with Palmetto Police Department (PPD) Officer (PPD Ofc.), and MSO victims advocate made Next of kin notification to the mother and father. 

0053 hrs. I began interviews with the occupants of V1. 

0135 hrs. FWC Ofc. recovered V1 and transported it to the Bradenton Yacht Club.

0243 hrs. Evidence items 1,2,3,4 were transported to FWC Tampa Office Evidence for storage by FWC Ofc. 

Monday 4/29/19

1112 hrs. I spoke with Sgt. with MSO Child Protection Services (CPS). He advised that they would be conducting an investigation into the death. I asked him if they had any issue with us releasing the information of the individuals involved in the accident to which he stated that it was fine.

1418 hrs. I spoke with Subject2 an occupant of V1 at the time of the accident. I advised the father of the victim, that the names and address of the individuals involved were going to be released. He stated that the media, Bay News 9, had already been by their residence today. 

2130 hrs. I was contacted by Inv. with the Medical Examiners Office who advised that the preliminary results of the autopsy revealed classic stigmata of drowning and there was no trauma. 

Monday 5/6/19

1100 hrs. I contacted Old Town Canoes who provided me with the specifications on V1.

1230 hrs. FWC Lt., Ofc. and I conducted a float test of V1. 

Wednesday 5/15/19

1403 hrs. I asked if they would like us to keep V1 as evidence for their case. The State Attorney would like to keep it for now. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0331
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SKI ALLEY
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 with a tube in tow made a wide turn at the south end of Ski Alley in Charlotte County, which resulted in the tube hitting the mangroves on the east side of the canal. The two occupants on the tube were ejected into the mangroves and sustained non-life threatening injuries.; Tuber1 sustained a partial amputation of his right ear that was stitched and surgically repaired. He was also treated for lacerations on his arms and legs.;Tuber2 sustained a contusion on the right side of her head due to the impact of being ejected into the mangroves. Subject was later discharged from the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2019-0332
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ORTEGA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2019, I, Ofc , Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Law Enforcement was dispatched to a overturned vessel with subjects in the water.  

Lt. and I responded to the Ortega River.  Upon approach we identified a floating structure.  Owner stated that he arrived on the structure prior to a storm arriving. He attempted to pump out the water from the structure.  A strong wind blew the structure to the east and then to the west which caused the structure to overturn.  Once overturned, the structure floating and made contact with a sailboat. There were no injuries. Owner and his dog were the only subjects in the water.  Lt. identified a sheen on the water and made contact with DEP and US Coast Guard.  

The structure owned by Owner is built on a Pembroke Yacht hull that was in a junked condition and over weight capacity which enabled the storm winds to overturn the structure.


BARDID: FL-2019-0333
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMELIA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/6/19 I, FWC Officer, noticed an abandoned vessel in the marsh adjacent to the Amelia River in Nassau Co.  The time was 10:17 hours.  Two vessels from Nassau Co Sheriff's Office arrived on scene and said they had received a call about the vessel.  After a further look at the vessel it was determined that the vessel had been involved in a crash.  The steering wheel had been pushed through the console.  The vessel had struck the shell bed bank and launched itself in the air about 20 to 25 feet before it landed and continued another 25 to 35 feet into the marsh before coming to a stop.  Nassau SO contacted the registered owner who said his friend had borrowed the vessel the previous day.  

Operator1 arrived on scene to remove the vessel.  He was accompanied by several people to include Occupant1 who had been aboard the vessel when it crashed.  Operator1 was read Miranda and interviewed.  Operator1 said that his party had been at the Downunder restaurant which is located on the Amelia River.  They left the restaurant at approximately 21:00 hours. Sunset was at 20:32 hours and Operator1 said he had expressed concern about operating the vessel at night.   Operator1 was the operator along with his son Occupant2, Occupant3, and Occupant1 as passengers.  Occupant2 stood to the right of Operator1.  Occupant1 and Occupant3 were sitting on a cooler in front of the steering console.  The vessel continued north bound on the Amelia River. 

It appears that Operator1 steered the vessel to his left past unlit green marker 1B.  Operator1 said he realized that he needed to steer back to his right as he noticed unlit red marker 18A to his right.  He said he did not think the vessel was responding to his turning the steering wheel to the right.  Nassau CO Deputies had inspected the vessel's steering after the crash and the vessel had steering.  The vessel struck the shell bed on the west bank of the Amelia River.  The vessel was launched approximately 20 -25' over the shell bed.  The vessel landed and continued into the marsh where it came to a stop.  

Operator1 had struck the steering wheel on impact.  Subject2 was thrown forward.  Occupant1 was thrown from the cooler.  Nobody was ejected.  A vessel was following and picked up everyone.  Occupant2 complained of pain.  He was taken to shore and his mother transported him to Baptist Hospital in Fernandina.  He was admitted at 22:26 and discharged at 01:50 hours with contusions to his lower back.  None of the rest of the party sought treatment.  Occupant1 did complain of soreness the following day.  Operator said he was too distraught when asked why he had not notified law enforcement of the crash or fire rescue for his injured son.  Operator1 was issued citations for failure to report a vessel crash and violation of a navigation rule resulting in a vessel crash.  He was issued written warnings for improper display of registration decal and no type 4 throwable. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0334
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: APALACHICOLA BAY
NearestCityorTown: APALACHICOLA
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 15, 2019 at 4:17 p.m., Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received a call from our Regional Communication Dispatch Center reference a single vessel capsizing at Bob Sykes Cut near Saint George Island. We were also advised that 5 subjects were in the water. 

Officers launched our patrol vessel from Scipio Creek Marina at 4:20 p.m., arriving at the incident location at approximately 4:35 p.m. Note, current seas were recorded at 2’-6’, very strong outgoing tide/current due to a full moon. Upon arrival, we observed a vessel turned upside down on the east side of Bob Sykes Cut and stationary along the jetties. While closing the distance, we were flagged down by multiple subjects. 

Vessel used; 2002 28’ Scout vessel, white in color, bearing registration numbers FL 8171 RN, and recreationally registered to owner/operator. 

Operator1 advised the following incident occurred at approximately 4:10-4:15 p.m., which he was operating the vessel north, just south of the northern entrance of Bob Sykes Cut, at a slow rate of speed “less than 10 MPH”. He stated that a wave crashed over the stern and sunk the back end of the boat down, causing the boat to take on a lot of water in a matter of minutes. According to Operator1, he directed all subjects on-board to jump off prior to it sinking. All subjects made it to shore safely and did not sustain any injuries during/after the incident. Note, several bystanders along with the Saint George Island Fire Department rendered assistance upon recovery.

Officer and I gathered the coordinates of the vessels final resting position, “N 29 36.814 W 84 57.513”. We also retrieved a sworn written statement from Operator1 reference the incident. The vessel was retrieved by Sea Tow and damages are expected to cost well over $2000.00. 

**I do not deem the operator to be at fault due to inclement weather conditions**


BARDID: FL-2019-0335
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: TREASURE ISLAND
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel, a 33ft Formula, catching fire and sinking. 
According to both, they were tied up at John's Pass Marina taking on fuel before leaving to cruise for the day. When they had finished, subject1 left the vessel to go pay. When he returned, they began to untie. Operator started the port engine with no issue. When he started the starboard engine, there was a loud bang, and the rear starboard hatch was blown into the water. When they looked, they noticed the fire. The marina manager told them all to get off and untied the vessel and shoved it away, due to the danger of there being a fire close to the marina fuel pumps. Subject2, who was sitting closest to the source of the fire, suffered burns on her feet and legs. Later, a doctor diagnosed the burns as 2nd degree, with possible 3rd degree burns on her right foot. 

I inquired to the use of the blowers before starting the engine. Both stated the blowers were ran for at least 3 minutes before starting. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0336
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LEESBURG
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: vessel destruction
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was cruising along the shoreline of a lake when the operator thought he struck an unknown object beneath the water's surface. The motor subsequently separated from the transom and fell into the water; still attached by the steering cable, anchoring the vessel. No injuries reported to any of the three POB's. Vessel later towed away by Tow Boat US. 

It was later determined that the vessel did not strike anything and the motor fell off due to all four nuts being removed. The actual cause as to why the motor was not secured on the transom, while the vessel was underway at the time of the incident, remains unknown.


BARDID: FL-2019-0337
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SKI ALLEY, LEMON BAY
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING IN CIRCLES IN A NORTHERLY DIRECTION. VESSEL 2 WAS TRAVELING IN CIRCLES IN A SOUTHERLY DIRECTION. BOTH VESSEL 1 AND VESSEL 2 ENDED UP IN A HEAD ON SITUATION, SUBSEQUENTLY COLLIDING HEAD ON ( BOW TO BOW).


BARDID: FL-2019-0338
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were idling East out of Haulover Inlet. V1 went over a wave. V1 struck V2 on the starboard side with the front of V1. 

Victim informed me she had some bruising on her right side. She said it was around her right thigh and calf area. She had a laceration on the right outside of her calf.  She also had some small lacerations on her right hand and arm. All of these injuries had already been treated and they were not major injuries.


BARDID: FL-2019-0339
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SMOKEHOUSE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: FREEPORT
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Other
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by engine
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was on full plane when the engine hit a submerged log. It broke the steering arm on the engine and the vessel hit a tree on the left front.

On 7-11-2019, Officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conversation Commission (FWC), received a call from our dispatch about a boating accident that happened on 6-22-2019. 

Officer made contact with the complainant, so we could meet with him to get a written report from him of the accident. 

Complainant told us that on 6-22-2019, he was riding in the back seat of a vessel that was operated by a friend. He said that they were in smokehouse slue with the vessel  at full throttle when the engine hit a submerged log. The engine came up and hit him in the shoulder. He said that the vessel then went head on into a tree. He was taken to the hospital in Geneva Alabama so that they would not have to report the boating accident to FWC. They told the hospital that it was an ATV accident.

OP of V1 said that he and complainant were in the vessel on smokehouse slue when he hit a submerged log the he could not see and that when he hit the log it broke the steering arm on the engine and that he had no control of the vessel and that it hit a tree on the left front of the vessel. The complainant (occupant) told him that he could not go to the hospital in Florida because he had a warrant for his arrest and that is why they took him to the hospital in Alabama.; 

Subject said that the engine cowling hit his right shoulder and middle back.


BARDID: FL-2019-0340
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NILES CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A PWC entered into a canal at a high rate of speed. Operator made a hard turn to port, causing his PWC to slide to his starboard, making contact with the shoreline. Operator was ejected from the PWC, and suffered small lacerations and fractured bones on the right side of his face. Operator was flown to Kendal Medical Center in Miami, where he checked himself out shortly thereafter. The injuries are not life threatening, and will not cause permanent disfigurement. ; He suffered two small laceration to the right side of his nose, as well as bone fractured bones on the right side of his face.


BARDID: FL-2019-0341
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEBASTIAN INLET
NearestCityorTown: ORCHID
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/6/19 at approximately 1615 hours, a white and blue cuddy cabin vessel was on a recreational cruise in west of the Sebastian Inlet Bridge when one of the 9 occupants voluntarily exited the vessel and entered the water to swim. At the time the inlet was experiencing a strong outgoing tidal current. 

The swimmer attempted to get back into the vessel, but due to size and weight had difficulty. All but one (the operator) of the remaining occupants went to the transom of the vessel in an attempt to assist the swimmer back on to the vessel. The operator turned off the motors for the safety of the swimmer. Due to the current the vessel was taken under the bridge and into the breakers of the outgoing tide. The weight at the rear of the vessel also allowed water to enter over the transom. As the vessel became weighed down by water, more waves began coming over the transom. Eventual causing the vessel to capsize. Two juvenile occupants reported injuries to their heads and one was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and was cleared with only a concussion. ; 

Subject was hit by vessel during the capsizing. The vessel gunnel struck subject in head when it fell on top of her. Subject2 was stuck by vessel during capsizing. Vessel gunnel hit subjects head during roll. Subject was transported to Holmes Regional Medical Center at parents request due to prior concussion history.


BARDID: FL-2019-0342
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MANDALAY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V-1) hit a wake causing the operator to fall off the starboard and break the operator's ribs on the side of V-1.


BARDID: FL-2019-0343
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO BIG PASS
NearestCityorTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject struck shoal upon entering Big Pass, hull cracked, vessel became grounded.

Operator1 described to me the incident.  He and his wife had departed Maximo Marina in St. Petersburg, and were in route to Sanibel Island.  Operator1 thought conditions would be calmer in the ICW, and attempted to enter Big Pass.  Despite using his charts to navigate, the tide must have been too low, and a swell lifted their vessel.  As it passed, the vessel hull struck a shoal, causing it to take on water.  Operator1 was unable to maneuver the vessel from being grounded.  He and his wife were later rescued by the Sarasota Sheriffs and Fire Rescue; no injuries


BARDID: FL-2019-0344
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
An underway vessel was inadvertently maneuvered into an anchored vessel at the conclusion of the 4th of July fireworks show in Destin Harbor. At the conclusion of the 4th of July fireworks show in the Destin Pass at approximately 2130 hours, I observed V1 attempt to reposition itself amongst other vessel traffic which was already at anchor.  

V2 was at anchor nearby and had been for the duration of the fireworks show, whereas V1 was continually in motion and could be seen struggling to maintain position due to the outgoing tidal current.  Just prior to the accident, V1's bow was pointing south and the operator maneuvered the vessel, swinging its bow to the east and then north in an effort to place the bow headfirst into the current.  While doing so, V1's bow swept over the bow of V2, which was stationary, anchored and properly displaying all navigation lights.  V1's bow, which was higher than V2's from the waterline, crushed a large section of the stainless steel bow rail on V2.  The occupants on V2's bow had just completed watching the fireworks show and were able to retreat to safety without being harmed by V1's actions. Op of V1 stated the throttle controls slipped and that he had never experienced an event such as that before.


BARDID: FL-2019-0345
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STATE
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 launched from Crandon boat ramp and started taking on water for unknown reasons. The vessel was at Bear Cut when the occupants noticed the vessel was taking on water. Operator used the horn on his vessel to signal a nearby good samaritan, and was given a ride back to Crandon Marina. The vessel was pumped out and towed back to Crandon boat ramp by Fast Response Marine Towing. Fast Response Marine towing arrived on scene to pump out the vessel and tow it to Crandon boat ramp. Operator loaded it back onto its trailer and I inspected it for hull damage and a drain plug. I discovered no damage to the hull and the drain plug was tight in the proper location. It is unknown why the vessel was taking on water. Nobody was injured in the sinking of the vessel and all safety equipment was on board at the time of the accident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0346
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityorTown: TREASURE ISLAND
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling at approximately 30 MPH and the operator intentionally jumped a wake of another vessel. V1 went airborne and the operator landed on the handlebars of V1 and fell into the water. The operator of V1 was later transported to the hospital and was found to have internal bleeding, bruised kidneys and kidney damage. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0347
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST ANDREW BAY PASS
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was north bound in Panama City Pass. Stated he hit the wake from a large passing unknown vessel. Subject was thrown from PWC in to the water and his PWC landed on him striking him in the ribs and hip on his left side causing bruising. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0348
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 struck V02 on the starboard side causing the operator to fall off V02. Operator of V02 was treated on scene by Emergency Medical Services and was later transported to Mariner's Hospital.
Before he filled out his statement, I asked him what him and his sister’s experience was operating a PWC, and he replied with that it was their first time operating one. As he filled out his statement he explained that he was attempting to get closer to his sister; that was adjusting her camera, and as he approached, he realized his sister did not notice him approaching. He continued to say that this is when his sister started moving directly in his path and did not have enough time/distance to stop in time. This is where the collision took place, the bow of the striking PWC struck the starboard side of the struck PWC including the operator’s leg, causing her to fall off the PWC. X-Rays were taken of her leg and stitches were applied to her leg wound. No broken or fractured bones in the leg.


BARDID: FL-2019-0349
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE SARSASOTA BAY
NearestCityorTown: SIESTA KEY
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1, along with another pwc, were headed north in the ICW in the area of Little Sarasota Bay.  V1 made a left turn to port.  The operator of the other pwc yelled at the operator of V1 to watch out for the boat coming up behind him.  The operator of V1 then looked over his left shoulder and noticed V2.  He attempted to steer back to starboard but was too late and V2 ran over V1.


BARDID: FL-2019-0350
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HAULOVER MARINA
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 17th, 2019 V-1 was navigating Northbound passed the Bill Bird Marina. V-1 was plowing in a slow speed zone creating a large wake as it passed the marina. The wake from V-1 damaged to 6 vessels docked at the Bill Bird Marina by rocking them into the pylons at the dock.


BARDID: FL-2019-0351
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PIERSON
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I, Officer (FWC), at approximately 1630 hours on 6/29/19 was on water patrol on the St Johns River SB near channel marker 23 north of SR40 when I saw a damaged vessel (FL6862PM) on the east bank 
The vessel was damaged with broken glass and blood covering much of the passenger area and seats.
 Operator had lacerations on his right arm and blood covering his body. Operator stated that he was headed south when his steering went out and caused him to pull to the right and crash into the west bank of the river; he then continued under power in a circle until he came to a stop on the east bank where he was found. Operator admitted in an interview that he was going between 38-40 mph at the time of the accident.
The vessel was impounded (see tow receipt). 
After several attempts I was unable to find a crash site on the east bank of the river. There was also no indication of mechanical failure for the vessel.

Operator had lacerations on his right arm and torso which required medical treatment


BARDID: FL-2019-0352
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOSPITAL CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1(16ft KEY LARGO) STRUCK V2(18 SCARAB) WHEN THE CURRENT PUSHED IT ALONG THE STARBOARD SIDE.  THE OPERATOR OF V1 THEN ATTEMPTED TO POWER OUT OF THE SITUATION CAUSING GOUGES DOWN THE STARBOARD SIDE TO THE GEL COAT AND SCUFFS ALONG THE RUB RAIL. V1 THEN LEFT THE SCENE .


BARDID: FL-2019-0353
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ARCADIA
County: DESOTO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, March 9, 2019, at approximately 1838 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a single vessel accident at Peace River, located in Desoto County, Florida. A 2016, 13-foot homemade airboat (V1) was being operated on plane with four subjects on board. V1 was traveling north, lost control in a turn while rounding a bend in the river and collided with an oak tree located along the shoreline. All occupants were ejected following the collision. Shortly thereafter, two subjects were found floating face down in the water, recovered and administered CPR. They were transported to the Nocatee boat ramp where they were met by EMS that took over life saving measures. They were taken to Lee Memorial Hospital where they were treated for their injuries and later released. Operator admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages, a blood draw was conducted at the hospital and is awaiting toxicology results.

Occupant1 received a mild head injury without a concussion. Her injuries were noted during the DCFR examination and were consistent with her sitting on the port side of the front passenger seat and getting struck by a fixed object at the time of the collision. She was ejected into Peace River and was found floating face down in the water shortly after the collision. She was administered CPR at the scene. She was treated by DCFR and later at Lee Memorial Hospital. She was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident and knew how to swim. 

Operator received blunt trauma to his head. His injuries were noted during the DCFR examination and were consistent with him sitting at the airboat’s operator seat and getting struck by a fixed object at the time of the collision. He was ejected into Peace River and was found floating face down in the water shortly after the collision. He was administered CPR at the scene. He was treated by DCFR and later at Lee Memorial Hospital. He was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the collision and the vessel was not equipped with an engine cut off safety lanyard. According to him, he had over 100 hours of vessel operating experience and knew how to swim.


BARDID: FL-2019-0354
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAINT JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PIERSON
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29, 2019 at approximately 4:00pm, a vessel accident occurred on the Saint Johns River at Camp South Moon near channel marker 26, Volusia County, Florida. The accident involved one aluminum hull bass boat (V1) and one personal watercraft (V2). V1 is a black 2007 Triton bass boat operated by one white male and with one white male occupant. V2 is a blue 2018 Yamaha personal watercraft (PWC) operated by one Hispanic female and with two Hispanic male occupants. V1 is powered with one 90 horse power engine. V2 is powered with one 110 horse power water jet engine.

V1 and V2 were traveling south on the Saint Johns River. V1 and V2 had just exited a slow speed minimum wake safety zone. V2 was in front of V1 and on V1’s port side.
Both V1 and V2 began to increase speed.V1 was just getting on plane when V2 turned to its starboard side and in front of V1. V1 did not have time to perform an evasive maneuver. 
V1 struck V2 with the front port side of its hull. V2 was struck on the midship starboard side of its hull.
V2’s operator and 2 occupants were thrown from the PWC into the water. V1’s  operator and occupant remained in the vessel. Both vessels and both operators were taken to the nearest boat dock just south of Camp South Moon. 
V2’s operator received injuries requiring treatment beyond first aid and was transported by ambulance to the Deland Hospital Intensive Care Unit. She obtained a broken right arm and a dislocated right elbow from the crash. 

FWC units responded to Camp South Moon where the initial investigation took place.

Life jackets were worn by both operator and occupants on V2 during the crash. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0356
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 stated that she was traveling away from the beach and Operator2 was traveling towards the beach when the accident occurred. She stated that she was going very slow, about 4 mph, when Operator2 turned in front of her causing the Jet skis to hit each other. She stated that she hit him on the left side with the tip of her PWC. Operator1 provided a temporary boaters safety card issued to both he and her fiance for that day from the PWC livery.   
Operator2 was driven to Health Park hospital by Operator1. Operator1 told me by phone that Operator2 had a broken rib and that he very sore.; 


BARDID: FL-2019-0357
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUND/INLET
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2019 at approximately 1500 hours, an 11' 2017 green/black Seadoo Personal Water Craft (V1) collided with a red/white 10' 2005 Yamaha Personal Water Craft (V2) on the bay side of the island between "B" and "C" span bridges on the Sanibel Causeway. Weather conditions were clear, sunny, with 0-5 mph winds. 

V2 was pleasure cruising with one adult female and two juvenile females as passengers. V1 was operated by an adult male and an unknown male passenger. 

V1 took a hard left and collided head-on with V2. All three on V2 were ejected. 

The adult female and one juvenile female sustained non-life threatening injuries beyond basic first aid. (broken ribs, a broken arm, lacerations) The operator of V1 was uninjured, during the investigation the operator of V1 was given field sobriety tasks, officers arrested him under suspicion of BUI.

operator2 sustained 3 fractured ribs on the right side of her rib cage. She also has brusing on her right tricep. v2 occupant1 sustained a swollen upper lip, bloody nose, and possibly a cut on the inside of her upper lip.; v2 occupant2 sustained an injury to her right elbow. As of 07/08/2019, she is in a modified cast. Unknown if elbow is broken or sprained.


BARDID: FL-2019-0358
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HAULOVER INLET
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 22, 2019 I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission(FWC) was on water patrol in marked FWC vessel when I was dispatched to a call about a vessel taking on water just outside of Haulover Inlet.  The occupants of the vessel were uninjured and already on another vessel.  I brought them aboard my vessel and they advised that the transum of the boat fell off with no apparent cause.  I advised U.S. Coast Guard of the coordinates of the vessel and ushered the occupants back to land.


BARDID: FL-2019-0359
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE IAMONIA
NearestCityorTown: TALLAHASSEE
County: LEON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 14th, five people went for boat ride on Lake Iamonia. Subject owned a 1983 24’ Chaparral cuddy cabin that he planned on selling and took for test drive. They launched the boat at Bull Headley landing and ran the boat across the lake to Iamonia landing. 

During the trip, the engine started having technical issues, so they stopped and adjusted the fuel regulator. The engine continued having problems, so they adjusted the fuel regulator a second time. This time the engine would only idle. They decided to return to Bull Headley landing and put the boat on the trailer. Because of the engine issues they were forced to idle the 4 miles back. 

At around mile 3, operator smelled gas and as he turned to say something to Subject there was an explosion. 

The explosion separated the deck from the hull and Operator was unable to hold on to the steering wheel. The cuddy cabin door was blown off and shattered. Flames were visible coming from the bow, cuddy cabin and engine compartment. The PFD’s were on fire and the fire extinguisher was blown forward into the flames near the cuddy cabin. Everyone immediately jumped into the water and swam away from the burning boat.

A good Samaritan saw the smoke and heard the explosion. He immediately headed in their direction to help. When he arrived all 5 people were in the channel swimming away from the burning vessel. A black jet ski driven by a second good Samaritan arrived on scene and they both began to pull the everyone out of the water. Everyone involved in the explosion was put on the boat and taken to shore. 

TFD and FWC responded and attempted to extinguish the fire with fire extinguishers but failed. More resources were called in by TFD and the fire was put out a short time later. FWC towed the vessel back to Bull Headley landing and after TFD checked for any “hot spots” the boat was floated back on the trailer. The boat was kept at the landing until a TFD investigator responded.

While the vessel fire was being handled, Leon County EMS responded and checked the boaters for injuries. All were sore and had minor bruising but were cleared by EMS. One of the 5 on board later went to TMH Northeast to be reevaluated and was cleared a short time later. 

There were several repairs done to the engine and fuel lines prior to the trip. All new parts were from West Marine and were marine grade. New fuel lines were put in from the water separator to the engine, but no one could remember when the fuel line from the water separator to the tank was replaced, if ever. This was likely where the fuel leak occurred, allowing the gas to collect in the bilge. The spark most likely came from a damaged spark arrestor or automotive alternator, but the fire burned so hot all of the engine parts became warped, making a conclusion impossible.


BARDID: FL-2019-0360
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CRESCENT LAKE
NearestCityorTown: BUNNELL
County: FLAGLER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-10-2019, at approx. 7:30 PM, a single vessel accident occurred on Crescent Lake, Flagler County Florida. V1 is a 1996 20-foot Skeeter Bass Boat with a single 200 HP Mercury engine. V1 launched from Shell Bluff Boat Ramp and was heading southwest on Crescent Lake. 

Operator left around 7:30pm he was headed to the west side of Crescent Lake to fish. Operator was traveling approximately 40-50 MPH when he struck a submerged object in the water. Operator advised he was approximately 200 yards off the shoreline near the first cove while traveling Southwest.  Operator advised his engine stalled out and his vessel began taking on water. Operator called one of his friends that was on the water to assist him. He also called his father. Operator advised when his friend arrived on scene, they tried towing the vessel in. While towing V1, it continued to take on water. Operator’s father arrived on scene with his vessel and assisted towing V1 back to Shell Bluff Boat Ramp. While V1 was being towed, it began to roll and capsize as they got near the boat ramp. Operator advised him, and his father tied V1 to the closest piling near the boat ramp until they could find a way to remove it out of the water. At approximately 11:00 PM Operator called FWC and reported it to our Communication Center.

I observed V1 capsized approximately 20 yards west of Shell Bluff Boat Ramp, tied to a piling. Operator complained he hurt his left hand when he collided with the object, but he refused medical treatment.  Operator advised me he was aware of the information pertaining to the lake being very shallow and with submerged pilings. Operator advised he thought he was far enough from the shore to not hit any of these objects. 
On 7-11-2019, Operator contacted his insurance company (Progressive) and had Sea Tow coming to remove V1. I met with Sea Tow at the boat ramp and observed several dents on the hull near the stern.  I also observed a bent skeg on the lower unit which indicates the hitting of some type of object or grounding. On the Stern on V1 near the drain plug, there is suppose be two self-bailing scuppers. When inspecting V1, it was missing one scupper, It had been ripped out. There were scratch marks near the missing scupper.   Due to V1 missing the scupper, it took on water which eventually made V1 sink. 

After inspecting the vessel, I found the registration was expired and Operator did not display the correct FL registration numbers on the vessel. Operator was issued a citation for 328.72(13)(a) and a warning for 328.54(1).

328.72(13)(a) - OPERATE, USE, OR STORE A VESSEL ON STATE WATERS WITH AN EXPIRED REGISTRATION.

328.54(1)- REGISTRATION NUMBER NOT PROPERLY DISPLAYED: SPACING OF CHARACTERS
Subject had a small laceration on his hand.


BARDID: FL-2019-0361
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 overturned with three persons on board the vessel. The operator turned the direction of the vessel to head north which allowed a wave to go over the stern of V01 and caused it to overturn.

They departed Coco Plum in Marathon and stayed close to the shoreline as much as possible to avoid the rough waters for their boat. Then when realizing it was getting too rough for their size boat, they decided to turn around. When the vessel was turned, a wave came from the rear and swamped it, which then caused it to capsize.


BARDID: FL-2019-0362
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was operating carelessly and tried to squeeze between two vessels going on plain. Vessel one hit wake and launched into the air crashing into vessel two. 

Vessel two was operating East in the St. Lucie River towards the Crossroads on plain. Vessel one entered the St. Lucie River and began to head east towards the Crossroads on plain. Vessel one carelessly tried to operate his vessel between vessel two, and an unidentified vessel three, when he hit the wake being thrown from vessel three. Vessel one went into the air and crashed onto vessel two’s port side stern and caused a secondary collision with vessel two on the port side closer towards the bow. Vessel one had a crack in the starboard side fiberglass. Vessel two had a crack in the fiberglass and damage to the railing. 
 
Operator1 injured his hip where he recently had hip replacement when vessel one made contact with the water and vessel two and was thrown to the floor. An occupant on vessel one was thrown to the floor and injured her toe. She was transported to the hospital where she received stiches.  Big toe was bruised and was bleeding. Toe nail had to be removed, and she received stiches. ; 


BARDID: FL-2019-0363
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was operating without navigation lights on during night heading east in the St. Lucie River. Vessel two was operating with navigation lights on heading west in the St. Lucie River. Vessel two observed vessel one on plain and took action to avoid collision by reversing and turning his vessel while vessel one took no action to avoid collision. Vessel one made contact with vessel two on the bow and glanced down the port side causing the pulpit to be ripped off of vessel two.  An occupant on vessel two was injured by falling onto an open hatch door during the accident. She had a large laceration and contusions. She was transported and received 12 stiches the day after and will be following up with a plastic surgeon. Another occupant had minor contusions on her left elbow and right knee by falling during the accident. 

Operator of V1 had contusions from his vessel console.

Vessel two was operated home and vessel one was towed due to all occupants being highly intoxicated and unable to operate safely.
operator1 had Contusions on his right leg see attached photogragh.; V2 occupant1 had minor contusions on left elbow and right knee. ; v2 occupant2:Admitted into hospital and received 12 stiches. Hospital was not able to close injury.  She was sent to a specialist and will have to receive plastic surgery to close the wound


BARDID: FL-2019-0364
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:37:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was east bound in the bay.  V1 made an unintentional hard turn to the starboard, both operator and occupant were ejected.  V1 continued to make circles.  Immediately after being ejected, while both were still in the water, the occupant spoke with Operator who had an open injury to his back and was unable to swim.   

Occupant was unable to assist operator back to shore.  V1 continued to do circles and was eventually stopped by Sea Tow.  Occupant was recovered by Okaloosa County Sheriff Office Marine unit and transported to Ft Walton Beach Medical by EMS.  Deceased operator was located 3 days later, on the beach behind the Aegean Condominium gulf side of Destin.

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, operator purchased the vessel on 03/27/2019.  The motor on the vessel was blown.  Operator purchased a replacement motor off Craigslist. Occupant and operator worked on getting the vessel seaworthy.

Operator hung the motor while occupant worked on structural issues.   On April 14, 2019, the subjects took the vessel for a test run.  They launched at Joes Bayou and ran to the Marler bridge without incident.

 On the way back, the motor was not sufficiently fastened to the steering mechanism. With the forces put on the vessel by change of seas and direction of travel, the steering connection separated. 
The above finding of the investigation is based on the fact that three bolts consistent with mounting the steering were located in a cup holder on the console.  This caused the eventual steering failure that resulted in this accident. 

Operator suffered numerous prop strike lacerations up the back from the right hip to right shoulder ranging 11/2" to 4" and 1 3/4" to 3" apart. Rib 7 through 10 rib on right side are broken. Lacerations to Right Lung and Liver. Abrasion on left ankle.; Occupant suffered internal injuries from impact with hand rail.


BARDID: FL-2019-0365
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PENSACOLA BAY
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
\On July 4th 2019, at approximately 8:58 p.m. a 25' Sea Cat (V1) catamaran power boat with six total persons onboard was traveling at approximately 25-30 knots in a northwesterly direction between Deer Point and Fair Point approximatley 1000yds off of Gulf Breeze, FL.

 V1 struck an anchored 30' Regal (V2) cabin cruiser power boat with seven total persons onboard on the port side just forward of the windshield. Both vessels settled in the water interlocked facing each other bow to bow. At the time of the accident, two persons onboard V1 sustained non-life threatening injuries requiring medical attention. They were transported to Sacred Heart Hospital. 
 V1 occupant1 was sitting on right side of fixed cushioned seat located behind the drivers area/rigging station. Upon impact with V2 he was launched forward hitting his mouth on the corner of the fiberglass rigging station. He was transported off the vessel by fire rescue to shore then transported to Sacred Heart Hospital. At the emergency room he received limited treatment at the time due to the complication of the injury and not having an oral specialist on duty. One tooth was extracted.  He has received several treatments for his mouth injuries from the military oral specialist. Treatments include extractions, bone graphs, splinting, root canals and braces. At this time he is able to eat soft foods.

V1 occupant2:During a follow up interview she stated that she had self diagnosed several sprains and strains.
V1 occupant3:left side #4 and #5 ribs broken due to impact with cabin entrance.
V2 occupant1 was treated by fire rescue on scene for a laceration on his left foot. The next day, he went to the emergency room and had approximately 20 stiches put in place.
V2 occupant2 has been a seeing a chiropractor for several strains, sprains and alignment issues.


BARDID: FL-2019-0366
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BARNES SOUND
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 27th, 2019, at approximately 2030 hours, a vessel bearing a Florida Registration of  FL 6401 PW was traveling south in Barnes Sound toward Jewfish Creek. The vessel launched itself into the mangroves, causing damage and injuring the operator.

I boarded the USCG vessel and we approached the vessel that was in the mangroves, the vessel was on the south end of Jew fish creek. The vessel was a blue Mako bearing the Florida Registration of FL 6401 PW. 

There were three individuals standing on the vessel. The vessel was roughly 6 feet into the mangroves. We came up to the vessel and I asked if anyone was seriously injured and one of the occupants stated that just the captain had a gash on his head. 

The operator of the vessel was on the phone and wasn’t responding to my commands and wasn’t answering any of my questions. I requested that he came aboard our patrol vessel. When Operator1 stepped off the vessel, he fell into the water. He was not able to maintain his balance. When he boarded our vessel, I smelled a strong smell of an alcoholic beverage coming from his face and mouth. We took the operator and occupants back to Gilbert’s, so that EMS could examine their injuries. I spoke to two people, and  asked what had happened. 

They both stated that Operator1 was a mechanic and asked if they wanted to go for a ride on the boat. They stated that they stopped at Gilbert’s and have a few beers and shots of liquor. They then traveled to another restaurant that was located due north of Jewfish Creek to get a few more drinks. The restaurant was closed, so Operator1 was going to take them back to Gilbert’s. They both got into verbal and physical arguments with Operator1, stated that he would not let them operate the vessel.  They said he was going at an excessive speed at night and missed the channel. He launched the vessel into the mangroves and passed out. When he woke up, he said he was not driving the boat. 

They stated that they wanted to operate the vessel, due to Operator1 being too impaired to operate it safely. 

I spoke to Operator1 in the ambulance at Gilberts, he stated that he was not operating the vessel. He stated that he was a mechanic on the vessel and taking it for a test ride. He said the owner of the vessel knew he was taking the vessel out. He stated, that he had had multiple drinks. His speech was extremely slurred, and his eyes were bloodshot and glassy. He was transported to Mariner’s Hospital to assess his wounds. 

I made contact via phone with the owner of the vessel. I explained that his vessel had been in an accident. I asked if he had given Operator1 permission to take the vessel out, to go to the restaurant. Owner stated that he did not.


BARDID: FL-2019-0367
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PASS-A-GRILL
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Brief Synopsis
On 06/22/19 V1 Next A Sea had docked at the Tierra Verde Marina resort. For an unknown reason, V1 went into gear causing the dock lines to break. The broken line hit the Captain in the arm and the vessel owner in the groin area. Both were transported to the hospital for treatment.


BARDID: FL-2019-0368
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one struck the South Jetty at the St. Lucie Inlet due to operator inattentiveness. 

Vessel one was operating West towards the St. Lucie inlet at dark at slow speed. The operator has never gone into the St. Lucie inlet and did not know there was a Jetty. Vessel one ran aground on the Jetty causing damage to the port side bow. Vessel one began to take on water and sea tow arrived on scene and was able to plug the leak.


BARDID: FL-2019-0369
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: MARINELAND
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, identified by Florida registration (FL6474RW), was traveling Southeast towards the Matanzas Inlet Bridge. Vessel 1 hit a sandbar causing Operator 1 and Passenger 1 to be ejected into the water. Passenger 1 complained of chest pain and was transported to the hospital. she was released that night from the hospital with torn cartilage and minor muscles tears around her abdomen. Operator 1 was evaluated by Fire Rescue and cleared from the scene.


BARDID: FL-2019-0370
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PORTER POND
NearestCityorTown: CHIPLEY
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 20 2019 I Officer FWC I was dispatched to a boating accident on Porter Pond within Washington County. Upon my arrival I discovered three PWCs were involved and there were not any injuries. I located the three operators and the three involved PWC's. Written statements were gathered from both the operators of V1 and V2. 

After investigation and interview it was determined that Operator1 was operating V1 in open waters. V2 and V3 were stopped and floating side by side with each operator seated in the saddle of the respective vessel. V1 then began to approach V2 and V3, Operator1 was not able to steer vessel V1 away from V2. 

V1 struck V2 on the starboard side in the front third of the vessel. V1 then continued over top of V2 damaging the port front one third of V2. This action caused V2 to strike V3 in the starboard foot well cracking the hull on V3. This accident can be attributed to lack of operator experience on a throttle steering vessel and careless operation by V1. 

Operators of V2 and V3 were able to jump from their vessels before impact and were not injured. Operator1 was issued a written warning for careless operation and not having a boat Id Card.


BARDID: FL-2019-0371
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:14:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINE ISLAND SOUND
NearestCityorTown: ST. JAMES CITY
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 3, 2019 at approximately 1014 hours, a single vessel accident occurred in Pine Island Sound in Lee County, Florida. The vessel involved was a 20-foot Pro-Line Boat (V1) occupied by three adult males.  V1 was traveling west in Pine Island Sound near Part Island when V1 rode down a wave from another vessel. V1 hit the trough of the wave which ejected subject1 from the port side bow. V1 continued to travel where the propeller and or skeg struck subject1, causing fatal trauma. 

The medical examiners office states the cause of death is chop wounds of the torso and left arm


BARDID: FL-2019-0372
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OFFSHORE - N OF ST LUCIE INLET
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was underway, just NE of the St Lucie Inlet, when it began to take on water (reason unknown) and subsequently sank (partially submerged) before being recovered by Tow Boat US. Per statements provided by Operator and vessel occupants, the vessel had gotten underway at approximately 0800, headed for Mariner Cay Marina. Per Operator, this was his first time running the vessel, following it's recent purchase. While underway, northeast of the St Lucie Inlet, vessel occupants alerted Operator that the vessel was taking on water from the stern and was pouring in over the transom. Noting that the hull was filling up, Operator then radioed his position to the US Coast Guard over channel 16. 

All persons onboard the vessel placed Personal Floatation Devices on their bodies. Per operator the vessel continued taking on water and began to list to the port.  Once all vessel occupants were off the sinking vessel, they were assisted by a good Samaritan vessel and the Martin County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit, at which time all subjects were transported back to Sandsprit Boat Ramp. 

Per Operator, the vessel did not strike any fixed objects or sustain any damage that had caused it to take on water in such a rapid fashion. Operator advised that prior to purchase, a vessel mechanic had inspected the vessel and deemed it sea-worthy. 

The vessel was recovered by Tow Boat US, at which time it was held in their tow yard. Upon later inspecting the vessel, no there was no apparent damage to the hull of the vessel that would have compromised it's integrity. Causation of the vessel taking on water is unidentified at this time and is pending review by a marine mechanic.


BARDID: FL-2019-0373
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKEWORTH LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 had some mechanical repair work done over the last several days at Palm Harbor Marina, Palm Beach. The captain/operator took V1 out for a test run and had problems with the steering.  The bow/pulpit of V1 struck the starboard side of V2 causing a hole in V2.  V2 was docked at the time of the collision.  No injuries occurred. V1 also caused damage to the dock at the Marina. V1 called JAS Marine service and mechanic  whom responded to the location.  His inspection of V1, determined the port transmission solenoids were reversed.  He, then, corrected the problem. The written statement given by him explained that when V1 shifted into reverse, the vessel actually moved in a forward action and vice versa


BARDID: FL-2019-0374
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 PWC traveling NE out of No Wake zone entered wake of passing vessel. V1 attempted hard port turn into wake. ejected passenger. Right side torso injury occurred upon contact with water.  The extent of the injuries after x-rays and CT scan indicated an air bubble in the lung, causing shortness of breath and pain in the right side, upper thorax. Operator entered water and recovered passenger.


BARDID: FL-2019-0375
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6, 2019, at approximately 5:30 PM. Vessel 2 a blue 24 ft. Encore pontoon boat, Florida Registration FL3617PT, was being operated with 5 passengers. Vessel 1 was a 24ft USCG Metal Shark SPC-SW . V2 was traveling east in Destin Harbor and V1 was traveling west. V2 took an abrupt port turn toward V1. V1 took evasive maneuvers but V2 stuck V1s port side, causing damage to both vessels. 

Operator of V2 was arrested for boating under the influence of alcohol.


BARDID: FL-2019-0376
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:02:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 11, 2019 at approximately 2302 hours, a single vessel accident occurred approximately 200 yards off Sanibel B-span bridge in Lee County, Florida. 

The vessel involved was a 10-foot kayak (V1) occupied by one juvenile male. Operator borrowed a kayak to paddle approximately 400 yards from shore in order place bait for fishing. Several minutes had passed when a witness became concerned that Operator had not returned. A good Samaritan paddled a second kayak out and found Operator floating face down in the water. The good Samaritan pulled Operator back to shore where CPR was performed until EMS arrived on scene. The 20th medical examiner’s office advised the cause of death was drowning and also stated, decedent had a probable seizure while kayaking and drowned.


BARDID: FL-2019-0377
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CECILE
NearestCityorTown: KISSIMMEE
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2019, I, Officer along with Lieutenant of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a boat accident on lake Cecile behind the Howard Johnson Hotel at the Extreme Jet Ski of Orlando rental company. Vessel one was a white multi colored 2019 Sea-Doo Jet Ski with one occupant. Vessel two was a black multi colored 2019 Sea-Doo Jet Ski with two occupants. Vessel two was idling south on the lake back towards the center when Vessel one struck the back left corner of Vessel two. Vessel one slid on top of vessel two, causing both the occupants of vessel two to enter the water and swim back to shore. Both occupants of vessel one were admitted to Osceola Regional Hospital. The estimated damage to both Vessels is approximately $500. 

Operator2 stated that they were seated in the water and another jet ski ran into the back of his jet ski, causing him to fall into the water. After falling into the water Operator2 helped his passenger V2 occupant to shore. Operator2 provided a sworn written statement at the hospital. V2 occupant stated that she had bruising on the left side of her body from her waist up to her shoulder. I spoke with Operator2 at a later time by phone where he advised me that he had a wrist injury and neck pain.

Operator1 advised he was operating a jet ski on Lake Cecile in Kissimmee Florida and struck another jet ski in the rear. Operator1 stated that he was following the designated track that the rental operation advised everyone to use when he struck a jet ski that was idling back into the track. Operator1 stated that he was going approximately 20mph when he struck the back corner of another jet ski, sending his jet ski on top of the other. Operator1 stated the operator of the other jet ski fell off and then the passenger jumped off. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0378
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FEDERAL WATERS
NearestCityorTown: BELLEAIR BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: bilge cover
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V-1) was adrift twelve miles off shore when it began to take on water due to a one (1) inch hole on the starboard stern.  The owner of V-1 was unable to start the engine.  V-1 capsized on the starboard side.
On 7/30/2019, I spoke with operator on the telephone.  He said that he had Sea Tow remove the vessel off the water on 7/23/2019.  He visually inspected the vessel and found that at some point during the day the bilge cover came off causing a one (1) inch hole on the starboard stern.  It appears that this is what caused V-1 to take on water and capsize.


BARDID: FL-2019-0379
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERNANDO BEACH SNAPPER CANAL
NearestCityorTown: SPRING HILL
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: tow line
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was towing vessel two out of a slip at Nature Coast Marina in Hernando Beach. Vessel one, with vessel two in tow, turned to the North on Snapper canal. 

Due to excessive speed or operator error the vessel being towed tracked too far to the west side of the canal. On the west side of the canal vessel three was docked on private property facing south. To correct the course of the vessel being towed the operator of vessel one reversed. The line connecting vessel one and vessel two broke due to the momentum of the two vessels. Vessel two then struck vessel three at a speed of approximately five miles per hour. The port side of vessel two struck the port side of vessel three causing damage to vessel three and to the dock.


BARDID: FL-2019-0380
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLORIDA BAY
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was engaged in lobstering when a snorkeler from the vessel was struck by one of the outboard propeller’s as the vessel drifted into him.  
According to Operator, they were driving to a position marked on their vessel GPS to harvest lobster. Operator was operating the vessel with Subject1 standing on the starboard side of the helm and Subject2 sitting at bow of the vessel. 

Upon arriving at the marked position, Operator stated that he “thought I was in neutral” grabbed his snorkel mask and “jumped in down current of the hole”. Once in the water, Operator realized that the vessel was in reverse and rolled into him. Operator attempted to push himself away from the vessel, however the propeller from one of the outboard engines made contact with his left foot. Subject1 was standing next to the helm and once she realized that the vessel was drifting into Operator, she stated that “I stepped back to tell him to move and that’s when he hit the propeller”. Subject1 did not realize that the vessel was in reverse during this time. Once Operator was struck by the propeller, subject1 “automatically shut the motors off”. Both women assisted Operator back into the vessel, rendered first aid, and headed south to Conch Key while attempting to call for help on Marine Channel 16, VHF. 

Operator received a deep laceration to the top of the left foot, resulting in heavy bleeding and fractures. Follow on treatment at Jackson South Medical Center required multiple surgeries and the insertion pins into his foot.


BARDID: FL-2019-0381
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTH FORK SAINT LUCIE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PORT ST. LUCIE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
SINGLE VESSEL CRASH WITH SUBMERGED OBJECT. NO HUMAN INJURIES.
The vessel owner stated that he was northbound on the North Fork Saint Lucie River in the vicinity of channel marker 33. He stated his speed was approximately 10 to 15 miles per hour. He stated that he collided with a submerged tree that was below the surface of the water and not visible.
He stated that he was in the channel at the time of the collision with the submerged tree. According to him, there were no other vessels present at the time of the collision.  He was able to operate his vessel and return to his residence and put it on the boat lift behind his residence. The vessel remains on the lift behind his residence.


BARDID: FL-2019-0382
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 caught wake by large vessel passing by, lost control and hit V2.
Based on all information gathered to date, V1 was overtaking V2 in the Skyway Channel.  Based on the narrow width of the channel and other boat traffic at the time of the overtaking, V1 struck a wake causing it to turn into the path of V2.  V2 did not have time to react and struck V1.


BARDID: FL-2019-0383
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24, 2019, I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission where on anchor in the marked law enforcement vessel CT Randall off of the Content Keys.

At approximately 0935 hours, we received a Mayday Call over VHF Channel 16 of a vessel near Johnston Key that capsized and a "Good-Sam" vessel near by picked up the occupants.

The vessel was in approximately 10 feet of water with 6 occupants on board. 

The vessels livewell was overflowing into the vessel and the bilge pumps were not working properly. 

When the 6th person entered the vessel after snorkeling, the vessel turned over and capsized.

The vessel was recovered by Seatow and brought to the dock.


BARDID: FL-2019-0384
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
O1 was trying to reposition V1 after anchor broke loose under the Marler Bridge when V1 ran over anchor line and fouled propeller, stalling the engine.  

V1 drifted towards the entrance to the Destin Pass without power.  After entering extremely rough seas at the mouth of the pass, O1 tried to unwrap the anchor line that had disabled the outboard motor.  He was hanging onto the swim ladder and placed his left foot on the outboard to steady himself.  He slipped and cut his foot on the propeller.


BARDID: FL-2019-0385
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 plowing southbound in shallow water. V1 operator felt prop dragging, came off plane. V1 began taking water at stern, rolled to starboard and flooded.

 OPERATOR1 stated that he had recently purchased the vessel (7/16/19). His inexperience navigating the local waterways and entering shallow water were factors. The vessel was found 300 yds outside the Marler Bayou entrance. His intent was to return the vessel to Joe's Bayou, the next bayou east of this location. 

The vessel would be 'bow high' (plowing, rather than on full plane) with the weight on the stern. OPERATOR1 estimated his engine speed at 1500rpm. The skeg mark left behind on the sand bottom indicated the main engine's lower unit dragging. The stopping of the vessel after a soft grounding may have caused a breach of water over the low transom. 

The 21" transom had no splash panel to prevent water intrusion over the stern. When the engine was placed into reverse, this may have caused additional water to splash over the transom into the vessel, causing flooding. The weight of the two engines lowered the vessel's transom height. OPERATOR1's lack of knowledge of the five console switches, combined with his limited knowledge of the condition of the Lowe vessel's installed live well and bilge pump systems, were factors in flooding the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2019-0386
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Single personal water craft accident. Opperator fell and hit shin on the gunwale causing a laceration.While riding on a jet ski tour, she hit a wake from another vessel causing her to fall off the PWC.  As she fell, she struck her left shin on the gunwale of the PWC resulting in a laceration to her leg.   
  She received 2 stiches.
   She passed the Florida Boater Education Temporary Certificate and was present for all the safety and operations briefings by the rental agency.; 


BARDID: FL-2019-0387
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN PASS - MARLER BRIDGE
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2019, at approximately 5:30 PM. Vessel 1 (V1) a white 27 ft. Proline center console boat “Loose Hookr”, Florida Registration FL4403HS, was being operated with 4 unidentified passengers onboard. 

Vessel 2 (V2) a blue/beige 24ft Bentley Pontoon Boat, Florida Registration FL7750RU was being operated with 5 passengers onboard. 

Both vessels were traveling under the William T. Marler Bridge. V1 took an abrupt port turn toward V2’s port side, colliding with V2’s port side. The damage consisted of the aluminum pontoon structured being bent due to the impact from V1.


BARDID: FL-2019-0388
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: DEERFIELD BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, 7/17/19 at approximately 0430 hours, Boating Accident #FWSA-19-OFF-008915 occurred on the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Deerfield Beach, FL, in Broward County. The accident occurred due to bilge pump failure and vessel taking on water and capsizing. Approximate latitude N 26 18.0991, W 80 4.6803. The operator and occupant were pulled from the water by Sea Tow. The vessel later washed up on the beach later in the day. There were no injuries to the operator or the passenger of the capsized vessel.


BARDID: FL-2019-0389
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: EASTPOINT
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 12:53 PM on June 28, 2019, I, Officer of the FWC received a call of a vessel that had taken on water and was sinking approximately 10 miles offshore of St. George Island. The passengers/occupants aboard the vessel were rescued by a "good Samaritan" (name unknown). I met with the owner who was aboard the vessel and two occupants. The owner of the vessel advised that they were at anchor and the vessel began to take on water ultimately overturning the vessel and causing it to capsize.

Operator1 stated that it was fairly rough all day while they were fishing but then the winds picked up and the seas began to get rough (6-8ft), Operator1 advised that a wave came over the stern which caused the vessel to sit lower, he began having the other occupants retrieve the anchor from the bottom so he could put the vessel in forward motion so it would not be swamped from the stern once more. Operator1 advised it was too late and the engines shut down and the bilge was unable to keep up with the amount of water coming in. Operator1 was then aware of another vessel coming to get them and bring them into shore. Operator1 decided to throw anchor so the boat could possibly stay in their area of where it capsized.


BARDID: FL-2019-0390
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 DRIFTED NORTHBOUND IN A STRONG WIND AND CURRENT AND THE STARBOARD PROP BECAME ENTAINGELED IN V2’S ANCHOR CHAIN. IN THE STRUGGLE TO UNTANGLE THE PROP AND CHAIN THE VESSELS DRIFTED INTO EACH OTHER
A THIRD VESSEL WAS INVOLVED BUT THERE WERE NO REPORTABLE DAMAGE TO THE V3.


BARDID: FL-2019-0391
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was stopped as V1 approached from the port bow.  V1 approached V2 at a slight angle as O1 intended to spray V2 by turning sharply near V2. 

 O1 had a small child riding in front and holding onto the handlebars.  Just before V1 would have turned away from V2, the child turned the handlebars left towards V2.  O1 immediately turned to the right, but struck V2 on top of the aft port gunwale.  Upon impact, V2 rolled to port causing O2 to be thrown into V1. 

 O2's left forearm struck the port side of V1 as it passed causing light friction marks and breaking the ulna bone.  V1 continued over V2 as both O2 and her occupant were ejected.


BARDID: FL-2019-0392
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck V2 on its port side. V2 occupants were ejected.

 Operator2 stated that he was operating his PWC (V2) in a straight direction, when another PWC (V1)came from his left and struck the port side of his PWC. V1 ramped slightly up the port side and struck both the operator and occupant on their left sides, causing them to be ejected into the water. 

	I examined both PWC’s and could not identify any clear damage from this accident as they both had multiple existing scratches and chips of fiberglass missing from the exterior. 

Operator1 stated that he was operating his PWC when he noticed that his direction of travel was intersecting with Operator2’ direction of travel. He attempted to slow down and turn to the left to avoid the collision but was unable to turn enough due to off-throttle steering. His bow struck the port side of Operator2’ PWC, causing both occupants to fall in the water.


BARDID: FL-2019-0393
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: VENICE
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Juvenile report
V1 and V2 were both approximately 300 yards off Venice Beach in the Gulf of Mexico. V1 headed north and V2 headed west. While V1 was traveling north, V1 and V2 collided with V1’s bow and V2’s port side. V2’s operator was able to jump off prior to collision, but the passenger remained on V2 and individuals left side was impacted by V1.
Based on evidence and information gathered to date, V1 was traveling north at approximately 15 to 20 mph and V2 was traveling west at approximately 10 to 15 mph, in the Gulf of Mexico near Venice Beach. Due to the lack of experience and improper look out of the operator of V1, in turn contributed to the collision of V1’s bow with V2’s midship port side. Resulting in damages to V1, V2 and injuries to the occupant of V2.

The occupant of V2 sustained the following injuries:

Fractured left hip, which required immediate surgery by placing a metal rod into his left hip socket and securing it with two bolts.


BARDID: FL-2019-0394
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MALOY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, avoided collision with a jet ski and collided with a piling.
Operator was on his way back to his friend’s yacht north bound on the Meloy channel towards Monument Island.  While trying to avoid a collision with unidentified jet ski approaching from the port bow quarter, Operator turned to port and collided with a piling behind a residence. The unidentified jet ski continued south on the Maloy channel unaware of Operator's collision. Operator was unable to identify the jet ski he avoided collision with.

After the collision with the piling, Operator waved for help, while holding on to Occupant1. Subject was nearby and took possession of the jet ski and reported the accident. Operator’s friends came with the yacht to assist and transported him and Occupant1 to Miami Beach Marina. Operator sustained an injury to the ankle on the right foot. Occupant1 sustained injuries from the hip to the knee on her left side and was transported by Fire Rescue to Ryder Trauma Center for treatment.


BARDID: FL-2019-0395
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEDDON CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 14th, 2019, operator was operating his personal watercraft PWC) in Seddon Channel located in Hillsborough County, Florida.  At approximately 1400 Operator was traveling south when his PWC ramped another vessel's wake which resulted with him impacting the PWC and falling into the water.  Operator was rescued and received treatment at Tampa General Hospital.  Operator received a broken thumb and deep bruising on his left arm and shoulder as well as a laceration to his head.  Operator was held overnight as a precautionary measure. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0396
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TOLOMATO-MATANZAS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CRESCENT BEACH
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed north on the ICW, just north of Matanzas Inlet when V1 caught on fire.  All four passengers on board exited the vessel on to a dinghy and were able to avoid injuries.


BARDID: FL-2019-0397
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HAULOVER SANDBAR
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 26, 2019 at approximately 1406, I was patrolling the area of Haulover Sandbar when I was transferred a call about a vessel accident. I spoke with subject who stated his 2 PWCs were hit by another vessel which left the scene. At the time of the call the operators of the PWCs which Subject loaned the PWCs to had left the scene. I told Subject I would have an officer meet with him to gather the information of the accident.

On May 31, 2019 Officer met with Subject and gathered a statement along with pictures of the accident. Subject was advised that we need to speak with the operators of the PWCs because he was not on scene to witness the accident. Subject provided a phone number of operator1 who was the operator of the blue Yamaha PWC (FL 4902 RW). The phone number was disconnected. Subject did not know any information of the other PWC operator who he let use the PWC the day of the accident.

On July 29, 2019, Subject provided me with a working phone number for Operator1. Upon making contact with her she stated she was overseas from just after the accident until a week and a half ago. She stated her and her friend were buying food from a food boat at the time of the accident. She also stated the PWCs were both parked on the opposite side of the food boat. She did not see the accident occur. Operator1 heard a large "Bang" then noticed two holes on the right side of each PWC. She then wrote the registration (FL 3096 RT) down as a police agency took the vessel and operator away because he was intoxicated and causing a scene.

We have been unable to make contact with operator2 in order to gather any information.


BARDID: FL-2019-0398
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTH MIAMI BEACH
NearestCityorTown: NORTH MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 17, 2019 at approximately 1827 hours, I responded to a PWC accident in North Miami beach. I was patrolling on a vessel which did not allow me to respond to the scene. I met with Sunny Isles Police officers who were the responding officers on scene. They stated the operator rented the PWC from World Of Watersports. Operator was operating the PWC with his niece as a passenger when they hit a wave cause him to strike the handle bar with his chin and hurting his chest. Both Operator and his niece were ejected from the PWC. Operator was transported by Miami Dade Fire #10 to Aventura Hospital due to a cut on his chin and chest pains.

Officer responded to Aventura Hospital where he gather a statement from Operator. Operator's statement corresponded with the statement provided by the Sunny Isles Police Officers. 

Winds were strong and waves rough.


BARDID: FL-2019-0399
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1000 hours on July 25, 2019, V-1 struck V-2.
Operator1 was operating V-1 PWC as part of a Fury Watersports Tour.   The tour was lead by Fury Watersports employee, operating V-2 PWC.
	At approximately 1030 hours in Fleming Key Channel, Operator1 (V-1) collided with Operator2 (V-2).  According to Operator2's statement, Operator1 hit the back of his PWC and ramped over it.  V-1 hit Operator2 in the head and knocked him into the water.  In addition, V-1 broke the right mirror of V-2.
	There was a delay in reporting the accident for several hours.  Operator2 initially declined medical treatment, but reconsidered hours later.  Operator2 was examined at Advanced Urgent Care in Key West.  As a result of Operator1's lack of cooperation with this investigation, I was unable to interview or acquire a statement from Operator1.


BARDID: FL-2019-0400
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANCLOTE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HOLIDAY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 27th 2019, I Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Division of Law Enforcement responded to a boating accident that occurred on the Anclote River. I arrived at the Port Tarpon. Operator2 already had his vessel out of the water. Operator2 stated while operating his vessel in the Anclote River he slowed down for the idle speed zone near marker 16. At that time the stern of his vessel was struck by another vessel. Operator2’s wife was also onboard. Nobody was injured, and the operators exchanged information. Operator2 showed me the damage to his power pole, engine cowling, and fiberglass. I photographed the damage. 

I met with the other operator at Captain Jack’s in Tarpon Springs. Operator1 stated while operating his vessel, Operator2s vessel slowed down and another vessels wake pushed him into the stern of Operator2s vessel. Operator1 stated his vessel sustained a minor scratch to the bow. I photographed his vessel. I issued Operator1 a citation for careless operation.

I used my agency issued BWC during the interactions. At this time, I have no further information or involvement in this case.


BARDID: FL-2019-0401
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: EASTPOINT
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to the operator, he was on board a PWC (FL8157RP) traveling at approximately 30 MPH when he purposely jumped a wake causing him to lose his grip of the handlebar tossing him into the air. When he landed, his let lower leg struck the transom of the PWC causing a compound fracture.


BARDID: FL-2019-0402
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: NORTH PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, July 22nd, 2019 vessel FL4979AX was traveling North on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) near channel marker green 33. A 50-55 ft. sportfish vessel was traveling South on the ICW, producing an approximately 3ft. wake. The operator of FL4979AX positioned his vessel so as not capsize from the wake, and in the process a passenger was thrown from her seat and suffered a tibial plateau fracture to her left leg. The passenger was transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach to undergo a surgical procedure to install a metal plate and pins to secure the fracture.;


BARDID: FL-2019-0403
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOMOSASSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 17, 2019 at approximately 1545 hours a single vessel incident ocurred on the Homosassa River. A PWC jumped a vessel wake.  During this time one of the three occupants was ejected from the PWC and was severly injured as a result, and was transported to bayonnett point hospital.  The the pressure from the jet ski impellor caused internal injuries and injury to the vagina.


BARDID: FL-2019-0404
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC was traveling at cruising speed when the operator overcorrected and struck the bridge piling.
Operator suffered an approximately 5" abrasion/contusion on upper right thigh and approximately a 1" laceration on her left thumb.


BARDID: FL-2019-0405
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was drifting while operator was attempting to grab his phone from center console. V1 was circling V2 and approached V2 colliding the starboard side bow causing the operator of V1  to be ejected and operator of V2 to hit his head on handlebars causing a laceration requiring sutures.


BARDID: FL-2019-0406
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ENTRANCE CANAL TO RAMPS AT NOR
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 WAS ENTERING A NARROW CHANNEL HEADED TO BOAT RAMP. V-2 WAS EXITING BOAT RAMP AREA. AS V-1 APPROACHED V-2, V-1 HAD A THROttLE FAILURE AND WAS UNABLE TO MAINTAIN NEUTRAL. WHEN HE SHIFTED TO EITHER FORWARD OR REVERSE IT WAS AT SPEED. V-1 MADE A TURN TO V-2 AND COLLIDED WITH V-2'S PORTSIDE WITH V-1'S BOW. V-1 RODE UP ON THE GUNNEL CAUSING DAMAGE TO V-2'S TOPSIDE CAP AND SIDE.


BARDID: FL-2019-0407
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOMOSASSA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 27th, 2019 at approximately 1030 hours. Operator was operating the Florida registered  vessel heading west towing two individuals on a tube behind the vessel. The vessel was approaching what is known as "hells gate" on the Homosassa river. It was at this time when the operator turned the vessel to go around the channel markers and the tubers hit the channel marker and causing the tube to pop and the occupants to fall in the water.  


BARDID: FL-2019-0408
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Apalachicola Bay/Eleven Mile
NearestCityorTown: APALACHICOLA
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, August 8, 2019 a 16' vessel being operated by its owner started taking on water into the stern due to choppy sea conditions and sank. The operator was not injured. There were no passengers aboard his vessel. The vessel sustained water damage.

 Operator1 said that he was the only person on the vessel when it sank and he did not sustain any injuries. Operator1 advised that his vessel sank the day before on 8/8/2019 at approximately 5:00 PM. I asked Operator1 if he reported this incident to which he replied that he did not, and was not aware that he had to. Operator1 then explained that he launched his vessel on 8/8/2019 at Indian Pass Boat Ramp and was recreationally fishing for Tripletail. He stated that the water was moderately choppy. While fishing, he noticed that he was taking on water in the stern of the vessel. He stated that he has an automatic bilge pump, but was unsure if it was functioning. Operator1 then manually turned the bilge on, but by that time he had taken on to much water and the vessel sank stern first.


BARDID: FL-2019-0409
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29th, 2019 at approximately 11:30pm, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a call in reference to a boating accident involving a 23' 2019 Boston Whaler and a sunken vessel. 

the operator was operating the vessel southbound at a cruising speed of 21-40 mph just outside (East) of the marked ICW Channel when his vessel struck the submerged vessel at approximately 10:30PM. The nearest channel marker is Marker 21. 

On June 30th, 2019, at approximately 7:00PM, Officer and I located the submerged vessel involved in the accident. The submerged vessel is located at N 25 degrees 51.435' and W 80 degrees 09.904' and is marked with a green buoy with a light on the top of the buoy (Buoy W21A). There was fresh damage to the keel of the submerged vessel indicating it was recently struck. There were no visible FL numbers, vessel name, or a registration decal on the submerged vessel. I used an underwater viewing device to try to find any identifying marks on the boat but did not find any. 
Subject had bruising/swelling and a scratch on his right forearm. City of Miami Fire Rescue offered to transport him to the hospital but he refused transport.


BARDID: FL-2019-0410
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MALLET BAYOU
NearestCityorTown: FREEPORT
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
The 49' Kashing located in Mallet bayou for the last three years was burned completely to the water line on 8-1-19 around 11:30 pm and was finally extinguished By Okaloosa co. water fire vessel cause of fire unknown.


BARDID: FL-2019-0411
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EBRO
County: WASHINGTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling north on the Choctawhatchee River when it hit a submerged log.  The vessel's prop came up out of the water and the motor's tiller handle struck the transom of the vessel and broke.  The broken tiller handle cut the driver of V1's left pinkie finger, slicing it almost to the bone.  The driver of V1 called FWC dispatch, to advise of the situation.  I met with Washington County EMS and found the vessel.  I towed the vessel and two occupants to the landing.  EMS transported the injured subject to Gulf Coast Medical Center in Bay County due to the laceration and metal shavings in the injured pinkie finger.


BARDID: FL-2019-0412
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: TARPON SPRINGS
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 a PWC with two persons aboard was headed northeast on a plane near the shoreline of Anclote Key Preserve State Park.  V1 was in shallow water and came in contact with the water bottom, causing both individuals to be ejected off the left side onto the sand.  The occupant sustained injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment. 



Victim sustained Abrasions on left side of face and left shoulder.


BARDID: FL-2019-0413
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JEWFISH CREEK
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 collided with dock multiple times while docking.

The owner of the vessel stated that he had just met Operator1 at the bar and took him for a boat ride. After the boat ride, Operator1 asked if he could take the boat out again, so that he could take his wife for a ride. Owner agreed and lent the boat to Operator1 but did not accompany the couple on their ride. 

	 I watched security camera footage of the incident, I observed Operator1 operating the vessel. He operated the vessel in Jewfish Creek, at a speed greater than allowable in a slow speed zone/minimum wake zone. As Operator1 approached the dock, it appeared that he struggled to use the throttle in an effective manner. He repeatedly moved the throttle back and forth in an over exaggerated manner at times when only very little input would be necessary, causing the vessel to rapidly accelerate into the dock multiple times.


BARDID: FL-2019-0414
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mantee Pocket
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was docked and vessel two struck vessel one while trying to dock.

Vessel one was tied to the dock not moving. Vessel two was operating towards the dock and almost hit vessel one. A witness observed the close collision and offered to help operator2, but he tried to dock a second time. Vessel two’s port side struck vessel one’s starboard side causing damage. There was paint transfer on vessel one from vessel two.


BARDID: FL-2019-0415
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed North in Santa Rosa Sound at approximately 25mph directly towards V2.  V2 was headed South in Santa Rosa Sound at approximately 25mph directly towards V1.  As both vessels approached one another, V1 turned sharp to port (Left) and V2 turned sharp to starboard (Right) causing V1 to strike V2 on it's side. 

V1 then rolled over and V2 stayed upright.  The operator of V2 injured his back and had to be transported to Baptist Hospital, Pensacola. small fracture to his back.     


BARDID: FL-2019-0417
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At Approximately 5:35 p.m., May 4th 2019, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission received a call in reference to a person in the water under the Gandy Bridge, Pinellas side. Witnesses reported a man in the water hanging on to the overturned kayak. Witnesses called to him with no reply.  The person hanging onto the kayak, who was not wearing a PFD, floated away from the Kayak. The witnesses called 911 and multiple agencies responded.  A multi-agency search was conducted by air and water.  His body and kayak were recovered a short time later, west of the Gandy Bridge.

There is no definitive explanation of the events that led up to the Yukon kayak capsizing and the operator ending up in the water. Based on evidence, witness statements and information gathered to date, the kayak has no visible damage consistent with being struck with another vessel, however, it is possible that the kayak was unstable due to overloading and capsized in choppy water. It is unknown why the operator never replied to the witness or tried to swim to shore. It was reported that he was able to swim; he was found without a life jacket on. The Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled that the cause of death was drowning and that the manner of death was an accident. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0418
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lemon Bay
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: folding tower
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling south in the ICW approaching the Tom Adam Bridge. Vessel hit a wake and knocked the pin holding the folding tower loose. The top portion of the tower folded forward and hit the passanger sitting below on the head.The passenger suffered a laceration to the forehead about 3 in across.


BARDID: FL-2019-0419
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 operator was on his dinghy, paddling it to his large vessel. V1 operator fell from the dinghy and drowned. 

Vessel 1 operator had finished work for the day and went to his dinghy. Vessel 1 operator did not have a working engine on V1 and began to row the vessel towards his larger vessel. Vessel 1 operator had a history of seizures and was taking medication for the seizures.  V1 operator had a medical incident thus causing him to fall into the water. Once in the water V1 operator drowned.


BARDID: FL-2019-0420
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hurricane Pass
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating his Azimut documentation number DO1251992, in the area of Marco Island. While coming up on plane leaving the Marco River, Operator left the channel between green markers 5 and 7, and struck a sand bar. The impact caused the occupants to fall forward, causing various minor injuries to 6 of the vessels occupants. One occupant went to the hospital for treatment of the injuries. Operator was issued two citations for violation of nav rules 5 and 6. 
Subject1 stated that Operator offered to take her and her family out on his personal boat, so that they wouldn’t have to pay a company to take them out. Subject1 stated that it appeared that Operator was inexperienced with operating his vessel. She stated that they were heading outbound from the Marco River, heading back towards Caxambas Park at the time of the incident. She stated that V1 was operating at a high rate of speed, and abruptly hit the bottom. The abrupt stop sent the group falling forward, causing various injuries. She stated that miscellaneous items on board went flying around as well. She stated that at the time of the accident, they did not feel the need to report the accident due to the injures being minor. She stated that on the day after (August 11, 2019, the day I spoke with her) they realized the injuries might be more serious and wished to file a report. Subject1 stated that her mother was currently at the hospital being treated for the injuries sustained during the accident. 
Victim1: Bruising to right thigh
Victim2: Abrasions to both knees, bruising on both knees and ankles, laceration and bruise to left arm
Victim3: Bruising near left knee
Victim4: laceration, swelling to left leg/foot
Victim5: bruise to neck 
Operator:  bruising/laceration to knee;


BARDID: FL-2019-0421
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling eastbound and jumped the wake of another vessel. Vessel 1 came down hard and the operator hit the handlebar area with his chest then fell overboard.  A separate PWC recovered him from the water, operator complained of shortness of breath and chest pain.  He soon lost consciousness, EMS transported to hospital and soon after the operator succumbed to his injuries. His contact with the PWC handlebars caused internal injuries, namely to his rib area and the impact also lacerated his liver. He later succumbed to his internal injuries at the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2019-0422
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was leaving an area known as picnic island. Vessel 1 operator got disoriented due to the brightness of the chart plotter. Vessel 1 operator ran aground in a shallow area and hit some mangrove trees. Both parties on board the vessel were injured.

On July 4th, 2019 at approximately 2130 hours V1 was departing picnic island adjacent to Little Palm Island.  V1 operator was heading towards a narrow channel V1 ran aground on the shallow mangrove island around Pye Key. V1 operator driving from the bridge was thrown into the stern of the vessel causing a head wound. V1 Passenger was thrown into the console below and suffered head wound along with multiple bruises. A good Samaritan vessel arrived on scene and called 911. An FWC patrol vessel responded and brought the victims into Venture Out Resort.  EMS arrived on scene and the victims were flown to Jackson South Hospital.  V1 operator was released the following afternoon with staples in his head. V1 occupant was released 5 days after the incident; 

Operator of vessel 1 suffered multiple injuries. He suffered a head injury and laceration that required 15 staples. His right arm was bruised and swollen as well as 4 of his front teeth were knocked out. These injuries happened when he made impact with a mangrove island. No serious bodily injury was involved in this incident.

Vessel 1 occupant suffered a 10 inch laceration to her head. She also had a laceration to her ankle. She was hospitalized for swelling on the brain as well as some bleeding to the brain. This was done for observation only as she was released from the hospital a few days later with no lasting effects. This was not to be considered Serious bodily injury.


BARDID: FL-2019-0423
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GRANT-VALKARIA
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 15th, 2019, a vessel with five occupants onboard was heading North on the Indian River in the ICW. The vessel turned East leaving the ICW, heading towards BC45 slowing to a slow speed. As the vessel approached the island, one of the occupants jumped from the vessel in shallow water. The subject was rendered unconscious during impact with the water/river bottom. A short time later, the captain located the victim unresponsive, and face down in the water. CPR was performed on the victim during the transport to Jorgensen’s Landing in Grant. Brevard County Fire Rescue met the vessel at the ramp to transport the victim to Holmes Regional Medical Center. The victim’s injuries included fractured vertebra and water in the lungs. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0424
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA FE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BRANFORD
County: SUWANNEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 20, 2019 at approximately 1230 hours I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was dispatched to a boating accident that took place on the Santa Fe River across from the River Run boat ramp. A jet ski, operator had struck the back of a vessel with 4 occupants on board. 
Vessel 1, on 8/5/2019 I interviewed the operator/owner of vessel 1. Operator1 advised he was traveling on his jet ski on the Santa Fe river heading towards the Itchnetucknee river. Operator1 then advised he passed one vessel (witness vessel) and when he went to pass the next vessel (vessel2) the vessel cut in front of him which caused Operator1 to hit the back of the vessel and get tossed from the jet ski. Operator1 suffered a broken right pelvis, fractures to his left and right ribs, and a broken sternum.

 Vessel 2, Operator2 advised he was operating his vessel up the Santa Fe river when suddenly he felt a jolt. When he looked back, he observed a jet ski (vessel 1) ramp up the back-left part of the vessel and fall back into the water. Operator2 did not sustain any injuries. The second occupant of vessel 2 I interviewed was subject2. Subject2 advised that he was traveling up river at approximately 30-35 mph. At approximately 12:30 pm Subject2 observed a jet a ski operating at approximately 55-60 mph heading towards him. The jet ski tried to jump the wake of the vessel but was unable to change direction quick enough and struck the rear side of the boat. He then observed the operator of the jet ski be thrown off the jet ski and hit the water. Operator1 was floating upright in the water unconscious. Subject2 did not sustain any injuries. 
Witness Vessel advised their vessel was proceeding up stream not too far behind vessel 1 when she saw a black and red jet ski go passed her at a high rate of speed. Subject3 observed Operator1 lose control of the jet ski and hit vessel 2 on the left side of the motor followed by a loud noise. Operator1 then came off the jet ski and was floating unconscious. Subject3 and subject4 then pulled Operator1 out of the water and onto shore. Subject3 then began administering CPR while she waited for EMS to arrive.
	


After concluding this investigation, I found Operator1 at fault. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0425
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MELOY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 cut across Meloy Channel and struck the port side of V2.
Subject1 stated that he and 3 friends were out riding PWC’s in the area West of Star Island. After some time riding in the Star Island Basin, they proceeded Northeast, passing to the East of Monument Island and heading towards the Venetian Causeway on the Meloy Channel side. He stated that they were riding in a line side by side, and his friend, Operator1, was riding furthest to the right (East). When they approached the Meloy Channel to the Northeast of Monument Island, Operator1 turned sharply to the right without looking, and his bow collided with the starboard side of the CC. He saw Operator1 get ejected into the water, at which point he turned around to go help him. He found Operator1 unconscious in the water, and he pulled him onto his PWC. Operator1 was bleeding from the right side of his head. Subject1 took Operator1 to shore at the Sunset Harbour Boat Ramp where he was transported by ambulance to Ryder Trauma Center. 
	After obtaining a sworn written statement from Subject1, I went to speak with the occupants of the CC. Operator2 stated that he left his home on the East side of the Meloy Channel just North of the Macarthur Causeway, at approximately 1020 hours. He and his 2 friends were heading North to tour the waters of Miami. From his dock, Operator2 took a Northwest direction until he entered the Meloy Channel South of Monument Island, then proceeded inside the Meloy Channel directly towards the Venetian Causeway. He observed 4 PWC’s operating fast and performing doughnut maneuvers off the Northeast corner of Monument Island, approximately 75 to 100 yards away from him. 

When the PWC’s came closer to his vessel, he observed the red PWC operated by Operator1 turn North and proceed in a straight course parallel with his direction of travel for a few seconds. He intended to let the PWC proceed in front of him, when Operator1 suddenly swerved to the right towards his vessel without looking around him first to ensure the waters were clear. Operator2 and his passengers yelled loudly attempting to get Operator1’s attention, but it was clear that Operator1 did not see or hear Operator2’s vessel. Operator2 turned to the right attempting to avoid the collision, but Operator1 was travelling too fast to allow ample time to get out of the way. Operator1’s PWC collided at a high rate of speed into Operator2’s port side, causing Operator2’s vessel to list sharply to starboard. After the collision, Operator2 slowed down and turned around to assess the situation and render aid. He observed Operator1 in the water, and Subject1 coming on his PWC to pull Operator1 out of the water and take him to shore; Operator1 had Lacerations to right ear.


BARDID: FL-2019-0426
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MELOY CHANNEL
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 11th, 2019, subject was a passenger in a personal water craft. As the operator traveled under the Venetian Causeway Bridge she impacted the bridge pilings causing them to be ejected. Occupant hit herself in the head. Occupant was unconscious, Occupant was transported to Ryder Trauma Center where she went under procedure to release swelling in the brain.  


BARDID: FL-2019-0427
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: DANIA BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, 8/17/19 at approximately 2200 hours, Boating Accident #FWSA-19-OFF-010173 occurred on the Intercoastal Waterway of Dania Beach, FL in Broward County. The accident occurred due to negligence of the operator of the vessel. Approximate latitude N 26 2.9533, W 80 6.9126. The operator of the vessel backed down over tow lines and immobilized his vessel. The vessel drifted into the Dania Beach Blvd bridge. The operator and occupants were uninjured in the accident. 
(Owner/ Operator)
·	He stated he called Dania Beach Bridge for opening at 945 pm
·	He stated that the bridge would open at 1020 PM
·	He stated he was towing a 13 foot tender vessel
·	He stated that the lines of the tender got caught in the props of the Viking when he was backing down.
·	He stated the vessel became immobile because of the lines caught in the props. 
·	He stated that he was at a drift and drifted into the bridge.
·	He stated that the radar arch and davit of the vessel hit the bridge. 
·	He stated he threw anchor to avoid from drifting further down the bridge


BARDID: FL-2019-0428
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 2, 2019 a large vessel passed Rickenbacker Marina creating excessive wake causing docked vessels to collide with pilings.


BARDID: FL-2019-0429
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: VENICE JETTY
NearestCityorTown: VENICE
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was attempting to dock and due to an outgoing tide the first mate decided to tie the bow line to the dock piling first. Then V1’s first mate moved to the stern to tie the dock lines. While securing the stern lines tight, the bow began to drift away from the dock because the bow dock lines weren't tight enough. 

First mate notified the V1 operator and the V1 operator tried to use the bow thrusters to maneuver V1’s bow towards the dock. Operator attempted this task several times until the operator utilized the main engine throttles. Once the throttles were engaged the stern line tightened and dislocated a piling and small portion of the dock walkway.


BARDID: FL-2019-0430
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Smacks Bayou
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel entered resume normal operation zone, accelerated, hit wake, operator fell off vessel and vessel struck seawall, no injuries.


BARDID: FL-2019-0431
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Destin Harbor
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was leaving docking area behind Marina Cafe.  V2 was docked in corner dock with stern facing the small turning area.  O1 was trying to turn V1 towards the harbor. Occupants aboard V1 warned O1 of close proximity to V2's raised outboard motor.  O1 accelerated quickly while swinging towards V2's stern.  V1's port side pontoon impacted the propeller and skeg on V2 causing the skeg to bend towards the starboard side of V2 and break as well as minor scratches to the propeller.


BARDID: FL-2019-0432
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was docking his jet ski when he loss control running into V2 while he was docked at sister's creek.  

Operator1 was attempting to dock his jet ski and accidentally ran into the back of his boat damaging the cowling. he said he was wrapping his mooring line from the dock around the steering wheel on his jet ski and the jet ski ran into the back of a boat. he may have accidentally hit the throttle while wrapping the mooring line around the steering wheel.


BARDID: FL-2019-0433
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: HOMESTEAD
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel struck a lobster trap buoy / rope and entangled the propeller.  The vessel then took waves over the stern and capsized offshore of the Ragged Keys/Elliot Key in Miami Dade County, Florida.


BARDID: FL-2019-0435
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST LAKE TOHO
NearestCityorTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 30th, 2019 at approximately 2100 hours, a vessel accident occurred at the City of St. Cloud Marina in St. Clouds, Florida involving two vessels.  

V1 was docked at the slip with no individuals onboard at the time of the accident.  V2 was underway and attempting to dock when the vessel accident occurred. Security video of the marina from the night of June 30th.  In the video at approximately 2105 hours, I observed V2 operating inside the City of St. Cloud Marina in the area where V1 was docked.  At approximately, 2106 hours, V2 was going in reverse at an idle speed towards V1 when the operator of V2 turned approximately 90 degrees and was side by side, point to the north, with V1.  V2 continued in reverse at idle speed away from V1.  Next, V2 stopped.  V2 then went forward at idle speed. Last, the operator of V2 accelerated quickly and turned to the right hitting V1 on the bow with the bow of V2.  V1 bow went to the right and its stern went to right and back toward the dock.  V2 continued to operate in the area until it docked at its slip.    
On August 5th, I went to subject’s work address and informed him that the security video showed V2 hitting V1.  He provided me with his driver license and insurance information.  He stated that he did not know who was operating the vessel the night of the accident but would take responsibility for any damages.

There were no reported injuries on V2.


BARDID: FL-2019-0436
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: HUDSON
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading North and struck V2 on its port side near the bow while V2 was at anchor. As V1 was traveling North, the occupant Occupant1 was sitting in front of the console and observed V2 at anchor and that they were beginning to get close to it. 

According to Occupant1 he began to shout “there’s a boat” multiple times to alert Operator1. When Occupant1 noticed they still had not changed their course, he turned to face Operator1 who was paying attention to his young son \ whom he had sitting next to him on his left, while Operator1’s mother was to his right. Occupant1 then voluntarily jumped off V1 to avoid the impact. 
V1 struck V2 on its port side near the bow which caused the cap of V2 to separate (see attached photos) and spin 180 degrees towards its starboard side and was now facing East. V2 occupant1 was standing on the two captain’s chairs behind the helm and was assisting V2 occupant2 re-wire the stern light above the vessels T-top. After the impact V2 occupant1 fell off the chairs onto the vessel’s port side and hit her forehead on an unknown object. V2 occupant2 was standing directly behind the helm and he was thrown towards the starboard side of his vessel and sustained injuries to his lower abdomen when he made contact with a stainless steel cupholder that was mounted on the console of the vessel. V2 occupant2 then continued his direction of travel until he was ejected from the starboard side of his vessel. 
V1 had damage to the bow under the cap and above the bow eye (see attached photos). Upon impact with V2, V1 listed to its port side which caused Operator1 to be ejected from his vessel. V1 continued on its path for several feet before coming to a complete stop

Toddler suffered a minor bruise to his forehead and a minor laceration to his left arm. He was admitted into Bayonet Point Hospital in Hudson, FL and was released that day. ; Operator’s mother suffered a laceration to her left cheek, wrist and just above her knee as a result of the boating accident. ; 


BARDID: FL-2019-0437
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: withlachoochee river
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: SUMTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (airboat) was traveling north on the Withlacoochee River when vessel 1 approched a westward turn in the river. Whille attempting to turn left the vessel started porpoising. The operator attempted the throttle up to avoid hitting the shoreline. Vessel 1 was unable to correct and hit the shorline and a tree causing the female passenger to fall onto the vessels deck.  Her injuries were a laceration to her left knee and broken femur to her left leg. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0438
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: QUIETWATER, ICW
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/4/2019, I received a call referencing a boating accident between a PWC and a 22' Panga boat.  Initial interview revealed no injuries and minor damage to vessel. (500.00) Later that evening I received a call back from the PWC rental business stating that the operator of the Jet Ski went to the hospital and was seen for shoulder injuries. I interviewed the operator of the PWC and she stated she was seen at the hospital and had a broken bone near her shoulder.  I interviewed all the other occupants and operator on both vessels and there were no more injuries. 

Vessel 1 (PWC) was driving Southwest at about 30 MPH. Vessel 2 (Panga) was headed Southeast less than 10 MPH. Vessel 2 slowed down because he noticed Vessel 1 was heading towards him.  Vessel 1 continued the same heading and collided with Vessel 2.  No injuries to Vessel 2 and minor injuries to Vessel 1.  The operator of Vessel 1 received medical attention and her injuries were a broken bone near her shoulder.


BARDID: FL-2019-0439
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: YELLOW RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MILTON
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Two vessels collided on Yellow River just south of Nichols Creek. V1 is a 14-foot open motor heading North and V2 is a 18- foot open motor heading South. V1 and V2 collided Bow to Bow. The two occupants of V1 were injured beyond first aid and admitted to Sacred Heart Hospital.

As V-1 was coming around a bend heading North up Yellow River V-2 was coming around the same bend in the opposite direction. Both vessels were traveling in the middle of the river. V-1 and V-2 did not see each other in time to avoid each other V-2 attempted to reduce speed which caused the bow to rise. V-1 traveled under V-2 causing dent to hull of V-2. The fiberglass in the bow of V-1 was cracked by the impact with V-2’s hull.  

V-2 partially ramped on to V-1 causing it to take on water (see witness statements). Passenger of V-1 then collided with V-2’s hull knocking her unconscious. The sudden impact threw her out of her seat fracturing her pelvis. The operator of V-1 was thrown forward and hit an ice chest causing his injuries.; Cerebral hemorrage A dislocated right shoulder Fractured ribs Spine injury; 


BARDID: FL-2019-0440
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUWANNEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: LAFAYETTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1, a Jet Ski was travelling in a Northwest direction down the Suwannee River. V-1 was towing a ski tube with riders Subject1 and Subject2 occupying said tube.

V-2, a Center Console fishing boat was not in operation and was beached bow to shoreline on the north side of the Suwannee River. Two people from the vessel were standing on the shoreline nearby.

As V-1 approached the location of V-2 the ski tube in which was being towed was traveling a path outside of the wake of V-1 and was off the starboard side. As the ski tube travelled this path the operator of V-1 misjudged the distance of the ski tube in relation to V-2 causing the ski tube to strike the outboard motor of V-2. 

As a result of the contact between the ski tube and V-2's outboard motor both skiers were thrown from the ski tube. Skier Subject2 made direct contact with the outboard motor causing significant injuries to her right arm. Skier Subject1 did not receive any injuries. 

After incident occurred V-1 and V-2 took both skiers to a nearby location, where arrangements were made for medical treatment. 

The events of this accident were confirmed by separate interviews with all parties involved. Written statements from all parties are attached.

The conclusion of this investigation finds the operators of V-1 at fault for this accident. He was issued a Uniform Boating Citation By FWC Officer for the violation of towing a skier into a fixed object.

Victim's injuries consisted multiple broken bones within her right arm.


BARDID: FL-2019-0441
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 struck V-2 while attempting to dock at Miami Beach Marina, causing damages to the port side of V-2.

witness to the accident, informed me that he observed the operator attempt to make a wide circle to dock his vessel. the operator failed to make a wide enough circle and caused the bow of his vessel to strike the port side of the KB5, which was docked and unoccupied at the time of impact. the operator appeared to panic and then placed the throttle in reverse, causing the stern of the vessel to also strike the KB5.


BARDID: FL-2019-0442
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was attempting to dock his vessel and collided with V2. No injuries occurred. V2 was moored up at the dock and sustained damage to his engines and lost all sterling.  Winds were moderate.


BARDID: FL-2019-0443
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: VILLANO BEACH
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, identified as Florida registration (FL1674LZ) was free drifting and not under power approximately 1/4 mile North of St Augustine Inlet and 1/4 East of the shoreline. 

Operator 1 was in control of the vessel in the event that he needed to turn the motor on quickly. Vessel 1 took a wave over its starboard side causing Vessel 1 to capsize. 

Operator 1 was unable to react quick enough to turn the motor on. Four people were ejected from Vessel 1. Operator 1 and all passengers were resuced by St Johns County Fire Rescue. No injuries were sustained.


BARDID: FL-2019-0444
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/02/19 I Officer L with FWC was dispatched to a boating accident that occured just West of the Navarre Causeway on the Santa Rosa Sound. Myself and Officer 2 ith the FWC responded to the boating accident. We interviewed both the operator (who was transported to Baptist Hospital in Gulf Breeze for medical evaluation) and his cousin who was a passenger riding with him. 

Both subject were on V01 heading south, parallel with the Navarre Causeway bridge. V01 struck an unknown object on its front port side of the vessel. The vessel then capsized which in return caused both the operator and passenger to be ejected from the sea doo. They both swam to shore and were helped out of the water by good samaritans nearby and were checked out by EMS. ; operator was sent to hospital due to falling unconscious in two separate occasions after the incident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0445
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/25/2019 at approximately 1800 hrs, a single vessel incident occurred in the Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Gulf Shore Drive in Destin Florida slightly East of the Channel entrance. The vessel (V-1) a 24-foot Everglades was underway, making sternway at the time of the incident and not at anchor when several passengers disembarked. 

The victim became entangled and stuck to the propeller. Due to her serious injuries V-1 operator grounded his vessel in front of Condo’s to seek medical treatment. Victim was life flighted to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. Her injuries include : Cuts to the abdomen causing disembowlment, Kidney dysfunction. Her neurological functions have not returned at this time.


BARDID: FL-2019-0446
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Suwannee River
NearestCityorTown: CHIEFLAND
County: LEVY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling Southbound on the Suwannee River near Clay Landing Boat ramp. Vessel 1 struck the flood zone sign in the river near the Dixie County side of the river.  As a result of the collision the vessel went in to the trees on the bank of the river.

1) At about 1920 hours Operator was operating his Carolina Skiff on the Suwannee River heading down river in the area of Clay Landing traveling at a speed around 25 MPH.
2) Operator was intoxicated and did not notice the sign as he came around a bend in the river.
3) When he noticed the sign he jerked the steering wheel in such a manner that the steering cable broke.
4) The vessel struck the sign and veered off into the trees on the north bank of the river.
5) Neither Operator nor his passenger were injured.

Through the course of my investigation I determined that Operator was impaired by alcoholic beverages and he was placed under arrest. See incident Summary report for Offence #FWNC19OFF3119 for more details on the BUI investigation


BARDID: FL-2019-0447
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OFFSHORE
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 capsized 100 yards offshore from the Palm Beach Inlet. V1 was anchored outside the navigable channel with its bow facing the inlet. Vessel wake from a large vessel entering the inlet spilled over the transom of V1 and caused it to capsize. 
	
	All persons involved were uninjured. V1 was salvaged by a vessel tow service and removed from the water. Hazardous waters were the primary cause of the accident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0448
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Flying Eagle Marsh
NearestCityorTown: FLORAL CITY
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 struck a tree limb and ejected two passengers onto the ground. One passenger was injured and taken to the hospital.

Operator stated that he was operating the airboat in an area known as Hot Dog Island. As they were leaving the island, Operator turned the boat around to retrieve a “can of snuff”. Upon turning the boat around, the top of the cage made contact with a low hanging limb. The contact with the limb caused the boat to abruptly turn to the left and strike another tree with the left side of the boat. The abrupt maneuver of the boat caused two to be ejected from the right ride of the boat. One advised that he was uninjured from landing on the ground but one person was treated at the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2019-0449
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gasparilla Pass
NearestCityorTown: ROTONDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsys: On September 2, 2019 around 1300 hours, a vessel (FL4359JR) was over taken by waves and current in Gasparilla Pass in Charlotte County. The vessel operator/owner attempted to beach the vessel, waves began to crash over the stern of the boat. He attempted to reverse but was not able to in time before the vessel started going under. He then jumped out of the vessel to try and push it off the beach, but eventually the high waves and strong current overtook the vessel and he could no longer see it. The vessel was a total loss and never recovered.


BARDID: FL-2019-0450
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: santa rosa sound
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/24/19 at approx. 1845 hours two pwc's rented from Premier Adventure Park collided in Santa Rosa sound.  V1 and V2 were traveling parallel to each other westbound in Santa Rosa Sound back to the shoreline, they were approximately 1000 yards from shore.  V2 made an unexpected right turn, V1 struck V2 on right rear side of pwc and struck V2 occupant with bow of pwc knocking both V2 operator and occupant off pwc into water.  

V1 operator and occupant were also knocked off pwc but were not injured. V2 operator was not injured, but V2 occupant sustained internal injures and 5 fractured ribs and was transported by EMS.  V2 sustained minor damage (scratch to gel coat) and V1 had no visable damage.       


BARDID: FL-2019-0451
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Responded to boating accident involving 2 PWCs at Beach Access #21 on Panama City Beach from Eazy E rentals.  Operator and occupant of vessel 2 (V02) sustained minor injuries.  EMS arrived on-scene and both patients refused treatment.  Also discovered during investigation both operators of vessel 01 (V01) and vessel 02 (V02) did not take a required safety course from the livery.


BARDID: FL-2019-0453
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: snapper creek
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 4th, 2019, Operator was traveling West bound on V1 in the Snapper Creek Canal. Operator was traveling at an estimated speed of 40+ MPH when he was ejected from V1. V1 collided with the river bank and launched into a backyard hitting a chain link fence and an 8-person crew boat (rowing scull). 

Operator suffered from a broken left elbow, he had scrapes on top of his head, lacerations on both feet, his right knee, and his right index finger. Operator also had a large hematoma on his left rear torso. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0454
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: RETENTION POND
NearestCityorTown: GROVELAND
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
See Incident Summary Report # ISR021625 for the criminal investigation.
On Friday, March 8, 2019 at approximately 1630 hrs. a drowning occurred on a retention pond, in Groveland, Lake County, Florida.  Involved was a 13-foot canoe with 2 persons on board. Both men were taking turns using a scraper blade as a paddle, causing the operator to lean further over the sides and push much harder during strokes to propel the vessel. As the vessel began to tip from one side to the other the men stood up attempting to balance, ultimately causing the vessel to take on water, turn over and send both into the water.  The victim was unable to swim well and began to panic, his friend attempted to save him but was unsuccessful.  The victim was later recovered by divers from the Groveland Fire Department, unresponsive face down on the bottom of the pond. The victim was transported to South Lake Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. An autopsy was performed by the 5th Judicial Medical Examiner’s Office whom ruled the death as accidental and the cause was drowning. An investigation was performed and has been determined that this case will be closed, with no suspicious activity relating to the death of the decedent or any crimes that were committed. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0455
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PONCE INLET
NearestCityorTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/05/2019 at approximately 12:26 pm, a boating accident occured in Ponce Inlet on the Intercoastal Waterway in Volusia County, Florida.  Two white males were in vessel FL 0363 LP, V1, when it was swamped by another vessel.  V1 took on water over the stern and capsized, thus ejecting the two occupants.  The uninjured men climbed onto the overturned V1 and stayed there until a good Samaritan picked them up and took them to shore.

Please see ISR025668.


BARDID: FL-2019-0456
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel lost power and washed up on beach
Operator stated when he lost power he attempted to throw anchor to keep from drifting away but was unsuccessful. Operator stated he was going to attempt to walk the vessel in to the beach after reaching shallow water. While Operator and Subject1 were walking the vessel in to shore a wave pushed the vessel forward knocking them down in the water. 

Two people were still in the vessel at the time and were ejected from the vessel. Victim received several abrasions and was transported for treatment. Victim spent three days at the hospital and is recovering well after receiving skin treatments while in the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2019-0457
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:08:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST PASS
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 stopped the vessel and turned off the motor.  Operator entered the water to walk the vessel shallower and set the anchor.  The operator either never established footing or lost footing and was unable to swim.  Immediate rescue attempts by this vessel and another vessel were unsuccessful.  Victim was recovered by Okaloosa County Sheriff Office.


BARDID: FL-2019-0458
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: PORT RICHEY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/29/2019 I, Officer of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a single vessel boating accident that occured 8/24/2019.  

Operator was operating a vessel (2017 37' Pursuit), traveling ENE towards the Pithlachascotee (Cotee) River at approximately 32 mph.  Just before the vessel passed between red markers 2 and 2A, the vessel struck and unknown underwater object.  

The vessel sustained damage to the port side hull and port motor. after striking the object, the port motor became partially detached from the transome.  The mounting bracket was fractured in numerous places rendering the motor useless.  Also, the motor's lower unit became askewed from its powerhead and midsection.  He secured the motor to the stern with dock line in order to return to shore on the remaining starboard motor.

     Hull damage spanned approximately 17', with the outer hull being penetrated in 3 locations No occupants were injured and the vessel did not take on water.


BARDID: FL-2019-0459
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/22/19 at approximately 2300 hours V1 was traveling South bound at a high rate of speed with 2 subjects on board. V1 struck channel marker 29 altering its course. V1 struck dock 1 and altered course a second time. V1 violently collided with dock 2.  V1 landed on top of dock 2. The operator of V1 was ejected and suffered non-life- threatening injuries.  The owner, who was in charge of the vessel at the time, suffered minor injuries.


BARDID: FL-2019-0460
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: SANTA ROSA BEACH
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
PWC 2 hit PWC 1 while they were travelling East bound on Choctawhatchee Bay approaching Clyde Wells Bridge.  Rider on PWC 1 was struck in the right leg by the portside stern rubrail after PWC 2 hit him as he decreased speed approaching the bridge.  PWC operator 1's right leg was injured, had a large laceration to back side of leg.

Subject1 described being approximately 100 yards behind the vessels involved in the accident.  He saw Operator1 on a PWC heading East toward 331 Bridge and his wife was following behind him at a short distance.  Operator1 reduced his speed to go under the bridge and Operator2 did not slow down in time and ran up on him and struck his starboard side hitting his right leg and knocked him into the water.  Operator1 suffered a large laceration on the back side of his right thigh, it was a deep laceration that injured his quad muscle.  He also sustained bruising to his ribs and back.


BARDID: FL-2019-0469
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
NearestCityorTown: BOCA CHICA NAS
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Subject fell off her rental PWC while cruising. The PWC was part of a guided tour around Key West. She fell off her PWC, while her foot remained lodged in the footrest, causing injury to the ankle. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0470
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEBASTIAN INLET
NearestCityorTown: MELBOURNE BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 20, 2019 at approximately 3:35pm I, Officer, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was responding to Sebastian Inlet State Park in reference to someone taking over the bag limit of Mangrove Snapper in the cove area. When I arrived on scene I began to do surveillance of the cove from the SW corner of the area. While doing surveillance here I noticed a group of jet skis pulled up onto the beach behind me. 

A large boat wake washed one of the jet skis off the beach. The jet ski's owner and his son swam up to the jet ski and jumped onto it. They did not have the keys so the owner's wife threw the keys at them. The keys missed the occupants on the jet ski and sank to the bottom of Sebastian Inlet. The two occupants on the jet ski were then taken by the current through Sebastian inlet where the jet ski capsized. 

One member of their group was able to ride out to them on another jet ski and take the son back to safety. A good Samaritan on a large vessel picked up the owner of the jet ski and began to tow the jet ski back through the inlet. Larger vessel wakes forced the good Samaritan to cut the line. Another good Samaritan was able to re-tie the jet ski and tow it the remainder of the way. 

The jet ski's motor took in so much water that it's damages surpassed $2500.


BARDID: FL-2019-0471
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityorTown: HOBE SOUND
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon changing direction, V1 failed to come off throttle, striking the wake of a vessel that had passed, causing the bow of V1 to go into the water, subsequently resulting in the vessel capsizing. 

Following completion of the Boating Accident Investigation, operator was placed under arrest for Boating Under the Influence (person under 18 onboard with BAC of .15 or higher). In addition, cited, reference person under 21 years of age with BAC of .02 or higher and careless vessel operation. See FWSA19OFF010910 for further, reference BUI investigation.


BARDID: FL-2019-0472
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Withlacoochee River watershed
NearestCityorTown: FLORAL CITY
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling north on a narrow airboat trail in Flying Eagle. V2 was traveling south on same trail when both vessels encountered a sharp curve in the trail which was wooded on one side and had tall cattails on other. V1 and V2 met at the curve and V2 took immediate action to avoid collision by turning to the left towards the non wooded side of the trail. 

V1 operator panicked and created an off throttle steerage situation and was unable to take action to avoid collision. The collision occurred with both vessels operating at about 10-15 mph. Operator of V2 also noted that he was unable to see the airboat flag of V1 over the cattails and a subsequent inspection found that the flag of V1 was much too low and did not meet statute requirements. 

Operator of V1 was ejected from the operator seat and made contact with V1 brush guard resulting in 5 cracked ribs and was transported to hospital and subsequently released. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0473
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Quitewater Beach
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel twos wake caused damages to vessel one while it was tied to a dock.I contacted the Santa Rosa Island authority and Flounders and watched videos of the incident. After watching the videos, I was able to observe the wake which caused the damages to vessel one.  I observed the vessel two while in the no wake zone operating with no wake.  I did not observe vessel two violating any navigation rules leading to vessel one. However, it appears the wake did come from vessel two while it was operating outside the no wake zone.


BARDID: FL-2019-0475
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Homosassa River
NearestCityorTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1300 hours V1 was traveling West on the Homosassa River between channel marker 55-61 and struck a submerged object. Vessel continued heading West until bilge pump alarms sounded due to the vessel taking on water. At this time the vessel headed back to the boat ramp. No occupants were injured. Damage was in excess of $2000. No citations were issued.


BARDID: FL-2019-0476
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 09/08/2019, at approximately 12:00 hours, a single vessel boating incident occurred on the Atlantic ocean a few feet east of the Palm Beach Inlet, in Palm Beach County Florida.  Vessel 1 (V1 – FL 5216 SL) – a Blue 2019 11-foot Yamaha GT 1800 personal watercraft (PWC) was on full plane as it was exiting the inlet when V1 ramped a large wave, causing Operator's body to impact the PWC, subsequently ejecting her into the water. Operator was pulled on to another PWC and transported to the Singer Island Beach. Operator was then transported by an ambulance to St. Mary's Medical Center. ; OPERATOR received a type 2 spleen injury. Operator received a inter trochanteric closed fracture. This injury required surgery in which she received a rod and four screws. Operator had a visible bruise on her chin.


BARDID: FL-2019-0477
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Inidan River
NearestCityorTown: COCOA
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
OtherAccidentCause: power line arcing
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 16th, 2019 at approximately 22:48 hours a 34 foot POGO sailing vessel  occupied by 14 persons was navigating southbound near Lee Wenner boat ramp, in Cocoa. The vessel was anchored near the boat ramp for a concert being held nearby. While leaving the anchorage and navigating under power lines that cross the Indian River, the power lines arced and made an electrical connection to the carbon fiber mast of the vessel. A loud popping and explosion resulted from the arc causing flames and sparks to emit from the base of the mast and birthing area of the vessel. Three individuals aboard the vessel were burned as a result of the fire, these individuals were admitted to Rockledge Regional Medical Center. The vessel was towed away from the power lines and anchored near the boat ramp. Occupant1 received burns to his face and head. (see attached photos);occupant2 received burns to her chest/neck, arms, and legs (see attached photos).; occupant3 received burns to her torso, arms, and legs. (see attached photos)


BARDID: FL-2019-0478
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE GEORGE
NearestCityorTown: ASTOR
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 22, 2019 at approximately 6:10 p.m. a single vessel accident occurred on Lake George, outside Juniper creek, Lake County, FL. 

V1 was a 10 ft, Bombardier personal watercraft (PWC),255 HP, registration number FL7556 NS. V1 was occupied by one adult male. 

V1 was traveling at approximately 30 MPH, in a South East direction back to Blue Creek Lodge boat ramp, when V1 shut off and threw Operator into the water. Operator was wearing a life jacket while operating the PWC. V1 took on a substantial amount of water and began sinking. 

Operator advised that the bilge pump couldn’t keep up with the intake of water. Operator was nearby on a second PWC and turned around to assist him. He held onto her PWC until Law Enforcement assistance arrived, as he was unable to board it himself. Girlfriend threw out the anchor and the anchor line was sucked into the impeller of her PWC, therefore, the second PWC wouldn’t restart. 

Lake County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the accident location on Lake George and transported Operator and Girlfriend back to Blue Creek Lodge boat ramp, with Girlfriend’s PWC in tow. Tow Boat USA responded and towed V1 to a private boat ramp off Blue Creek RD, Astor, FL. 

When I arrived at the private boat ramp V1 was floating up right on its hull again. However, it was inoperable. After gathering information from the operator and documenting the damage of V1, I found that no FL boating statutes or navigation rules were violated. 

The owner of both PWCs and was notified of the accident by Operator.

Operator was issued a traffic citation for not having a trailer tag on the trailer used to tow the PWCs.


BARDID: FL-2019-0479
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading southwest from the Mashta Point. V2 was heading south from Rickenbacker causeway bridge. V1 hit V2's port bow on a crossing situation. 

According to both operators and statements, they did not see each other.


BARDID: FL-2019-0480
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
0n 8/23/2019, a vessel operating underway at a slow speed struck a submerged wreck (USS Massachusetts) south of Pensacola Pass causing the lower unit of the out drive to fall off the vessel. The vessel lost means of propulsion and had to be towed back to the dock. Operator said two people were injured. One of the injured went to the hospital several days after the accident and received medical treatment for back pain.  

occupant received treatment at West Florida Hospital on 15th August, 5 days after accident. He received X-rays at the Emergency Room.  X-Rays were negative and treated for lower back pain.  occupant is still in pain and not currently receiving treatment but advises he is still in pain. 

Operator states his knee hit the seat when the impact occurred. Inner left knee pain individual states that it hurts to bend. Pops when he stands up from kneeling position. Also states it hurts to walk on it. No visual injury to the knee.


BARDID: FL-2019-0481
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday August 30th, 2019 documented sailing vessel DO594594 was traveling south near the Palm Beach Inlet when weather conditions quickly deteriorated. Due to navigational error and night-blindness, the vessel ran aground on the beach along the south jetty of the Palm Beach Inlet. The operator abandoned his sailboat which was then thrown against the jetty, causing catastrophic damage to the hull of the vessel and boke the vessel into several pieces.   Operator sustained a small laceration to the area near his right eye. He was transported to St. Mary’s medical center and released a few hours later after the laceration was glued shut.


BARDID: FL-2019-0482
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cecile
NearestCityorTown: KISSIMMEE
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS

On September 5th, 2019, I, Officer along with Lieutenant of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a boat accident on lake Cecile behind the Howard Johnson Hotel at the Extreme Jet Ski of Orlando rental company. Vessel one was a black multi colored 2019 Sea-Doo Jet Ski (#29) with one occupant. Vessel two was a black multi colored 2019 Sea-Doo Jet Ski (#30) with occupant. Vessel two was traveling approximately 25-30 mph North on the lake when the operator turned the vessel sharply to the port side and into the path of vessel one. Vessel one impacted vessel two at approximately a 90 degree angle (plus or minus 10 degrees). Both operators were admitted to Osceola Regional Hospital. The estimated damage to both Vessels is approximately $2000. 

I met with Operator1 and Operator2 at Osceola Regional Hospital. I spoke with Operator1 and asked him about the accident. Operator1 advised me that he and his daughter had been involved in a jet ski accident on Lake Cecile. He advised that he and his daughter had rented two jet skis at Extreme Jet Ski rentals. Operator1 advised that operator2 had failed the required boating safety test the first attempt. He stated that after the first attempt the owner of the jet ski rental sat down with his daughter and helped her take the test to pass. After his daughter passed the safety test they headed out onto Lake Cecile for two sessions. 

On the second session in the East corner of Lake Cecile Vessel two turned sharply to the port side causing Vessel one to strike it at approximately a 90 degree angle (plus or minus 10 degrees) on the port side. Operator1 was ejected over the handlebars of vessel one and hit the port side of vessel two before ending up in the water. Operator2 was not ejected from vessel two.

Two workers at the jet ski rental witnessed the accident and went out on the lake to assist the two operators back to shore. Once Operator1 and Operator2 were back at shore they were taken to Osceola Regional Hospital by ambulance.

Operator1 was admitted to Osceola Regional with lacerations of the right and left forearms as well as the forehead and scalp. He also presented with symptoms of dizziness and left back pain.

Operator2 was admitted to Osceola Regional Hospital with lower back pain, left arm laceration, a right lower leg burn, possible fractured pelvis, and left leg pain.

Operator1 and Operator2 both provided sworn written statements.


BARDID: FL-2019-0483
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 28th, 2019, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Officer (also FWC) was dispatched to a distressed vessel taking on water on the Gulf of Mexico, in the Cross Florida Barge Canal Channel.

We went to the given location of the call and found a vessel partially submerged with the port side stern under water and one subject attempting to swim to a nearby spoil island. The subject was wearing a life jacket. Officer and I was able to recover SUBJECT out of the water, and onto our patrol vessel.  After confirming there were no injuries, We attempted to right the distressed vessel by tying to the starboard side's bow and stern cleats. We were unsuccessful in doing so and moved the vessel onto the nearby spoil island for SUBJECT to recover later.

We took SUBJECT by water back to his vehicle and boat trailer located at the Cross Florida Barge Canal boat ramp, located off of N. Suncoast Boulevard, in Crystal River. Once there, we assisted SUBJECT with getting off of our vessel and safely onto the floating dock. SUBJECT had forgotten his truck keys on his vessel. Officer and I returned to the vessel, recovered his truck keys, registration, and glasses, and returned them to SUBJECT. No further action was taken this day.

I met with SUBJECT on September 5th, 2019, to go over the accident and what had caused it. He explained to me that he had hit something under water, heard a bump, and could not put his vessel in forward gear. He attempted to return to the boat ramp in reverse, but was only going in circles. While attempting to reverse, he took waves over the stern and the bilge pump was unable to keep the vessel afloat. No further action was taken.


BARDID: FL-2019-0484
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/10/2019, A red 25 foot Zodiac rigged hulled inflateable vessel (V2-FL0792GW), with one occupant, was traveling southbound in the Atlantic Intercoastal Waterway marked channel near channel marker 140 when it was stuck by a 19 foot McKee Craft center console (V1-FL4167MS) with two occupants on board. V2 is owned and operator operated by the Vero Beach TowBoatUS franchise. 

V1 was attempting to cross the ICW channel to enter a canal across from the Riverside Cafe when V1's operator failed to keep a proper lookout and clear the area before making a turn to starboard and striking V2. V1 was the give way vessel in accordance with USCG inland navigation rules. Both occupants of V1 were ejected from the vessel as a result of the collision. V1's operator did show signs of impairment from alcoholic beverages and admitted to drinking, however, probable cause did not exists for an arrest and the operator refused a voluntary blood draw at the hospital. Only minor injuries were reported by V1's operator.

Contributing factors to the collision are improper lookout, violation of navigation rules, and alcohol. ; Operator1 was transported to the Indian River Medical Center for treatment and evaluation. He complained of back and rib pain from striking the center console and T-Top when he was ejected from his vessel during the impact with the other vessel. No bones were found to be broken and only bruising and muscle sprains were reported.


BARDID: FL-2019-0485
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caloosahatchee River
NearestCityorTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 was traveling northeast in the ICW in front of Legacy Harbor faster than slow speed.  The wake from V-1 entered Legacy Harbor causing docked vessels; V-2, V-3 and V-4 to strike the pilings and dock structure.


BARDID: FL-2019-0486
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayboro Harbor
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/23/2019 at approximately 1030 hours, Operator1 was leaving his dock located at The Harborage Marina (1110 3rd St S St. Petersburg).  He was in his vessel, V1 (2015 Designer Products).  He cleared his dock but as soon as he did he lost power to his engines.  The wind/current then caused his vessel to travel Northwest into another dock and subsequently into V2 (1987 Albin Marine).  His starboard side impacted the port side of V2.  After drifting backward V2 then drifted to starboard causing the starboard side of V2 to hit the port side of V3 (2007 Bavaria).

V1 had a total of six people on board and no one sustained any injuries.  V2 was tied to the dock at the time of impact however there were five people on board.  None of them sustained any injuries either.  V3 was tied to the dock with no persons on board.  The owner of V3 was informed of the situation.

On the starboard side bow of V1 there was fiberglass damage to the hull as well as damage to the platform on top of the bow.  There was also damage to the lights and other fixtures on the bow. The damage was estimated at $8,000.  V2 sustained damage to the rub rail on the port side bow.  A cleat was pulled off the port side which also caused damage to the deck.  The port side stern sustained damages to the swim platform.  There were also some scratches on the starboard side bow.  The damages were estimated at $9,000.  V3 had damages to the railing on the starboard side bow.  The damages were estimated at $3,000.  The damages to the multiple docks were estimated to total $10,000 in repairs.

No further action taken.


BARDID: FL-2019-0487
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal waterway
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The Port side of V1 struck the pulpit of V2 at the Sailfish Marina in Palm Beach County while attempting to undock. V1 was undocking forward from the south side of the central dock and began traveling west to exit the marina. Tidal current pushed V1 south laterally and caused its port side to collide with the pulpit of V2. 

	All persons involved were uninjured. The operator of V1 was unable to control his vessel in the tidal current and was the primary cause of the accident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0488
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/7/19, I, Officer was dispatched to a boating accident in Jupiter. I responded to the accident area just south of Waterway Park and Lt.  responded to Jupiter Medical where the operator was transported.
I spoke with the operators friend who was on another jet ski and saw the accident happen. He advised they put in two jet ski's at Waterway Park and headed south in the slow speed zone. That is when a approximate 36 foot white sport fish traveling south overtook them. The wake caused the operator of V2 to lose his balance and fall into the water injuring his shoulder. friend then grabbed him and dragged him to shore. They then met with EMS and Jupiter PD's Marine unit at the "dive bar" docks in Jupiter where the operator was transported to Jupiter Medical center. 

Lt. arrived at the hospital and spoke with the operator. The operator told him when he fell off the jet ski he re-injured an old right should injury. 

No damage was done to the jet ski.
V1 was not identified and had no specific markings to follow up on. 
I spoke with the bridge tender on the Indiantown rd. bridge but they did not have any video of the incident and he did not witness it.   


BARDID: FL-2019-0489
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blackwater River
NearestCityorTown: MILTON
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2019 at approximately 2100 hrs. V1 was traveling north on the Blackwater River when it struck V2's stern with V1's  bow. V1 then backed off the top of V2's engine and left the scene of the accident. Contact was made with the operator of V1, he was arrested for boating under the influence.


BARDID: FL-2019-0490
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clearwater Bay ICW
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were part of a jet ski tour that was led by a tour guide on a separate PWC. Vessel 1 was heading in an easterly direction as part of a guided Personal Water Craft (PWC) tour in Clearwater Harbor. Vessel 1 was following approximately 75 feet behind Vessel 2, traveling at about 25 miles per hour.  Vessel 2 slowed to a near stop at the direction of the tour guide.

  Vessel 1 did not notice that the tour guide had directed vessel 2 to stop and collided with their port quarter. Vessel 2 ramped up and over vessel 1 on its port side. During the collision both the operator and the passenger of vessel 2 were injured while the operator and passenger of vessel 1 were not injured.

  Vessel 1 continued a short distance to port where both occupants fell off into the water. Vessel 2 slowly turned to starboard. 911 was contacted and when the occupants of vessel 2 returned the short distance back to the dock they were transported to Bayfont Hospital in St. Petersburg. operator1: spinal fractures, internal bleeding around the kidney and a deep laceration to the left leg.; operator2: Inflamed disc and fractured vertebrae.


BARDID: FL-2019-0491
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clearwater Harbor
NearestCityorTown: BELLEAIR BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel boating accident which occurred in Clearwater Harbor with 2 people on board.  The vessel was traveling approximately 25mph while enduring moderate surf and winds.  Conditions caused the occupant to fall overboard and impact with the vessel's propeller.      

  OPERATOR1 and OCCUPANT departed "One Tree Island" located en route to Belleair Boat Ramp.  Wind was out of the East at 10-14mph.  Chop was moderate, with white caps in the Harbor.  OPERATOR1 was operating the small craft with a tiller steer from a starboard stern sitting position.  OCCUPANT was sitting midship on the port side.  OCCUPANT became unsteady and fell off the port side of the vessel into the water impacting the vessel’s propeller.  OPERATOR1 retrieved OCCUPANT from the water and returned to One Tree Island.  911 was called by witnesses near the island.  First responders transported OCCUPANT by vessel to USCG Station Sand Key.  OCCUPANT was then bay flighted to Bayfront Health.     

FINDINGS:  
Weather and surf conditions caused OCCUPANT to fall over the port side of the vessel into the water.  The vessel's small size and low gunwales further exacerbated the situation.  The vessel's forward momentum caused OCCUPANT to immediately be directed towards and into the vessel's propeller.   Alcohol and vessel instability were contributing factors in this accident (See ISR059737).  
  
CHARGES:
OPERATOR1
1.	327.35(3)(c)1. BUI WITH PROPERTY DAMAGE OR INJURY; 

:Injuries were specific to the right forearm.  Consisting of an open right Ulna fracture and a dislocated right Radius.  Required screws and numerous sutures to mend.


BARDID: FL-2019-0492
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 9th 2019 I, Officer responded to two personal watercrafts colliding with each other in the city of Boynton Beach, Palm Beach County. 

V1 (Blue PWC) and V2 (Red PWC) were traveling north on the ICW alongside each other. The operator of V1 was at the port side of V2 and due to saltwater splashing in his eyes got too close to V2. V1 made sharp turn to it's port side to avoid collision causing the vessel to bow steer making the back of the PWC to come out of the water striking the operator of V2 on his left ribs. 

Operator of V2 tried to steer to his starboard side but  was unsuccessful. Operator of V2 was transported to the hospital and received treatment for 5 broken ribs. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0493
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: STOCK ISLAND
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of the Viking cabin motorboat (V1) stated that as he was entering the dockage for Stock Island Marina Village, he struck the vessel “Where to” (V3) and then the dockage at the marina causing his vessel to receive a hole in the starboard side. 

I asked Operator1 if he had struck the vessel “Legacy” (V2) as well, Operator1 stated that he was unsure but that a witness had told him he had. Operator1 stated that he had attempted to take a look at the damage but was unable to go across and look. Operator1 stated that it was windy on his approach and that he was having an extremely hard time controlling his vessel in the tight space. The weather that day was cloudy with a 10-15mph East wind.


BARDID: FL-2019-0494
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: South of Julia Tuttle/East of
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On the listed date and time, vessel (1) and vessel (2) were cruising eastbound on the south side of Julia Tuttle Causeway located just north of Pace Picnic Island in Miami-Dade County. Moments after, both vessels were traveling at an unknown speed when vessel (1) collided with vessel (2). The bow of vessel (1) struck the portside of vessel (2) and went completely over vessel (2). The impact of the collision caused the operator of vessel (2) to be ejected into the water and struck by the propeller of vessel (1). Both Miami-Dade County, and Miami Beach Police Department arrived on scene. Miami Beach Fire Rescue later arrived and transported the operator of vessel (2) to Jackson Ryder Trauma Center where he was assessed by medical personnel. The operator of vessel (1) was uninjured. At the time of the accident there were eight other occupants on board vessel (1). 

Total damage- Approximately $4,001.00 dollars

Victim:Lacerations on back caused from propeller of vessel Broken ribs sustained from impact of collision Minor lacerations and contusions from impact of collision


BARDID: FL-2019-0495
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST LAKE TOHO
NearestCityorTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 19th, 2019, a single vessel accident occurred near St. Cloud, Florida on East Lake Tohopekaliga. A vessel and two jet skis launched from Lakefront Boat Ramp. The occupants onboard took turns wakeboarding and riding the jet skis around the central area of the lake. The subjects stopped to take a break from wakeboarding. During the break, one of the jet skis ran over the tow line floating in the water. 

The tow line became entangled in the jet ski intake. The victim and a second subject jumped into the water to attempt to remove the line from the jet ski. While in the water, the victim became distressed and was not able to stay afloat. The victim submerged and was not seen again. The subjects on the vessel called 911. Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, St. Cloud PD, and FWC responded and began a search and rescue operation. The victim was located deceased underwater by the FWC Dive team the following day. The victim was recovered and transported to the Lakefront Boat Ramp.

The victim was turned over to the District 9 Medical Examiner’s Office for their investigation (CR#2019-001211). An autopsy was conducted. The death was determined to be an accidental drowning. Toxicology indicated the victim had a blood alcohol level (0.254 g/dL) that indicated substantial impairment at the time of death. 

VIOLATIONS

No evidence was located that would indicate a violation of U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules or of Florida Statute.


BARDID: FL-2019-0496
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA FE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FORT WHITE
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 07/28/08 at approximately 18:41 hours, Boating Accident # FWNC19OFF004987 occurred on the Santa Fe River, Columbia County, Florida. The accident occurred near 147 Gillard Ct SW, Fort White, Latitude N29° 55.889’, Longitude W82° 47.628’.   Vessel #1 (V1) (1997 Polar Craft 19’) was traveling down river on the Santa Fe River. Vessel #2 (V2) (2013 Nautic star 19’) was traveling upriver on the Santa Fe River. The operators of both vessels saw the other vessel approaching in what appeared to them to be a possible head on situation. The operators of both vessels attempted maneuvers to avoid a collision but the two vessels collided. The collision caused injuries (broken bones) to five of the six occupants of V-2 and both occupants of V- 1.  As of this time, there were no serious bodily injuries and/or death. Columbia and Suwannee EMS responded and then transported the injured occupants of both vessels to Shands Hospital, Emergency Room, Gainesville Florida, for treatment.  

For complete investigative report and findings please refer to ISR050622  
V1 occupant3:CLOSED PELVIC RING FRACTURE SPRAIN OF MEDIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT OF RIGHT KNEE TEAR OF MEDIAL MENISCUS OF RIGHT KNEE; 
V1 operator:left tibial shaft fracture s/p ; 
V2 occupant1:LACERATIONS OF RIGHT ARM, SIDE, AND LEG.   BUSTED LIP AND BROKEN NOSE; 
V2 occupant2:COMPOUND (OPEN) FRACTURES OF TIBIA AND FIBULA OF RIGHT LEG WITH HUGE AMOUNT OF STITCHES.  SOFT TISSUE DAMAGED OF LEFT KNEE AND TWO LARGE LACERATIONS ON LEFT LEG W/ STITCHES
V2 occupant3:CUTS ON HER UPPER LIP AND BRUISES AROUND HER MOUTH AREA.  AND LIGAMENT DAMAGES TO HER RIGHT KNEE; 
Operator2:THREE LACERATIONS OF HIS  LIVER, PANCREAS WAS FUSED FROM TAIL TO HEAD, 6 TO 8 BROKEN RIBS.  INCISION TOOK 30 STAPLES; 
V2 occupant4:BRUISE PELVIC AREA AND BRUISE ANKLE


BARDID: FL-2019-0497
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf Of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V 2 was traveling North East of Sandy Hook when the operator immediately slowed down to idle. V1 was following V2 and did not notice that V2 had come off plane. V1 attempted to make an immediate port side turn but impacted V2 causing injury to one of the occupants of V1. 

Operator1 was in the process of following Operator2 to Sandy Hook. V1 was following V2 at approximately 30 miles per hour with roughly 100 yards between the vessels. Operator2 observed what appeared to be shallow water and came down off of plane. At the same time Operator2 came off of plane Operator1 happened to briefly look down at his chart plotter. Operator1 looked back up and realized an impact was imminent and made a hard turn to port. V1 then impacted the rear port side of V2's outboard cowling with the starboard keel. The angle of this impact caused V1 to ramp up and over the port side of V2 coming to rest in the water at the port side bow. During this Ramping effect V2 occupant was impacted along the back of his head by V1. This impact knocked V2 occupant to the deck of V2 causing injuries to his back. 

V2 occupant advised the members of his party that he would be needing medical attention but due to the outboard being impacted V2 was inoperable. V1 then attempted to assist transporting V2 occupant back to land but soon realized they had fouled their prop with anchor line. A good samaritan vessel then came to assist and transported two people occupant back to the Crystal River Buffer Preserve where EMS was standing by. V2 occupant was then transported to Seven Rivers Hospital where he was treated for swelling on the back of his head as well as back pain. V2 occupant was released later that night with no major injuries revealed. V2 occupant had a approximately 6'' red mark loaded half way up his back believed to be caused by falling after initial impact.


BARDID: FL-2019-0498
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Whale Harbor wheel Ditch
NearestCityorTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At 6:03 pm, I began to interview Operator. According to Operator's statement, he was operating his PWC, (FL3955RG) in a easterly direction through the narrow mangrove lined cut known as the Whale Harbor Wheel Ditch, when he collided with, what he described as a branch. Operator has no recollection of what transpired immediately after the collision. He only remembers seeing his sister in the water bleeding and he swimming to her aid.; occupant suffused a large laceration to her head.; operator suffered a laceration to the right side of his head as well as a contusion to the right side of head.


BARDID: FL-2019-0499
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BRANTLEY
NearestCityorTown: LONGWOOD
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2019 at approximately 1430 hours, I, Officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a double vessel accident occurring on Lake Brantley in Seminole County, Florida. At approximately 1430 hours, Operator1, and Subject were riding their father’s 11’ personal watercraft, (V-1), and Operator1 was the operator.  Operator2, a friend of their father, was also operating his 11’ Yamaha personal watercraft, (V-2) alongside of them.  

At approximately 1420 hours, Operator2, was operating in close proximity to V-1 headed northeast on the lake.  Operator2 was slightly behind V-1, on its port side. Both vessels were stated to be going consistently at approximately 45-55 mph.  As V-1 approached the northern shoreline of the lake, a turn over its port side was necessary in order to keep from colliding with shore.  

Passenger of V-1 observed Operator2 remaining in close proximity and signaled by hand, with her palm out to back up and slow down.  Operator of V-1, Operator1 made sure to consistently look in her mirrors and over her shoulder to identify Operator2’s location.  Due to the northeast shoreline and residences both straight ahead, and on right side of V-1, Operator1 had to make a left turn to avoid collision.  Operator1 made an approximately 45 degree turn over her port side.  Operator2 was at this time going approximately 50-55 mph and stated he attempted to slow down but did not have ample amount of time to avoid collision.  Operator2, on V-2 struck V-1 at a high rate of speed causing both passengers Operator1, and Subject to be ejected from vessel.  Passenger of V-1 sustained injuries from vessel impact causing injury to her left fibula

Subject was brought onto V-2 with Operator2 and taken to a nearby dock and pavilion where other friends of father were located.  Operator1 was brought back to same location by good Samaritan that was unable to be identified.  A family friend applied tourniquet to Subjects leg immediately upon arrival back to beached pavilion area.  Emergency response was notified and transported Subject to Arnold Palmer Hospital by land.  

Subject’s injury was a severed ankle/fibula which was not deemed to be “serious bodily injury”.  All other subjects acquired no injuries and refused immediate medical attention.


BARDID: FL-2019-0500
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: st. lucie inlet
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
After investigation and witness interviews, V1 and V2 were parked next to each other at the Stuart Sandbar. V1 decided to move his vessel while next to V2. Operator1 had his vessel motors trimmed almost completely out of the water effecting his ability to control the vessel. Victim jump off of V1 in order to try and control the vessel in the water. V1 started to drift towards V2. As V1 drifted victim came in contact with the vessels motor causing propeller lacerations to her hand. Moments later V1 made contact with the side of V2 causing the propeller to do fiberglass damage. 

Operator1 then continued to leave the scene of the boating accident as well as leaving his wife on scene injured. Operator1 failed to render aid to his wife.  


BARDID: FL-2019-0501
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/27/19 at approximately 1045 hours, I, Investigator of the Florida Fish Wildlife Commission, was on duty in Collier County, State of Florida. I was dispatched to a vessel that had exploded in Naples Bay. Multiple injuries were reported, but no serious injuries were observed or treated. I arrived on scene and spoke with Ofc. also of the FWC who was first on scene. Ofc. told me that six people were on a vessel that had recently left a fuel dock. While it was pulling away from the dock, the starboard side inboard engine exploded and caught fire. One of the passengers was launched from the vessel due to the explosion. Three of the other passengers jumped into the water to avoid the fire that had erupted. The captain, and his other passenger were located up on the tower of the vessel and extinguished the fire with the onboard fire extinguisher. A good Samaritan grabbed all of the occupants and brought them ashore.

Victim2 was flown to Lee county Memorial Hospital and then transported to the Tampa General Hospital burn unit for burns on her lower legs. Victim3 was transported to Naples County Hospital for burns to his legs, Victim4 was also transported to the same hospital for burns to his legs. Victim1 later drove himself to the hospital for treatment of his burns as well, after initially refusing medical treatment.

I spoke with Operator1 who explained the events to me and then stated he had recently had work done to the vessel. Operator1 showed Ofc. and I to the vessel were we began an investigation into the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. At first view, the damage seemed extremely minimal. Upon closer inspection we discovered that the ventilation system for the inboard engines did not appear to be working. A leak from the starboard fuel sending unit was evident which had released gas vapors into the engine compartment. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0502
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityorTown: GULF BREEZE
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one, (V-1) was traveling approximately 30 MPH in a easterly direction in the Santa Rosa Sound near Navarre.  V-1 was occupied by an operator and two occupants.  The operator steered hard to the left, V-1 encountered several boat wakes; this caused V-1 to hit hard its starboard side.  The operator and two occupants were ejected.  V-1 continued and began circling to the right.  This circling continued until V-1 struck a piling on the north side of the Santa Rosa Sound its port side bow.  V-1 then continued a short distance, struck a boat lift and a dock.  V-1 became stuck under the dock where it remained until being recovered.


BARDID: FL-2019-0510
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saint Andrews Bay
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Rental jet ski accident with no injuries. On October 2, 2019 at approximately 1700 local time I Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was dispatched to a S4B involving one personal watercraft ie: jet ski.

When asked Operator stated that he rented the jet ski from Beachy Beach Rentals at approximately 1430 local time. He stated the rental service administered the required Florida Boaters exam prior to renting him the jet ski.( I verified the exam results on October 3, 2019).

When asked Operator stated that he received instructions on the proper operation of the jet ski and he felt comfortable operating the jet ski before he got underway. 

Operator stated that this was his first time operating a jet ski and was going about 20 to 25 miles per hour trying to get used to operating the jet ski.

When asked Operator stated that he was operating the jet ski in an area north of the Hathaway Bridge when at approximately 1530 local time he struck an unknown underwater object ejecting him into the water. Operator noticed the vessel was taking on water due to the damage on the port side. With the assistance of his buddy they brought the vessel to AAA Jet Ski Rentals and Tours and Beachy Beach Rentals were then notified. 

It should be noted that Operator was the only identified witness to this incident. His statement is attached to this report.


BARDID: FL-2019-0511
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to vessel 1 operator, he was traveling north along the icw approaching the miami river at approximately 15-20 miles per hour. Operator stated he hit a large wake produced by another passing vessel causing his vessel to begin taking on water.  He then stated he believes his bilge pump malfunctioned and was not pumping out the water resulting in vessel 1 capsizing. All passengers aboard the vessel were able to safely get off and make it to shore without any injury. Operator personally requested fast response to salvage his vessel and remove it from the water ways.


BARDID: FL-2019-0512
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 AND VESSEL 2 WERE RAFTED TOGETHER AT ANCHOR WHEN THE VESSELS COLLIDED TOGETHER BECAUsE OF THE WAKE CAUSED BY VESSEL 3.


BARDID: FL-2019-0513
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE WORTH LAGOON
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAELING NORTH ENTERING THE ICW CHANNEL JUST NORTH OF BLUE HERON BRIDGE IN REVIERA BEACH, FL. VESSEL 1 STRUCK AND KNOCKED OVER ATON GREEN MARKER #37 WITH THE STARBOARD BOW OF VESSEL 1.


BARDID: FL-2019-0514
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: RIVIERA BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 TRAVELING IN A NW DIRECTION IN A HEAVY TRAFFIC ANCHOR/SANDBAR AREA. VESSEL 1 WAS ROUNDING TWO LARGER SPORT FISH TYPE VESSELS AT ANCHOR THAT WAS BLOCKING HIS VISABILITY TO SEE VESSEL 2 ATTEMPTING TO ANCHOR FACING A SOUTHERN DIRECTION. VESSEL 1 STRUCK THE BOW OF VESSEL 2.


BARDID: FL-2019-0515
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityorTown: DAINA BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING EAST BOUND ON THE DANIA CUTT OFF CANAL. VESSEL 2 WAS TRAVELING NORTH FROM ROYAL PALM YACHT BASIN ON TO THEN DANIA CUT OFF CANAL. VESSEL 2 STUCK VESSEL 1 ON THE STARBOARD SIDE. NO INJURIES REPORTED.


BARDID: FL-2019-0516
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS TRAVELING EASTBOUND INSIDE THE NIXON SANDBAR AREA. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 WAS ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN NORTHBOUND CRASHING INTO VESSEL#2 THAT WAS ANCHORD. CRACKED THE ENGINE COVER BOTH VESSELS SUSTAINED MINOR DAMAGE AND REMAINED OPERABLE. CASE CARD WAS ISSUED AND THERE WERE NO INGERIES TO REPORT.


BARDID: FL-2019-0517
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SUMMIT
NearestCityorTown: WINTER HAVEN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON 06/02/19, VESSEL 2 AND VESSEL 3 WERE DRIFTING ON LAKE SUMMIT FACING EACH OTHER APPROXIMATELY 3 FEET APART. 

VESSEL 1 APPROACHED THEIR LOCATION AT APPROXIMATELY 20MPH, IN ATEMPT TO DRIVE BETWEEN THEM. DUE TO VESSEL 2 AND VESSEL 3 BEING VERY CLOSE TOGETHER, VESSEL 1 WAS UNABLE TO DRIVE BETWEEN THEM AND COLLIDED AND RAMPED VESSEL 2. ALL VESSELS WERE OCCUPIED ONLY BY THE OPERATORS AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINDED AS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT.


BARDID: FL-2019-0518
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS INBOUND APPROCHING MARKER 21 IN NAPLES BAY. VESSEL 2 WAS OUTBOUND APPROCHING MARKER 21 IN NAPLES BAY. VESSEL 2 WAS SWAMPED BY THE WAKE FROM VESSEL 1 RESULTING IN PROPERTY DAMAGE TO VESSEL 2.


BARDID: FL-2019-0519
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BIG LAKE CONWAY
NearestCityorTown: BELLE ISLE
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/07/19 at approximately 1737 hours, a 15’ 3” seadoo boat hit the wake of another vessel on big lake conway in orange county florida. The operator was ejected and the passenger was knocked unconscious and was still in the boat. The vessel continued under power until it ran aground on the beach. Witnesses called 911 who dispatched both ocfd and ocso marine. I was patrolling the conway chain of lakes in marked patrol boat and responded to the scene. Upon my arrival, i observed victim (vessel owner) standing on the dock leaning against the railing. Subject had a towel over his head to control bleeding from a serious laceration to his head above his right eye. Several people were assisting him. Also at the scene was the operator who was sitting on the ground next to the boat ramp. The seadoo jet boat (fl 3101 pf) was about 10 feet up on the beach next to the boat dock. I confirmed everyone was accounted for when ocfd station arrived.

My investigation revealed:
Earlier that day, both subject and operator had been at the “sandbar” on north lake conway in Subject’s 15’ 3” yellow seadoo vessel. When they left the sandbar, operator was operating the vessel and sitting on the starboard side and cordello was seated on the port side. They went through the hoffner canel and entered big lake conway and went to the right. Operator stated that he observed a large wake to his left so he steered farther to the right. Eventually, operator had to steer back left into the wake to avoid the shore. Operator estimated the boat was traveling about 20 mph. Operator stated that when they went over the wake he was thrown into the air and went overboard. He did not have a lanyard attached to him so the vessel kept going. When he looked up from the water he saw the boat underway but could not see Subject. The boat then ran aground on the beach. When the vessel went over the wake, Subject was thrown to his right and hit his head on the console knocking him unconscious in the boat.


BARDID: FL-2019-0520
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ocean
NearestCityorTown: LAKE WORTH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, September 28, 2019, vessel 2 (FL 7135 KM) struck another, docked vessel (NJ 9216 HM) while trying to dock at Suntex Marina, Lantana.  No injuries were reported.  Operator told me, he was trying to dock his vessel when he accidentally put more throttle than he intended to.  He also told me that it is his first boat and he has very few hours of boat handling experience.


BARDID: FL-2019-0521
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Garnier Bayou
NearestCityorTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel one was towing a tube in Garnier Bayou upon which three individuals were riding. Vessel one was traveling in a southerly direction and took a sharp turn to the east, which whiplashed the tube into the air causing all three riders to be thrown from the tube. 

Due to the close proximity to land and trees, one individual sustained injuries to his lower leg when he struck a tree.; He sustained a broken left tibia, abrasions to his right ankle and the right side of his face, and contusions to his left upper arm and right bicep area. He was admitted to the hospital where surgeons implanted a rod into his left leg.


BARDID: FL-2019-0522
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-01-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER ISLAND
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Both vessel one and two were traveling northbound in the intercostal waterway (ICW), when vessel two took a wake coming toward the port side of the vessel. The wake caused the operator of vessel two to lose control which then turned the vessel perpendicular and the operator jumped from the vessel in to the water.  Vessel one traveling in the same direction struck vessel two with the bow of the vessel. Vessel two was struck on the port side bow during the collision.


BARDID: FL-2019-0523
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityorTown: JUNO BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling south on the Intracoastal Waterway near the Indiantown Rd. Bridge. The vessel collided with red channel marker 14 just south of the bridge causing damage to the starboard bow and starboard gunnel of the vessel. The operator on board was distracted by back pain and was attempting to adjust her seating positon when she mistakenly pulled down on the steering wheel, causing the vessel to veer starboard, off the intended course and make contact with the Red 14 channel marker


BARDID: FL-2019-0524
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/8/2019, V1 (21’ Sea Pro FL8726LW) was heading East in the St. Pete Central Yacht Basin channel.  At approximately 10:40 PM, V1 made way outside the marked channel and collided with the jetty located on the south side of the channel.  The operator of V1 sustained a laceration above his right eye.  The occupant of V1 dislocated her left shoulder and sustained a fractured clavicle.  Both the operator and occupant were transported to Bayfront for medical treatment. Based on interviews, assessment of the damage, and information gathered to date.  

The operator of V1 while in the idle speed zone, began cruising at speed greater than 25 miles per hour.  Operator steered out of the marked channel and was making way just south of the channel.  This caused V1 to miss the basin exit point and collide with the jetty.   Alcohol and unsafe speed were contributing factors in this accident.; occupant:Dislocated shoulder and fractured clavicle. ; operator:Patient was admitted to Bayfront Medical Center.  He sustained a laceration above right eye.  Stitches were needed.


BARDID: FL-2019-0525
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: South Sound Creek at Largo Sou
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
A single person kayak was stationary at the confluence of a no motor zone channel and a slow speed zone channel that opens out to a bay/sound.   The combination of an unknown passing vessel's wake and a wind blown wake caused the female operator/occupant of the kayak to lose her balance while reading a map and roll out of the kayak. 

She was wearing a PFD but had taken it off after falling in the water as the jacket was making it difficult to hold on to the kayak as she drifted and swam with it back up the side channel. She struggled to stay with the kayak as it drifted back up the side channel until she was located by a passing good Samaritan and eventually brought on board a patrol vessel and returned to EMS on shore.  She was treated for ingesting saltwater. Subject swallowed saltwater after falling into the water and swimming next to the rented kayak.  Subject was observed coughing up small amounts of blood.  She was found to have fluid in her lungs by EMS.  She was transported to a local hospital and then was going to be taken for advanced treatment in Miami.  There were no visible physical injuries observed.


BARDID: FL-2019-0526
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 30, 2019, at approximately 9:00 PM 29' Cobia, here and after referred to as V-1, was being operated on a northbound course when it struck navigational marker #17 on the Intra Coastal Waterway (ICW), south of the Broad Causeway Bridge. After the impact, occupant was ejected out of V-1 and was located shortly after the accident face down in the water. He was subsequently transported to Aventura Hospital where he was admitted approximately one hour after the accident. The victim sustained head injuries during the accident and water in his lungs. 	

The victim was the owner of the vessel, and was standing next to the operator of the vessel who was his son. The vessel struck a channel marker on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and victim was thrown into the water as a result. He was unresponsive when found in the water a few minutes later and remained unconscious for a few weeks at Aventura Hospital. He received facial fractures to his left side as a result of the impact.


BARDID: FL-2019-0527
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was travelling southbound from Miami Marine Stadium toward Nixon Sandbar when the vessel began taking on water and sent out an emergency distress signal via VHF Channel 16.

I brought Operator onto my vessel and had him write a statement, describing everything that had occurred. Coast Guard transferred the passengers from the yacht to their vessel, as we waited for SeaTow to arrive. At this point, the water had been successfully pumped out of the vessel, which was now afloat. I asked Operator what the occupancy limit for his vessel was, to which he replied that he did not know but was probably over the limit. Officer was able to pull alongside the vessel, as I located the vessel capacity plate, which stated a maximum rating of 10 persons on board or 1650 pounds. There was noticeable damage to the rear port side of the vessel. I asked Operator about the damage, to which he stated that it had occurred by hitting the side of a dock several months prior, and was unrelated to the current incident. I photographed the damage, as well as the vessel capacity plate, and have included them in this report. I cited Operator for exceeding the maximum persons/weight capacity under Florida Statute 327.52(3). I then returned Operator to Coast Guard’s vessel.

	Based on my investigation and the vessel’s lack of physical damage that would cause water to overtake the vessel, I believe the vessel took on water due to overloading and negligence on Operator’s part. Several of the passengers of the vessel were heavyset individuals. The vessel also had three more passengers than the capacity rating of 10.


BARDID: FL-2019-0528
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Lucie River Southfork
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was cruising and the wake from the vessel caused V2 and V3 to rock and damage both vessels. V2 damage was a broken flag pole and V3 damage was to the rub rail.


BARDID: FL-2019-0529
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: PATRICK AFB
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/14/19, Operator operated his 16 foot Tracker Marine into the shore break of waves near Port Canaveral. Once in the shore break, the vessel immediately capsized and all three men fell out of the boat and into water that was 3 feet deep. There were no injuries and all three men were transported back to their vehicle by FWC and officers of the USAF. End. 

Operator stated that he had driven from Gainesville, Florida to fish at Port Canaveral. Operator stated that he had never been to Port Canaveral to fish and that he was not familiar with the area. Just prior to the vessel overturning, Operator operated his vessel from offshore to the surf zone area of the beach. Operator stated that he did this to let his friend off at the beach to give him some relief from feeling sea sick. I asked Operator if he knew that the beach he was operating near was a restricted area and he said that he did not. Once the vessel reached the shore, the vessel was subject to the incoming waves and immediately was overturned. After the vessel was overturned, it became inoperable and the 3 men were not able to right the vessel or swim to shore.


BARDID: FL-2019-0530
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PLACIDA HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling north in the intercoastal waterway, Placida Harbor, at approximately 27mph. The operator noticed V1 starting to slow and sit lower in the water, which allowed water in through the scuppers. Attempts were made to bail V1, but water then started coming in over the transom. V1 began to lean to the port side, and the operator was unable to right the vessel. V1 capsized ejecting both occupants. No injuries reported.


BARDID: FL-2019-0531
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating the jet ski at a speed greater than 20 MPH in a no wake zone, as he approached a vessel that had slowed to a stopped position in the water. Operator1 admitted that he attempted to turn the vessel with the use of the handlebars and the reverse throttle, which he stated he had no experience using prior to the date of the accident, as he approached the stopped vessel. The bow of vessel (V-1) struck the victim’s right thigh breaking the Femur bone. The force of the impact ejected both occupant and operator off the jet ski into the water. The striking vessel’s (V-1) starboard’s side reportedly ramped over the stern of the operator’s vessel (V-2). There was no signs of impairment from either of the operators while I conducted my interviews . There were no 3rd party witnesses to this incident that could provide any additional information.


BARDID: FL-2019-0532
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Lake Toho
NearestCityorTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25, 2019, at approximately 1600 hours, operator launched his vessel (V-1) from Lakefront Park boat ramp on East Lake Tohopekaliga (Toho) in St. Cloud, in Osceola County Florida. The operator of V-1, and had seven occupants on board. V-1 headed Northeast towards Chisholm park boat ramp. At approximately 1900 hours, V-1 left Chisholm Park boat ramp and continued West across the lake when Operator put V-1 in neutral and jumped overboard to swim. Two others also jumped overboard. 

          Victim struggled in the water and was unable to stay afloat. One of the occupants called 911 immediately, however, Victim had gone underwater and did not resurface. A search was conducted by FWC patrol, Osceola County Sheriff’s Office (OSCO) marine units, and air support with no success.  The search continued the following day by FWC Northeast region’s dive team.  On August 26, 2019 at approximately 1342 hours, Victim was found deceased in the water by the FWC dive team in close proximity of the incident site.

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, the following conclusions have been made:

The cause of this incident is drowning, and the manner of death is accidental per the Medical Examiner’s findings.  There were seven witnesses to the actual incident, and several possible contributing factors were noted.  

The victim:
•	Was not wearing a PFD.
•	Had been consuming alcohol prior to going into the water (toxicology results indicate an ethyl alcohol level of 0.259 g/dL).
•	Did not know how to swim.
•	According to witnesses, may have thought the area was shallow.


BARDID: FL-2019-0533
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Ida
NearestCityorTown: DELRAY BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 06th 2019 I, Officer, responded to a boating incident between two personal watercrafts (PWC) at Lake Ida in Delray Beach, FL. 

V1 (White & Yellow PWC) was traveling north on the east side of the lake while V2 (Black & Blue PWC) was traveling south on the west side of the lake towing two minors on an inflatable tube. When the PWCs came close to each other V1, due to improper look out, made a turn to its port side after passing V2 on its starboard side. 

V1 did not realize V2 was towing an inflatable tube and drove under the tow rope causing the operator of V1 to be ejected from the PWC and landing in the water. Operator of V1 had abrasions to his right arm and bruised ribs on his left side. 

The operator was transported to Delray Medical Center were he received medical treatment was released. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0535
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityorTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling northbound towards open water.  V2 was traveling in the same direction, just to the right and behind V1.  O1 decided to turn to the right and was unaware of V2's position.  As V1 turned hard to the right and back towards the south, O1 observed V2 ahead of him.  Neither operator remembers making any evasive maneuver, but the damage indicates that V1 heeled over hard to starboard.  V1 traveled over V2 at approximately a 45 degree angle from the bow, impacting the port stern of V2 with the starboard bow of V1.  V1 struck O2 with either the port side chine, causing an abrasion/contusion to O2's torso.  There was an abrasion/contusion approximately 6-8 inches in length approximately 3 inches above the waist, running from the anterior to posterior.


BARDID: FL-2019-0536
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07-19-2019 at approximately 1800 hours, I was on duty in Monroe County State of Florida. I was on patrol in uniform, in a marked vessel with Officer in the area of Grassy Key. I was dispatched to a boating accident at Jolly Roger’s marina. Once arriving on scene, both vessels were at the location. The two occupants of V02 were at Fisherman’s Hospital. 

 I made contact with the operator of the striking vessel (V01). I observed both vessels had damages. The vessel that was struck (V02) had a cracked transom, cracked cowling, and broken Bimini top. V01 had scratches on the port side hull and chunks off the center keel underneath the bow eye.

 Operator1 stated, “At approximately 1615 my vessel, 22’ Pathfinder (FL 3618 NN), was headed North bound traveling at about 18 mph following my in-laws in their 21’ Proline prolite (FL 0775 PB). We were following from a distance of 50 yards. We headed North as my wife directed my attention to my port side at a house. At that point my in-laws came to a stop and I did not see them in time to avoid contact. We turned towards my port side and we hit their port side stern and motor. My bow rolled off the back end of their boat”. There were five occupants on Operator1’s vessel. Both children had their life jackets on. 

The operator of V02 had one occupant on the vessel. V2 subject had injuries, not severe, to her back and had a hematoma under her left eye, she had trouble breathing after the collision. Operator2 replied, “They were heading to Curry Hammock sandbar. We stopped for about three minutes to check our depth, then I heard my wife yell and felt the collision. My wife was pinned to the console and then fell to the floor. My boat was heavily damaged but still afloat, so we headed back to dock at Jolly Rogers”.

 V2 subject stated, “We noticed the water level getting lower and we slowed down to a halt and then the other boat came over the transom and hit the center console. I got thrown down and had a hard time breathing”.


BARDID: FL-2019-0537
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Canal off the Indian River
NearestCityorTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 22, 2019 at approximately 6:00pm and his girlfriend were traveling west on their vessel in a canal off the Indian River in Vero Beach in Indian River County, Fl. The canal is located south of Royal Palm Blvd and approximately a quarter mile west of Indian River Blvd and the vessel is a 15', White, Center Console, 2002 Palm Beach, Open Motor Boat. While they were traveling at a rate of speed estimated to be between 5-12mph they struck a spillway and Occupant was ejected from the vessel. The vessel was then stuck on top of the spillway and Operator had to exit the vessel to break it free. The vessel sustained damage to the keel located at the mid-ship of the vessel underneath the center console. The vessel began to take on water so Operator raced back to his house where he dropped off Occupant. Occupant then met Operator at the boat ramp with the vessel's truck and trailer and the vessel was removed from the water before it sank. Operator had the vessel inspected and the damage is estimated at $8000 to repair.


BARDID: FL-2019-0538
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOAT RAMP
NearestCityorTown: PUNTA RASA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A capsized vessel was seen tied to a piling at a boat ramp unattended during the nighttime hours on October 12, 2019. The owner could not be immediately located. 

Water conditions were calm with a slight breeze at the ramp. Initial attempts to locate the owner were unsuccessful, but contact with the owner was successful through emergency contact. The RO was contacted, and he stated the vessel overturned around 2000 hours after viewing the Fort Myers speedboat race. The RO also stated that he called the Lee County Non-Emergency number; however, the message was not relayed to FWC dispatch. When asked how the vessel overturned, the RO stated that when he returned with his vehicle and trailer to take the vessel out of the water, his friend came up to him and said that he was on one side of the vessel and that a series of waves from a boat at the boat ramp was the catalyst for the capsizing. Only the friend was on the vessel and managed to grab hold of a pilling as the vessel was filling with water before capsizing.


BARDID: FL-2019-0539
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel One (Personal Watercraft PWC) was operating approximately 1/8th of a mile offshore the St Lucie Inlet in the Atlantic Ocean between the House of Refuge and the St Lucie Inlet. Vessel One was wave jumping in the ocean in rough conditions. The operator of Vessel One fell on the gunwale of the PWC due to rough waves approaching at varies angles. The operator of Vessel One sustained injuries to the right Tibia. The operator was transported to St Mary’s Hospital by helicopter due to blood pressure and loss of blood. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0540
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DOCTORS LAKE
NearestCityorTown: ORANGE PARK
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator launched his vessel from Lakeshore Boat Ramp on Doctor's Lake and while driving across the lake, noticed the vessel was sluggish and then noticed water in the bottom of the boat.  Instead of returning to the ramp, he continued across the lake to a private dock and secured the vessel, without permission, to the dock.  Operator and his passenger exited the vessel onto the dock as the vessel sank and capsized.  Operator refused to pay Tow Boat US for salvage and removal of the vessel and left it in a derelict state.  The vessel is also not titled or registered, and displays the wrong registration numbers.  Operators will be cited for multiple violations.


BARDID: FL-2019-0542
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: CORAL GABLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: cleat
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was being towed by V1 when the cleat of the V1 broke off of the vessel striking the victim on his head; Victim suffered from a laceration on his head, fractured skull, and brain swelling. She was admitted to Jackson South where he had emergency brain surgery due to brain swelling. The following day he was in stable condition but could not speak.


BARDID: FL-2019-0543
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:12:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAGRANGE BAYOU
NearestCityorTown: FREEPORT
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 28, 2019, operator was operating his PWC, alone, in LaGrange Bayou, in Freeport, FL with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.21g/100mL. At an undetermined time and for an undetermined reason, he was ejected, fell, or voluntarily departed from his PWC, came to be face down in the water, and subsequently drowned.


BARDID: FL-2019-0544
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PASS-A-GRILLE
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading in the Pass-a-Grille Channel as a 40ft cabin vessel was heading out of the channel.  Vessel 1 was traveling along the north side of the channel and crossed over the large wakes of the cabin vessel. Vessel 1 went airborne as she crossed a wake. The operator of Vessel 1 became partially separated from the Personal Water Craft (PWC) while in the air. As the PWC landed, she struck the left side of the PWC, breaking her leg and causing her to fall into the water. The Operator of Vessel 1 was pulled onto another PWC which she drove back to shore.  Surgical repair performed on 10/05/2019. Floor nurse for subject stated a open reduction and inter-fixation with rod and screws to repair broken femur.


BARDID: FL-2019-0545
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-02-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST MARKS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CRAWFORDVILLE
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 2/23/2019, 4 boaters were returning into the St Marks River at 1400 hours.  Around marker #26 in the St Marks River the vessel, a 17.5 foot Aquasport with a 90 HP Johnson took an unexpected hard right hand turn ejecting all 4 occupants into the water.  

The unoccupied vessel continued in an uncontrolled right hand spiral.  As the occupants hit the water the vessel's propeller struck one occupant in the upper torso.  Other passing boaters picked up the 4 ejected people, 2 in one boat and 2 in another boat.  The boaters took the ejected occupants to the Old Fort Boat Ramp in St Marks and met emergency personnel.  The occupant who had been hit in the upper torso was pronounced at the scene, the other 3 were uninjured. 

Toxicology on boat operator is pending.  Charges pending on results of toxicology report. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0546
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 approaches south side of Courtney Campbell Causeway at a 45 degree angle, at a high rate of speed.

V1 hits rocks along the shore causing the vessel to ramp up and over the causeway.

V1 crashes through the mangroves and ends up completely out of the water and lying on top of the asphalt bicycle path.

I interviewed the operator of the vessel whom told me that he was texting on his phone and wrecked the vessel. I noticed he spoke with a slurred speech and many times while interviewing him I was not able to understand what he was saying.   I completed the boating accident investigation and turned over the criminal BUI investigation to FWC Officer.


BARDID: FL-2019-0547
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09-02-2019, V1( 37' states Marine) was travailing east  within the intercoastal waterway  V2 was also traveling East within the intercoastal waterway. At approx. 1400 hours V1 collided with V2 while attempting to overtake V2. 

At approximately 1400 hours, V2 started to make a left hand turn as it approached the four-way channel just before the Misner bridge. Shortly after V2 turned left, it was struck on the port side by V1 in the middle of the interchange causing significant damage to the port side. V2 sustained damage to the bow section and starboard engine. two occupants of V2 were injured from the impact of the vessels.

Victim2's left leg was broken. She was treated at Bayfront medical center and released.; Victim1 was admitted to Bayfront Medical center with.  Lacerated liver Lacerated kidney Laceraterd lung  Broken leg   She was treated and relaesed


BARDID: FL-2019-0548
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Posten Bayou
NearestCityorTown: PANAMA CITY
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
I responded to a boating accident that occurred while a vessel was moored at the dock at the marina off 23rd St. and Mound Ave. in Posten Bayou in Panama City, FL.  No injuries but more than $2000.00 in damage to vessel.  I was advised that owner’s girlfriend put the plug in the wrong hole on the stern of the vessel which caused to vessel to take on water and sink.  Vessel has been recovered and is located at address of owner.


BARDID: FL-2019-0549
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: UPPER LAKE LOUISE
NearestCityorTown: SEVILLE
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday May 21,2019, at approximately 1600hrs, two white males went fishing on a private pond in Volusia County, FL.  They were in a small aluminum jon boat propelled by paddles. For an unknown reason and in an unknown manner,  both occupants went into the water. One was able to swim to shore and the other went underwater and did not resurface. The surviving occupant was able to find a nearby house and call 911. The Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) and Volusia County Sheriff's Office (VCSO) responded with vessels. The Volusia County dive team recovered the victim at approximately 2000hrs.  The victim was turned over to the Medical Examiner's Office. The injured subject was taken to Advent Health Hospitol in Deland with non life threating injuries. No personal flotation devices  (PFD’s) were worn by the males.

Volusia County Medical Examiner stated the cause of death as drowning.


BARDID: FL-2019-0550
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: L-40 Canal
NearestCityorTown: PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/23/19 at approximately 1430 hours the vessel was traveling Westbound on the L40 Canal on plane. The operator lost control of the vessel and made a hard turn to the port side and went up onto the bank approximately 20 feet.

Prior to the accident the operator of the Vessel was operating the vessel back to the boat ramp, on plane, he was traveling west on the L-40 Canal. His son had the cowling off of the motor and was attempting to work on motor. Operator was operating the vessel with his right hand only.

he lost control of the vessel and it made the sharp left turn making impact with the graded levee on the side of the canal and proceeded to continue in an upward motion propelling itself up onto the levee before coming to a stop approximately 20 feet up the levee. Operator suffered a laceration to his arm when falling forward in the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2019-0551
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 13th, 2019, The Shooting Star was backing up into Dock while the Hooked Up III was moored at Dock. 

Due to high winds and tide, The Shooting Star hit the Hooked Up III. The starboard side transom of the Shooting Star hit the portside hull of the Hooked Up III causing a dent the size of a quarter. No injuries were sustained.


BARDID: FL-2019-0552
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: San Carlos Bay
NearestCityorTown: PUNTA RASA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was engaged in recreational cruising in rough conditions when the vessel struck a wave causing the operator to be ejected. The ejection and impact from the wave caused broken bones to the operator's right ankle/foot.


BARDID: FL-2019-0553
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Arthur R. Marshall National Wi
NearestCityorTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/15/2019 at approximately 12:00 pm the vessel was heading north and operator lost control.  The vessel then veered off into tall vegetation where it came to rest.  The passenger received minor injuries and was transported to Palms West hospital.  Occupant was thrown from the passenger seat to the deck of the vessel, Injuring his Left eye. The vessel came to rest and was being held stationary by the vegetation, no vessel damage occurred, during the incident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0554
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V1, while attempting to dock, ran underneath V2 causing the vessels operator to receive a laceration to his hand requiring medical attention. The collision caused damage to V1’s glass windshield, GPS, and VHF radio.  

 Subject stated that as V1 attempted to dock, the vessel was going too fast. Subject told Operator to put the vessel in reverse to slow it down, instead of putting the vessel in reverse, Operator put the vessel in drive and rammed the vessel underneath V2. Operator and subject1 were both pinned between the bow of V2 and the seat of V1. When the vessel went underneath V2, the plexi glass windshield, GPS, and radio were damaged. Operator received a laceration to his left hand that required medical attention. Subject1 was unhurt in the accident. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0555
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Minneola
NearestCityorTown: CLERMONT
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Swimmer 1 was at the port side stern of Vessel 1. The operator of vessel 1 started the engine and put vessel 1 in reverse. Swimmer 1 was struck by the propeller of vessel 1. Swimmer 1 suffered three large lacerations on her left leg below the knee and a scrape and contusions on her right leg above the knee.


BARDID: FL-2019-0556
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityorTown: PORT RICHEY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 struck a fixed Channel Marker on Pithlachascotee River, causing damage to the port-side bow and channel marker 14.  

Vessel 1 was inbound from the Gulf of Mexico on the Pithlachascotee River.  The operator left the helm and walked to the stern and was facing the motor.  He was away for approximately thirty seconds, while the vessel was underway, in gear and plowing at approximately ten to fifteen miles per hour.  The operator returned to the helm just prior to hitting the marker. He turned the wheel to the right and collided with the outside of Marker 14.  The port side of vessel 1 struck the south side of Marker 14, causing the marker to lean drastically to the north. The operator of vessel 1 was uninjured.

Vessel 1 returned to Nicks Park boat ramp and was recovered to its trailer. A friend of the operator towed the vessel and its operator to the operator's residence. The operator of vessel 1 never reported the accident. Port Richey Police Department reported the accident to FWC nine days later.  According to PRPD reporting officer, the operator appeared to be intoxicated, however contact was made at the boat ramp and he was not observed operating the vessel. Due to delayed reporting, defendant's charges will be direct-filed with the State Attorney's Office.


BARDID: FL-2019-0557
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CYPRESS
NearestCityorTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 26, 2019, a boating accident occurred on Gardener's Marsh in Osceola County. Operator was the operator of the airboat involved and Passenger was the passenger. While taking a sharp turn in an airboat trail the vessel hit a dry patch of land causing the vessel to jolt abruptly. 

Passenger fell from her seat as a result, hitting her side on the gunnel of the vessel. Passenger became disoriented and was transported to Osceola Regional Medical Center. She sustained a severe concussion from the fall. Passenger has no recollection of the accident or the events leading to it.


BARDID: FL-2019-0560
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Lucie River
NearestCityorTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 launched out of the marina and began to move toward V2, V3, V4, all three vessels were docked. V1 used V3 to push off and then went reverse into V2 causing port side damage.


BARDID: FL-2019-0561
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was docked at Miami Beach Marina Slip. A large wake from V2 caused V1 to rock side to side, leading to his Starboard transom cleat to get ripped off.


BARDID: FL-2019-0562
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mayport Inlet North Jetties
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel drifted into jetties with 3 pob. Occupants rescued from jetty rocks by U.S.C.G.. No notification from U.S.C.G. about incident. No injuries beyond first aid.


Operator stated that about an hour after sunset on 11-10-19, he and 2 others set anchor approximately 200 yards north of Mayport's north jetties. The vessel dragged anchor and reached a position 200 feet from the rocks, at that point, he attempted to start the engine and was unsuccessful. They continued to attempt to start the motor until the vessel reached the rocks. When the vessel's hull came in contact with the jetty rocks, the operator believed the vessel would capsize. All occupants abandoned the vessel to the safety of the jetty and contacted the Coast Guard for rescue.


BARDID: FL-2019-0563
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian river
NearestCityorTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
single vessel incident, owner/operator ejected, no injuries

During the interview, the owner stated that he had "reached for a plastic bottle that had escaped from his trash bucket and in the short time he left the helm, the vessel made a hard left turn causing him to be ejected." 

The owner advised that the approximate speed was 25 miles per hour at the time of the incident. The vessel remained under power due to the owner/operator not having the kill cord attached to himself when he was ejected. The owner was not wearing a Personal Flotation Device at the time of the incident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0564
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Louise, Butler Chain of L
NearestCityorTown: WINDERMERE
County: ORANGE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:  
On Sept 26, 2019 on Lake Louise, Butler Chain of Lakes, Windermere, Florida, an unidentified PWC and operator crashed the PWC into a wake zone marker, approximate 25' post, breaking it below in the ground.  The PWC occupants were thrown off, swimming the PWC in towards the ramp.  A witness boat came alongside and assisted them towing the PWC into Keene's Point Boat Ramp.  The damage estimate received to the sign post was $3800.00.  The PWC operator failed to report the accident to authorities or FWC.  The identities of the Sea Doo PWC and operator is still pending.

INVESTIGATION SUMMARY:
On Monday, September 30, 2019, I (FWC Officer) was on water patrol on the Butler Chain of Lakes, a Butler Patrol job in an FWC extra duty, in Windermere, Orange County, FL.  I observed a broken wake zone post leaning on Lake Louise at the south end at the Lake Isleworth Canal entrance.  There were splintered pieces of wood and torn reflective tape near the water's level indicative of a boat strike on this wake zone post.  

On same date, September 30, 2019, two Orange County Environmental Protection Department (EPD) staff members on lake survey work found and photographed the leaning post and damage.  They reported it into the EPD.  EPD represents the victim of the damaged public property.

On October 1& 2, 2019, Orange County EPD staff worked to photo and remove the broken post and signage.  

 The post was approximate original length at 25' and a round light pole type treated wood.   The post was observed to be broken/splintered about where it would be 3' down below the ground level area on the post where it was set.  EPD personnel supplied me photos from this date.

  I later received an estimate of the damaged post and signage as $3,800.00.

On October 5, 2019, I contacted a boater for a boating safety check.  I knew him from past contact.  During our conversation I learned he and another person on 9/26/19 was a witness to the post part of the boat accident.  

He stated the following:  The two swimmers pulling the PWC were Hispanic males in their early 20's wearing PFD's.  One occupant had abrasion marks on his arm, but, they both told him they were not injured.  

They asked if he could pull the PWC in to the ramp.  The PWC was a Sea Doo, black bottom hull with dark green / white marking top half.  The PWC had a big hole and busted out damage to the front bow area, noticed when he went to rope the bow hook and it (bow hook) wasn't there.  He stated the PWC was a newer PWC with the company bombardier emblem on it.  He stated the passenger occupant to the PWC indicated he saw the pending strike and jumped clear off the PWC before it struck, avoiding injury.  Flemm indicated the PWC most likely was totaled based on the front half destruction.  He also had the impression the PWC may hav


BARDID: FL-2019-0566
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST TURNING BASIN
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, July 4, 2019, at approximately 2015 hours a collision involving two vessels occurred just west of the Port of Miami, at the West Turning Basin, Miami-Dade County, FL. The victim, a Hispanic (juvenile) female, was the passenger on a Personal Watercraft (PWC) transiting southbound on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). 


The striking vessel (V-1), a second PWC, which was operated by Operator1, was traveling on a parallel course within close proximity of V-2, when it suddenly made a 90° turn to the right and continued westbound at a high rate of speed. This abrupt maneuver caused V-1 to strike V-2 on its port side. As a result of the collision, both occupants of V-2 were ejected from the PWC. The juvenile female passenger suffered multiple fractures to her left leg. The victim was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center by City of Miami Fire Rescue personnel where she was admitted for treatment. She underwent surgery two times, to repair fractures with internal fixation. 


I have not been able to locate the vessels involved in the accident. Based on the investigation, V-1 and V-2 possibly belong to Operator1 who left the scene of the accident before my arrival to assist. The case has been refereed to the Miami-Dade County State Attorney's Office and it is still under investigation. ; 


BARDID: FL-2019-0567
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NE of Haulover Inlet/Ocean sid
NearestCityorTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
AccidentCause3: Improper loading
MachineryFailure: Unknown
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: bilge pump
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On the listed date and time, vessel (1) was anchored offshore about 1-mile NE of the Haulover Inlet. A mechanical failure occurred that caused the bilge to stop working. The vessel started to take on water due to the condition of the seas. 

The ten people on board tried to get the water out of the vessel while also trying to start the engine. Suddenly, all occupants on board shifted over to one side of the vessel to keep away from the water that was coming in. This caused the vessel to capsize. All occupants on board where able to climb onto the hull of the vessel in which was the only part of the vessel that wasn’t completely submerged under water. 

USCG and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue were contacted and arrived on scene to assist. Once all occupants were safely brought onboard, Miami-Dade Fire transported the party to the Haulover fuel docks where they were assessed by medical personnel. There were no injuries sustained beyond first aid. The vessel was later recovered by a marine salvage company where the owner was able to retrieve the vessel back to his residence. 

Total damage- Approximately $2,000.00 dollars

Nothing further.


BARDID: FL-2019-0568
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Palma Sola Bay
NearestCityorTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 6, 2019 at approximately 0945hrs. vessel 1 neared the mouth of Palma Sola Bay traveling westward at a speed of approximately 18-20 knots based off witness accounts. Operator stated he noticed a manatee slow speed zone sign and misidentified it for a red channel marker. Operator passed the sign on the starboard unaware he was outside the channel and ran vessel 1 aground. 

	As vessel 1 ran aground all 3 passengers fell into the cabin stairwell and Operator braced himself behind the helm. All 3 passengers reported they had sore body parts after the fall. However, victim was the only one that received medical treatment. Victim was transported to Blake Hospital by Manatee County EMS for a back injury. Victim sustained contusions from the fall in the boat as did two others. Operator stated he was uninjured from the incident. 

	Vessel 1's hull cracked near the stern to the point it was allowing water into the engine compartment. Vessel 1 was later removed from the shoal it was grounded on by Commercial assistance (Seatow). There is no further information related to this incident at this time.

Victim did not sustain any broken or fractured bones during the incident only back contusions. He was scheduled to be released from the hospital later in the day. 

Victim3 stated the left side of his back was sore at the he provided his statement. He was not seeking medical treatment for the pain at the time.; Victim2 stated he had knee pain as well as pain in his arm, but did not seek medical treatment at the time.


BARDID: FL-2019-0569
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Joseph Sound
NearestCityorTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
V2 slows her vessel (FL 8576 RV) down from a cruising speed to a slow speed.

V1 (FL 3611 RV) following behind V2 at cruising speed, fails to slow down in time to avoid colliding with V2. 

V1 collides with V2, causing the operator of V2 to become ejected from the PWC. She complained of minor stiffness/soreness in her neck area from the accident. She refused any medical treatment.

V2 sustains damage to starboard side, handlebars and mirror.

V1 idles to a stop after collision, with no significant damage. Operator not ejected. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0570
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ALVA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, 6/30/19 at approximately 1612 hours, V1 was traveling west on the Caloosahatchee River.  V1 came behind another vessel (Good Samaritan), hitting its wake, resulting in the operator being ejected from V1.  V1 continued its speed and course without an operator before V1 impacted the riverbank, ejecting occupant.  The Good Samaritan's turned their vessel around and rendered aid. alcohol is considered a factor in this accident, both operator and occupant had been consuming alcoholic beverages prior to incident.

This is an ongoing investigation. Occupant:Serious Bodily Injuries including a grade IIIA compound fracture of the tibia (involving the tibia plateau) with a large, high energy avulsion/degloving of the right leg, laceration of the lower left leg, multiple abrasions, Thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count) and anemia due to acute blood loss.


BARDID: FL-2019-0571
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tavernier Creek
NearestCityorTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was headed South towards a shortcut in the mangroves leading into Tavernier Creek, V1 missed the short cut and collided into mangroves at an unsafe speed approximatley 40 yards away from the entrance. Operator's head impacted the helm wind screen causing a laceration to his lower lip and left side of chin. 

he recieved approximately 18 stiches at Mariners Hospital and was given additional treatment at Homestead Hosptial.


BARDID: FL-2019-0572
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Naples Bay
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 10, 2019, Operator was attempting to start a PWC. The PWC wouldn’t start, so Operator took off the seat, exposing the engine compartment. Operator attempted to jump the starter with a screwdriver, a maneuver he stated he had done before. While doing this, he caused a spark which ignited gasoline fumes that were built up in the engine compartment. There was a brief explosion that caused burns to Operator’s chest and face area. The PWC did not appear to have damage. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0574
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityorTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL RAN INTO FIXED OBJECT, (WOODEN DOCK).

While inbound, the operator of laid down a track line on his GPS chart plotter. At approximately 7:00pm after dropping off a passenger, the operator continued back outbound (Southbound) in newfound harbor channel. The operator said he was following his track line outbound when he ran into the wooden dock located at little palm island. 

At the time of impact (V1's) passenger was ejected from the port side of the vessel and landed in the water, (V1,s) passenger was thrown to the deck on the Starboard side and the operator impacted the center console.  

(V1) penetrated the dock by approximately 5 feet and then launched into the air clearing the remainder of the dock. (V1) then landed upright in the water on the opposite side of the dock where it then hit additional pilings before coming to rest. Occupant was able to swim back to the vessel and get back on board. The occupants were able to secure (V1) to the dock and call for assistance. 

The operator sustained a broken right ankle and was transported to Fisherman's hospital In Marathon. The other two occupants sustained various amounts of blunt trauma and both refused medical assistance. U

pon my inspection of (V1) I found that there was a large chart plotter and depth sounder mounted in the center console. These units could create enough light to obstruct the operators ability to maintain a proper lookout. I found that the outbound track line on the chart plotter was to the East of the inbound track line at the point of impact  by  approximately 100 feet.


BARDID: FL-2019-0576
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: San Pablo River
NearestCityorTown: JACKSONVILLE BEACH
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
A recreational vessel approached the Beach Marine fueling dock too quickly due to operator inexperience and collided with the floating dock. A dock cleat punctured a hole in the bottom of the vessel's hull and lodged the vessel in place partially out of the water. The vessel was pushed off the dock by the operator, occupant, and marina employees. When the vessel was removed the dock cleat was broken off the dock. The operator was cited for violation of USCG Inland Navigation Rule 6 "Safe Speed" resulting in an accident.


BARDID: FL-2019-0577
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 28, 2019 at approximately 1945 hours, a single vessel boating accident occurred at the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River just offshore of Tarpon Point Marina (Lee County), resulting in an estimated $120,000 in damages. 

The operator of V-1 had attempted to start the vessel's engines one hour prior, but was unsuccessful and noticed that they were overheating. After allowing the engines to cool, the operator attempted to start them again unsuccessfully, once again noticing that they were overheating. The operator opened the engine compartment, at which time a fire consumed the vessel, forcing the operator and two occupants to jump off of the vessel and into the water, where they were later rescued by a good Samaritan. No injuries were reported. The accident type is fire/explosion (non-fuel) and the primary causing factor is machinery failure related to the vessel's engine system. The State Fire Marshal was notified, and declined to pursue an additional investigation.


BARDID: FL-2019-0578
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coastal Waters off Marco Islan
NearestCityorTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
A PWC operator was found face down near a rental PWC that was in motion. The pwc was found running in slow circles with the safety lanyard still connected. The operator was given CPR and transported to the local hospital in critical condition. 

On 11/13/2019, I contacted the subject’s father who informed me that his son had awoken from the coma and did not have any noticeable long-term health incidents relating to the accident. His son had some short-term memory loss, but that he had spoken with his son about the moments leading up to the accident. He told him that he passed a boat with a large wake and that he had attempted to navigate over the wake, the next thing he remembered was waking up in the hospital. This statement matches witness statements that were gathered, and the cause of the accident seems to be from the wake of a large boat. 

Victim was taken to the hospital in critical condition and was unresponsive. He was treated for a possible head injury as well as possible back injury. He also had drowned and had his lung and stomach pumped to get rid of the water. He was in the hospital for approximately three weeks when he was released and is expected to make a full recovery.


BARDID: FL-2019-0579
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityorTown: SANFORD
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V01 a rental (PWC) was traveling south on the St. Johns River near marker 104. The operator turned V01 sharply toward the starboard side causing both operator and victim to get ejected in the water on the port side of V01. 

While being ejected, the victim struck the head of the operator which caused a laceration above her right eye. The victim was transported to the hospital and received treatment for the laceration and a mild concussion. The victim stayed overnight for observation due to the concussion and risk of infection. V01 did not sustain any damge. 


BARDID: FL-2019-0580
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: South Sound Creek
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 inbound South Sound Creek when the vessel side-swiped dayboard marker green 13.  Sign spun and vessel veered to the port into the Mangrove tree lined shore.  No injuries were reported and only occupant was solo owner/operator.  Vessel 1 later salvaged by tow services.  Vessel 1 sustained extensive Mangrove branch marks in the gell coat.  Estimated 20 Mangrove trees were destroyed ($1,000 cost).


BARDID: FL-2019-0581
State: FL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HILLSBOROUGH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
The listed operator/owner of veh #1 was underway southbound within the hillsborough river approximately 50 feet from the shoreline of the lowry park boat ramp traveling less then 10 knots through the idle speed zone. 

Veh #1 unexpectedly had a loss of engine power thus causing no propulsion. The operator/owner made several attempts to restart the i/o engine with negative results. 

During a follow-on attempt, the covered engine area made a loud pop and then caught fire. The fire quickly spread throughout the cabin of the boat such that the operator was unable to attempt to contain it the fire and jumped from the vessel into the water and swam to shore. The vessel became fully engulfed in flames, but drifted towards the dock at which point trf responded and was able to appropriately extinguish the fire. The operator/owner sustained no injuries as a result of the incident and the vessel although a total loss remained afloat. the vessel was later retrailered and safely removed from the water.


BARDID: FL-2019-0582
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-02-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 DESCRIBED AS A 42FT CABIN VESSEL BEARING THE NAME MALBEC WAS TRAVELING SOUTH ON THE ICW SOUTH OF THE DONALD ROSS BRIDGE. VESSEL 2A 64FT M/Y NAMED HEART OF AMERICA WAS DOCKED PROPERLY BEHIND THE RESIDENCE  FACING NORTH UNOCCUPIED. 

VESSEL 2S OWNER SAID HE WAS STANDING ON THE DOCK AND OBSERVED VESSEL 1 PLOWING THORUGH A NO WAKE ZONE CAUSING AN EXTREMELY LARGE WAKE.

THE LARGE WAKE FORCED HIS VESSEL TO STRIKE THE DOCK CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE REAR STARBOARD STERN OF THE VESSEL. DAMAGE TO VESSEL 2 WAS ESTIMATED AT $20,000 WITH NO INJURIES REPORTED.


BARDID: FL-2019-0583
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: TIERRA VERDE
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by activity equi
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #2 HAS BEEN STUCK HARD AGROUND ON THE NORTH BEACH OF FORT DESOTO. VESSEL #1 WAS ATTEMPTING TO PULL VESSEL #2 FROM THE BEACH USING A TOW ROPE. VICTIM WAS STANDING ON THE PORT SIDE OF VESSEL #2 ATTEMPTING TO PUSH IT INTO THE WATER AS VESSEL #1 WAS ATTEMPTING TO PULL. THE TOW ROPE CONNECTED TO VESSEL 1 AND 2 SNAPPED CAUSING IT TO QUICKLY SLING BACK TOWARDS VESSEL #2. THE VICTIM WAS STRUCK BY THE ROPE ABOUT HER FACE AND LEFT ARM BY THE ROPE.


BARDID: FL-2019-0584
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: ST. PETE BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS AT ANCHOR JUST OFF THE BEACH PROPERY OF THE POST CARD INN, 6500 SUNSET WAY, ST. PETE BEACH. THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 WAS ON SHORE WHEN HE NOTICED THEVESSEL WAS LISTING TO THE PORT SIDE. OPERATOR SWAM TO THE VESSEL AND OBSERVED THAT IT WAS TAKING ON WATER AND THE BILGE PUMP WAS NOT KEEPING UP WITH THE AMOUT OF WATER ON BOARD. 

THE OPERATOR ATTEMPTED TO GET THE VESSEL ON PLANE TO ASSIST WITH DRAINING THE WATER BUT HAD TOO MUCH WATER TO GAIN ANY SPEED. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO GET THE VESSEL ON PLANE THE VESSEL STRUCK A SANDBAR, CAUSING THE VESSEL TO CAPSIZE.


BARDID: FL-2019-0585
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MADEIRA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS CRUiSING IN THE GULF OF MEXIO IN THE SAME AREA AS VESSEL 2.  VESSEL 1 BEGAN HEADING TOWARDS THE PORT SIDE OF VESSEL 2 AT OR AROUND 15-20 MILES PER HOUR. VESSEL 1 FAILED TO STOP PRIOR TO HITTING VESSEL 2. THE COLLISION CAUSED BOTH v2 subjects TO FALL COMPLEETLY OFF OF VESSEL 2 AND INTO THE WATER. BOTH OPERATORS HAVE MINIMAL EXPERIENCE AND THAT IS THE CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT. VESSEL 1 HAD MINOR SCRATCH DAMAGE TO THE BOW OF THE VESSEL. VESSEL 2 HAD APPROXIMATELT $2,300 TO THE PORT SIDE HULL UNDER THE GUNWALE. NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED TO ANY OCCUPANTS.


BARDID: FL-2019-0586
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityorTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS NORTHBOUND IN THE ICW WHEN IT VEERED TO PORT AND STRUCK AN UNOCCUPIED BOAT LIFT AND DOCK BEHIND A RESIDENCE CAUSING SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE. VESSEL 1 PROCEEDED TO REVERSE BACK INTO THE CHANNEL AND PROCEED NORTH WITH OUT NOTIFYING THE HOMEOWNER OR AuTHORITIES.


BARDID: FL-2019-0587
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NAPLES BAY
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
OWNER LEFT TOWN THE PREVIOUS WEEK AND RETURNED TO FIND HIS VESSEL AND DOCK DAMAGED BY AN APPARENT COLLISION. ENGINE AND STEERING WAS DAMAGED. RED PAINT WAS PRESENT ON ENGINE AND DOCK.


BARDID: FL-2019-0588
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH WEST FROM HURRICAne pOinT THE GULF OF MEXICO. THE OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 MADE A SHARP RIGHT TURN CAUSING HIM AND HIS PASSENGER TO BE FLUNG FROM THE VESSEL.

THE VESSEL PASSENGER MADE CONTACT WITH THE WATER FIRST AND THE OPERATOR LANDED ON TOP OF THE PASSENGER. THE PASSENGERS FACE WAS STRUCK BY THE BACK OF THE OPERATORS HEAD CAUSING FACIAL INJURIES TO THE PASSENGER. THE PASSENGER SUFFERD A BROKEN NOSE FROM THE CONTACT AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DUNEDIN CAUSEWAY. THE INJURED PASSENGER WAS THEN TRANSPORTED TO MEASE DUNEDIN HOSPITAL DUE TO THE INJURIES.


BARDID: FL-2019-0589
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE
NearestCityorTown: CAPE CORAL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 WAS TRAVELING NORTHEAST IN THE CALOOSAHATCHEE RIVER, NEAR CHANNEL MARKER “83” WITHIN THE INTERCOSTAL WATERWAY. THE OPERATOR OF V-1 STATED HE WAS TRAVELING AT THE POSTED SPEED OF 25 M.P.H. AND HIS VIEW WAS OBSTRUCTED, BY ONE OF THE FRONT PASSENGERs STANDING UP. THE OPERATOR OF V-1 THEN HEARD THE PASSENGER’S ON-BOARD YELL “THERE’S A MARKER!” JUST BEFORE V-1 STRUCK THE CHANNEL MARKER “83”. V-1 STRUCk CHANNEL MARKER “83” WITH THE BOW OF THE VESSEL NEAR THE PORT SIDE, RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO BOTH THE VESSEL AND CHANNEL MARKER “83”. V-1 WAS TOWED BY SEATOW AND NO REPORT OF INJURY BEYOND FIRST AID.


BARDID: FL-2019-0590
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GORDON RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
WHILE RETURNING VESSEL TO THe LIVERY, OPERATOR OF VESSEL 1 EXECUTED A TURN APPROCHING THE DOCK. THE TURN WAS MISCALCULATED AND VESSel 1 COLLIDED WITH VESSEL 2. VESSEL 1 SUSTAINED VISIBLE GEL COAT DAMAGE AND VESSEL 2 SUSTAINED SCRATCHES TO TH SURFACE FINISH.


BARDID: FL-2019-0591
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SUMITT
NearestCityorTown: WINTER HAVEN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSLE ONE A PWC WAS ON PLANE WITH-IN 150 FEET OF SHORE, A VIOLATION OF ORDIEANCE 93-037. THE OPERATOR OBSERVED THE RISK OF COLLISION WITH A FIXED WOODEN DOCK. THE OPERATOR ACCLERATED TO TAKE EVasive ACTION, DUE TO HIS UNSAFE SPEED IN RELATION TO DISTANCE AND ABILITY TO STOP OR CHANGE COURSE, THE VESSEL STRUCK THE DOCK WITH THE BOW. SEVERAL WOODEN DECK BOARDS WERE BROKEN ALONG WITH SCREENING.


BARDID: FL-2019-0592
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: SANIBEL
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH PARELLING THE COAST OF SANIBEL ISLAND IN THE GULF OF MEXICO. AN OCCUPANT WHO WAS SITTING ON THE STARBOARD SIDE FRONT SEAT. THE OCCUPANT STOOD UP, WHILE THE VESSEL WAS STILL IN MOTION AND THEN FELL TO THE DECK. THE OCCUPANT RECEIVED INJURY BEYOND FIRST AID: broken right arm, broken teeth and lacerations to the face


BARDID: FL-2019-0593
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityorTown: MADIERA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL ONE WAS ATTEMPTING TO TRANSIT JOHN’S PASS CHANNEL WESTBOUND FROM THE HEAD PIN. VESSEL ONE WAS ATTEMPTING TO AVOID A COLLISON WITH ANOTHER VESSEL AND CHANGED COURSE AND SPEED. VESSEL ONE ATTEMPTED TO GO TO THE LEFT OF A CHANNEL MARKER BUT COLLIEDED WITH THE GREEN #1 CHANNEL MARKER. OPERATOR ONES’S vision WAS OBSTrUCTED DUE TO PERSONS STANDING IN HIS WAY AT THE TIME OF COLLISION. OPERATOR ONE WAS ISSUED A UNIFORM BOATING CITATION FOR CARELESS OPERATION.; occupant:sustained contusions and soreness to head and neck.


BARDID: FL-2019-0594
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MATANZAS PASS
NearestCityorTown: FT. MYERS BEACH
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
V-1 WAS TRAVELING NORTHEAST ENTERING THE MATANZAS PASS CHANNEL FROM THE GULF OF MEXICO, TRAVELING AT A SPEED OF APPROIMATELY 30 KNOTS. THE OPERATOR OF V-1 STEERED THE VESSLE TO THE RIGHT (STARBOARD) TO ENTER THE CHANNEL.THE VESSEL STRUCK A WAVE, CAUSING THE OUTBOARD MOTORS TO TURN DUE TO A VESSEL’S STEERING MALFUNCTION. THE VESSEL SPUN 180 DEGREES CLOCKWISE AND FORCEd THREE OF THE OCCUPANTS FROM THEIR SEATS. ONE OF THE OCUPANTS RECEIVED INJURY BEYOND FIRST AID AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO CAPE CORAL HOSPITAL FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT. She had facial lacerations and possible fractured pelvis


BARDID: FL-2019-0595
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityorTown: GULFPORT
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
At 1548 hours, marine unit deputies responded to an alert on vhf ch. 16 of capsized vessel and nine people in the water in boca ciega bay northeast of pinellas bayway. Once on the scene, nine people were observed clinging to the capsized vessel. Deputies were able to retrieve all individuals from the water and assist them aboard our patrol vessel. We alerted the United States coast guard sector st. Pete of our arrival. 

We transited to gulfport marina where we met gulfport fire and rescu to assess and treat each for minor injuries.

Through our investigation, it was determined that the vessel began taking on water over the bow as a result of several of the vessel passengers shifting forward while photographing nearby dolphins. 

Once the vessel began taking on water, the operator attempted to get the vessel underway to drain the water but the vessel had too much water and weight on board. It was also later revealed the vessel could not de-water due to a towel clogging the drain scupper. 

The vessel was equipped with an automatic bilge pump, which was functioning at the time, but unable to keep up with the rate of flow coming on board. All subjects on board were able to don lifejackets prior to the vessel capsizing. Eckerd collage search and rescue arrived on scene and were able to right the vessel with pumps and tow the vessel to gulf port marina in order for the marine unit deputies to inspect the vessel. The vessel is an 18 foot bow rider and was rented from treasure island boat rentals. all subjects on board are vacationing from michigan. this is an ongoing investigation.


BARDID: FL-2019-0596
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NearestCityorTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
RAN AGROUND ON PORT SIDE EXITING PLOTHOUSE CHANNEL ON JETTY ROCKS, BENT PORT PROP, PORT STRUT, PORT PROP SHAFT. FIBERGLASS DAMAGED ON PORT BOW AND PORT AMIDSHIP.


BARDID: FL-2019-0597
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BEY
NearestCityorTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 ENCOUNTERED STRONG WINDS WHILE RETREVING HIS ANCHOR. THIS CAUSED VESSEL #1 TO BECOME CLOSE TO VESSEL #2. OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 ENGAGED HIS PROPELLERS IN AN ATTEMPT TO AVOID A COLLISION WITH VESSEL #2. HOWEVER THE WINDS CAUSED HIS BOAT TO STRIKE VESSEL #2. VESSEL #1 STARBOARD STERN STRUCK VESSEL #2 PORT BOW.


BARDID: FL-2019-0598
State: FL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hillsborough River
NearestCityorTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
V1 is a starboard side drive, twenty-one foot vessel with two occupants. V2 is a ten foot personal watercraft (PWC) with one occupant. 

V1 was travelling south on the Hillsborough River and V2 was operating in multiple directions on the Hillsborough River. V1 was attempting to pass by V2 when V2 made quick course change and the two vessels collided. 

The operator of V2 was knocked off the PWC and recovered by the operator of V1. The operator of V2 was unconscious and transported to St. Joseph's Hospital. Both occupants of V1 received no injuries. The operator of V2 went through surgery and was placed in an induced coma. Dr =noted the operator of V2 has a shattered skull, a C5 fracture, a left hip fracture, and a laceration on his lower left leg.


