# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: MD-2016-0114
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SASSAFRAS RIVER - HOWELL POINT
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 11 August 2016 at approximately 1500, Camp Tockwogh and Echo Hill were having an annual regatta.  As the boats were moving around the course, boat 1 from Camp Tockwogh struck boat 2 from Echo Hill Camp.

Damage to the Echo Hill vessel was sustained to the port side bow around the rub rail.

Occupant on v2  sustained an injury to her right wrist and was taken to Shore Medical in Chestertown.  She was released from the hospital with a sprained wrist. No other injuries reported
 
 
Both camps have exchanged insurance information and Camp Tockwogh will cover all costs to repair Echo Hill's vessel.


All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0115
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY - INLET TO RT 50 BR
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 5, 2016 at approximately 1030hrs writer was dispatched to the Inlet Lot in Ocean City near the Ocean City Fishing Pier regarding a PWC accident. Upon arrival, the only occupant of the PWC had been transported to Atlantic General Hospital via Ocean City Fire Co ambulance. The PWC in question had already been pulled from the ocean and was in the sand just off of the parking lot. Writer met with personnel from the Ocean City Beach patrol. They advised that the PWC had come to close to the fishing pier and the rough seas had pushed the PWC into the pilings from the pier.

Writer observed impact damage to the starboard side of the PWC and damage to the steering console. Photos were taken of the damage. Writer was able to make contact with the owner. Owner responded to the scene and took custody of the PWC. Owner advised that he and a couple of his employees, including the PWC in question, had taken PWCs out for a ride. He advised that he saw the PWC heading west toward the shore when a wave caught the PWC and caused it to capsize and collide with the pilings from the pier.
 
Writer checked for witnesses who were in the area and was able to locate a witness, Nancy Kline who saw the accident and had taken two pictures of the accident as it occurred.  The pictures show the PWC inside of the breakers. The second pictures show a wave as it capsized the PWC inside the breakers. She emailed the pictures to the writer's work email.

After writer cleared the scene, I met with the operator at Atlantic General Hospital. Operator was treated for abrasions and a possible concussion and released. Operator states that he, owner, and another subject had gone out on the PWCs and were jumping waves. He underestimated his location relative to the pier. A wave pushed him to close and he steered away and another wave hit him broad side and caused the PWC to capsize he threw him and the PWC into the pilings.


BARDID: MD-2016-0116
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 12, 2016 at approximately 6:00PM, I (Cpl.) was on patrol in the Isle of Wight Bay, Worcester County, Maryland. I overheard Ocean City communications dispatching emergency services to the Thunder Island condominium in Ocean City for a traumatic injury. I am familiar with the area and know that there is a lot of vessel traffic in the immediate area. I contacted Ocean City communications to inquire as to the cause of the traumatic injury. They advised that the subject had been injured on a personal watercraft (PWC). We responded to the area.

     I was able to meet with the operator of the PWC. Operator advised that he was operating his PWC (DL 419 AM) in the Isle of Wight Bay near Swordfish Basin. He advised that he had an unknown female who was later identified as Victim had just met at Seacrets on back of his PWC. He stated that they were traveling approximately 20-25 knots when the female fell off of the PWC. Shortly afterwards Victim started complaining of internal pain. They stopped at a nearby sand bar where another vessel stopped to check on Victim's welfare. It appeared as Victim's condition was worsening so they transported her to Thunder Island and called 911. Operator advised that he did not know what injuries Victim had sustained. 

     Victim was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center(PRMC) by Ocean City EMS. Ofc. responded to PRMC and was able to meet with Victim and medical staff. Ofc. advised that Victim had received trauma to her vaginal and anal area as a result of the water jet exhaust from the PWC. Victim gave a similar set of facts as Operator. Due to past experience I have witnessed subjects injured by PWC from the water jets when they are partially on the PWC when in motion. It is possible that Victim did not immediately fall from the PWC and sustained the injury while trying to stay onboard the PWC. 

     All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.

The operator had a .03 BAC.  The victim had been drinking; her alcohol use was apparent.


BARDID: MD-2016-0117
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HARRY NICE BRIDGE - NEWBURG
NearestCityorTown: MORGANTOWN
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-14-16 I responded to a boat fire that took place just south of the Harry Nice bridge on the Potomac River in Charles County Maryland.  When I arrived on scene the vessel, a 48 foot Sea Ray Motor Yacht, had been towed to the Morgan Town Generation  Station. The owner was with the fire crews on the pier.  The remaining passengers, his two sons and his girlfriend, were all accounted for and aboard a friend’s boat.   

    Operator stated the left port from the Columbia Island Marina and headed south on the Potomac at approximately 20 kts.  Approaching the Harry Nice Bridge Operator noticed a sudden drop in RPM on his port side engine.  His boys came up from the berth telling him smoke was coming in.  Operator activated the emergency shutdown switch and brought the vessel down. He states there was thick black smoke coming from the hold. He got his passengers in life jackets and they were picked up by a good samaritan.  They called for assistance on channel 16 and stood by the vessel.

      Observing the vessel from the outside I saw that the hull was blackened on the port side, which is the side of the vessel wear the engine lost rpm's. Stepping on to the boat I observed that all the windows had all been smashed in.  There was water and soot on the decks.  The deck of the berth was buckled and warped.  The hatch to the hold was charred blacked from the fire.   The vessel was towed to Colt Point Marina.  The owner has not as yet contacted the insurance company as of this writing and has not obtained an estimate.

     This case is closed pending. All events occurred in Charles County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0118
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SHADY SIDE
NearestCityorTown: SHADY SIDE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 13 2016, at approximately  8:33PM, Cpl and I responded to Columbia Beach Community in Shady Side Anne Arundel County for a subject involved in a jet ski accident. When I arrived on scene the Subject was already transported to the Prince Georges County Shock Trauma Center. Act/Sgt responded to Shock Trauma to meet with the subject. 

The subject information was provided by Anne Arundel County Police who were first on scene. When the vessel was located it was on a trailer attached to Maryland registration 5BR7794. The driver of that vehicle stated that Operator was her brother but she refused to provide a witness statement. Photos were taken of the damage to the vessel and are attached to this report. After speaking to other subjects in the area no one cooperated in providing a witness statement. According to responding units from Anne Arundel County Police and Fire Operator was brought to shore on a tube being towed by another jet ski. The operator of that jet ski was not identified by any of the subjects in the area. Anne Arundel County Fire received the call at 8:12PM and arrived on scene at 8:20PM. After photos were taken all units cleared the scene. Cpl proceeded to PG County Shock trauma to meet up with Act/Sgt for the purposes of interviewing Operator and completion of blood kit, for further details refer to case number NRP-16-01261. At this time no charges have been issued. All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.

 On August 13, 2016 at approximately 0833 hours; I, CPL were dispatched in reference to a personal injury boat accident.  The accident involved a single Personal Water Craft (PWC) with only the operator onboard colliding with a dock.  For further details of the accident investigation, refer to case number NRP-16-01259.

     OFC arrived to the accident scene first and obtained the operator's information.  The operator was identified by individuals at the scene, who identified themselves only as relatives.  

     Shortly after my arrival; OFC and I inspected the  PWC, which had been removed from the water and situated on a trailer, and observed the damage consisted of the left mirror was broken, the console damaged and hull damage down the left side .  The PWC was displaying valid State of Maryland registration 0592 BX.  OFC took investigative photographs of the PWC.  Both officers left the scene. 

     I proceeded to the Prince Georges Trauma Center and met with A/SGT, who responded to that location once it was determined that was where Operator was being transported to.   After receiving permission from the attending trauma physician, I attempted to interview Operator and read him the NRP-482 Advice of Rights form.  Operator was unresponsive, so no information concerning the accident could not be obtained.  I will attempt to conduct the interview at a later date.  Additionally, I will subpoena the blood that was drawn by the hospital staff to obtain Operator' Blood Alcohol Content (BAC).

     I respectfully request this case remain open for further investigative reasons.   
     All events occurred and took place in Anne Arundel and Prince Georges Counties.


BARDID: MD-2016-0119
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. MARTINS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BERLIN
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14th at approximately 7:20 PM Officer received a report of a boat accident involving an innertube that occurred in the St. Martin's River in Berlin.  Ofc responded to White Horse Park Marina to attempt to locate the vessel.  Dispatch advised Ofc that the injured subject a pediatric..  Ofc met with EMS at that address and advised him that they are transporting the victim to AGH.  Ofc then left White Horse Park and cleared from boat patrol and was en-route to AGH to meet with Victim and his parents to investigate the boat accident. 

Operator explained to Ofc that he was operating the 19 foot Stinger Center Console in the St. Martin's River around 3 PM  that afternoon.  The boat was pulling a four person inner tube that was occupied twice with both of Operator's boys on board the tube. Both were wearing life jackets.  The inner tube hit a wave and the tube rolled over.  Both boys fell out and their heads made contact with each other.  Victim laid on his back holding his lifejacket while his brother held onto Victim to make sure he was ok.  

Operator explained that Victim was not acting his normal self and needing a moment to take it easy to collect himself. the other brother who hit his head, was apparently normal and did not have any pain or injuries.  They stayed out on the boat for about 1 more hour then headed back in and washed the boat.  Victims condition improved and he went to a friend's birthday party.  Around 7 PM Victim complained to his father Operator that he was having severe head pain and wanted to go to the hospital.  EMS was contacted and transported Victim to AGH from their residence in White Horse Park.

Victim received a Cat-Scan and appeared apparently normal.  His condition improved and he was released from AGH.   

ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY


BARDID: MD-2016-0121
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 15, 2016 at approximately 1200hrs writer responded to Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, MD and met with Subject in reference to a boat accident involving a PWC. This accident occurred around 1100hrs in the Assawoman Bay off of 94th Street. Subject was a passenger on one of the PWCs involved and had received a laceration to his left thigh. The laceration was approximately 4" long and required several stitches.

Subject related the following. He was on a PWC operated by operator1. He was seated directly behind Operator1, and another passenger was seated directly behind him. They were at a full stop waiting from another PWC to pull alongside them. The other PWC operated by operator2 which also had a passenger onboard came up behind their PWC on his left side. Operator2 failed to stop the PWC in time to avoid colliding with their PWC. Upon contact between to two PWCs, Subject received the injury to his left thigh.

During the conversation, Subject asked that Operator2 not be charged with anything. His feelings were that this was a minor accident and they were good friends. Writer was not able to contact Operator2. Writer was able to make contact with the owner of both PWCs who is also the father of Operator2. He was able to provide all of the appropriate information for this incident.

Subject was treated in the emergency room and released.


BARDID: MD-2016-0122
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - COBB ISLAND
NearestCityorTown: INDIAN HEAD NAVAL BASE
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2016 at approximately 8:15pm, I Officer#1, of the MD Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to a report of a vessel overturned with 6 people onboard. The incident location was reported to be in front of the Indian Head Naval base, near Green Buoy "51". While enroute to the location fire department advised that all person were located and transported to shore on Indian Head base. Once I arrived on scene to the location of the subjects, one minor was transported to the hospital with reports of allergic reaction to jelly fish stings. The minors father also went with the subject to the hospital. 
I made contact with the remaining four subjects to obtain demographic information and report of what occurred prior to the vessel over turning. It was reported that the vessel was drifting while they were fishing and a storm came in with heavy winds and rough waters. When it started to get rough, before they could leave a few large waves broke over the side of the vessel causing to flip over. 
All subjects on board did have a life jacket on when picked up from the water. Due to vessel being flipped over I was unable to do a safety check. The vessels owner was not on scene or on board. Registration was valid and there were no reported injuries due to the accident. 
The vessel was towed by tow boat into the Indian Head Naval Base boat ramp where they gave the subjects 24hours to have the vessel removed. I advised the Naval base to call if vessel was not removed within the time frame. 
Once the scene was cleared I responded to the hospital to get information from the minor and his father. By time I got to the hospital the subjects left before being seen.


BARDID: MD-2016-0123
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - FAIRVIEW BEACH
NearestCityorTown: FAIRVIEW
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2016 at approximately 2130 hours I, OFC, received a call from our communications center regarding a sunken vessel that was called in by Tow Boat US.

 I contacted the owner of the sunken vessel on August 15, 2016 at approximately 1700 hours and  these are the events as they were explained to me by the owner and operator of the sunken vessel.  On August 14, 2016 at approximately 1830 hours Operator and subject boarded the boat,  a 31' Wellcraft Scarab, and headed to Tims II for dinner.  Upon arriving at Tims II Operator and Subject were in the process of anchoring their vessel when the weather turned bad due to an imminent storm.  Subject threw the anchor overboard and Operator was attempting to set the anchor but was unsuccessful and the vessel started drifting backward.  The propellers of Operator's vessel became entwined in the anchor line of another vessel causing Operator's engines to cut off.  Without power Operator's vessel  turned sideways to the waves and started to take on water and sink.  A good Samaritan on a PWC picked up Operator and Subject and took them home.  Operator then contacted Tow Boat US and his insurance agency immediately.  
 
 Tow Boat US arrived on scene at Tim's II on August 14, 2016 at approximately 2030 hours and located Operators vessel.   Tow Boat Operator instructed the owner / operator of the second vessel to cut his anchor line and exit  the area to eliminate the possibility of any damage to the vessel or injury to persons on board.  Tow Boat Operator tied a line and buoy marker to the sunken vessel but did not attempt to salvage it due to the impeding storm.  
 
On August 15, 2016 at approximately 1300 hours Tow Boat US returned to Tim's II  to salvage Operator's sunken vessel and tow the vessel to Hope Springs Marina located at 4 Hope Springs Ln, Stafford, VA 22554.  The vessel will remain at Hope Springs Marina until the insurance company is able to make an assessment of the damages.  Operator will contact me after the assessment has been made by his insurance company.
 
 This is an on going investigation. 
 
All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland.
 Tow Boat US arrived on scene at Tim's II on August 14, 2016 at approximately 2030 hours and located Operators vessel.   Tow Boat Operator instructed the owner / operator of the second vessel to cut his anchor line and exit  the area to eliminate the possibility of any damage to the vessel or injury to persons on board.  Tow Boat Operator tied a line and buoy marker to the sunken vessel but did not attempt to salvage it due to the impeding storm.  
 
On August 15, 2016 at approximately 1300 hours Tow Boat US returned to Tim's II  to salvage Operator's sunken vessel and tow the vessel to Hope Springs Marina located at 4 Hope Springs Ln, Stafford, VA 22554.  The vessel will remain at Hope Springs Marina until the insurance company is able to make an assessment of the damages.  Operator will contact me after the assessment has been made by his insurance company.
 
 This is an on going investigation. 
 
All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0124
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/16/16 at 1824 hours, I, OFC, was dispatched to a call in reference to a boat accident on Deep Creek Lake involving personal injury only (no vessel damage). I was told to respond to Bill's North where the victim was currently located, and later found the suspect to be waiting at the Aquatic Center where the two parties originally rented their vessels. When I arrived at McHenry Cove/Bill's North, the victim was already being tended to by paramedics and was loaded into the ambulance. OFC. was able to gather the victims information and injury status by land before they left for Garrett Memorial Hospital. The suspect was still on scene at the Aquatic Center, speaking with the business owner when I arrived. 

The two cousins had rented Personal Water Crafts (PWCs) from the Aquatic Center at 1600 hours and were motoring in McHenry Cove. Operator2 advised that Operator1 was in the lead as they traveled up McHenry Cove, and Operator2 followed closely behind the lead ski, jumping Operator1's wakes well within the 100 foot safety distance zone. Operator2 said that he had just began to jump another wake made by Operator1 when Operator1 turned "on a dime", 180 degrees and immediately came into the direct path of Operator2's PWC. Neither operator had enough time to change course or slow their speed to avoid the collision due to operating above 6 knots within 100 feet of each other. The bow of Operator2's PWC struck the right forearm of Operator1 with enough impact to cause a compound fracture and also dislocated his right hip. Neither vessel was harmed in the collision as Operator1's body took the brunt of the impact. 

Immediately after the impact, Operator1 fell off his PWC and Operator2 yelled at a passing pontoon boat that they needed help. The pontoon boat (MD 3619 LB, a Tahoe pontoon)  took Operator1 aboard their vessel, tied his PWC to their vessel and motored the injured party into Bill's North boat ramp for waiting paramedics and then took the victim's PWC back into the Aquatic Center. 

After speaking with Operator2 at the Aquatic Center, he informed me that he had been drinking that morning and afternoon at the Boardwalk Bar before they rented the PWC's. His eyes were very bloodshot and dilated and he had the strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath as he spoke to me. I put Operator2 though Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and found six positive clues for HGN and zero clues for the Walk and Turn test and One Legged Stand test.  Operator2 elected to submit to a Preliminary Breath Test that corroborated my field testing, showing a reading of .09. I arrested Operator2 for OUI and took him the McHenry Public Safety Building for processing. When at the barracks, Operator2 submitted to the intoximeter, with the Intoximeter Operator finding him to have a BAC reading of .05. I then issued Operator2 two citations, one for Negligent Operation and one for PWC/Distance violations.

A court date of 10/06/2016 has been set for Operator2's violations.
 
 
All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0125
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/18/2016, I was contacted by DNR Communications to respond to a boating accident on Deep Creek Lake. I contacted Corporal, who was patrolling the lake by boat, to respond. Cpl. arrived at the scene and spoke with the vessel occupants. Cpl. advised me to go to the hospital to interview the victim, as the ambulance was transporting her shortly after his arrival.

   I went to Garrett Regional Medical Center at Oakland and met the victim. Victim said she was preparing to waterski. As the towing vessel started to take off, the tow rope wrapped around the tip of her right ski and pulled on her leg. Victim felt something pop in her right leg, and asked for medical assistance. Victim was treated and released.

   Further information is on the attached Watercraft Accident report. This case is closed. All events occurred in Garrett County, MD


BARDID: MD-2016-0126
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ELK RIVER - MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: NORTH EAST
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/20/16 at approximately 1:07 pm, I, Cpl. received a call about a subject being injured on a vessel and taken by ambulance to Union Hospital.  The vessel, 16' Alumacraft, MD 3895 CF, came into Rogues Harbor, Elk Neck State Park.  

I went to Union Hospital, and met up with Victim and his girlfriend.  They advised they were crossing the Elk River Channel around noon, headed back to Rogues Harbor from crabbing when they struck a large wake.  Operator was operating, the vessel traveling at about 8 mph, and Victim was seated on the left side center of vessel on a storage compartment.  When they struck the large wake, Victim was tossed into the air and landed on his back striking the edge of the storage compartment he was seated on.  Victim had extreme pain in his middle to lower back and was unable to stand.  He was back boarded and taken by North east ambulance 492 to Union Hospital.  There, it was determined that he had three broken vertebrae.  He was given pain medicine and released
 
 No damage was done to vessel.  All events occurred in Cecil County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0127
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK MARINA
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday August 20, 2016 I, Cpl, received a call to respond to Deep Creek Marina in reference to property damage boat accident.   I met with the operator of the vessel.  Operator advised that he was operating MD 3607 LB.  The vessel was rented by Linwood Center of Columbia MD to take out adults with disabilities.  Operator and two other occupants are employees of the Linwood Center.  Operator advised he was operating the vessel in the area of Marsh Run Cove, Deep Creek Lake.  He was attempting to dock at the Deep Creek Marina gas dock to refuel.  As he was attempting to pull into a slip the gas attendant observed Operator coming in to fast and told Operator to slow down.  Unable to slow the vessel the vessel hit the end of the dock slip causing damage to the dock and the bow of the vessel.  

Attendant then advised Operator to pull along side of the dock.  As Operator was attempting to pull along side the gas dock a second attendant was attempting to help dock the vessel.  He observed the boat coming towards the dock and advised Operator to turn the boat.  Operator advised he turned the boat and gave it some throttle which caused the port side of the vessel to strike the corner of the dock which caused an approximately 6 inch hole.  The vessel returned to Deep Creek Marina rental dock and removed from the water.  Pictures were taken of the damage and Deep Creek Marina personnel determined the vessel to be a complete loss.  I request this case closed


BARDID: MD-2016-0128
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 23 August 2016 I was on boat patrol on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, MD.  I heard Garrett County dispatch a medical call to the Deep Creek Lake Marina in Marsh Hill Cove of Deep Creek Lake.  The call was for an amputation involving a seven (7) year old child.  The child was still in the boat at the Marina Gas Pumps.  I began a response to that location by vessel and arrived at approximately 1213 hours.  Cpl. was also responding to the call.
 
   Upon arrival medical personnel were already on scene including a medic and the Director of Emergency Management for Garrett County.  I observed a young female child in the rear of the vessel being treated for injuries to the left foot and right arm.  I also noticed four (4) additional children on the docks, all appeared upset, one in particular.  I decided to get the children off the dock and on shore, away from the medical personnel.  

Before leaving the vessel I did confirm the identity of the operator.  Once on shore I tried to calm the children down.  I collected names, addresses, and phone numbers.  One child stated to me that her sister had gotten her foot entangled in the tow rope while they were launching a tuber from the rear of the boat.  Subject1 stated that when the boat took off Victim got caught in the rope and was pulled out of the boat by the rope.   A brother, Subject2, was feeding the ski line out of the boat.  Subject2 gave me a similar statement.  Subject3, another sister to the victim, was on the tube at the time of the incident.  Subject3 was especially upset, claiming that it was all her fault since she was the one who wanted to tube.  She was not able to be interviewed in detail due to her emotional condition. 
 
Victim was taken by ambulance to the nearby Garrett County Fairgrounds.  She was flown to J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, WV by Health Net Aviation.  Victim's, mother, Victim’s mother, accompanied her on the helicopter.  Director advised me that the rope had wrapped around the left foot.  It had cut through the bone and tissue.  The foot was attached by only 1/2 inch of tissue.  The rope was still wrapped around the leg and arm.  It was cut away by medical staff.  The child was stable, but in shock.  She also had rope injury to her right arm.  Victim was wearing a life jacket which medical personnel cut away from her.
 
I spoke to the father of Victim.  He was also the boats operator at the time of the incident.  He advised that he had rented the boat at 1130 hours from the Aquatic Center. The boat was a Yamaha SX190 open bow jet drive vessel.  Maryland Registration 3221 LB.  Operator operated the boat for a while to get familiar with its operation.  He believes that the incident occurred some time around 1145 hours to noon. They stopped just south of the 219 bridge.  They decided to start tubing with a tube that was also rented from the Aquatic Center.   

Subject3 was on the tube. Subject2 was feeding out the tow rope from the rear of the vessel.  Subject2 stated that everything was ready and that Operator could give the vessel throttle.  Operator stated that he heard screaming, put the throttle in neutral, and turned around to the rear of the boat.  Subject1 stated that Victim was pulled off the boat by the rope.  Operator stated that he could see Victim off the back of the boat, just under the surface of the water.  Subject2, a certified lifeguard, dove into the water and brought Victim to the boat.  The family got her into the boat and drove to Deep Creek Marina for help.  They stopped at Deep Creek Marina after they realized that they had passed the Aquatic Center.  The family called 911 while enroute.  Operator stated that he had very little experience boating but had watched the necessary video at the Aquatic Center.  Cpl. provided a PBT test to Operator which he agreed to take.  The test results were a .00 BAC.

    Cpl. contacted Lt. to advise him of the incident.  He also provided Operator with a ride to the Aquatic Center to pick up his vehicle so that he could return to the Deep Creek Marina to pick up his family.  Photos of the vessel were taken and rental documentation was collected from the Aquatic Center.  I took inventory of the vessel prior to leaving the Deep Creek Marina.  I found eight (8) adult lifejackets, one (1) child lifejacket, and (1) infant lifejacket. I also found a throwable device and a fire extinguisher.  There were no personal items belonging to the family in the vessel, except one partially consumed energy drink can.  Cpl. had brought back a staff member from the Aquatic Center to drive the boat back to their dock.  I rode along and requested that he make some maneuvers with the vessel to test its operation.  Steering, neutral, idle, and overall performance of the boat seemed operational.  Operator did not indicate that the mechanical operation of the vessel contributed in any way with the accident.  I spoke to three other staff members at the Aquatic Center docks.  They advised that the party had received an in depth safety review of the vessel and how to handle the feeding of the tow rope as they do with all their customers.  

   No charges were placed against Operator or members of his party.  This incident seems to have been truly an accident where Victim became entangled with a loose rope as it was being feed out during normal tubing activity.


BARDID: MD-2016-0129
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08-26-16 I was advised of an accident victim at Garrett Memorial Hospital. The victim had been treated and released from the Hospital. I contacted the mother of the victim. I also spoke with the operator of the vessel. They both advised that the victim was being towed on a tube with two other persons. The tube hit a wake and turned over. Victim’s hand got caught in the tube handle or rope. The victim felt pain in her left arm. 
    The victim was taken to Garrett Memorial Hospital for treatment. Her arm was found to be broken and was treated for that and released. I investigated the incident and found no evidence that would lead to charges on the operator of the boat. This investigation is closed at this time.


BARDID: MD-2016-0130
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE CREEK -CRAB ALLEY BAY
NearestCityorTown: CHESTER
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 27, 2016 at approximately 1220 AM I, Cpl was dispatched to the area of Crab Alley near Little Creek Landing for a vessel that struck the jetty.  I arrived on scene at approximately 1:00 AM and spoke to a local fireman on scene that had stood by the occupant of the vessel until I arrived.  The sole occupant onboard the vessel was identified.  Subject stated that he had been out on the water since approximately 7:00PM and was coming back to the marina where he keeps his vessel.  Subject stated he was coming around the jetty when he hit a wake and fell off his seat.  He stated that when he got up his vessel was sitting on top of the jetty.  

A manager of one a local marina and heard the crash.  Manager took a small vessel and went over to the jetty to see if anyone was injured and needed help.  Manager assisted Subject with transportation over to the landing.  Manager offered Subject drinks from a cooler he had nearby.   

Subject stated to me at first that he had one beer after he arrived at the landing.  Later he stated he had about 3-4 beers after he reached the landing.  I asked Subject if he had been drinking while out on the water and he stated no.

Ofc. performed a test on Subject's eyes to get an estimate of how much Subject had to drink.  While Ofc. ran through his test I observed Subject having trouble standing straight.  He would rock back and forth and adjust his feet often. 

The fire department was able to pull Subject's vessel off the Jetty and over to the landing.  I observed a red solo cup by the main console that gave off the smell of an alcoholic beverage.  
Manager took his vehicle and went over to Subject's house and attached Subject's trailer to his vehicle.  Manager was then able to assist Subject with removing his vessel from the landing.  He transported the vessel over to Crab Alley Marina for safe keeping over night.  

Pictures of the damage to vessel were taken on scene and are included with this report.
Subject was charged with Failure to Maintain a Proper Lookout and Negligent Operation.
All Events Occurred in Queen Anne's County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0131
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, August 27, 2016 at 1130 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on boat patrol of Deep Creek Lake when I was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center to investigate a personal injury personal watercraft accident.  At 1200 hours, I made contact with the victim, operator2, in the emergency room.  Operator2 was treated for a fractured and lacerated left foot.

Operator2 recounted at 1030 hours, he was on a rental PWC from the Aquatic Center near Stockslager Road on Deep Creek Lake.  Operator2 stated his PWC was turned off and floating.  Operator2 said his friend was operating another rental PWC off Operator2's port side.  Operator1 operated close to Operator2 and accelerated hard to turn away, at which time Operator1's PWC struck Operator2's PWC and crushed Operator2's left foot between the two vessels

Operator1 arrived at the emergency room at 1230 hours and I interviewed him separately regarding the accident.  Operator1's account of the events corroborated Operator2's remarks.
At 1300 hours, I inspected the involved personal watercraft at the Aquatic Center.  The PWC Operator2 had operated was a 2016 Kawasaki STX-15F black and green in color displaying Maryland registration 3580 LB.  Paint was missing from the port hull, the fiberglass was cracked, the port side mirror was missing, the center console cover was cracked, and the handlebars we dislodged.  The Aquatic Center estimated damages at $2431.74 and provided me with pictures that are included with this report.  I also inspected the PWC Operator1 had been operating, a 2015 Kawasaki STX-15F black and green in color displaying Maryland registration 3250 LB, and observed no damage.
 
 
I charged Operator1 by citation for NR 8-704 08.18.02.05L Operating a personal watercraft at a speed greater than 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel with a court date set for November 10, 2016.


All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0132
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:53:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BAY - WHITEHALL CRE
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 31, 2016 at 2245 I was on patrol in the area of Patapsco Valley State Park with Officer#1 when DNR Communications advised there had been a boat accident in the area of Whitehall Bay. 
We responded to Sandy Point State Park where we boarded NRP vessel 871. We arrived on scene at approximately 2309 to find a white Boston Whaler floating in approximately 1.5- 2ft of water with (2) adult males on board. There were several Fire/EMS vessels floating nearby however they could not get to the whaler because the depth of the water was too shoal for their vessels to navigate through. 
As we approached the whaler, it was apparent that the two men on board were in distress, as they were covered in blood and appeared very disoriented. There was also a large amount of blood on the deck and gunwhale of the vessel. They kept asking "where's Operator1?" Officer#1 and I immediately grabbed two lines and started a side tow to the nearest EMS vessel. 
 We then instructed two Paramedics to board our vessel while we towed the whaler in to shore so that they could begin to assess the men's injuries. I took the men to the nearest boat dock where EMS, Coast Guard, and other NRP units were waiting. EMS then escorted the two men to an ambulance.
 
I met with the operator of  the first responding US Coast Guard vessel, who advised me the collision took place at or near the coordinates "N 38 59.9884' , W 76 26.0241'. I was then advised there was a third man on board the vessel who had been ejected upon impact and was being transported via helicopter to Shock Trauma in Baltimore. Cpl #1 then took watch of the victim's vessel, while Cpl #2, Officer#1 and I cleared the accident scene. 
Cpl #2 and I drove to Shock Trauma in Baltimore where we found the man who had been ejected from the vessel. He was identified as Operator1. Upon my arrival, the nurse who was in charge of Operator1 advised his injuries were non-survivable and that he would expire shortly. I then instructed her to acquire a sample of Operator1's blood per Maryland law for any boating accident resulting in serious injury or death of a person. 
I placed the samples in a blood kit to be tested. Shortly after, at 0237 Operator1 passed away
Cpl #2 and I then cleared Shock Trauma.
 
I responded to AA Co. medical center and assisted with interviews. Cpl #1 had obtained a written statement from Passenger1 and verbal statements from Passenger1 and Passenger2. I conducted a follow up interview with Passenger1. Statements indicate that Operator1 had been picked up by Passenger1 and Passenger2 in a 20 ft 4 inch Boston Whaler (MD XXXX XX registered to Passenger1) in Whitehall Creek sometime between 1400 and 1600 HRS. Passenger1, Passenger2, and Operator1 traveled to Kent Morr Restaurant and consumed food and alcoholic drinks (undetermined amount). Passenger1 stated that Operator1 had eaten a full meal including a hamburger. After storms had passed, at an undetermined time, Passenger1, Passenger2, and Operator1 left Kent Morr Restaurant in the vessel. Operator1, an experienced boat operator, was operating the vessel due to his knowledge of the area and the local crab pot locations. Operator1 was positioned standing slightly to the port side of the center console so he could see. Passenger1 was positioned to the starboard side behind the console. Passenger2 was reported to be behind Passenger1. In the area of Whitehall Creek and Whitehall bay, Operator1 struck a fixed object (jetty) that was unseen to all individuals onboard. During my interview with Passenger1, hospital staff informed us that Baltimore Shock Trauma had informed them that Operator1 had died of his wounds at 0247 HRS ON 8/1/16. I informed Passenger1 of Operator1's death, who informed Passenger2. I observed that Passenger1 appeared visibly upset by the news. Passenger1 and Passenger2 seemed to have a difficult time recalling the details regarding time of events. Passenger1 and Passenger2 had both suffered head injuries during the accident. Details regarding position on the vessel and operator were consistent throughout the verbal and written statements. Passenger1's details remained consistent as hospital staff interrupted an interview to provide officers with the news of Operator1's death, which officers then related to Passenger1.  
  
Tests were positive for the presence of alcohol, Heart Blood alcohol of 0.13% and a Blood Cavity blood alcohol of 0.21%. In addition, Heart Blood positive for the presence of lidocaine and negative for the presence of other drugs.


BARDID: MD-2016-0133
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SASSAFRAS RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BETTERTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On or about Aug 11, 2016 at 1600 hours subject set out with guests on his father-in-laws boat, a Chris Craft displaying registration #MD 7104 CH , on the Sassafras River off of Betterton Beach.  Less than 15 minutes on the water they noticed that the boat was taking water over the stern of the vessel.  Subject stated that the water was coming onboard faster than the pump could pump the water out. All of the children were in age appropriate PFD's.

Before the vessel completely submerged all persons had gotten off the vessel and had climbed onto the tube, that was going to be used to tube around the river. The four adults put all of the children on the tube and they were holding onto the side of the tube.  Subject called 911 from his daughter's cell phone and a "Good Samaritan" picked all parties up out of the water.

One person hit his head when the boat was sinking and was taken to Shore Medical in Chestertown to be evaluated once on shore. He received a bump on his head that was not life threatening. He was released from the hospital at about 2000 hours on Aug 11, 2016.
The vessel was up righted, salvaged and taken out of the water on Aug 12, 2016. No fuel was leaking from the vessel, but all documentation was lost or destroyed
 
All events occurred in Betterton, Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0134
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator along with two passengers were riding the PWC in the Isle of Wight Bay in the area of 33rd Street in the Ocean City area. The PWC was a rental and was part of a group under the supervision of a PWC guide from Top Gun Watersports located at 22nd Street in Ocean City, MD. 

Operator states that she fell off of the PWC twice. This was not because of any fault of the PWC, but she felt it was from not being familiar with the PWC as this was the first time she had ever been on one. After falling off, she states she started feeling bad. Once back at the dock, she fell off of the PWC a third time. This time she needed assistance getting out of the water. She started having trouble breathing and she felt her heart rate speed up. She was assisted from the water and EMS was contacted. She was transported to Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, MD for treatment. She was admitted to the hospital and treated for a near drowning episode. The other two occupants were not injured and required no treatment.  


BARDID: MD-2016-0135
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 28 August 2016 at 2101 hours,  I received information from DNR Dispatch that a boat accident victim had been admitted to the Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) in Oakland.  I responded to the GRMC Emergency Room.

     I made contact with the victim, who was complaining of pain in his right ear.  He was diagnosed with a puncture / tear of the inner ear drum.  He received Morphine for his pain and was advised to keep water out of the ear until it healed.  

     I spoke to father.  Father was on the boat as the observer while his son waterskied.  Father advised that the incident occurred on Deep Creek Lake, on the main body between North Glade Cove and Four Hoop Pole Cove.  Boat traffic was light but there were a few boats in the area.  Father stated that Victim hit a wake while waterskiing.  The wake made him fall into the water.  Victim stated that he has been waterskiing for about five (5) years.  The incident occurred around 1930 hours.  Victim mother and father transported him to the Emergency Room by private vehicle.  
 
    The vessel involved in the incident was a  2015  21' 6" Bennington Pontoon Boat, black and gold in color.  It has an Ohio registration, 8850 FL.  I meet Operator/owner at their rental cabin.  Operator/owner description of the incident was very similar to son and father.  Operator/owner did state that Victim stayed around the house for a while after the incident.  He was complaining about a pain in his ear.  He rated the pain as a 3 or 4 out of 10.  Victim' mother placed a few drops of "Swimmers Ear" in his ear.  Victim pain level rose dramatically.  The pain drove him "crazy".  They took him to the Emergency Room at that point.  

    I obtained information about the vessel needed for the report from Operator/owner.  I did not detect any violations.  It appeared to be an accident which occurred during routine waterskiing.  All three stated that Victim was wearing a life jacket.  Life jackets were out and accessible for Father and Operator/owner in the boat but were not in use at the time of the incident.

    Scene Cleared.


BARDID: MD-2016-0136
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GLIPIN POINT
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/04/2016 at approximately 1800 I received a call for a boat accident that occurred in the Choptank River. The Hospital in Easton had notified dispatch about the boat accident. Off and I arrived at the hospital around 1830, we made contact with the victim and her mother. Subject stated that she and her brother were jumping off the canopy of a boat, when she slipped and fell onto the gunnel landing on her groin. Subject had some bruising and swelling but no serious injuries.  Subject was transported to the hospital by her mother after they trailered the boat back. 
  
  I then went and talked to the vessel owner/operator. He stated that they were anchored around Gilpin point, and the kids were taking turns jumping off the canopy into the water. He stated that he heard Subject squeal and then saw her falling onto the gunnel, landing on her groin. 
 
 All events occurred in Caroline county.


BARDID: MD-2016-0137
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 4, 2016, at 2030 hours, I, Corporal was contacted by the Maryland State Police McHenry barracks in reference to a person at Garrett Regional Medical Center for injuries sustained as a result of a boat accident.  I arrived at the hospital at 2040 hours, and was led to Emergency Room 4a, where I met with the victim.  

  Victim stated that she and a friend were being towed on a tube behind her family's boat, a 2000 Four winns bearing Maryland registration  MD 9916 CR, in the area of the northern main body of Deep Creek Lake at approximately 1930 hours, when the vessel encountered another vessels wake.  As Victim was towed through the wake, she stated that her body weight shifted causing her to injure her left elbow as she held onto the handle of the tube.  Victim was not thrown from the tube at the time of the incident.  Victim stated that she told the operator of the vessel, that she had injured her elbow, and the group then transported Victim to GRMC for treatment.  Victim stated that traffic conditions at the time were moderate in the area, and that they were not traveling at a high rate of speed.  Victim provided her personal information, as well as the other passengers.  Victim stated that operator had not been using drugs or alcohol prior to the incident.  I cleared the hospital at 2050 hours with no charges filed as a result of my investigation.

  On September 5, 2016, at approximately 1030 hours, I made contact with operator via telephone.  Operator provided an identical account of the events described by Victim at the time of the incident.

  All these events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0138
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEY POINT
NearestCityorTown: PINEY POINT
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 5, 2016 I (Officer of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) was on patrol when I received a call in reference to a boat accident that occurred at Camp Merryland in Piney Point Maryland at approximately 12:55 pm. 

 I responded to Camp Merryland. Upon arrival an employee of the camp made me aware that the victim and his family had gone to the hospital but the operator, and a group of witnesses were still on scene. I spoke to subject1 first. Subject1 reported that there were five people, including himself, swimming in the water close to shore at the time of the accident. Two individuals, neither of which being the man who rented the boat, were on board the vessel at the time of impact. The vessel was going in circles around the swimmers and it seemed the operator did not know how to steer the boat. It was on the second pass that the boat made contact with the victim.  Subject1 went on to say that the man who rented the boat had been eating on shore at the time of accident and had given the two individuals on board permission to use the boat. 

 I asked Subject1 to identify the operator. He was able to identify and help translate as I interviewed the individual. The operator reported that he had no experience operating a boat and he did not have a boater safety card through Maryland. He said that he saw the children but did not know how to control the boat. He reported not drinking anything that day. I did put operator through the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test which resulted in zero clues.

 I also interviewed the second individual on board at the time of the accident. Occupant reported that he and operator saw the children swimming and became scared they were going to hit them as they were going in circles. Occupant also had no experience operating a boat, and reported that neither of them knew what to do in this situation. Occupant vacated the boat after it hit the victim in order to try and push it away from the swimmers. 

It was at this time I inspected the vessel. It is an 11foot 4inch Craigcat pontoon boat owned by Camp Merryland with the registration numbers 3358LB. The vessel is powered by an outboard, gasoline tiller control motor capable of six horsepower. The employee of Camp Merryland reported that there were no mechanical issues with the boat. 

 Officer reported to Saint Marys Hospital to interview the victim and his parents. Officer reported the victim had scrapes and red marks on his back and behind his ears but there was no blood, and no open wounds. The victim's father reported he and his wife were watching their son swim when they saw the individual who rented the boat exit it and allow Operator and Occupant to get on board. Operator proceeded to attempt to operate the boat but it started to go in circles.  He believes Operator panicked not knowing what do and that is when the boat struck his son

  Officer also interviewed the wife and the individual who rented the boat. Both of their stories matched. 

   Operator was charged with 08.18.01.05B Negligent Operations. 

     All events occurred in Saint Marys County, case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0139
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05 September 2016, at 1646 hours I received a call from DNR Communications that the Emergency Room at Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) was treating a boat accident patient.  The accident occurred on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, MD.  I arrived at the Emergency Room to find that the patient had already been released.  I was given a name and phone number to follow up on.  

     I contacted the party and discovered that the patients name.  Victim was also the operator of the single vessel involved in the accident.  I met Victim at their residence on Deep Creek Lake.  Victim advised that he and his wife were on Deep Creek Lake around 1445 hours on 05 September 2016.  They were trying to locate a group of friends on another vessel.  They were in the Red Run Cove Area but could not locate their friends.  They left Red Run Cove and began to travel on the main body of the lake toward the dam.  The vessel was struck from the side by a wake.  The vessel then pitched forward and to the starboard side.  Victim had been operating the vessel from a standing position to improve his ability to maintain a better lookout.  Victim lost his footing and fell forward and down to the floor.  During his fall his face struck the console.  This caused lacerations to his forehead near his nose and right eye.  His wife was sitting in the passenger seat to the left of the operator.  She took control of the vessel and stopped it. She then helped her husband to his feet and into a seat.  

     His wife transported her husband to GRMC for treatment. He received 11 stitches to close the lacerations.  I inspected the vessel.  It was a 21' Four Winns open bow motorboat. MD Registration 2325 CF.  All was found  to be in order with the vessel.  I detected no violations.  
Scene Clear at 1815 hours


BARDID: MD-2016-0140
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BAY - BAY BRIDGE
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 7th 2016 at 2:45 Officer and I were dispatched to a boating accident just north of the bay bridge. Operator1 stated that they were traveling north, and were just under the bay bridge when she saw Operator2's vessel in front of them, when Operator1 jerked the steering wheel in an effort to avoid a collision. Operator1 scraped the engine and port side of Operator2's vessel with the prop of the vessel she was operating. 

At this point the investigation is continuing, and I am waiting for an estimate for the damages. I have contacted Operator2s and left voicemails instructing him to call me back, and have gotten no returned calls as of yet.


BARDID: MD-2016-0141
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN - SINEPUXENT
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 12, 2016 at approximately 9:00PM, I (Cpl.) was dispatched to Atlantic General Hospital for a subject injured from a boating accident. Upon arrival I met with a subject who advised that he was operating a 2010 Yamaha personal watercraft with unknown Pennsylvania registration (PWC) in the Isle of Wight Bay. He was traveling north towards the Route 90 bridge at approximately 40 knots. He encountered a large boat wake or wave and attempted to go over it. Instead of going over the wave the PWC nose dived into the wave or wake and ejected him. He hit the water at over 40 knots causing injury to his rib cage. He got back on the PWC and made it to shore. He advised that the pain continued to worsen so he drank some alcoholic beverages. When that didn't help he had a friend drive him to the hospital. 

He sustained several broken ribs as a result of the accident. I request this case be closed. All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2016-0142
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK MARINA
NearestCityorTown: OAKLAND
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/19/2016, I, OFC received a complaint of a sunken vessel on Deep Creek Lake. The vessel owner advised that the accident must have occurred sometime between Friday night and Sunday afternoon. There were no known electric issues related to the vessel nor any heavy rains/natural events that would have contributed to sinking the vessel during that timeframe.

The vessel is moored on Deep Creek Lake at a private dock along Rt. 219 highway. The vessel is identified as a 1994 22' Colbalt, bearing the registration MD 2877 BC, HIN: FGEB2208B494. The vessel is identified as a ski boat, with a white and red detailed hull and a red canvas cover. The vessel will be floated by Bill's Marine Staff and transported to Bills Marine Service Center for evaluation/repair. The damage was estimated at $18,000 by Bill's Marine staff, and the vessel is worth approximately $12,000. The insurance company, All State will be deeming the vessel totaled.  

The cause of the vessel sinking is unknown at this time and may be determined by Bill's Marine staff in the event of repair. Upon inspection of the vehicle I could see no damage or obvious signs of injury from another vessel strike or vandalism, all four dock lines were still secured around the cleats with the stern of the vessel completely submerged.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0143
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANNAPOLIS SPA CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/03/16 at approximately 9:51 A.M. I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a sailboat that struck the Spa Creek Bridge in Annapolis. Upon arriving on scene I observed a white sailboat approximately 25' in length moored to a mooring ball in Spa Creek above the bridge. I observed that the wooden mast, approximately 37' in length, was broken and splintered. It had fallen down completely with about three quarters of it hanging over the stern of the boat. The end of the mast was splintered into three pieces and various pieces of rigging material were mangled and destroyed. I met with the owner of the vessel, who stated that the bridge had closed onto his sailboat. 

Owner stated that around 9:15 A.M. he contacted the Spa Creek Bridge Tender Operator over VHF Channel 13 and identified his vessel as the "Gannet" and asked if he could pass under the bridge. According to Owner, the Bridge Tender Operator advised that the bridge would be open in approximately 9-11 minutes. Owner advised that around 9:30 A.M. the draw bridge opened and he waited for a large powerboat to proceed through the bridge first, before he entered. Owner stated he was approximately 25' from the bridge when he proceeded towards it. Owner stated that he was about two-thirds of the way through the bridge when the bridge started closing. As the bridge was closing Owner stated that the spreaders on the mast got caught on the bridge, thus causing the mast to splinter and collapse. Owner advised that he immediately hailed the Bridge Tender Operator over VHF Channel 13 and inquired as to why the bridge was lowered when his vessel was underneath it. Owner stated that the Bridge Tender Operator said he never saw any vessel passing underneath the bridge. Owner was assisted to a mooring ball by two good Samaritans where he then contacted the Annapolis Harbormaster. 

 I then interviewed two witnesses; one had his sailboat moored in Spa Creek just above the bridge.  Witness1 stated that around 9:30 A.M. he observed Owner's sailing vessel heading towards the Spa Creek Bridge. Witness1 stated that as the vessel was getting closer to the bridge he observed that the bridge was starting to close. According to Witness1, it did not seem as if Owner had enough time to turn the vessel to avoid coming into contact with the bridge. Witness1 stated that is was about a 15-20 M.P.H. prevailing wind that was blowing in the same direction Owner's vessel was heading. Witness1 observed the bridge close onto Owner's sailboat knocking the mast down and splintering it into three pieces. Witness1 stated that he went out and assisted Owner with mooring his sailboat on the mooring ball. 

The second witness I interviewed keeps his sailboat at Annapolis City Marina located just above the Spa Creek Bridge. Witness2 stated that around 9:30 A.M. he witnessed the draw bridge close on Owner's sailboat after two other vessels had successfully transited underneath it. Witness2 believes that because of the 20-25 knot tailwinds, any attempt made by Owner to avoid hitting the bridge would have resulted in hull damage to Owner's vessel. Witness2 stated that after the bridge had closed on Owner's vessel the mast came falling down and splintered into pieces. Witness2 rendered assistance to Owner immediately following the incident and assisted him with mooring his vessel to a mooring ball. 

The last person I interviewed the Bridge Tender Operator of the Spa Creek Bridge at the time of the incident. Tender stated that on the morning of 09/03/16 he received a call over VHF Channel 13 for a 9:30 A.M. bridge opening. Tender stated that there were two vessels scheduled for the opening; "Lodos" which is a sailing vessel and "Galeaway" which is a powerboat. Tender raised the Spa Creek Bridge at 9:29 A.M. where the sailing vessel "Lodos" was the first to pass underneath the bridge followed by the powerboat "Galeaway." After both vessels successfully transited underneath the bridge, Tender scanned both above and below the bridge and checked the video monitor to make sure no other vessels were trying to make their way under the bridge. 

After Tender scanned the area and observed no other vessels and had not received any other requests from vessels wanting to pass under the bridge, he began lowering the bridge. As the bridge began its downward motion, Tender kept scanning the area making sure he did not observe any other vessels. After almost a minute had passed, Tender heard an odd sound which caused him to immediately stop the bridge from lowering. Tender observed pedestrians standing on the bridge, some of which were looking down, but no one said anything that indicated there was a problem. Tender then continued lowering the bridge and heard no more noises that would indicate there was a problem. After the bridge was completely lowered, Tender received a call over VHF channel 13 from Owner, who asked why the bridge was lowered.  Tender stated he had no idea what Owner was talking about and Owner again repeated the question of why was the bridge lowered. Tender then looked out the window and observed a sailboat with its wooden mast broken. Tender responded to Owner by saying he never received his request to pass underneath the bridge and that he was not made aware of Owner's presence near the bridge. Tender offered Owner the opportunity  to come talk to him in person but at the time of this report, Owner did not take Tender up on his offer. Tender wanted it to be known that it takes both spans of the bridge 45 seconds to reach the auto stop which is at the nearly closed position. After the bridge reaches the aforementioned position, Tender manually lowers the rest of the bridge, which takes about 15 seconds. During the course of the incident, Tender did not hear the mast of the sailboat make contact with the bridge until about 15 seconds after the auto stop had been completed. Tender made contact with his boss about the situation and advised there was no structural damage done to the bridge.  It should be noted that Tender keeps a daily log of the vessels that contact him for bridge openings. Tender showed me the log from 09/03/16 and I observed that there were only two vessels listed for a 9:30 A.M. bridge opening; the sailing vessel "Lodos" and the powerboat "Galeaway." I did not observe any scheduled bridge openings for Owner's vessel "Gannet."

  I then went to the Annapolis Harbormaster's Office to see if they had video surveillance of the accident. I observed three vessels in the video surveillance. The first vessel I observed was the sailing vessel "Lodos." The sailing vessel "Lodos" passed under the bridge coming from Spa Creek into downtown Annapolis. I then observed the powerboat "Galeaway." The vessel "Galeaway" passed under the bridge from downtown Annapolis to Spa Creek. I then observed Owner's vessel at a considerable distance away from the Spa Creek Bridge on the downtown Annapolis side. I then observed the bridge starting to lower while Owner's vessel was still at the same considerable distance away. Owner's vessel is observed heading straight towards the bridge spans while they are clearly lowering. According to the video surveillance, it appears Owner's vessel is at a far enough distance away that a reasonable and prudent boater would have had a sufficient amount of time to alter course and maneuver their vessel to avoid colliding with the bridge.


BARDID: MD-2016-0144
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, September 17, 2016 at approximately 1900 hours, Officers from the Maryland Natural Resources Police were alerted to a Personal Watercraft Accident with injuries in the area of Snug Harbor in the Sinepuxent Bay, Worcester County, Maryland.  Initial reports indicated that a PWC with a single operator/occupant had struck a stationary object, and that the operator had suffered a laceration to his leg and was being treated by Berlin EMS at a residence on Snug Harbor Road.

Officer responded to that location and met with the owner of the PWC, who had not been the operator.  The owner advised that the PWC was capsized and taking on water, and had been towed to the boat ramp at Castaways Campground.  OFC was able to respond to that location and photograph the PWC, which was a 2007, SeaDoo bearing Maryland registration 0966BX.  It was still capsized and had obviously taken on water.  Officer further advised that the operator was being transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury by Berlin EMS.  He also learned from Maryland State Police Troopers had initially been on scene and had possibly detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage about Operator's breath and person.

Officer responded to PRMC and met with Operator.  He advised that, given the circumstances he was not able to observe any signs of impairment when speaking with Operator and did not detect a notable odor of an alcoholic beverage when speaking with him.  Operator did admit to having two drinks during the day, but stated that it had been several hours prior.  Operator gave OFC the following paraphrased statement regarding the accident.

He stated that he had been operating a friend's PWC in the Sinepuxent Bay, and that he was in the process of returning to the residence at Snug Harbor.  He stated that he had been having problems with the safety lanyard coming out of it's switch throughout the day.  He stated that, while enroute back to Snug Harbor, the lanyard had dislodged and he was able to reinsert it and was attempting to catch up to his friend, at a speed of approximately 40 to 50 miles per hour.  He      stated that the lanyard dislodged again and that he was unable to maneuver and struck the piling portion of a day marker.  This caused significant damage to the PWC and threw him from it causing a deep laceration in his right thigh.

Based on my conversation with OFC, I did not think that a blood kit was appropriate.  All of the above events occurred in Worcester and Wicomico County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0145
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATAPSCO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BALTIMORE CITY
County: BC - Baltimore City
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
  On September 23, 2016 I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched a call in reference to a boat accident that had occurred earlier in the day. I then made contact with the complainant who advised me of the following information. 

 Subject advised me that he was in a single rowing scull rowing in the area of the Middle Branch section of the Patapsco River south of Hanover Street Bridge when a jon boat accelerated towards his boat and collided with his vessel. Subject advised that the vessel was a green aluminum crabbing boat bearing Maryland registration 2489 AS. According to Subject there were no injuries as result of the collision. Subject said the operator of the aluminum boat became aggressive and the two became engaged in a verbal altercation about what had happened. Subject returned to shore to get his camera and then used a motorboat to return to the scene and take pictures of the other vessel involved. The operator became irate and followed him back to the boat ramp where the two went their separate ways. All of this according to Subject occurred around 7:30 AM the morning of September 23, 2016. Subject advised me that the damage to his vessel would cost approximately $500.00 to repair.  

  After speaking with Subject I ran the MD registration of the other vessel involved. I made contact with the owner who advised me that he was not on the boat that morning but rather his brother was using his boat that day. The brother then called into DNR police communications center and eventually got in contact with me. 

The brother advised me of the following information over the phone. Operator2 stated that his motor had run out of gas and he was sitting in Middle Branch when he saw the rowing scull coming his way. He could not move to get out of the way in time before the scull hit the bow of his jon boat. According to Operator2 his hand was over the side and was smashed in the collision. Operator2 advised that the rower had his back turned to where he was going. Operator2 also advised that there was a verbal altercation in which Subject threatened him. Operator2 advised that he was able to fill up the tank on his motor with a spare gas can and then return to shore. Operator2 called Baltimore City Police who responded to the area. Operator2 then went to Precision Care on Wilkens avenue where he was treated for three broken fingers. 

 The attached six pictures

 To my knowledge there are no witnesses to the events described above. 
I, OFC, was not present for any of the events described above I am only relaying what each party told me


BARDID: MD-2016-0146
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-09-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER - COOKS POINT
NearestCityorTown: CAMBRIDGE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9-25-2016 OFC received a call from dispatch of a sinking vessel, in the mouth of the Choptank River. We responded to Tilghman Island by vehicle and a boarded patrol vessel and responded to the area of buoy #10 Choptank River. I met with the witness, which observed the victims vessel sinking and rescued 3 pob. 

This OFC and CPL left the area and secured patrol boat. DNR was advised of location to relay to Coast Guard. This OFC later was able to contact the victim/owner of the sunken vessel. Owner advised while anchored and fishing with two other people on board the rough seas came over the transom. The tide was against the wind causing choppy conditions. Owner started to pull anchor from the bow and one of the passengers advised a lot of water was in the stern and the engines were flooded. Owner cut the anchor line and shortly after the vessel rolled over. The three victims were rescued by the witness and relayed to the Southern Shore where they launched from Later on in the day the vessel surfaced near and area in Ches. Bay referred to as Diamonds, South of Tilgman Island. The vessel was recovered by Tow Jam from Tilghman and later relayed to the victims residence. 

No injuries were sustained. 

All events occurred in Dorchester County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0147
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEVERN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/05/16 at approximately 8:30 A.M. I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to a boating accident that occurred on Spa Creek in Annapolis. Upon arriving on scene, I met with the General Manager of the Yacht Basin Company Marina in Annapolis. General manager directed my attention to a 112' Yacht called "Winning Drive" which was docked at General manager's marina and had been struck by a sailboat earlier on the morning of 10/05/16. 

General manager stated that around 8:19 A.M. on 10/05/16 he was standing on the breezeway next to the vessel "Winning Drive" when he noticed a white hulled sailboat maneuvering near the bow of "Winning Drive." General manager yelled to one of the crew members aboard "Winning Drive" who was standing on the bow to keep an eye on the approaching sailboat. General manager then observed the operator of the sailboat throttle up in an attempt to steer around "Winning Drive" but the sailboat did not have the room to clear the bow of "Winning Drive" and the steel cable holding the spreaders of the mast scraped against the starboard bow of "Winning Drive." The sailboat then motored away from "Winning Drive" and docked at a slip across from General manager's Marina. General manager stated that the operator of the sailboat did return to the scene to meet with the Captain of "Winning Drive." General manager advised that his marina is equipped with video surveillance which captured the accident firsthand. Upon viewing the surveillance, I observed the sailing vessel maneuvering towards the bow of "Winning Drive" before being pushed across the bow because of the wind. I then observed the sailing vessel abruptly motor forward and as it does the steel cables connecting the spreaders of the mast scrape across the starboard to center bow of "Winning Drive." 

After viewing the video surveillance, I then met with the Captain of "Winning Drive". Captain Operator1 advised that he was in the cabin of "Winning Drive" when he observed a white sailboat with Virginia registration 8674 BZ strike the bow of his vessel as it was attempting to maneuver towards the boat show floating dock. Captain Operator1 stated that the bow of "Winning Drive" sustained two significant scratches approximately 40" long by 5" wide and another scratch 36' long by 5" wide. These two scratches went through the paint and primer down to the fiberglass. Captain Operator1 estimated the damage to be between $2,000 and $3,000 worth. 

I then met with two other witnesses who both saw the sailing vessel strike "Winning Drive." Their observations of the accident corroborated both General manager's and Captain Operator1's statements as well as held true to what I had observed in the video surveillance. Both gentleman had observed the sailing vessel turn port side in the docking area where it then began to be pushed by the wind. They then observed the Captain of the sailing vessel attempt to maneuver the vessel before the steel cables of its mast scraped against the bow of "Winning Drive." 

After interviewing all the witnesses, I then met with the sailboat operator. Operator2 stated that the wind had caught his vessel as he was attempting to dock it at the boat show docks but admitted that as the Captain of his vessel it was ultimately his responsibility to take all the necessary measures to avoid a collision. I issued Operator2 one Natural Resources Citation for failing to obey the Federal Inland Navigation Rules. I specifically cited Rule 8 from the U.S. Coast Guard International-Inland Navigation Rules. Rule 8 pertains to the action of a vessel operator to avoid collision. The authority under Maryland Natural Resources law is NR-8-703, COMAR Regulation: 08-18-01-04 A (1). This carries a maximum penalty of $500.00 for a first offense and a $1,000 and/or 1 year of imprisonment for a second offense. 

Operator2 did exchange information with Captain Operator1 for insurance purposes. The accident resulted in property damage only. No individuals either aboard the sailing vessel or aboard "Winning Drive" sustained any personal injuries. General manager will be contacting me once he has obtained a copy of the video surveillance so I can have it for evidentiary purposes. The investigation is closed following the issuance of the citation to Operator2 and all events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0149
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: FAIRVIEW BEACH - POTOMAC RIVER
NearestCityorTown: FAIRVIEW BEACH
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 15, 2016 at approximately 12:00PM I (Ofc.) was dispatched to a reported boat accident located off of Fairview Beach, Potomac River.  The initial call came in as two vessels.  Ofc. and I arrived at Aqualand Marina located in Newburg, MD and got on patrol vessel NRP857 and responded to the area of the accident.  When we arrived on scene at approximately 1:00PM we only noticed one vessel that had major damage and it was partially submerged under the water.  We quickly asked bystanders where the second vessel was, to which they replied that there was only one vessel involved and that it went airborne during a race (Potomac River Radar Run).  Rescue crews from the Nanjemoy Volunteer Fire Department and the King George Fire Department retrieved and cared for two male subjects from the accident.  Photos were taken of debris floating in the area that came off of the main body of the vessel on impact with the water.

     Ofc. and I took witness statements from numerous bystanders who watched the event take place.  There was also video footage of the accident that was taken by numerous bystanders.  The video was also immediately uploaded on social media sites by some of the said bystanders.

At approximately 11:55AM a male duo were racing a 2003 Dux 36' Fiberglass offshore vessel bearing Delaware registration (DL 1140 AF).  The vessel, at some point during the run, went airborne and back flipped bow over stern ejecting both occupants.  Both men were pronounced deceased shortly after rescue attempts by King George Fire Department medical personnel.

     All events occurred on the Potomac River (Charles County) near the Virginia shores of Fairview Beach.  There is nothing further to report regarding the incident.  Photos and witness statements will be uploaded at a later date as a supplement to this report.  The investigation has been taken over by Cpl. (Special Operations Division investigator with the Maryland Natural Resources Police).


BARDID: MD-2016-0150
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUSQUEHANNA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HAVRE DE GRACE
County: HA - Harford
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Carbon monoxide exposure
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
2 boaters hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning
8-29-16 - Havre de Grace, MD
Two people have been hospitalized after suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning while boating near Havre de Grace. The Baltimore Sun reports that a man and a woman were taken to a hospital Sunday afternoon. Susquehanna Deputy Fire Chief says the couple had been on the water near the Tidewater Marina when they alerted authorities after apparently inhaling too much exhaust from their boat's engine. One of two dogs that were on board was also treated.
 
 On August 28, 2016 the two were in the Susquehanna River on their 38 foot boat and docked at the transient pier for Log Harbor Marina. Subject1 tied off the boat to the pier and hooked up the electricity after having shut down the engines and generator. He sat down on the sofa when he heard his dog bark from down below in the cabin. Subject1 went down there and saw his wife unconscious. He pulled her outside and an ambulance came to take them both to Shock Trauma center in Maryland. They were both treated for carbon monoxide poisoning and released the next day from the hospital. The mechanic told Subject1 that an exhaust muffler cracked on the starboard side engine which allowed the carbon monoxide to build up in the cabin while they were docking. They had three carbon monoxide detectors in the boat that Subject1 said he would test before every trip. They were original in the boat and over 20 years old. All events occurred in Harford County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0151
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLE RIVER
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10-15-16 at 1611 hours, received a call on vhf channel 16 for a boat accident in middle river, close to the mouth of galloway creek.  Investigation revealed that vessel #2, the sailboat, was heading north under power, returning to maryland marina. Vessel #1, the power boat, was heading south returning to the owner/operators home, where the boat is kept. The operator of vessel #1 stated that without warning, the steering failed, and the boat made a hard left turn.
 
 
Seeing that his boat was heading directly toward vessel #2, the operator put the vessel into reverse attempting to avoid the collision.  But in a matter of seconds the collision occurred. A check of the steering on vessel # 1, showed the wheel was extremely hard to turn, and the steering fluid had a discoloration to it and appeared milky.  Vessel #1 operator stated that he and his passenger were out fishing and during the time he had consumed two beers, the last of which was before noon.  After speaking with the operator, he did not appear to be under the influence of an alcoholic beverage at the time of the incident.
 
The passenger of vessel # 1 stated that he was seated on the port side of the boat facing towards the stern. All of a sudden the boat made a hard left turn and he felt the boat go into reverse and in a matter of seconds the collision occurred. The operator of vessel #2 stated that he was seated at the stern of his boat.  The view to his port/bow was slightly obstructed by the top of the cabin.  When he did see vessel #1, it was heading directly at this boat, and in about five seconds the collision occurred and he was thrown to the floor of the cockpit area.  
 
The operator of vessel #2 complained of pain to his left leg. He was able to get his boat back to the marina where baltimore county medic #15 was waiting  and transported him to franklin square hospital for treatment.  The leg was bruised, but not broken.  Neither the operator or passenger  of vessel #1 reported any injuries.  Vessel #1 was towed by a friend of the owner/operator back to his residence.  An exchange of information, took place with each operator.


BARDID: MD-2016-0152
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNOW HILL - BYRD PARK BOAT RA
NearestCityorTown: SNOW HILL
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 30, 2016 at approximately 3:10 pm, while on patrol in the Snow Hill area, I (Cpl) overheard a call for EMS to meet a subject with back injuries at the Byrd Park boat ramp. Since I was in the area I responded to assist. Once on scene I met with EMS, they advised they had received a call to meet a boat coming in with the subject. I stood by several minutes with EMS until the boat arrived. 

 I made contact with four occupants on a 18' Sea Ray, bearing Delaware registration 177 M. The female on a bow seat advised that she was in pain from her lower back. Ofc. and myself assisted EMS with removing her form the boat and placing her in the ambulance. I spoke with her briefly as we took her to the ambulance.  She advised she was sitting on the bow seat when they went over a wake. She stated that when she came back down she felt a sharp pain in her lower back

I interviewed the other three on board as well. They all gave consistence recollection of the events. They were traveling North up the Pocomoke River, prior to Shad Landing, when they encountered another boat wake from a vessel traveling south. They stated that the wake was not abnormally large. As the crossed the wake the subject who was seated in a bow seat came up slightly from the seat and when she came back down she yelled out in pain. Subject1 stated that she did not brace herself at all. After the pain didn't dissipate they called 911 and advised they would be enroute back to Byrd Park. 

Victim’s husband, explained that she had a pre existing medical condition with her back. Several years ago she had several herniated disks that they were unable to repair, in the same area that she was complaining of pain today. 


Snow Hill EMS transported Frances to PRMC in Salisbury for treatment. With there being a pre existing injury that the vessel operator was unaware of; I did not find his operation of the vessel to be at any fault. 
All events occurred in Worcester County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0153
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAR CREEK - DUNDALK
NearestCityorTown: DUNDALK
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/20/16 at approx. 02:44pm, I, Ofc. responded to a boat accident in the area of Bear Creek (Patapsco River, Dundalk Maryland). At approx 02:50pm, I arrived on scene by vessel. Ofc. was already on a separate patrol vessel. I observed the United States Coast Guard towing a vessel and the vessel’s operator. Operator2 was the only person onboard. USCG advised that they were towing the vessel to Anchor Bay Marina (8500 Cove Rd, Baltimore, MD 21222). I activated the patrol vessels blue lights and followed the vessel. Ofc. remained on scene with the other vessel, a white, 43ft, 2010, Beneteau, and it’s operator.

At approx 03:09, I arrived at Anchor Bay Marina. Operator2’s vessel was immediately put on a lift. I observed fiberglass damage on the vessel’s starboard quarter (see attached photos). Operator2 advised that he was not injured and was not under any prescription medicine. Operator2 advised the he was sailing north of the shipping channel heading towards Bear Creek. His vessel was under full sail. He was on port tack and closed hauled. The winds were approx. 4-9mph out of the north east. Traffic was light. Skies were clear and it was sunny. 

Operator2 then observed Operator1's vessel behind his sail. According to Operator2 both vessels were moving approx. 5 kph. Operator2 tried to evade while shouting to Operator1 to avoid collision. The bow of Operator1's boat struck the starboard quarter causing the vessel to take on water. He put on his life jacket on board and notified USCG of the accident. Operator2 has sailed the vessel for over 18 years and advised that he is very familiar with this area. Operator2 displayed no indicators that he was under the influence of alcohol or CDS. At approx. 4:19pm, Operator2 boarded my vessel and transported him to his vehicle. The vessel remained at Anchor Bay Marina for repairs. 
 
At approx. 05:00pm, I met with Ofc.. Ofc advised that Operator1 was not injured and that he was the only person on board. The damage to bow of Operator1’s vessel was cosmetic. Ofc. conducted a safety equipment check of Operator1’s vessel. There were no violations. Operator1 was not under the influence alcohol or CDS. Ofc. then gave me a written statement from Operator1. Operator1 advised that his vessel was under full sail at the time of the accident. According to a diagram that Operator1 drew; Operator2 was passing his vessel from the starboard side at the time of the accident.

Due to interviews with both subjects this officer has determined that both operators were at fault for failing to maintain proper lookout. All events occurred in Baltimore County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0154
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SELBY BAY MARINA
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWATER
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
This boat accident investigation was started when the reporting source submitted an incomplete US Coast Guard form CG-3865 to this agency.  Only the first two(2) pages of the six(6) page Coast Guard form were completed.  The accident was never reported otherwise and the form was received on September 26th.  The phone number supplied did not answer, so an email was sent to the reporting source for a complete CG-3865 form.  A more complete form was received on September 30th, but I was still not able to contact the reporting source via phone for additional information.

The collision occurred on August 28th 2016 at reported time of 4:00 pm.  Operator1 indicated he was in the process of turning toward the fuel dock at Selby Bay Marina when he struck the port stern of Vessel # 2, which was unoccupied and tied to dock in its slip next to the fuel dock.  Operator1 did not report the collision to this agency nor contact the other vessel's owner.  Operator1 did indicate he contacted the Selby Bay Marina owner, who may have also witnessed the collision  on the date it occurred.  Operator1' indicated the owner of the other vessel is a friend of Marina owner and he believed he would contact him and let him know about the incident.

Operator1 did contact his insurance company Boat US and they had an appraiser, examine both vessels and provide an estimate that it would coast $3,105.18 to have the other vessel hauled out and repaired.  The damage consisting of hull, paint, safety railing and rub rail damage.  Operator1 indicated his vessel sustained only minor damage, which he plans to have repaired himself.  

Owner2 was contacted at his home on November 8th.  Owner2 indicated he has never talked with Operator1 about this collision, but is in the process of having his boat repaired at Holiday Point Marina.  Owner2 did indicate that he learned of the collision from his friend Marina owner, but he related that it was several weeks after the incident.  The location of the collision was only learned after interviewing Owner2 at his home, I was unable to reach him by a publicly available phone number, no number or address was provided on the CG-3865 form submitted.

At Selby Bay Marina on November 8th I also talked with the dock manager, who was able to confirm that Operator1 did talk with Marina owner about the collision.  Marina owner was not available to interview because he is out sick with pneumonia.  The dock maanger related that there is a sandy shoal not too far from the fuel dock which may have been the reason Operator1 made his turn so sharply.  Operator1 also keeps his boat at Selby Bay Marina.  Operator1' boat was also hauled out and at Holiday Point Marina when I examined it.

At this point the cause of the collision is determined to be operator error, Operator1 was advised to make sure he contacts the owner's of other vessels or confirms that they were contacted.  

Any additional information will follow in a supplement, all events occurred in Anne Arundel County.


BARDID: MD-2016-0155
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANDY POINT LIGHT
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Other
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/21/16 I heard a call from Communications for a vessel in distress.  The vessel was located between Sandy Point State Park small craft launch area and Sandy Point Light in the Chesapeake Bay.  I responded and arrived on scene to witness an overturned jon boat with one adult male and two children wearing PFD"s sitting atop the overturned boat.  A fourth person wasin the water holding onto a cooler, a line attached to the overturned boat and the stern of a small good Samaritan boat that responded to assist.  I maneuvered alongside the overturned vessel.  Subject handed both children to me and I pulled them aboard my patrol boat.  With Subject's assistance, I pulled him aboard my boat.  Subject and I next pulled Operator aboard.

The good Samaritans had taken the overturned vessel under tow and said they were going to try to tow the boat.  At that time I retrieved several floating personal effects from the overturned vessel.  While doing so, Subject1 began shouting that they needed help.  Subject2 cut his left index finger severally when the nylon line attached to the overturned vessel slid across his finger.  He stated that he thought he would need stitches.  I contacted Communications to arrange for an ambulance to respond to Mezick Pond.  Subject2, escorted by Ofc. who had arrived on scene, went into Mezick Pond where he ultimately declined transport to the hospital.  Subject2 opted to transport himself to the ER when he got home.  He trailered his boat and left.

I took the overturned vessel under tow, taking it into shallow water at the Sandy Point State Park small craft beach.  There Operator entered the water and pulled the boat the rest of the way on shore.  I beached the nose of the patrol vessel on shore and Subject and the two children exited ashore.  I retrieved some additional floating items and returned to Mezick Pond.  

While returning the patrol boat, Ofc. went to the small craft area where he obtained personal and accident information from the individuals involved.  Operator and Subject stated that a large vessel passed by throwing a large wake.  The bow of their 14' jon boat struck the wake at the trough causing the boat to swamp and capsize.  One of the children stated that they were going real fast and hit a wave.  

The vessel's 15 Hp Mercury outboard engine was damaged in the accident.  Approximate value of the engine is $3,000.  No other damage occurred.  There were no injuries to the occupants of the overturned boat.

During Ofc. vessel safety inspection, he discovered that Operator did not possess a boaters safety card; however, there were no other violations. 
 
 Operator was issued one citation: 
4Y66207215 NR 08-712.2 Operating a vessel without a boater's safety card. 
 
 Sandy Point Park staff assisted in recovering items from the vessel that were scattered along the shoreline.  They helped Operator and Subject right the vessel to empty the water and carried it across the beach to the trailer.

The vessel accident is the result of heavy wind, choppy conditions and vessel wake.  There will be no additional charges.  This investigation is closed.


BARDID: MD-2016-0156
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BALTIMORE
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I responded on 10/31/2016 at approx. 3:30 to Maryland Marina to meet with subject.  We discussed the accident that occurred on 10/28/2016 at 9:06 p.m between his vessel and vessel MD 6849 AH.  Please review Subject's written report that is attached, it is a accurate and detailed explanation of the events that occurred.  There is extensive damage to the Solar Panel and potential damage under the water line to Subject's vessel that was caused by vessel MD 6849 AH.  During my inspection, I determined that the damage was  more than $2,000.00 but did a report because Subject's insurance company required one. On october 29, 2016 owner was aboard his vessel completing paperwork  in the main cabin when he heard and felt a severe impact on the starboard side of his boat. Upon opening the main hatch he heard a man say " i am sorry.  I have hit your boat"  upon reaching the cockpit of his vessel he noticed a large power boat sitting with its stern against the starboard side of his vessel..
It was apparent to subject that the operator had entered the entrance to the pier incorrectly and was attempting to back out when he struck his boat.


BARDID: MD-2016-0157
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-11-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERRINGTON HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: TRACY'S LANDING
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
At 1450 hours DNR Communications reported a boat fire possibly involving multiple vessels at the Herrington Harbour North on Tracy's Creek. land address of 981 Deale Road Deal MD 20779.  While CPL was enroute, Officers responded and reported that one vessel was engulfed in fire while docked at F pier of Herrington Harbour North.

Upon CPL arrival, Units from Anne Arundel Fire were on scène and were extinguishing the fire onboard the vessel and to the T Head of F Pier where the vessel, a 30 ft Sea Ray cabin vessel bearing MD registration 2753 CA., was docked.  The vessel was severely damaged and is believed to be a complete loss.  The fire caused damage to the planking of F Pier,   Damage estimates for the vessel and dock are yet to be determined.

The vessel owner/operator stated that he operated the vessel from Kent Island to Herrington Harbour North and docked the vessel at the F Pier T head.  He shut down the engines to the vessel and observed heavy smoke from the engine compartment.  He quickly exited the vessel and observed the vessel to erupt in fire that started in the engine compartment and proceeded rapidly throughout the vessel.

He will be filing witness information that will be added to the report when received.
 
He estimates the vessel total damage to be $60,000.


BARDID: MD-2016-0158
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEVERN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/03/16 at approximately 2:30 P.M. I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a call involving a woman falling on a sailboat and injuring her head. Upon arriving on scene, I met with members of the U.S. Coast Guard who advised that the victim, later identified, was taken to shore in Annapolis where she was then transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center. I then went to Anne Arundel Medical Center and met with both Victim and her husband. 

Operator stated that around 2:00 P.M. on 11/03/16 he and Victim were leaving Mill Creek heading towards Whitehall Bay when their sailboat ran aground. At the time the sailboat ran aground it was under engine propulsion and traveling around 6 knots before it halted abruptly; thus causing Victim, who was standing on the top step of the companionway, to fall backwards leaving her with a laceration on the back of her head and concussion like symptoms. 

Operator immediately rendered assistance to Victim and then hailed the Coast Guard on VHF 16. Once the Coast Guard arrived, Victim was transferred to the Coast Guard Vessel where she was taken to Annapolis and from there was transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center. Operator stated that after Victim fell, she seemed aloof and confused. At one point Victim asked Operator the same question 10 different times, thus raising further concerns that Victim had sustained a concussion. The sailboat itself did not sustain any damage and Operator was able to get it off the shoal where he then docked it in Ego Alley in Annapolis. At the time of this report Victim was still in the hospital waiting to undergo a CT scan. No charges have been filed and all events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0159
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-11-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAMBRIDGE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 6th, 2016 at approximately 1450 hours, I responded to the Choptank River in the area of Hambrooks bar off of Maple street in Cambridge for a report of a vessel which had run aground and had one occupant with injuries. I, along with Officer First Class, arrived on scene at approximately 1510 hours, and observed a 50 foot cabin motorboat, blue and white in color, with a documented name of: “American Flyer” and a hailing port of: Annapolis, MD. I observed a white center console fire rescue vessel near the stern of the motorboat, as crew members were boarding the vessel. I asked the captain of the fire rescue vessel if he needed our help with anything, and he advised they were working on getting the victim ‘packaged up’ for transport to the hospital. I asked how many people were on board when the accident occurred, and he advised “4.” 

Shortly after, another rescue vessel which I observed to be a white Carolina Skiff, arrived on scene, and docked up to the center console. Rescue crews extracted the victim; a female, and transported her on the skiff to Great Marsh Park where she was taken by ambulance to Dorchester General Hospital. The other two passengers on board boarded the center console rescue vessel, and were transported to Great Marsh Park as well. 

After all rescue vessel’s cleared the scene, I boarded the cabin motorboat, and dropped off Officer who made contact with the vessel’s operator. Operator told OFC he and his passengers were in route to Annapolis, and were at cruising speed when he hit a sandbar. Operator stated that Victim had been sitting by the entrance to the galley, and the force of impact from the vessel running aground propelled Victim into the galley causing her injury. Operator also advised he estimated the cost of damage to his boat to be $1600-3000 because his propellers had been damaged in the incident. 

Prior to clearing with Operator, he requested a radio check to insure his VHF was in proper working order-which we confirmed. He advised TowBoat US had a 30 minute estimated time of arrival to his location and that he would be okay to wait with his vessel until they arrived. We cleared with Operator at approximately 1610 hours. 

At this time, Corporal advised he had made contact with the other occupants of the vessel, as well as the victim and obtained all their information. According to Subject1-who was standing [to the left] next to the captain during the accident-the vessel was cruising when it ran aground, and then came to an abrupt stop. He said Victim had been sitting by the entrance to the galley, and had fallen down into the galley during impact causing injury. The other passenger, Subject2, who was sitting toward the stern, confirmed Subject1’s story. Corporal stated the victim is an emergency room charge nurse at Anne Arundel Medical Center, and she believed she had a broken ankle, a facial laceration (which will require plastic surgery), and possible broken ribs. 

It should be noted that there was a small craft advisory in affect for the Choptank River during this incident because the wind was blowing North/Northeast at 18-25 mph. Additionally, the low tide mark was at 1434, and the tide at this time was still very low. Also, vessel traffic was light to medium, as there were several boats trolling/fishing in the river. Operator advised he was aware of the shoal in that area, but didn't believe he was that close to it. Based upon the vessel's proximity to the white "danger" buoy, I believe Operator cut the shoal too close which caused him to run aground.

All above events occured in Dorchester County, MD


BARDID: MD-2016-0161
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-11-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:23:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: SANDYLAND BEACH
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
       On November 19, 2016, at approximately 9:50 pm, PO and I (Cpl.) were instructed to respond to Brenton Bay Station by A/Sgt. Cpl. J.to assist with an overdue vessel on the Potomac River.   We received information that a vessel departed from Coles Point Marina, Virginia and was enroute back to Comb's Creek Marina and was overdue.

 At the Combs Creek Marina, we observed three unattended parked vehicles parked in the upper parking lot at the marina ( one black Dodge Ram P/U, one dark blue Dodge Ram P/U and a silver Dodge Dakota P/U).  Later identification on the three vehicle through MVA came back to the three of the four persons on board the vessel overdue.  A forth silver Chevrolet P/U was parked in the lower parking lot at the marina and later identified belonging to the vessel owner.  

At the marina, Cpl met with the fire chief from Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, to coordinate search operations on said vessel.    The vessel was displaying Maryland Registration Number 9015 CR.  The vessel is a 2007, 30 ft. S-1 Marine LLC fiberglass vessel.  Further information was obtained from USCG Sector Baltimore regarding the overdue vessel.  USCG advised at, 1708 hrs call was received by Marine VHF Channel 16 for a vessel taking on water.  The caller on VHF 16 stated that the vessels was located off #12 in the Potomac River.  Communication was lost with caller.  USCG conducted a mobile cellular phone trace on the caller at approximately 1722 hrs.  USCG stated the trace was triangulated in the area south off Huggin's Point, in the area by the # 12 channel marker in the Potomac River.  Several additional attempts were made at later times but, were unsuccessful.  

PO and I searched the area of at the month of Brenton Bay and the Potomac River along with Fire Rescue vessels, MSP Aviation, USCG vessels, MSP Aviation and US Navy Search and Rescue.  NRP search operations were suspended at 0230 hrs due to weather and sea conditions.  Search operation will resume at sunrise.  

 All events took place on the Potomac River, St. Mary's County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2016-0162
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: JONES FALLS
NearestCityorTown: BALTIMORE
County: BC - Baltimore City
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 29, 2016 I was asked by Sgt. to complete a boat accident report for an incident that occurred on the Jones Falls in Baltimore City on October 16, 2016.  I was able to obtain a copy of the police report from the Baltimore City Northern Precinct. See attached report. Witness advised that the victim, Operator went over the falls in his kayak. Operator became separated from the kayak and was stuck underwater in the hydraulics of the dam. After several minutes Witness was able to pull Operator from the water and started performing CPR. EMS arrived on scene and took over at that time. Operator was transported to Maryland Shock Trauma and was released after several weeks. Witness advised that Operator is doing ok at this time but does not remember the incident. I attempted to contact Operator at the phone number listed in the Baltimore City report but was unsuccessful. All of the above events occurred in Baltimore City, MD.


BARDID: MD-2016-0163
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-11-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEVERN RIVER - MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday November 23 I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on routine patrol on the Severn River approaching the Rt. 450 Bridge when I observed a large cabin vessel that had a large amount of smoke coming from the cabin area.
 
I came along side the vessel and spoke with the operator who stated that around 9:00 A.M.  he was under way on his vessel when his high temperature alarm sounded. At the time the high temperature alarm sounded Operator smelled a burning odor coming from the engine compartment. Operator then activated the fire suppression system which was built into his vessel and turned off the motor along with the battery switches. 
  
For safety sake I contacted DNR dispatch and advised them to start the fire boat to make sure there was no safety hazard and there was no more potential for an active fire to ignite on the vessel. Operator also contacted Tow. Boat U.S. who towed him into Back Creek in Annapolis. A short time later Annapolis Fire Boat arrived and advised that the impeller for the raw water coolant system had been blocked, thus causing the engine to overheat. When the engine overheated it caused the radiator cap to blow off further damaging the coolant line. The smoke that I had observed was steam coming from the damaged radiator. The Fire Department advised that the vessel was safe and there was no further potential for a fire to ignite. 

Operator suffered no personal injures due to the accident and all events occurred in Anne Arundel County Maryland. 
I advised Operator to contact me when he receives an estimated dollar amount of damage that occurred to the vessel.


BARDID: MD-2017-0001
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-02-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SULLIVAN COVE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, February 08, 2017 at approximately 1530 hours, I, Ofc. responded to a reported boat fire at a dock on the Severn River in the area of Sullivan Cove. We responded by patrol boat from Sandy Point State Park and we were able to see a smoke column from the Chesapeake Bay as we passed under the Bay Bridge.  Anne Arundel Fire Boat 19 responded right behind us. The air temperature was about 60 degrees with light winds from the west and mostly sunny. The water temperature was about 35 degrees, with a little chop. 

As we arrived on location we observed a sail boat that was on fire and had already burnt almost to the waterline. The Annapolis City Fire Department boat was in the process of extinguishing the fire.  The sailboat later identified as a 1976 28 foot Pearson, with Maryland Registration 7079 Z, was tied to a pier. As we maneuvered our patrol boat around to tie up to the pier, we saw the sailboat sink below the surface of the water. 

After docking the patrol boat, Ofc. and I identified the owners of the sailboat and a witness. One of the firefighters advised us that one of the owners had told him that the boat had a 50 gallon fuel tank and may have had 20 gallons of gasoline on board. The firefighter asked if he should contact Maryland Department of Environment (MDE), and I told him given the amount of fuel MDE should be contacted. 

I started interviewing Subject1 while Ofc. took the names and contact information for the other owners. Subject1 told me that he and two friends, bought the boat in the spring of 2016. Subject1 also told me that the motor was not operational and the battery terminals had melted in May or June of 2016, so they sailed the boat during the summer without use of the motor or electrical system. I asked Subject1 how much fuel was on board. Subject1 told me there were only a couple gallons of gasoline in a 5 gallon portable container located in the boat's head.  I asked him why he had told the firefighters that there was about 20 gallons of gasoline in the boat's tank. Subject1 told me he was mistaken and one of the other owners corrected him when he arrived.

I advised Ofc. that there was only a couple of gallons of gasoline on the boat and he could advise MDE that they did not need to respond to the scene.

Subject1 told me his friend decided to try to get the electrical system working and were testing they system when they observed smoke coming from the area around the battery switch in the cabin. Subject1 told me that he was in the cabin near the battery switch and Friend1 was in the cockpit. Subject1 stated that when he saw the smoke, he yelled to Friend1 and Friend1 gave Subject1 the fire extinguisher. Subject1 said he tried to discharge the fire extinguisher into the electrical panel behind the battery switch.  Subject1 said he got out of the cabin as it was filling with smoke. Subject1 said he and Friend1 got off the boat and he looked back and saw fire in the cabin. Subject1 said he then called 911. I asked Subject1 if he knew what type of fire extinguisher it was, he told me it was older and described with his hands the size.  Indicating it was small. I asked Subject1 if the fire extinguisher went down with the boat, he said it did.

I asked Subject1 who else was on the boat or on the dock when the boat caught fire, he told me only he and Friend1 were there, the other owners and onlookers arrived after they called 911.
As I was interviewing Subject1, Ofc. had Friend1 complete a witness statement. After I interviewed Subject1, I asked him to complete a witness statement while I interviewed Friend1. Both witness statements are attached to this report.

Friend1 told me that he was in the cockpit while Subject1 was working on the electrical system. Friend1 told me that Subject1 had just finished fixing the wiring and was testing it when the panel started smoking. Friend1 told me that he gave the fire extinguisher to Subject1 to put the fire out. I asked Friend1 where he got the fire extinguisher from. Friend1 told me that he was already holding it in case there was a problem. I asked Friend1 if he knew what type of fire extinguisher it was, and he didn't know. 

 I advised Subject1 and the other owners of the boat that they were responsible for removing the boat from the water.  I asked Subject1 if the boat was insured and he told me it was not. Subject1 asked if they could pull the boat ashore and dispose of it themselves. I advised him that they could, but they were responsible to make sure it was disposed of legally. The owners told me they would contact a salvage company.  

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County


BARDID: MD-2017-0003
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:46:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATUXENT RIVER - N OF BROOMES
NearestCityorTown: PRINCE FREDERICK
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At 2:45 PM on 02/26/2017, this investigator, Cpl., was contacted by SOD duty officer Sgt., regarding an overturned vessel and reports of a missing person from that vessel. I made contact with Sgt., who advised of a call for an overturned vessel in the area of Sheridan Point, Patuxent River. 

The reporting source stated she noticed something off Sheridan Point on 02/25/2017, prior to a violent storm, but was unable to identify the object as an overturned vessel until 02/26/2017. Natural Resources Police vessels, local watermen, Maryland State Police aviation, and the United States Coast Guard conducted a search and located the missing subject and owner of the overturned vessel. Victim was found deceased on shore, which was a short distance from where the vessel was located.


BARDID: MD-2017-0004
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK WALNUT POINT STATE POINT
NearestCityorTown: TILGHMAN
County: TA - Talbot
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, 03/04/2017 at approximately 5:08 pm, I, Officer received a call from communications advising that a female subject had overturned in a canoe and was walking back to shore in the area of Black Walnut Point, Talbot County, Maryland.  Talbot County EMS advised that the female had been in the water for a short period of time and the Canoe was in the water, floating upside down in the area of Black Walnut Point, heading toward Bar Neck Point.  I made contact via phone, the Tilghman Island Fire Company who advised that the female was on shore and with EMS personnel at 5:14 pm.  Chief advised that the female subject was going to be transported to Easton Memorial Hospital as a precautionary measure for the exposure to the water and possible hypothermia
 
 
At approximately 5:57 pm, I arrived at Easton Memorial Hospital.  I was advised that the subject had signed a refusal for medical treatment, against medical direction, and was located at the Black Walnut Point Inn, where she was a guest.  
 
I arrived at the Black Walnut Point Inn at approximately 6:57 pm and made contact with the female subject.  Operator stated that she was a guest at the Inn and had decided to take a green in color "Old Town" Canoe out onto the Choptank River.  She stated that due to the high winds and the current, she drifted away from shore at which time the canoe flipped and she was thrown into the water.  Operator advised that she was in water approximately 2-3' deep, and walked against the current for approximately 30 minutes toward shore until she reached the awaiting EMS units.  At the time EMS conducted an initial examination, Operator's body temperature was 94 degrees.  Operator admitted that she refused medical treatment and was embarrassed from the ordeal.  She stated that she had minimal experience on the water, although she had taken a Kayak class recently that reiterated the importance of personal floatation devices (PFD's).  Operator admitted that in her haste to get underway, had left all required safety equipment on shore and did not possess a PFD on board the Canoe at the time of the incident.  

Operator was issued a citation for failing to possess a PFD as required in the State of Maryland
 
 
Cpl. attempted to locate the canoe by boat with negative results.  I advised the Inn that if the canoe was located at a future date, it would be returned.


BARDID: MD-2017-0005
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-03-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUSQUEHANNA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: HAVRE DE GRACE
County: HA - Harford
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/10/17 at approx 7:50PM, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police Responded to The Harford Memorial Hospital in Havre De Grace in reference to a subject being transported there from a boat accident. This occurred on the Susquehanna River off the Greenways Trail in the Susquehanna State Park. 

Once at the hospital, Cpl. made contact with victim. Cpl. asked Victim what happened and he advised the following: I was fishing below the Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River in my Kayak. I went to adjust my anchor line, it got tight on the middle of the boat and tipped me over. I hung on to the boat for a bit. It was full of water and was really hard to empty out. I tried to pull it to shore for about a mile and a half, but was getting tired. I had to make a choice, so I let it go and swam towards shore. Two people was walking by, saw what was going on and came down and help me out of the river. They contacted and ambulance and they brought me here. Cpl. asked him if he was alone and he responded "Yes".

    Cpl. spoke with his attending doctor and was advised that he has mild case of hypothermia, and we are putting fluids in him along with warming him up. In a short while he will recover. Cpl. contacted his wife and son and advised them of the situation. They informed him that they will be heading to the hospital to be with him.


BARDID: MD-2017-0006
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - POMONKEY CREEK
NearestCityorTown: BRYANS ROAD
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 1, 2017 at approximately 9:36 p.m., I, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a report of a boat accident on the Potomac River off of Pomonkey Creek. The victims were transported to Charles Regional Medical Center in Laplata, Maryland by Bryan’s Road Ambulances 118 and 119 and Indian Head Ambulance 98.
 
 On arrival at Charles Regional, Cpl., Off., and I interviewed the six victims. All presented approximately the same narrative for the day: in the early afternoon, they launched a small aluminum Jon Boat, Virginia registration 5927 BN, from the Hallowing Point community boat ramp in Lorton, Virginia. They navigated east to Pomonkey Creek, where the group went ashore, lit a fire, and fished.
 
Several members of the group attempted to return back across the Potomac in the afternoon, but were deterred by heavy seas and high winds. After sunset, however, the group thought that the wind had died down and attempted to return westbound across the Potomac to Hallowing Point
 
 A short distance from the Maryland shore, the operator of the vessel encountered heavy seas and the vessel began taking water over the bow. Water began to collect in the stern of the vessel. Operator slowed and ultimately stopped the vessel while his passengers attempted to find something to bail out the boat with. During that time, more water collected in the stern, ultimately capsizing the vessel.
 
 
The six victims clung to the hull of the vessel and used two operable cellphones to call 911 and their parents. After approximately 25 minutes, they were rescued by Fireboat 20 and brought to shore. All victims were transported to Charles Regional Medical Center, where they were treated for hypothermia. Four people were admitted briefly. One subject was also treated for aspirating a small amount of water. Two people were released on arrival. All subjects were ultimately released to their parents.

Operator's vessel was recovered and towed back to the Hallowing Point community boat ramp by Towboat US. I responded to that location and took pictures of the vessel (attached). I observed that the capacity plate had worn to the point that it could not be read; however, using a standard formula, I determined that the maximum capacity of the vessel should have been approximately five people.

 I observed no structural damage to the vessel. The attached Mercury outboard motor and various electronics may be damaged due to submersion.

All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland, and Fairfax County, Virginia


BARDID: MD-2017-0007
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STONEY CREEK - MAIN STEM
NearestCityorTown: PASADENA
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 4th, 2017 at 5:26pm, I responded to a call for a vessel fire at the mouth of Stoney Creek, Pasadena, Maryland  aboard NRP vessel 882.  I found the vessel adrift at White Rocks just outside of Rock Creek.  Baltimore City Fire Board was on scene towing the vessel off of White Rocks.  I came along side the vessel and spoke with the occupants. 
 
The vessel had an adult male, adult female and a juvenile aboard.  All occupants of the vessel stated they had no injuries.  The adult male stated he, his wife and juvenile son left Stoney Creek Marina at 5:00pm.  15 minutes after leaving the marina, the boat was running on plane when wife alerted him there was smoke coming from the motor compartment and smelled like plastic burning. The motor then shut off completely. Operator opened the motor compartment and activated his fire extinguisher. 
 
Shortly after, Cpl. arrived on NRP 141. Cpl. then towed Operator's vessel back to Stoney Creek Marina. Operator stated that he will be taking his vessel to have it repaired
 
 At this time, I am awaiting to hear from Operator on how much the total damage to the vessel will be and whether or not a Boating Accident form has to be completed. The incident resulted in property damage only, no injuries were sustained
 
 
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0008
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WICOMICO RIVER - NANTICOKE HAR
NearestCityorTown: MT VERNON
County: WI - Wicomico
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 21, 2017 I, OFC responded to Nanticoke Harbor in reference to a boating accident that occurred on the Wicomico River, MD
 
 Upon arrival I made contact with the operator of the vessel.  Operator stated that he was underway I his vessel near the mouth of the Wicomico River near Molly's Point when he struck a submerged dredge pipe.  Operator stated that the pipe was just below the surface of the water and not properly marked.  Operator had to be towed in by the company of the dredge pipe due to lower unit damage to his Mercury Outboard. 
 
 Operator will be getting a estimate for the repair of his Mercury Outboard.
 
   I responded to the location of the accident to investigate the unmarked submerged dredge pipe.  The pipe was not marked in anyway and I made contact with the supervisor in charge.  He stated that he was going to properly mark the location of the dredge pipe. 


BARDID: MD-2017-0009
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK CREEK- SOLOMONS YACHTING
NearestCityorTown: SOLOMONS
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 20th, 2017 at approximately 7:34 pm, I, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for a vessel fire in Solomons Harbor.  I arrived on scene at the Solomons Yachting Center at approximately 7:44 pm.  

When I arrived, the burning vessel was in the process of being towed by the Charter Boat “Finfish II” out to the mouth of Back Creek.  The Solomon Island Volunteer Fire Department was on scene and had a fireboat attempting to put out the vessel fire.  No occupants were aboard the vessel and no one was in the water at this time.

As we pulled our boat up to the fuel docks at the Solomons Yachting Center we could see significant fire damage to the pilings, fuel pumps and fueling office.  The small office building had suffered exterior fire damage along the siding and the windows were broken.  

Solomon Islands Volunteer Fire Department was on already on scene and had transported one victim to Medstar Washington Hospital Center in Washington D.C. with burn injuries to both his legs.  

Subject was on the dock speaking with the Marina Owner at the time of the explosion.  

I spoke with the Marina Owner, who gave a witness statement.  Owner stated that he was speaking with Subject when he heard an explosion at the fuel pumps.  After fueling, Victim went outside to start the boat up.  The boat exploded as soon as Victim started the engines.  Subject ran outside and saw his son, Victim in the water.  Owner handed Subject a knife and told him to cut the lines on the boat.  Subject then threw a life jacket to Victim and was able to pull him back onto the dock.  

A charter boat in the area by the name of the Finfish II towed the flaming boat out to the mouth of Back Creek.  Solomon Island Volunteer Fire Department extinguished the flames and the vessel was anchored outside the channel.

The boat was a 1987 Wellcraft Model UK open-air motorboat.  The boat had twin inboard 345 Mercury gas engines.  It was 31'8 in length with a fiberglass haul.  The vessel had three fire extinguishers on board and a fixed halon system, neither of which were used to fight the fire.  Victim had pumped 148.8 gallons of gas and the boat itself holds 180 gallons of gasoline.  

I cleared from the scene at approximately 10:00pm.
Victim and witness statements along with pictures of the damaged fueling dock have been attached to this report.  All events occurred in Calvert County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0010
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MACINTOSH RUN
NearestCityorTown: LEONARDTOWN
County: ST. MARY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 14, 2017 I received a call for service of a reported overturned kayak and person in the water on Macintosh Run in Leonardtown, Md. I responded to the Port of Loenardtown Winery. I arrived on scene and coordinated with the St. Mar's County fire department to attempt to locate the victim. I proceeded into the woods near Macintosh Run along with one St. Mary's County Firefighter. 

We searched Macintosh Run downstream for approx 100 yards until we received word that the victim was located upstream of our location. The victim was transported to the hospital in Leonardtown, Md. for treatment for mild hypothermia. During my interview with the victim she stated that they began their kayak trip around 12:00pm that day and made it approx 2 miles downstream before turning around. About halfway back to the kayak launch point, the victim became physically unable to paddle against the current and the kayak capsized. She was able to get her daughter to the shoreline and she climbed onto a partially sunken tree. She retrieved her phone and called 911 for assistance. She waited there until the fire department located her and provided initial treatment. They then assisted her out of the water to an ambulance that was waiting nearby. After conducting the interview, Officer and I retrieved the 2 kayaks from Macintosh run and I delivered them to the residence of the victim.


BARDID: MD-2017-0011
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: RHODE RIVER-WHITEMARSH CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MAYO
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/15/2017 at approximately 1:17 PM, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a vessel fire in a slip at Holiday Hill Marina in Edgewater, Maryland off of Whitemarsh Creek off the Rhode River. Upon arriving on scene, I observed a cabin motorboat smoldering, being extinguished by the fire department. There was no one on the vessel at this time. Dispatch had already advised that there was 1 occupant on the vessel at the time of the explosion, but that he was able to escape unharmed
 
I spoke with the firefighters upon arrival, who advised that the vessel was completely engulfed in flames upon their arrival, but that it had been completely extinguished at this time. They said the owner told them that there was approximately 5 gallons of fuel on board the vessel at the time of explosion, but that most of it had been contained in the vessel. There were several witnesses standing on land observing the fire. I spoke with one witness, who advised that there had been 2 people there earlier in the day working on the vessel. He said he had left the marina and when returned the vessel was engulfed in flames.


BARDID: MD-2017-0012
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 21, 2017 I, Cpl, received a call to respond to Deep Creek Marina, Mchenry MD in reference to a property damage boat accident.  Met with marina staff who advised me that one of their rental boats was being towed into the marina.  Met with the operator and occupants of the vessel at the marina dock.  

Operator advised he was operating the rental boat, MD 3622 LB, and struck something submersed in the water and became disabled.   Operator had never operated a vessel before and was not familiar with the lake.  Rental staff advised me the vessel was in the area of Lake Shore Dr just west of Stump Pt.  Operator advised he estimated his speed at impact at approximately 10 MPH.  Deep Creek Marina owner hauled out the vessel and inspected the damages.  He estimated the damages at $3000.  Photos were taken of the damages and are attached to the report.   I request this case closed


BARDID: MD-2017-0013
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK CREEK - SOLOMONS HARBOR
NearestCityorTown: SOLOMONS ISLAND
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 16th 2017 I (Officer of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) responded to a boat accident in Solomon's Harbor. Upon arrival I assessed that none of the individuals involved sustained any injuries, but there was significant damage to both vessels. Vessel #1 ( A 37' Sea Ray with registration MD 2630CH) was undocking at the Solomon's Yachting Center headed in a northerly direction. 

Vessel #2 (A 77' Stevens Yacht "Chinta Manis") was heading east through the channel towards open water. Both vessels were traveling under 6 knots. Vessel #1 made contact with Vessel #2 on the starboard side, scratching and denting the hull of the vessel and damaging a port hole. Vessel #1 sustained substantial damage to the bow and bow railing. No injuries reported. 

All events occurred in Calvert County MD, this case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0014
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: FROG MORTAR - MIDDLE RIVER-STR
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLE RIVER
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/18/17 at approximately 1349hrs I was out getting ready to go out on boat patrol in Middle River when a boat came to the pier we share with Baltimore Co Marine Police at Strawberry Point. This vessel was approaching at a high rate of speed and was blowing its horn and its occupants were waving their hands frantically. 

The occupants yelled that they had an unconscious  man on board that they found floating in the water face down next to a jet ski. Myself and the officers from Baltimore County Marine Unit jumped onto the vessel, picked the unconscious man up and placed him on the bow of the boat where it was more flat and open. The victim had occasional agonal respirations and not breathing adequately. In addition, the victim did not have a carotid or radial pulse and therefore we began chest compressions. 

An AED was then brought to the scene a minute or two later from the office and the victims chest was exposed and dried off with a nearby towel. The AED analyzed the heart rhythm and one shock was advised and delivered. After a few more minutes of CPR the victim began to breathe on his own, and move spontaneously. The victim was then placed on a backboard and moved off the bystander vessel and onto the dock. Firefighters and EMS from the Baltimore County Fire Department arrived on scene and took over care. 

We found a wallet on the victim which positively identified him. Before departing for the hospital the victim was following commands and talking. The only noticeable external injuries were that of some swelling to his forehead. The victim was then transported to Johns Hopkins Bayview in Baltimore by Baltimore County Fire/EMS. He was wearing a lifejacket at the time and had his engine cutoff switch still attached to his wrist.

Baltimore County Marine Unit advised that they would handle the investigation of the boat accident. The PWC (2017 Yamaha PWC Maryland registration: MD 6091 CS) was brought to the Strawberry Point dock by another bystander who also was involved in the rescue of the victim. The bystanders stated that they found the victim and PWC just around the bend from our pier on Frog Mortar Creek. Baltimore County Police impounded the PWC at Deckelman Marine Group's facility on Hopkins Creek.

NRP Officer attempted to notify next of kin at residence but was unable to locate anyone. Baltimore County officers located vehicle and trailer at Wilson Point Park later that evening and were able to find a phone number to possible family in the vehicle.

Please see Baltimore County Marine Police report (including NRP-412) for further details and investigative actions which will be uploaded to this RMS report once it becomes available.


All events occurred in Baltimore County and Baltimore City.

It would appear the person impacted the vessel and fell off.  It is assumed excessive speed and unsafe navigation were factors.  He suffered a spinal cord injury.


BARDID: MD-2017-0015
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER DAM #4
NearestCityorTown: WILLIAMSPORT
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 21, 2017, at approximately 1730 hours, Master Officer responded to a boating accident on the Potomac River at Dam #4.  According to a witness, at about 1703 hours two male subjects in a boat went over the dam.  The boat with the subjects fell approximately 20 feet.  The two subjects, (boat owner) and (operator) swam to the shoreline uninjured.  

The boat (2001 Marada MX-3) capsized and became lodged on rocks about 40 yards down from the dam.  The subjects had launched the boat at the Big Slackwater boat ramp 1 mile upstream from the dam.  The river level was normal. Both subjects failed to read the sign located at the ramp warning of a dam downstream.  They also missed 3 warning bouys as they headed toward the dam.  According to Occupant, when Operator noticed the dam he immediately placed the boat motor in reverse.  The boat managed to stop at the crest of the dam momentarily, however the boat's wake pushed the vessel over the edge.  Operator possessed a Boater Safety Card issued in Mississippi.  Both men were not wearing PFD's.  MOff. was not able to obtain any registration information on the boat.  The officer notified the Duty Officer and requested assistance from the NRP Dive Team.  
MOff. issued Operator the following citation
 
 
Operate vessel in prohibited area (within 200 yards of a dam)     $85     $500 max. fine.
 
All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland. 
 
 Alcohol was not a factor in this incident.  Both were not wearing PFD's at the time of the accident.  The wearing of PFD's is not required on the Upper Potomac River at the time of the incident.  


BARDID: MD-2017-0016
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK RIVER MAIN STREAM
NearestCityorTown: SPARROWS POINT
County: BALTIMORE
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/28/17 at approximately 06:45 pm, I, Ofc. was contacted by Sgt. ref. a boat accident at Dock of the Bay.  Sgt. advised that a Baltimore County PD officer was on scene and interviewing the people involved. I activated the emergency lights on my patrol vessel and responded from Stoney Creek, Patapsco River (Anne Arundel Co.)
 
 I arrived on scene at 7:12 pm. I spoke with an officer from Baltimore Co PD. The officer advised that a white, 33ft. SeaRay (MD 5648 BM) vessel hit a white, 31’11”, SeaRay vessel that was tied in a slip. I stepped onboard the vessel that was struck. The only damage that I observed was a bent anchor (see photo). After observing the damage, the Baltimore County officer directed me to the people involved in the accident. The county officer also advised that the striking vessel was not damaged. The officer stated the accident took place at approximately 05:30pm. 
 
 The first person that I spoke to was the owner of the vessel that was struck. V2 owner had a bag of ice on her head. I asked V2 owner if she was injured. She advised that her head hurt. I asked her if she needed to go the hospital. V2 owner declined medical assistance. V2 owner then advised that she was below deck when the vessel was struck she hit her head on the ceiling. She then tried to climb the hatch to observe damage to her boat. V2 owner then stated that her vessel was struck again and she hit her head on the hatch. I asked V2 owner a second time if she wanted to go to a hospital. V2 owner declined to go to the hospital a second time and stated that she was fine. At this time Officer arrived on scene. 
 
 I then spoke with the owner/operator of the striking vessel. Operator1 advised that he and the passengers on his boat were not injured. Operator1 showed me his vessel. Operator1 advised that he reserved a slip at Dock of the Bay. He was then advised that his slip was accidentally given to another vessel. Operator1 turned his vessel around and set his vessel to neutral while looking for somewhere to dock his vessel. During that time, a gust of wind came and his boat drifted into the anchor of V2 owner’s boat. Operator1 advised that two people was on the stern of the boat trying to fend off while the boat was drifting towards V2 owner’s boat. The railing on the center/starboard side of boat1 was caught in the anchor of V2 owner’s boat. There was no damage to Operator1’s vessel. 
 
 I then asked V2 owner a third time if she required medical assistance. V2 owner declined assistance. I then explained to V2 owner that this incident would not be a reportable accident because the damage done to her vessel was less than $2000 and there were no serious injuries. It was at this time that V2 owner requested to go to a hospital. At approximately 07:30 pm, I contacted DNR Communications requesting Baltimore County Fire Department to take V2 owner to the hospital. At approximately 07:38 pm, Baltimore County Fire Department advised that they were en route. 
 
 While waiting for the fire department to arrive I spoke with staff of Dock of the Bay. One of the managers advised that there is a video of the incident. Officer and I observed the tape. The video appears to corroborate Operator1's account of the incident. I will make further attempts to get a copy of the video. 

At approximately 08:00 pm, Baltimore County Fire Department arrived on scene. They advised that owner v2 would be taken to Bayview Hospital. At approximately 08:13 pm, all officers were clear from the scene
 
 It has been determined that there will be no charges against Operator1. This was determined by the low rate of speed of his vessel and the fact that two of his passengers attempted to fend off the boat in an attempt to prevent serious damage. 
 
 I spoke with V2 owner on 5/29/17 at approximately 03:30 pm. She advised that she was released from Bayview at approximately 01:00 pm. She said that she suffered a concussion but there was no bleeding on her brain. 
 
 I recommend that this case be closed. All events occurred in Baltimore County.
 
 
 
 
 


BARDID: MD-2017-0017
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BATTLE CREEK
NearestCityorTown: PRINCE FREDERICK
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday June 4th, 2017 at 01:14 PM Ofcs. were conducting boat patrol on vessel 874 in Hungerford creek on the Patuxent river when we received notification of a boat fire. Communications advised that a 24 foot Baja was on fire in Battle creek off of the Patuxent river. The operator was off of the boat and accounted for. Ofc. and I arrived on scene at 01:33 PM. Just into Battle creek we saw a beach with multiple boats on shore and a large group of people. Just across the cove was a red baja fully engulfed in flames. It had drifted across and came to rest on the shoreline. We made contact with a good Samaritan on a jet ski who brought the operator, out to our patrol vessel so we could interview him (please see attachments for written statement).
 
 Operator1 told us that he had the boat beached on the shore of Battle creek for most of the day. He had just been pushed back into the water by his cousin, so he could go pick up some friends from the Saint Mary's shore. The boat started without any problems but when he attempted to put it in gear he heard an explosion and turned around to see the engine hatch had blown open and flames were coming out of the engine compartment. Operator1 was able to get off of the boat without injury. A person operating a jet ski and another person operating a boat used their wakes to push the burning boat away from shore and attempted to extinguish the flames. The burning boat came to rest on the opposite shoreline. Operator1 did acknowledge that he had been consuming alcohol prior to the incident. He was coherent, was able to get from the jet ski onto our vessel without problem, and there was no smell of alcoholic beverages emitting from him. Because of these observations and the fact that consumption of alcohol was not an apparent contributing factor to the boat fire I did not conduct any field sobriety tests.
 
 At approximately 01:45 PM the Calvert County Fire Department arrived on seen by shore and attempted to put the fire out. It wasn't until approximately 01:50 PM that the Calvert County Fire Boat arrived and was able to put out the boat fire. At 02:30 PM I interviewed Aunt, and received a written statement from her (please see attachments). I also interviewed Operator1's cousin, at 02:35 PM (please see attachments). Both witnessed the explosion and their statements corroborated Operator1's statements.
 
 Ofc and I obtained what little boat information that was available, and pictures of the boat on scene. A boat accident report has been completed (please see attachments). As of 11:22 AM on Monday June 5th 2017 the hull of the boat has been removed from the shoreline of Battle creek. There are no charges pending. This incident is closed. All events occurred in Calvert County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0018
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BACK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
  On June 13, 2017 at approximately 1030 hours, I Off were on boat patrol in the Severn River. We were notified by DNR Communications of a vessel accident in Back Creek at Watergate Pointe Marina at G-Dock slip 17. We were advised that a sailboat had struck another vessel and had left the scene. We were provided with a description of the striking vessel, white sail boat displaying MD Registration 7785BP and towing a yellow dingy. When we arrived on scene we met with subject who advised us that he tried to confront the other boater as he left the scene, and he believes he was intoxicated
 
 DNR Communications advised us that the striking vessel was seen at Annapolis City Marina. Cpl. and I left back creek and proceeded to Annapolis City Marina to find the Striking Vessel. When we arrived we did not see the vessel in question. We stopped at the Marina to ask the personnel if they had seen a vessel matching the description. The Marina manager said “yes he just left about 10 minutes ago and he said he was going to return to back creek”.
 
 Cpl. and I returned to Back Creek and noticed a sailboat trying to anchor. We approached the vessel because it matched the description that we were given. 

We made contact with the vessel owner. We asked Operator2 was he involved in any collisions and he replied “no I was not”. Operator2 stated that his sailboat was dragging anchor while he was at work but he is unaware of it striking another vessel. Operator2 provided me with his identification, vessel registration, and proof of insurance. Operator2 was advised that there were photos taken of his vessel striking Vessel1.
 
 Cpl. boarded Operator2 vessel in search of any evidence to support v1’s allegations of him being intoxicated. There was an open bottle of an alcoholic beverage on the seat in the stern. Cpl. ask Operator2 how much alcohol has he consumed today, Operator2 responded “I took 3 shots in 15 minutes”.

Operator2 was instructed to drop his anchor and not to operate his vessel if he was going to keep consuming alcohol. Operator2 agreed to drop his anchor.
 
 Cpl. and I believe that Operator2 was under the influence of alcohol; however we did not see him operate his vessel so we could not charge him.
 
 No one was charged in this case. 
 


BARDID: MD-2017-0019
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERRING BAY
NearestCityorTown: DEALE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05-20-2017 at approximately 1530 hours, this officer, Ofc. was in transit to on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge when I heard NRP dispatch a vessel in distress call in Herring Bay. Sgt. were already enroute, however, I notified Sgt. that I was available to help. I boarded NRP 873 out of Sandy Point State Park and started to head South to Herring Bay. Communication was unclear at the time on the exact location of the vessel. While enroute in the patrol vessel, I was advised that the vessel in distress was located and all persons were accounted for. I returned to Sandy Point State Park on NRP 873.

    I was then advised by dispatch that the vessel was located in a marshy area somewhere between Herrington Harbour North and Deale Beach Road. After searching for approximately an hour, this officer located the vessel, Maryland Registatration MD 8263 BV, named Legally Blonde, at the water front property. The property owner took me to the vessel and this officer took pictures which are attached to the report. Subject advised that the operator was a young lady and she would be returning later in the evening to salvage the vessel. Subject had no further information but did advise this officer that she was alone on the vessel and did not seem impaired.

    This officer then drove to locate the registered owner of MD 8263 BV. Upon arrival, this officer was notified by the residence that she no longer lived there but they had her phone number. I contacted her via phone and she advised that she was the owner of ''Legally Blonde'' and let Operator operate the vessel. Owner advised this officer of Operator's phone number and I immediately contacted Operator via phone. Operator advised that she was on the way back to meet Tow Boat US at high tide to get the vessel off the sand bar.

    I met Operator at approximately 2100 hours and had her complete a written statement which is attached to the report. I left Operator with this officers business card and the NRP report number and advised her I would be following up.

   On 05-22-2017 at approximately 1300 hours, this officer was notified by Owner that the vessel had been safely towed to Tri-State Marina in Deale, Maryland and I was given the insurance information. At approximately 1600 hours, I located the vessel at Tri State Marina and took pictures which are attached to the report. a service writer at Tri State advised me that the vessel in his opinion was a total loss. The boat plug was located in the hull, however, the scum line seemed to be above the scuppers (pictures attached).
 
 
All Occurred in Anne Arundel County. The vessel had engine trouble and drifted into shore. The tide went out before the engine was fixed and the vessel was stuck in the sand. Operator was OK and vessel was removed couple days later.


BARDID: MD-2017-0020
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:01:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: MALLOWS BAY
NearestCityorTown: NANJEMOY
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/27/2017 at approximately 0900hr, I, Ofc. with MD Natural Resources Police responded to the report of a canoe overturned in Mallow's Bay. According to reports from dispatch there were two subjects on the canoe when it flipped over, a male subject and female subject. It was reported by dispatch that the female subject was wearing a life jacket and the male subject was not. Dispatch also stated that CPR was in progress on the male subject at Mallow's Bay Park where both subjects were taken in to. 
 
Upon arrival to Mallow's Bay Park, Off. and I made contact with the female subject and family who were on scene. Subject1 stated that she was sitting in the front of the canoe and her son Subject2 was seated behind her. While she was taking pictures she suddenly felt shaking in the canoe and it then flipped over. When Subject1 looked around for her son in the water, she noticed him about 10ft away, facedown in the water. Subject1 stated that at no time did Subject2. move or attempt to swim at any point after the canoe flipped over. 

 During this time father who was on shore looking through binoculars noticed that their canoe was overturned and could not see either of them in the water. Father quickly yelled to a subject who was kayaking near by and asked him to help. Upon good sam’s arrival to the subjects in the water he noticed a female subject with her life jacket on and a male subject facedown, unresponsive with no life jacket. Due to stability on the kayak he was unable to flip the subject over. He then called 911 on his cell phone to advise of the accident. During this time a nearby vessel was able to be flagged down and came to their assistance. The owner on the vessel pulled both subjects from the water and took them to shore at Mallow's Bay Park. 
 
 Subject1 refused treatment from EMS, and CPR had begun on Subject2
 
 During this time the vessel went back out to remove the canoe from the water. The canoe was released to Father onscene.
 
 
Subject2 was taken to Charles Regional Hospital in LaPlata, MD where he was later pronounced dead at 1101hrs. 
 
 All events occurred in Charles County, MD


BARDID: MD-2017-0021
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MOUTH OF HERRING CREEK
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 12th, 2017 at 1949 hours, I, Officer First Class Colón of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Paradise Watersports in regards to a Personal Water Craft (PWC) accident.  When I arrived on scene, I met with the General Manager of Paradise Watersports.  He explained that two of his rented PWC's were involved in an accident.  There were no injuries and the parties were still on scene.  

According to Paradise Watersports, the PWC rental left at 1720 tour and the incident occurred at approximately 1800 hours.  There were three PWC guides with the rental group.  Each guide provided a written statement of the events.  The manager showed me the damage to the PWC's, which were numbered and showed who they were assigned to during that rental period.  They also provided all documentation in regards to rental agreements, liability statements and boating safety testing.  

Rental PWC #6, MD 7618 DA, was assigned to Operator2. PWC #6 had damage to the front hood.  The hood had damaged plastic components and paint transfer/scuff marks to the port side bow.  

Rental PWC #26, MD 7602 DA, was assigned to Operator1.  PWC #26 had significant fiberglass damage to the starboard side of the hull on the bow and stern.  There was also damage to the plastic components at the stern.

According to the statements given by the guides, Operator1, who was operating PWC #26, struck Operator2's PWC #6 head on.  Operator1's starboard bow went up onto the starboard hood of Operator2's ski.  When the vessels collided, Operator2 was ejected from the ski and landed in the water.  The guide stated that Operator2 informed him that he had no injuries.  The guides stated that both PWC's were travelling fast and within 100' of each other.  The guides proceeded to take the keys from the jet skis and ended the tour.  

The PWC's were out of the water and on the floating PWC docks.  Photos were taken of the damage that was observed at that time.  Mangaer stated that they would do a full assessment of the damage with the business owner to get a full estimate.  The damage was estimated to be in excess of $4,000. 

After reviewing the statements and observing the damage to the skis, the damage is consistent with what the guides witnessed. 

I spoke with Operator1 and Operator2.  I offered for them to give a written statement in regards to the events that occurred.  Both subjects refused to give a statement and stated that they want to proceed with legal counsel.  They also stated that they would not pay for the damage to the PWC's.  I informed them that charges would be pending for the case and that Paradise Watersports can pursue the cost of damages through civil court. 

All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0022
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAVAGE RIVER RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: BLOOMINGTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
  On 06/07/2017, I and Master Officer were notified by DNR Communications of a medical emergency at Savage River reservoir  at the Dry Run boat ramp. We responded to the area and met the witness. He said a man in a boat was coming toward shore, and somehow fell overboard at approximately 1:20 P.M.. The man got back to his boat side, and both made it to shore. About 10 minutes later, Witness was heading toward his vehicle, when he noticed that Subject was having medical difficulties. Witness sent his wife to contact 911. The 911 center dispatched Tri-Towns Ambulance and Bloomington VFD to the scene to assist. See attached statement from Witness.

   Officer was sent to Western Maryland Health System hospital at Cumberland, MD, to interview Subject, who was transported by ambulance. Subject said he was fishing alone on Savage River reservoir by boat. As Subject approached the boat ramp, he decided to lift his trolling motor up. When he did so, he lost his balance and fell into the water. Subject was not wearing a PFD, but made it to boat side, and swam himself and the boat to shore. There, Subject had shortness of breath. This is when Witness checked on him. Subject mentioned being cold, plus having diabetic and heart issues. Subject was not injured, but was being kept overnight at the hospital for observation.

   Further information is on the attached Watercraft Accident Report.


BARDID: MD-2017-0023
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 17, 2017 at approximately 6:30PM, I (Sgt.) was dispatched to Atlantic General Hospital for a report of a subject injured as a result of a boating accident. Cpl. was in the area and responded to the hospital to meet with the victim.
 
Cpl. met with a subject who advised that she was a passenger onboard a personal watercraft (PWC). She was a rear facing passenger on the PWC. As they were accelerating in the Assawoman Bay she was no longer able to hold on. She then fell overboard striking the PWC with her jaw area. The collision caused significant swelling and minor bleeding to her mouth. She estimated that operator was traveling east at approximately 20 knots.

Cpl. spoke with several witnesses who gave similar accounts. All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0024
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH RIVER - CAMP WABANNA
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWATER
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/16/2017 at 4:09 PM, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a boat accident involving a tuber at Camp Wabanna located at 101 Likes Road; Edgewater, Maryland 21037. I arrived at the camp at 4:39 PM and met with EMS that was on already scene. EMS advised that a female had already been transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center as a precaution after falling off of a tube. EMS as well as several witnesses said that the female, hereinafter referred to as Victim, was conscious and alert. I then met with camp staff and those involved in the incident at the camp office.

 The others involved/camp staff had a de-brief, in which they discussed the details of the event, as well as all wrote statements on their involvement. All stated that operator was operating the vessel, a 20-foot Ski Centurion bearing Maryland registration 4146 BU with one spotter. 

Operator1 was towing two (2) individuals. Tuber1 said that Victim was fatigued from having fallen off the tube two (2) times prior and getting back on and that she said she was sorry but had to let go of the tube. Tuber1 said they are instructed to make an "O" shape with their arms when they fall off the tube and that Victim had made an "O" the first two times, but not the third time. 

When Victim hit the water, she remained face down. Several attempts to make contact were unsuccessful and then Victim flailed and turned herself over on her back, but still was not responding to the others yelling. Operator1 operated the vessel back to Victim and him and Spotter pulled Victim into the vessel. They radioed the others for an emergency. The other vessel used by the camp brought two lifeguards over to the boat. The lifeguards got onto the other boat and confirmed that Victim was breathing and had a pulse. 

They advised they tried talking to her, but that she did not respond, but continued to cough. Spotter operated the boat back to the pier, where they were met by their instructor who said that Victim was conscious, breathing, and responding to questions. She said she asked Victim if anything hurt, she replied no and if she could sit up and she did. EMS arrived on scene and took over care. Victim was transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center Pediatrics by EMS as a precaution.

 All witnesses recall the same events, see attached witness statements.

Victim advised that she was released from the hospital last night with no injuries and that she felt fine. Victim said that she was fatigued from tubing and that she left go of the tube. When she hit the water she inhaled some water and then realized she was face down and felt her chest tighten, so flailed onto her back. She does not remember being pulled onto the boat, just that she was then laying in the boat with everyone around her.
 
  It was noted that the vessel was displaying expired registration at the time of the accident. The registration is valid through 12/31/2018 and the sticker was replaced prior to me leaving the scene
 
  No charges will be filed for this incident.
All events occurred and took place in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0025
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BEACH
NearestCityorTown: CHESAPEAKE BEACH
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
  On June 18, 2017 at approximately 2:40 PM, I, received a call from DNR Communication Center about a jet ski accident involving one subject on the Chesapeake Bay near Chesapeake Beach, MD. Before I arrived, DNR advised that the MSP aviation was enroute to transport the subject to Prince George's County Hospital Center for further evaluation. I arrived on scene around 3:00 PM where North Beach Fire and Rescue had the subject in their care. MSP aviation was arriving at the same time as myself. I spoke with one of the North Beach Medics, and he advised that the subject was a black adult male with possible fractured right hip and swelling in the lower pelvic area. 
 
 As the subject was being loaded into the helicopter, I spoke with three witnesses of the accident. All three witnesses shared the same incident of the accident. They advised that they were friends with the victim. Around 12:00 PM that day, they had rented a pontoon boat and a jet ski for the day that launched out of Fishing Creek at Chesapeake Beach, MD. 

Operator was operating the ski at full throttle, until he took a bad wake and slammed his lower body onto the jet ski handlebars. All three witnesses said that Operator looked like he was unconscious on the jet ski. They then, rode the pontoon boat to Operator and put him on the pontoon and drove him back to the rental place in Chesapeake Beach. All three witnesses agreed to fill out at voluntary witness form. Operator was sent to Prince Georges County Hospital Center. I then collected the witness statements from the three witnesses and sent them on their way. I then took a look at the jet ski (Registration: MD 3248 LB). It was a red and white seadoo, and appeared to have no damage to it. I did a full safety inspection on it and found that it had all of the required equipment on board. I then left the scene around 4:00 PM. 


We went to Prince Georges County Hospital Center to speak with Operator. Operator advised that it was his first time operating a boat, but he did take the quick certification test at the rental place before operating the jet ski. He was running the jet ski at full throttle into the waves. He advised he was bracing himself too hard into the waves, when his foot slipped off the side of the jet ski. This resulted in him spraining or bruising his right leg, trying to keep himself on the jet ski. 

All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0026
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: TANGLE WOOD COURT
NearestCityorTown: ELLICOTT CITY
County: HO - Howard
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday June 15, 2017 at approximately 3:30 PM, I, Ofc. was contacted by Lt. and asked to investigate a fatal canoe accident that occurred on Monday June 12, 2017 at approximately 5:00 AM. Lt. advised me that he had received a copy of a Baltimore Sun news article from Capt. regarding the incident and forwarded that news article to me.
 
 The Baltimore Sun article stated Subject and a friend were canoeing when the canoe tipped over. Subject was transported to Howard County General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on Tuesday June 13, 2017. The incident was investigated by Howard County Police
 
 I attempted to contact County Detectives several times to request a copy of their report and was eventually directed to contact their records division.

 On Monday June 19, 2017 at about 2:30 PM, I faxed a request for a copy of Howard County Police Report #17-57133 to the Howard County Police Records Division. At approximately 4:50 PM, I received a call from Det. of the Howard County Police Dept. Det. was able to give me the following information:
 
 On Monday June 12, 2017 at about 4:00 AM, the victim, Subject and another male subject decided to take an old canoe out on a small local pond. Det. told me that the other subject had stated that before going on the canoe he and Subject had been drinking and using marijuana. Det. told me that at some point the canoe overturned and the two subjects attempted to swim back to the shore. Subject was not able to make it back to shore. The other subject ran to a house and called for help.
 
 Det. told me that the pond was about 10-12 feet deep in the center, the canoe was 17' 6" long and there was no lifejackets on board. Det. also told me they were unable to locate a Hull ID on the boat. 
 
Det. stated I could get a copy of the report after its complete, he's waiting on the autopsy report from the medical examiner.
 

 All Events Occurred in Howard County
 


BARDID: MD-2017-0027
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of June 24, 2017 around 1525 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on patrol in the area of the Commercial Harbor for a Joint Enforcement Agreement patrol.  We received a text alert through Ocean City Communications of a Personal Water Craft that was on fire in the area of the Atlantic Ocean and 1st street. We responded with emergency lights and sirens to the area and noticed United States Coast Guard to be on scene as well. We noticed two jet skis, one was on fire and one was occupied by two people. We asked the PWC with two males on it if there was any one else involved and they said there was not. 

Operator1 told us that he was driving the PWC when he began to feel the seat getting very hot. He then noticed brown smoke coming out of it and the hatch to the front compartment was hot to the touch. Operator1 then boarded another PWC and gave distance between the two PWC's. Soon after, the PWC was engulfed in flames and that's when Coast Guard was arriving on scene.

 The remaining fuel was burned off within a few minutes and the PWC turned upside down. Boat US was called and pulled the boat to the boat ramp in West Ocean City. I had Operator1 follow our vessel to the boat ramp and received all the information on the incident. I did not find Operator1 to be in any sort of violation for the incident. Both subjects were wearing required personal floatation devices and had all required equipment on board. Operator1, the owner of both PWC's, estimated the damages to be about $3,000 and a total loss to the PWC that caught fire. 
 
  All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0028
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OAK CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ST. MICHAELS
County: TA - Talbot
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 22, 2017, I, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received word that Talbot County was dispatching an ambulance to the Oak Creek boat ramp on St. Michaels Road in reference to a subject injured on a jet ski. DNR communications confirmed that the victim was a 44 year old female, and that she was being transported to Easton Memorial Hospital
 
I arrived at Easton Memorial at approximately 2008 hours and met with hospital staff who advised the victim was in extreme pain, and bleeding from the vaginal area. They further advised that they are unsure of her condition, and that I could make contact with her after she had gotten a CT scan. Ambulance staff said they believe the victim was withholding information, and wouldn’t give any details as to whose jet ski she was on.
 
 I spoke with the victim, who advised she was on the back of a friend/coworkers pwc, and suddenly “flew off” the back of it and got injured. She said they went out on the ski at approximately 1215 hours in the area of St. Michaels, but was unfamiliar with the area, and couldn’t advise the body of water. 

Victim stated that she had been wearing a lifejacket, and that he had some experience with jet skis-as she had been on one several times last summer. She said she believed they were going full throttle when she fell off the back of the ski, but doesn’t remember her friend making any evasive moves or turns-she just remembers falling off and flipping “end-over-end” in the water. I asked Victim if there had been any other boats around them, and she said there was a small fishing boat-who eventually pulled her from the water, as her injuries prohibited her from getting back on to the pwc. 

 I asked Victim if she had been drinking prior to the incident, and she admitted that she had. In the course of interviewing Victim she advised she did not want to reveal the name of the coworker/friend who had been operating the pwc because she didn’t want them to get into any trouble. I asked why she thought this person would get in trouble and she wouldn’t answer. I again asked her what her coworker’s name was and she provided a name. Victim said she lost all her belongings when she flipped in the water-to include her house keys, and other personal items. I asked her who called 911, and she said it was her daughter. I asked Victim as to the extent of her injuries, and she said she was bleeding from her vaginal area-despite not having a period in 10 years, and she was also feeling extreme pain in her leg, back, and tailbone areas. 
 
  All above events occurred in Talbot County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0029
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEVERN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/24/17 at approximately 4:46 P.M. I, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for a vessel accident that occurred at the mouth of the Severn River between two sailboats. I contacted the two individuals involved in the accident to ensure there were no personal injuries. 

Both Operator1 and Operator2 advised that there were no injuries just damage to both sailboats. Operator1 stated that he was taking his sailboat back to Osprey Marina in Rock Hall to assess the damage and Operator2 stated that his sailboat was being taken to Whitehall Marina. Once I confirmed that no injuries were sustained I advised both Operator1 and Operator2 that I would meet up with them in the coming days to gather statements and complete a boat accident report. 
 
 
On 06/25/17 at around 9:00 A.M. I met with Operator1 and his nephew to get their statements and to take pictures of Operator1's sailboat. Operator1 stated that on 06/24/17 at around 4:00 P.M. he and V1 nephew were sailing aboard his 42' Sabre sailboat on a port tack heading towards the mouth of the Severn River. Operator1 advised that the boat was leaning on its starboard side and both his and V1 nephew's view towards the starboard side of their vessel was restricted due to the sails. V1 nephew stated that they were doing about 7 knots when he heard a faint voice yelling in the distance. V1 nephew stated that the yelling got progressively louder until they felt impact on the starboard side of their vessel. Operator1 and V1 nephew observed Operator2 standing on the bow of his vessel yelling for them to untangle his anchor from their rigging. Operator1 stated that the bow of Operator2's vessel struck the starboard side of his vessel approximately 4-6 feet from the stern. Operator1 stated that most of the damage was caused by Operator2's anchor getting caught in the life lines and pulled down several of the starboard rail stanchions. There was also damage to the bimini as well as the stern rail. V1 nephew was able to untangle the anchor and free themselves of Operator2's vessel. Operator1 advised that both parties were able to exchange information and Operator1 used auxiliary engine power to return back to Osprey Marina in Rock Hall where Haven Harbor Marina will be making the repairs. Operator1 stated that Operator2 was a novice sailor  and that he was on a "beam reach" with 15-20 knots of wind but was not able to maneuver his vessel or fall off to avoid impact. Operator1 further stated that Operator2's sails were full during impact. 
 
On 06/25/17 at approximately 12:30 P.M. I met with Operator2 to get his statement and to take pictures of his sailboat. Operator2 stated that around 4:00 P.M. he was sailing south towards the mouth of the Severn River aboard his 27' Bayliner Marine sailboat when he observed Operator1's 42' sailboat about 200-300 feet to his port side. Operator2 noticed that Operator1 could not see him because he observed that Operator1's vessel was not altering its course and further observed that Operator1's sails were to the starboard side of the vessel and the vessel was leaning approximately 35 degrees under sail. Operator2 estimated that Operator1's vessel was travelling at around 8-9 knots. Operator2 stated that he was continuing south at around 2-3 knots when he observed that Operator1's vessel was now around 150-200 feet off of his port side. It was at this time that Operator2 sounded his air horn twice and yelled at Operator1 to turn to his port as loud as he could. Despite Operator2's efforts with the air horn and his yelling, Operator1's vessel did not alter its course. Operator2 tried his best to turn but his vessel has no keel and he stated impact was inevitable. Operator2 stated that the bow of his vessel struck with little force to the starboard side of Operator1's vessel. Operator2 stated that his anchor got caught in the rigging of Operator1's vessel and yanked his vessel around. When this happened, it ripped Operator1's canopy off. Operator2 stated that after the incident, he signaled to Operator1 to communicate over VHF radio. Operator2 stated that Operator1 didn't have his VHF radio on until after the incident. Operator2 stated that he exchanged his information to Operator1 over the radio and Operator1 seemed very agitated. Once Operator2's vessel was clear and information was exchanged, Operator2 took his vessel back to Whitehall Marina in Whitehall Creek. 
 
At the time of the accident both vessels were under sail. The accident resulted in property damage only no injuries were sustained. At this time no charges have been filed and the investigation is still ongoing. All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0030
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESAPEAKE BAY
NearestCityorTown: STEVENSVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 18, 2017 at approximately 1035 hours a mayday call came over the emergency VHF radio for a vessel in distress. The distress call came through as a sailboat, 19’ 8” Searay MD 6147 BZ, taking on water at the mouth of the Chester River, north of Love Point. I was notified and activated my emergency equipment in my vehicle and started in route to the Kent Narrows to get onto a vessel. 

At approximately 1105 hours, I arrived in the area of Love Point; Off. Grasonville Fire Department, and the Coast Guard were in the area as well. Coast Guard then located the capsized sailboat with only the bow of the vessel out of the water. We then located a nearby vessel, which was anchored near the capsized sailboat, which gathered the three victims out of the water. Due to the rough sea state, I asked the Captain of the vessel carrying the three victims to meet me at the North Point Marina in Rock Hall, Kent County.
 
 After arriving at the North Point Marina the Coast Guard and I made contact with the good Samaritan, and the victims and received their information. While talking to the victims, I gathered that Operator was the operator and owner of the sunken vessel and Subject1 and Subject2 were going along for a fishing trip. After leaving at approximately 0830 hours from Little Creek Public Landing, they went through the Kent Narrows and began fishing in the mouth of the Chester River about 1000 hours. According to Subject2, while attempting to set anchor it seemed as if it was not setting correctly or reaching the bottom. 

A few minutes later, they set the anchor and began fishing. After setting the fishing lines they were drifting so Subject2 brought up the anchor. While Subject2 was bringing up the anchor, waves started coming over the bow. By the time the anchor was pulled in, the boat had taken on a lot of water. The waves kept coming over the bow of the sailboat causing the sailboat to capsize. As the boat was going under Subject1 received a personal flotation device, from Operator. At this time, Subject1 and Subject2 and Operator were in the water. Shortly after three people on another recreational fishing boat, NJ 8720 GZ came over to the victims and helped them into his boat, where we found them. 
 
 After interviewing the victims Operator had arranged a ride for them to be transported back to the vehicle from North Point Marina.
 
The vessel was taken out of the water by Tow Boat US and damage is to be determined.
 
 According to subject he advised that the 19’8” Searay, which displayed MD 6147 BZ, was valued at $17592.00
 
 
Subject1 and Subject2  and operator were not injured and did not receive any medical treatment.
 
 Photographs of the above sunken vessel are attached to report.
 
 
Vessel in distress occurred in Queen Anne County and the victims were interview occurred in Kent County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0031
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MAGOTHY RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ARNOLD
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
   On June 21st, 2017, at 7:30pm Officer and I responded to a call for a vessel in distress on the Magothy River near buoy marker number 7.  We arrived at Magothy Marina and boarded NRP 850 to respond to the call on water. 

We arrived to the scene of the accident were good Samaritans were already assisting in turning over the capsized vessel.  A good Samaritan also informed us that a person aboard the capsized vessel that suffered a head injury. The victim was just taken by another good Samaritan to Magothy Marina to meet an ambulance.  We headed back to Magothy Marina to meet with Victim.  Anne Arundel advised that they would be transporting Victim to Shock Trauma for evaluation.  Officer began to follow the ambulance Shock Trauma.  He later was cleared by Sgt. after securing a good phone number for Victim

 I returned to the scene of the vessel accident to check on the status of the vessel and the other occupants.  The other two occupants advised they were ok.  The vessel was towed to its slip at Ferry Point Marina in by a good Samaritan.  Officer arrived at Ferry Point Marina to assist.  After arriving at Ferry Point Marina, the vessel was secured.  The vessel is part of the Magothy River Sailing Association and is lent out to other members in the association.

Operator and Occupant completed witness statement forms, which I have attached in my report.  Operator told me that the accident occurred due to the wind shifting and trying to avoid collision with another sail boat.  He stated that the vessel then pitch poled, where the bows dig in and the vessel capsizes rolling forward.  I have attached a drawing completed by Operator on the back of his witness statement.  Operator advised that he is going to inspect the vessel and have a quote completed for any possible damage. Officer is going to is going to follow up with Victim and have him complete a witness statement form if he is able.  

 On June 27th, 2017 at 9:30AM, I spoke to Operator on the phone.  I wanted to see if he had a chance to estimate the amount of damage to the vessel.  Operator stated that he has been sailing since he was 14 years old.  He said in his experience, when a boat pitch poles, as the vessel did, the mast digs into the mud and can possibly be bent.  Operator also mentioned that electronic components and gear that were onboard, were either missing or not working.  Operator estimated the damage of the vessel somewhere between 10,000 to 15,000 dollars


Operator has contact with the insurance company, Boat US / Geico.  They are in the process of getting an estimate of the damage by a professional.  At this time my investigation is complete.  If a estimate is completed, I will create a supplement report and update the required information.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0032
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN ACRES
NearestCityorTown: EARLEVILLE
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, June 30, 2017 at approximately 1600hours I, Ofc received a call of a boat accident in Cecil County. I was informed that it happened around 1430hours and that the victim was being transported by air to Shock Trauma in Baltimore City.

 On Friday, June 30, 2017, at approximately 1428hours, Subject was underway on the Sassafras River in Cecil County. His vessel is described as a 2003 20' Princecraft Vantage pontoon boat bearing Maryland registration of 5638 BP. Subject explained that his vessel lost all power and a good Samaritan with a jet ski towed him into boat pier “T” at Indian Acres Campground located at 645 Knight Island Rd, Earleville, MD 21919. While Subject was preparing to dock his vessel, a gust of wind approximately 15 mph, picked up and pushed his boat into a nearby docked speedboat. To stop any impact, Subject put out his left leg. He made contact with only the swim platform of the other vessel. 
 
Subject was airlifted to Shock Trauma and was treated for a non-life threatening leg fracture.
 
I spoke with witness, who stated that the pontoon boat being towed by a jet ski and was approaching the dock at a high rate of speed and an “awkward angle.” Subject attempted to fend off a docked vessel with his left leg. She then called 911.
 
All events occurred in Cecil County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0033
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERRING CREEK OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 22, 2017, writer was dispatched to Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, MD regarding meeting with a victim of a boating accident. Upon arrival, writer met with victim and subject1. Victim was being treated for hip and rib injuries. Subject1 was the operator of the PWC the Victim had been riding on when she was injured. Both subjects related the following events surrounding the accident. They had rented the PWC from Paradise Parasail LLC. After receiving the appropriate training they proceeded with the group to the riding area. 

Once there they began their ride. Victim was the operator with Subject1 seated directly behind her on the same PWC. Suddenly a PWC came from the left and struck their PWC and victim. The impact injured her left thigh area and ribs. Once they were ashore, they went to Atlantic General Hospital so that Victim could receive treatment. Both subjects said they had not seen the PWC until immediately prior to impact. They had no idea where it had come from or why it had struck their PWC. Both individuals indicate they had been traveling straight prior to the impact.
 
After leaving the hospital writer was able to make contact with operator of the second vessel. She related that she had been operating her PWC with her passenger seated behind her. As they were traveling, Victim's PWC passed them and then suddenly turned directly in front of them. She did not have enough time to avoid colliding with the other PWC and struck it toward the rear of the craft. She stated she checked with the occupants of the other PWC and they seemed to be ok. They apologized for cutting in front of her.
 
 Writer checked the PWC Victim had been operating and verified that there was in fact impact damage  on the port side gunwale toward the rear. Writer was unable to locate anyone who had witnessed the accident. The PWC guides on the trip did not witness the actual impact and therefore could not verify either story as to how the accident had happened. Both versions are possible. There is nothing that can prove or disprove either version.
 
There is therefore not enough evidence to charge either operator or determine beyond any shadow of a doubt who was at fault in this accident. No charges were placed against either operator.
  
 Nothing further this case is closed at this time.


BARDID: MD-2017-0034
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER MATTAWOMAN
NearestCityorTown: MARBURY
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 24, 2017; I, OFC of Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to a vessel taking on water in Mattawoman Creek. Dispatch advised that Charles County Fire Department Units were responding to the mouth of Mattawoman Creek for a bass boat taking on water with two (2) subjects on board. 

I responded to Smallwood State Park and made contact with the Fire Department personnel, who had made contact with the vessel and both operators. One operator had already been transported to Smallwood State Park to be evaluated by EMS. The second operator was still located on the fire boat near the vessel. Both operators were wearing life jackets at the vessel began taking on water. The vessel was displaying State of Virginia registration 9372 AX. A computer check revealed that the vessel is a 2001 20 foot Champion bass boat, owned by operator. 

When speaking to Operator, he advised that while fishing, the vessel was drifting and suddenly became stuck on debris and/or rocks causing the vessel to be wedged. Operator stated, that they attempted to back the vessel off of the debris/rocks, which was unsuccessful.  Operator then exited the vessel and attempted to physically push the vessel off of the debris/rocks. During this time, due to the strong winds and rough waters, the waves began to crash over the rear of the vessel causing the vessel to become partially submerged and the engine to cut off. 

 When I spoke with occupant, he confirmed Operators story. While they were fishing, the boat was drifting and became stuck on debris/rocks and they were unable to move the vessel. He advised, they were in approximately 2-3 feet of water at the time of the incident.

The weather conditions on June 24, 2017; according to United States Coast Guard St. Inigoes station (USCG) advised there to be a small craft advisory in effect, strong winds with approximately 20kt winds, and 1-2 foot waves.  

Both refused medical care and stated they were not injured during the accident. Operator made contact with commercial tow assistance to have the vessel removed. 

All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0035
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/24/17 at approximately 1415 hours Operator1 was anchored on a rental pontoon boat in cherry Creek Cove on Deep Creek Lake.  Operator1's boat was tied up to another pontoon boat also at anchor.  Operator1 was attempting to cross from one boat to another when a wake lifted both boats causing Operator1 to slip and get his right foot pinned between the two vessels.  

Operator1's big toe was crushed between the boats.  Operator1 was transported to Garrett Memorial Hospital by a friend where he was treated for an open fracture of his right big toe and the loss of the nail on that toe and then released.  No violation occurred to cause the accident


BARDID: MD-2017-0036
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/24/17 at approximately 1420 hours subject was attempting to wakeboard for the first time on Deep Creek Lake.  On Subject's first attempt he was not ready when the boat took off and twisted his body in an unnatural position causing him to injure his right hamstring.  Subject was transported to Garrett Memorial Hospital where he was treated for a partially torn hamstring and released.  No violations occurred to cause the accident.


BARDID: MD-2017-0037
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, June 30th, 2017 at 0800 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, regarding a vessel accident.  

At 0810 hours I made contact by phone with V2 subject who advised that his vessel, a blue and grey Ski Nautique was docked at Uno's on Deep Creek Lake on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at approximately 1600 hours when he was approached by strangers and informed someone had struck his boat.  V2 subject recounted that he spoke with the operator and passengers of the offending vessel at the dock, who claimed responsibility for the accident and provided V2 subject with their contact information.   V2 subject informed me his boat sustained fiberglass damage to the swim platform and port stern hull.  V2 subject advised he was still waiting on a damage estimate from Bill's Service Center on Deep Creek Lake.
 
 At 1030 hours, I inspected V2 subject's vessel in a slip at Bill's Service Center.  I photographed the fiberglass damage on the swim platform and port stern hull.  Copies of the pictures are attached to this report.
 
 At 1100 hours, I unsuccessfully attempted to contact Operator1 by phone.  I left a voicemail identifying myself and the reason for my call.

 
At 1105 hours, I interviewed the female passenger by phone.  V1 occupant confirmed being onboard Operator1's vessel and witnessing the accident.  V1 occupant explained that V1 occupant and her boyfriend were passengers on the vessel Operator1 was operating.  

V1 occupant stated that Operator1 was attempting to back her vessel out of a slip when it became too close to V2 subject's docked and unoccupied vessel.  Occupant2 on v1 attempted to push the vessels apart, at which time Operator1 accelerated while in reverse gear and caused the rear of her vessel to strike the swim platform and port stern hull of V2 subject's vessel.  V1 occupant claimed there was no damage to Operator1's vessel.  When questioned, V1 occupant stated she and occupant2 had been drinking alcohol, but Operator1 did not consume any alcohol on the day of the reported incident.
 
A damage estimate is pending response from Bill's Service Center.
 
All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0038
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WICOMICO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: BUSHWOOD
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2017 at approximately 1805 I received a call to respond to a single vessel boating accident on the Wicomico River (St. Mary's County). I was advised there was possible personal injury involved. I went to the MEDSTAR Hospital in Leonardtown Md. to speak with the injured person from the accident. 

When I arrived I spoke to the wife of the vessel owner/operator. She had sustained minor injuries to her left foot. Specifically she had broken two toes and dislocated a third toe on her left foot. No other injuries were reported. 

I then met with the owner/operator of the vessel, Operator, at his residence. I inspected the vessel, took photographs of the damage, and interviewed him on the events of the incident. He stated they left their pier with a total of 5 persons on board at approximately 2pm on July 2, 2017 and traveled north up the Potomac River to Cuckold Creek, back down to Swan Point and Cobb Island, and then around Cobb Island into the Wicomico River. 

As he was proceeding north/west up the Wicomico, he did not see the red #6W daymarker at Whites Point bar and went to the right side of the daymarker and into the shoal waters marked by the aids to navigation. Due to the tide levels, the bar and old pilings were all slightly submerged and not immediately visible. His vessel struck a submerged object, quite possibly the old pilings or foundations found within the shoal waters on White Point Bar, however the exact nature of the object struck could not be determined. 

All four passengers, as well as the operator, were thrown slightly forward due to the fast speed decline, however, no one was ejected from the vessel. Only the one person reported any injuries, as noted above. 

The operator contacted 9-1-1 vial his cell phone, and St. Mary's Fire EMS was directed to that area. Sea Tow was contacted because the 24 foot Yamaha was taking on water faster than the installed bilge pumps discharge overboard. Assistance was on scene within 15 min. The injured person and one other passenger were taken to shore in the Bushwood area of St. Mary's County and transported to MEDSTAR Hospital in Leonardtown. The vessel and remaining 3 occupants was towed to the residence of the owner where he has a boat lift. The vessel was hauled out of the water at the residence and trailered for future transport for repairs. 

From the impact, it appears the keel of the vessel is split approximately two thirds of the length. I performed a full vessel safety inspection and all required safety gear was on board. Alcohol does not appear to be a contributing factor to this incident. The owner/operator stated he should have learned how to operate the Chart Plotter installed and also become more familiar with the specific navigational hazards in the area for future boating trips. No citations or warnings were issued in this incident.


BARDID: MD-2017-0039
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of July 1, 2017 around 1615 hours, I Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on patrol in the area of the Ocean City Commercial Harbor. A colleague notified me of a possible boat accident in the area of the Rt. 90 Bridge and the Isle of Wight Bay that had just occurred. While enroute with Sgt. of the same agency, we were able to ascertain the victims were on their way in to shore to be checked by EMS. 
 
 Upon arriving on scene at Action Water Sports on 52nd street, I was met by Ocean City Police Department officers who had a print out of the driver and passenger of the personal watercraft that had hit the bridge.

 I was able to make brief contact with the passenger who had a cut on his right leg and swelling. He was apparently shaking and difficult to understand due to a language barrier and the stress of a recent crash. He was able to tell me that he was the passenger on the PWC leading up to the incident. He also said that his friend was driving the PWC near the Rt. 90 bridge but was having trouble keeping distance between the bridge and the PWC due the wind. 

I did note the wind to be very calm, less than 10 mph out of the south that evening. He continued by saying that as they were driving at a speed less than 20 mph but greater than 10 mph with the bridge on their left, they were getting closer and closer. The next thing he knew was that they ran into the piling of the bridge on the forward right side of the PWC and were ejected into the water. When he came up, he noticed subject to be seizing and unresponsive. 
 
It was about this time that the PWC tour guides came over to help. The guide was first on scene. He explained to me that he witnessed subject go outside the riding area and disappear under the bridge. When he went to make contact with them, he saw them in the water and the driver seizing. He then loaded them onto his PWC and drove to shore to meet EMS. The victims PWC was towed in to the rental agency. 
 
Officer took pictures of the PWC which will be included in the attachment section of this report. The PWC had a MD registration of 3340 LB and was black and green in color and made by Kawasaki. The owner of the rental agency advised me that the estimated damage to the vessel was beyond repair and would be totaled. These PWC's cost $8,400 new. 
 
I was able to make contact with Operator later that evening at AGH. He advised me that the doctors said he had possible bleeding on his brain and a skull fracture and will be transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center due to the severity of the injuries. I explained the two citations that Operator was receiving to both parties. He was issued one citation for PWC speed greater than 6 knots within 100 feet of a bridge and another citation for operation of a PWC in a negligent manner. 
 
 I spoke with the State Attorney's Office on July 7, 2017 in reference to a blood kit subpoena for intoxication levels during the accident. They advised it would not be necessary. All events occurred In Worcester County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0040
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sassafras River
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KENT
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, July 2, 2017, I (Sgt.) of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to Camp Tuckwogh in Kent County in reference to a reported personal injury boating accident that had occurred on that date.

I spoke with the operator of the vessel. OPERATOR1 stated that he was a staff member at Camp Tuckwogh. He described the following details:

On July 2, 2017, in Sassafras River waters off of Camp Tuckwogh. at approximately 1500 HRS, he had been operating a 17 foot 2011 Boston Whaler, owned and registered to Camp Tuckwogh, bearing valid Maryland registration numbers 5726 CF. The weather was clear and sunny with a slight wind from the west or south/west providing a 6-12 inch chop. There was no boating traffic in the immediate area and light boating traffic on the river. 

The vessel contained 6 juvenile camper passengers. The boat was fully outfitted with appropriate safety gear and all passengers and staff were wearing PFDs. No other gear or cargo was described aboard the vessel. No individuals onboard the vessel consumed alcoholic beverages on this date. 

While the vessel was traveling along at about 20 mph, OPERATOR1 turned hard to the left. VICTIM had been attempting to hold onto the bow line to stabilize himself and was unable to keep himself upright during the turn. OPERATOR1 observed VICTIM's right ear hit the bow rail and then VICTIM called out to stop the vessel. VICTIM was then observed to be bleeding from his right ear. The voyage was terminated and the vessel was returned to Camp Tuckwogh. OPERATOR1 informed staff at Camp Tuckwogh of the injury and took VICTIM to the emergency room at Chester River Hospital in Chestertown, MD.

I also spoke with the injured boat passenger and camper. VICTIM confirmed details described above and stated that he received four stitches in his ear to repair a laceration.

A check of the manufacturer specifications for a 17 foot 2011 Boston Whaler 170 Super Sport indicates a 7 person 1150 lb capacity. Based upon observation of the campers and the description above, I do not believe the boat was loaded over capacity. 

I recommend that this vessel accident be classified as an accidental fall with contributing factors


BARDID: MD-2017-0041
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, July 4th, 2017 at 0959 hours, Sgt. asked that I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, respond to Bill's Marine Service on Deep Creek Lake at Garrett Highway to assist with a personal injury vessel accident. I arrived on scene at 1005 hours and observed Sgt. stabilizing the neck of a female victim, onboard a 2012 black and green Tige ski boat displaying Maryland registration 4085 DL. Northern Garrett County Emergency Services also arrived on scene.

I interviewed the victim's father who stated that his wife was operating the vessel in Paradise Cove while he was serving as the observer for his daughters who were being towed on a tube behind the boat. Father stated that the tube struck a large wake and Victim's back bent backwards. Father told me Victim complained of hearing a loud snap, back pain, pain in her left shoulder, and difficulty breathing. Father stated that Operator is an experienced boat operator, all safety equipment was present and utilized, and no alcohol had been consumed by any persons onboard the vessel.

Cpl. arrived on scene and assisted EMS and Bill's Marine staff with transferring Victim from the vessel to an ambulance on a back board. Northern Garrett transported Victim to Garrett Regional Medical Center.

All units cleared at 1026 hours.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0042
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/02/2017 at approximately 1530 hours I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on patrol aboard NRP858 a fully marked patrol vessel. I received a call about a boat accident that had occurred in the area of Bahia Marina. The initial report was that there were injuries however upon my arrival EMS was clearing the scene as they had been called by a third party. 

I made contact with the vessel operator, and he advised that he had a shifter/throttle malfunction that caused him to strike a docked vessel. Operator1 was operating a 22ft pontoon boat with a single 90HP Honda outboard bearing MD registration 3380CA. Operator1 advised that when he tried to shift into reverse to slow his vessel he continued to move in a forward direction. When Operator1 applied more throttle in reverse it sped up his forward momentum into the docked vessel. The docked vessel is a walk around Sport Craft bearing MD registration 5505CF. The collision caused damage to both vessels. 

The owner of the docked vessel was notified by cell phone. The port side front railing on the pontoon boat was crushed and on the docked vessel there was fiberglass damage to the bow. Images are attached of the damage to both vessels as well as a statement from Operator1. Sgt., of the same agency, verified the shifter/throttle malfunction at the dock. Operator1 had his boat towed to a repair shop by SeaTow. 

All Events Occurred in Worcester County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2017-0043
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SOUTH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: ANNE ARUNDEL
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 24th at 0142 hrs I, Officer, was dispatched to a reported boat accident resulting in an injury. I learned from dispatch that one of the individuals involved in the accident was taken to Anne Arundel County Medical Center in Annapolis. 

 Upon arriving at Anne Arundel County Medical Center I learned that Victim had suffered two lacerations, one on his right foot and the other on his right calf. Victim had been taken there by Anne Arundel Station 8 Medic 48. He had non-life threatening injuries. I was told that he would not be held for observation but would be released as soon as they had finished treating him. 
 At this point I began trying to find the vessel in question, MD 5940 E. Sgt. and I went to the registered address of the vessel. We were not able to locate the vessel there. Since there had been no fatalities we ended our investigation for the night. 

 The next day we began trying to contact the people who were onboard the vessel. As my investigation progressed I learned that there were five people on the vessel. 

 After compiling witness statements it seems that the five people on the vessel met at the Annapolis Landing Marina where the vessel is kept in a slip. They then proceeded to go on a cruise up the South River before stopping for dinner at a waterfront restaurant. After they had finished eating they got back into the boat and were going back down the South River when they heard a small craft advisory come out from the Coast Guard. The operator of the vessel, Operator asked everyone to remain in the cabin of the vessel. They continued out of the South River and as they were rounding the Thomas Point Light House when Occupant1 attempted to climb from the cabin up to the bridge of the vessel. At this point they were riding through 2-3 foot waves and Occupant1 lost his balance and went overboard.

 Occupant2 immediately noticed that they had a man overboard and alerted Operator. Operator circled the boat around in an attempt to find Occupant1. Occupant1 was calling to them from the water so they were able to get close enough for Occupant3 to spot him. Occupant3 did not believe that he could get the life ring to him by throwing it so he jumped in to swim it out to him. By this point the vessel had been pushed by the waves and current far enough that Operator had to reposition the vessel. 

 When they got back into position Operator got his spare life ring and tied a line to it. Operator then handed the line and ring to victim. Victim then threw the life ring without cleating it off. He then jumped in after the life ring. Occupant1 and Occupant3 were able to swim back to the vessel with the aid of the life ring and climbed back on board without incident. Victim also swam back to the vessel but while climbing on he injured his foot and calf with the propeller. 

 Initially Operator did not realize that anything was wrong however his friend noticed that Victim was vomiting on the back of the vessel and alerted Operator. Operator had his friends turn Victim onto his side so that he would not choke. It was at this point that they noticed that he was bleeding profusely from his leg and foot. Operator then directed his friends to begin applying pressure to the wounds using towels from the vessel’s cabin and then made for the nearest point of land. Operator had previously lived in Arundel on the Bay so he knew the area fairly well and new that he could tie up his boat to the fishing pier there and find help. During this time he also had his friend call for an ambulance to meet them. 

 They made it to land and were met by the ambulance. Operator asked the emergency responders if there was anything else they needed from him and they told him that there was not and that he was free to go. At this point Operator returned his vessel to its slip and he and his friends returned home.  All events happened in Anne Arundel County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0044
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MILL CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: ANNE ARUNDEL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28 at approximately 12:14 AM I received a call for a hit and run boat accident on Mill Creek in Annapolis. At that time I contacted the victim who along with his wife, were sleeping on their 48' sailboat when the collision occurred. After the collision the Subjects came up to the cockpit of the boat. Subject1 shined a flashlight on the stern of the boat as it sped off. The victims described the boat at fault as a 23' – 30', white center console walk-around, with a T-top and one or two outboards. Subject2 thinks she heard a male voice saying “Oh shit, you hit a boat.” The Subjects were unsure if the boat in question fled toward the mouth of Mill Creek or upstream. The occupants of the boat were not seen.
I met with the Subjects and inspected the collision damage on 06/28/17. The Subjects provided a victim statement at that time. While on Mill Creek Officer and I canvassed the creek in search of a damaged boat matching the victim's description. The Subjects were anchored close to Cantlers Restaurant. I interviewed the restaurant manager who advised that they do not have a security camera covering the creek and had no information possible suspects. He advised that manager2 was on duty at the time of the accident and was closing the restaurant when the event occurred.
The Subjects where anchored on Mill Creek near Martins Cove. The Subjects said there anchor light was on at the time of the accident. Four lifeline stanchions were bent and the cap rail varnish was damaged on the sailboat. White gel coat paint was transferred to the cap trim of the sailboat. The Subjects were not injured in the collision. They called 911 immediately. A U.S. Navy fire boat and the local fire department responded to the accident.
There are no suspects at this time.
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0045
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE RIVER
NearestCityorTown: MIDDLEBOROUGH
County: BALTIMORE CITY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/27/2017 at approximately 1620hrs, I received from DNR Communication Center a phone number of someone that wanted to report a boat accident.

He said that he is currently attending the academy for Baltimore County Police and that on Friday 06/23/2017 at approximately 2215 to 2230hrs, he was one of the three passengers of a 21’ white Robalo center console boat.  The boat hit a black marker after they left The Crazy Tuna Rest. He was standing by the operator's right side. The other two passengers were sitting on the "cushion bench" located in front of the center console. He said that he was the only one that was ejected from the boat when the collision happened. I asked Subject who was the operator or the owner of the vessel, he provided the name and phone number of the operator and owner.

I met with Officer from the Marine Unit at Strawberry Point and went to check the area for that black marker. I contacted Operator and asked him about the incident, he said that he was going about 15 knots when he looked down for a second when they hit a junction marker on Middle River at the mouth of Hopkins Creek. Officer and I located the junction marker. Operator was asked why he didn’t report the accident and he said that he just wanted to get his friend to the pier so he can get to the hospital.  Operator also said that his boat was at Fiberglass Unlimited Shop and that the damage was estimate between $7000 to $8000. 

Subject was taken to the UMBC Hospital by his parents where he was treated for a broken left hand, 2 chipped teeth and got stitches on his head. The Doctor said that he will fully recovery.


BARDID: MD-2017-0046
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ELLIS BAY
NearestCityorTown: MT. VERNON
County: WICOMICO
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While on duty in Wicomico County on July 1, 2017 at approximately 1352, I, Officer,  received a call from NRP Communications Center of a vessel taking on water in the Wicomico River with six persons on board. I arrived on scene at approximately 1426 on vessel NRP 841.  The vessel had collided with a section of submerged dredge pipeline that had broken away from its mooring. After striking the pipeline, the vessel began taking on water.  

The vessel became partially submerged in water due to water coming in from the broken outdrive area. All persons were transported to the Webster Cove Marina via Mt. Vernon Rescue Unit.  Another vessel had the disabled vessel in tow, which was in the process of being de-watered.  Upon the victims arrival at the Webster Cove Marina, Sgt. met with the victims and gathered all identification information. The Dredge company was notified of the drifting pipeline and responded to secure it back to its mooring along the shoreline. I remained on location with the drifting pipeline which was at a position of N 38-14.541 / W 75-51.478 near day marker 15A. No injuries to the victims were noted.  The vessel sustained damage to the lower unit and broken brackets to the lower unit, photos are attached.  The damage is estimated at $5,197.89.  This incident occurred in Wicomico County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0047
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WORCESTER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2017 at approximately 3:45 pm I, Cpl, was contacted by DNR Communications to respond to Top Gun Watersports on Dorchester St. in Ocean City for a property damage accident. I, along with Ofc responded by water and met with Top Gun staff. 

 The accident was involving two PWCs, that Top Gun had labeled as 3 (MD 3534 LB) and 9 (MD 3533 LB). They explained that #9, which was operated by operator1, was sitting stationary in the water. PWC labeled #3 was approaching #9 at approximately 6 kts when the operator of #3 accelerated quickly striking # 9. Causing gel coat damage to the port side foot well of #9, and minor gel coat damage to the underside of the bow of #3. 

 After interviewing both separately, both of their stories of the incident were consistent with Top Gun’s staff and the damage shown. Operator2 explained that as he approached PWC1 he panicked and squeezed the throttle. 

 He was issued a warning for Rule of the Road Violation for Failure to Provide a Proper Lookout. 

 All event occurred in Worcester County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0048
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WORCESTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2017 at approximately 3:45 pm I, Cpl, was contacted by DNR Communications to respond to Top Gun Watersports on Dorchester St. in Ocean City for a property damage accident. I, along with Ofc responded by water and met with Top Gun staff. 

 The accident was involving two PWC they labeled as #5 (MD 3338 LB) and an unlabeled PWC(MD 3535 LB). Top Gun staff stated that both PWC were doing donuts separately and as they both came out of the turns and continued straight they collided with each other. They explained that #5, struck the PWC with no number. Operator1's PWC struck Operator2' on the port bow, running up the side of the PWC, rolling it over and putting the occupants in the water. Inspection of the damage was consistent with their story. There was substantial fiberglass damage to and the steering column was also bent.   

 After interviewing both Operator1 and Operator2 separately, both of their stories of the incident were consistent with Top Gun’s staff. Operator1 explained that as he traveling Operator2' PWC pulled in front of him, not allowing enough time to move to prevent a collision. Operator2 stated that he did not see Operator1 until they were right next to them. 

 Operator1 was issued a warning for Rule of the Road Violation for Failure to Provide a Proper Lookout.


BARDID: MD-2017-0049
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER - KENT NARROWS
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QUEEN ANNES
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3rd, 2017, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call from DNR Communications approximately 12:50PM about a sailboat colliding with the Kent Narrows drawbridge navigational light in Grasonville, Maryland. The call was received by the Kent Narrows drawbridge tender who was working at the time of the accident. I contacted fellow Officer to meet with Subject to get a written witness statement stating what happened. The sailboat collided with the southern west side drawbridge navigational light at approximately 12:00PM. Subject received a call several minutes after the accident from subject2 who was on a boat directly behind the sailboat at fault, witnessed the accident and took photographs of the vessel and bridge. The witness statement and photographs are both included in this report. 

      I  contacted the owner of the sailboat over the phone to get a statement of what happened. He stated that he was trying to time the drawbridge opening so that he did not hold up traffic for an extended period of time. He also stated that due to a combination of trying to rush the pass through and the strong current, he lost control of his vessel and drifted into the drawbridge colliding with the hanging navigational light.
      
      State Highway Association will be contacting owner in regards to reimbursement of the costs to fix the navigational light. No Natural Resource citations will be issued at this time.
   
   All events occurred in Queen Anne's County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0050
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WORCESTER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2017 at approximately 6;20PM, I (Sgt.) received a call in reference to a subject injured by a boat propeller. The information received was the subject was in the Isle of Wight Bay near 49th Street. 

While responding it was learned that the subject refused emergency services and had left the scene with his father. I contacted the subject. Victim stated that his dad was driving him to Beebe Medical Center for treatment. Victim stated that he was swimming in the bay behind a pontoon boat when he attempted to board the vessel. He advised that he did not realize that the boat was running and cut himself on the propeller. Victim stated that he received lacerations to both feet and his back. Victim could not or would not provide any further information on the vessel or other people involved. 

      I contacted Officer of the Delaware Natural Resources Police. Officer responded to Beebe and met with Victim to get further information about the incident. Officer advised that Victim either would not or could not provide any further information about the event, the subjects involved of the vessel. Victim also could not advise where he was located when the incident occurred but believed he was in Maryland. 

      I have attempted to contact Victim numerous times without success. 

      Due to the lack of information and the victim being unwilling to cooperate, I request this case be closed. All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0053
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST - RHODES RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GALESVILLE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-03-17 at approximately 1300 hrs., this officer, Ofc. received a call from Sgt. informing me of a possible boating accident that occurred at Hartge Yacht Yard in Galesville Maryland. Subject advised me that he left the information for the complainant in my mailbox at the office and wanted me to follow up. I made contact with the complainant, and made arrangements to meet him at his vessel at Hartge Yacht yard the following day.

     On 07-04-2017 at approximately 1600 hrs., I met V2 subject at his slip and took pictures of the possible damage and had him fill out a statement. This officer also spoke with a slip holder at the marina, who was present at the time the two vessels came in contact. This officer also had witness fill out a witness statement form. I advised v2 subject that I would be following up with Hartge Yacht Yard the following day to find out the information of the suspect vessel which was not on location but had service work being performed to it by Hartge Yacht Yard.

     On 07-05-2017 at approximately 1600 hrs., I contacted Yacht Yard via phone and arranged to meet with him on 07-06-2017 to follow up and get information for the suspect vessel. Investigation is on going.

 All occurred in AA County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0054
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN CITY
NearestCityorTown: BERLIN
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2017 I Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin for a report of a boat accident. Once at the hospital I made contact with the victim of the boat accident.  

Victim advised me that he rented a  boat from O.C. Bayside Rentals of 307 Dorchester St. Ocean City Md. 21842.  Victim advised me that as he  began to leave the rental area, and get into the main channel the vessel hit a wave in a awkward position.  Victim explained that he was sitting in the front of the vessel, located in the bow area on the inside of the vessel. He stated he was not bow riding.  At the last second Victim  noticed the waves were approaching him at an awkward position.  Victim advised that he felt like he was going to faint and that his right buttocks was sore and in pain.

   Victim went to Atlantic General Hospital and was treated and release with no major injuries. There was no damage to the vessel as well. After completing my investigation I request that this case be closed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0055
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NABBS CREEK
NearestCityorTown: PASADENA
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 15, 2017 at approximately 9:52 pm I, Officer, was contacted by dispatch regarding a boat accident. The accident took place at the Broken Oar Bar and Grill at 864 Nabbs Creek Rd Glen Burnie, MD 21060. I responded by vessel because I was on patrol aboard NRP882. When I arrived on scene at 9:54 pm I found the operator of the vessel next to his vessel which was parallel to the dock behind two boats. Operator1’s vessel, MD 7356 BY, had rammed between the two boats, MD 7054 CR and MD 6745 S, and up onto the dock destroying a power station in the process. The two boats involved both had what appeared to be minor damage. 

      Operator1 and his passenger were not harmed. I administered a Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test which did not show any results and took down Operator1’s information. I then went into the restaurant and talked to the bartender who had been taking care of Operator1’s table. The bartender told me that Operator1 had only consumed two beers over the course of about two hours. 

      I am currently awaiting estimates for the damage to the sail boats and the power station. 

      All events took place in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0056
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SPA RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04 July 2017 at approximately 1714hrs, I arrived at 2 Compromise Street in Annapolis to a reported property damage only boat accident.  I met with an Annapolis Police Department marine patrol unit that responded as well.  The Annapolis Police unit passed on along Coast Guard documentation for both vessels.  I exchanged contact information with the Annapolis Police units and they cleared the scene.

      I first spoke with the owner of the struck vessel.  Operator2 stated that his vessel, a 72 ft documented recreational vessel named CAPTIVATOR was struck along the starboard side while docked.  Operator2 stated that he first came to notice the eventual striking vessel because it almost hit another docked vessel.  I conducted a visual inspection of the nearby docked vessels and did not find any damage that could be attributed to a collision with another vessel, minor or otherwise, and no other reports from this address were forthcoming.  Operator2 showed me where the striking vessel had collided with his.  I observed moderate scratches to the wood along the starboard side of the vessel.  He claimed at least $10,000 probable repair costs.  I gave Operator2 my contact information and asked him to provide a damage estimate.

      I next spoke with the owner of the striking vessel.  Operator1 stated that while attempting to dock his vessel, a 33 ft documented recreational vessel named LADY MARION, the transmission in his engine failed and he couldn’t put the vessel in reverse, causing him to collide with the CAPTIVATOR.  Operator1 stated that he was on his second attempt to dock his vessel, and that on his first attempt he had to go around again and did come close to the vessel mentioned by Operator2 but did not strike it.  Operator1 appeared distraught for having struck a vessel.  I did not detect the any odor of an alcoholic beverage on Operator1.  Operator1 did not claim any damages to his vessel due to the collision.  I provided Operator1 with my contact information.  Operator1 was in the process of arranging commercial tow services for his vessel when I cleared the scene.

      More information to follow, pending any damage estimates provided by Operator2.

      A Watercraft Accident Reports has been submitted as part of this incident report.
     
      All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0057
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEVERN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
At about 2130 on 4 july i was a guest on m/v aida. We were proceeding out of the approaches to carr creek at idle speed (4 knots) headed for the vessels home dock in lake ogleton.  All navigation lights on aida were checked and shone brightly.  I was on the port side of the cockpit area.  In the vicinity northeast of r6 on the severn river we were struck on the port side  by a runabout running at, i estimate, 15 knots.  

I saw the green light on the colliding vessel when it was about 15 yards out.  At that point a close aboard encounter was expected and the captain of the aida had put the engines in reverse.  When the runabout collided we were stopped or nearly.  I saw no actions by the driver of the runabout to avoid collision.  The impact pierced the hull and the runabout was stuck in aida for several seconds.  He eventually extricated himself with reverse engine. At that point, towboat resolute approached and told the driver to stay where he was and that resolute was coming alongside.  

A quick check of below decks on aida showed significant damage but minimal  danger of taking on water. After dnr arrived on scene and sorted out as much of the circumstances as could be done on the water, aida proceeded back to lake ogleton under its own power.


BARDID: MD-2017-0058
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to YMCA Camp Tockwogh located at 24370 Still Pond Neck Road, Worton MD, 21678 in reference to a skiing accident that occurred on July 3, 2017. This incident was not reported to DNR communications until July 4, 2017. On July 3, 2017 at approximately 1030 hours, a camp counselor from YMCA Camp Tockwogh took 5 children out water skiing in the Codjus Cove area of Still Pond Creek. She advised the victim was using a Slalom water ski. 

The counselor advised that as the victim was coming into the wake generated from the vessel on the left side, the victim fell into water. The counselor advised that the victim told her that her left knee felt a little weird but wanted to continue water skiing. After the victim continued to water ski, the counselor noticed that the victim was repeatedly getting up and falling into the water. Once the victim entered the boat again, she advised the counselor that her left knee felt tight and felt pain on the inside of her leg. The counselor asked the victim if it hurt riding on the boat and if the Health and Wellness Center staff need to come down to which the victim responded she was okay. The camp counselor advised me that when she brought the children back to the beach area to exit the vessel, she had Health and Wellness staff come down and get the victim. The victim was taken to Urgent Care the following day where she was examined. It was found that she had a minor knee sprain and may possibly have a slight tear in a tendon or ligament in her knee.


BARDID: MD-2017-0059
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 5, 2017 at approximately 1530 hours I responded to YMCA Camp Tockwogh, located in Worton, Kent County, Maryland in reference to a boat accident. Upon arrival I spoke with the operator of the vessel, Operator who stated that a juvenile female was injured while waterskiing. During the incident there were four other juvenile females on board the vessel. 

 Operator explained that Victim had been skiing when she fell into the water. Operator was in the process of bringing the rope with the handle around to Victim at idle or in neutral when the end of the rope reached Victim. That is when she believes that the rope became entangled around Victim’s hand or finger. Shortly thereafter Operator heard Victim scream “my finger!” Operator then radioed for assistance and jumped in the water to swim out to assist Victim. Operator observed a great deal of blood coming from Victim’s right hand while she attempted to stabilize her until the rescue boat arrived. Operator stated that the there was very little waves and there was very little traffic in the area. At the time they were located on the Chesapeake Bay in front of the camp. Operator did state that Victim did have a life jacket on and helmet on her head. The wellness nurse responded to the location to assist in medical treatment until Victim was transported to the hospital.

 At approximately 1700 hours I responded to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown to speak with Victim. Victim stated that at the time of the incident she had previously been water skiing. After falling initially the vessel brought the tow line for the vessel back to her. Victim had the line between her legs and she thought she was ready to ski again so she instructed Operator to “go.” After saying this Victim realized that the line was wrapped around her finger and hand. Victim attempted to free herself but since she had already told the vessel to go she didn’t have much time. That is when Victim felt a sharp pain in her finger as the vessel sped up for her to ski. Once she screamed Victim stated that the boat stopped and Operator came to her assistance but she saw there was a lot of blood coming from her right hand that she held above the water. 

 While I was at the hospital one of the doctor’s came in to explain to Victim what had occurred to her finger. The doctor explained that while her finger nail was completely intact, she was missing the top part of her finger and bone. 

 The hospital and camp notified the parents of Victim as to the incident and all medical actions being taken. This investigation is considered closed. 

 All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0060
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017 at approximately 1536 hours this officer, Sgt., was dispatched by DNR Communications to Deep Creek Marina located at 1899 Deep Creek Drive in McHenry, Garrett County, Maryland for a report of a property damage boat accident.  I responded to the scene aboard marked patrol vessel NRP 806 and met with the marina staff and most of the occupants of the vessel.  I was informed that a 2016 Brunswick 220 (d.b.a Harris) pontoon boat (Maryland registration 3972 LB) struck an unoccupied 2017 Cascade and Avalon (d.b.a. Tahoe) CS2585CR Funship (Maryland registration 3768LB) pontoon boat that had been secured to the southern-most dock of the business.  Operator1's vessel was reported to have left the nearby fuel dock of Bill's Marine Service and instead of Operator1 moving his vessel backwards he proceeded forward.  This action caused the port mid ship portion of his vessel to strike to port bow area of the docked pontoon boat.  The later pontoon boat was docked in a manner such that its' bow was pointing towards the lake.

 Examination of the vessels showed that the Funship sustained a torn cover, scratches to it's port bow metal corner and port pontoon, and also a bent splash guard on the port pontoon.  The 2016 Brunswick pontoon boat sustained dents to its' port midship and stern aluminum panels and the support framing for these panels.  Photographs of the damages are attached to this report.  The marina staff estimated the total damages to the vessel to be approximately $5000.00.

 Examination of the rental agreement for the involved party revealed that the striking vessel had been rented by another person.  The agreement did not list Operator1 as a designated driver of the vessel.

 When I questioned Operator1, I recognized him.  At approximately 1400 hours on July 5, 2017, I had conducted a vessel stop of Operator1 after observing him pass a tow boat at a very close distance and high rate of speed.  This action caused the tow boat and towed vessel to be subjected to an excessive and unnecessary large wake.  During the course of the vessel stop, I explained to Operator1 that operating a boat was different than driving a car and cautioned him to be more aware of his speed and wake.

 Operator1 admitted to being the operator of the striking vessel but stated the vessel was in neutral and the wind caused his vessel to strike the docked pontoon boat.  Operator1 and his companions  provided as much information about the occupants of his vessel as they could.  In total, 13 people had occupied the vessel at the time of the accident. However, some of those individuals had left from the area prior to my arrival and Operator1 and his companions could not identify two small children that had occupied the vessel.

 The marina staff offered to settle the vessel damages for $2500.  However, Operator1 and his companions did not accept this settlement offer and it is anticipated that the business with pursue civil action against Operator1 for restitution.  Exact damage estimates for this accident have been requested from Deep Creek Marina and a supplemental report will follow the receipt of these estimates.

 All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0061
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017 at approximately 1530 hours I responded to YMCA Camp Tockwogh, Worton, Kent County, Maryland in reference to a boat accident. Once on scene I spoke with the boat operator who stated that a juvenile female had fallen while water skiing and was complaining of a headache and was possibly being transported to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Chestertown for a concussion. 

 Operator stated that at approximately 1430 hours Victim had been waterskiing. At that time, she fell into the water. When Operator checked on Victim she was complaining of a headache. Victim was brought on the boat and asked if she wanted to go to shore. Victim stated she was ok for the time being. Operator then allowed another juvenile to ski, once she was completed Victim requested to be taken to shore. Once on shore a member of the Wellness Center responded to take her to the Center. Victim was observed for two hours and still complained of a headache. Victim’s parents instructed the Wellness Center to wait a few more hours to see if she developed any more symptoms prior to going to the hospital. 

 At approximately 2100 hours I responded to the hospital to speak with Victim, as she was being brought in. Victim was complaining of a headache, dizziness, and nausea. Victim explained that while she was skiing she was wearing a personal flotation device and a helmet. Victim struck a wave and was unable to maintain her balance and fell towards the water. During her fall the helmet, which was too big, fell in front of her face. Victim fell face first into the water, the helmet was subsequently pushed back on to the top of her head. Victim stated that she remembers falling into the water but not resurfacing, but doesn’t believe that she lost consciousness. Victim’s head began hurting at that time, she attempted to stay on the vessel as another female went skiing. That is when Victim stated she requested to be taken ashore. Victim was later taken to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Chestertown to be seen for a possible concussion. She had not seen the doctor when I left. 

 This case is considered closed, no evidence suggests no one was at fault. 



 All events occurred in Kent, County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0062
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017, at about 2030 hours, I, Cpl, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was contacted by DNR Communications in regards to a Camp Tockwogh camper that was en-route to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown, for injuries sustained during a sail-boating accident that occurred earlier in the day. 

      Cpl., also of the MD NRP, and I proceeded to the hospital as she also needed to make contact with a boating accident victim. We waited at the hospital for a brief period of time. Eventually two white female Camp Tockwogh campers arrived to the emergency room at about 2110 hours. One of the campers advised that she was the camper that was injured in the sail-boating accident. As we spoke she was called into the triage center. 

      About 10 minutes later, I was able to speak to Victim about the accident. Victim, who spoke very slowly, as she seemed to be in pain, advised that she and a friend were in a small "sunnie" sailboat at about 3 pm in the Chesapeake Bay in front of the camp. She advised that she was sitting in the middle of the sailboat while her friend was sitting in the rear of the vessel, at the operators station. She advised that her friend was sitting in the back of the sailboat at the tiller handle while she was sitting in the middle of the vessel. Victim advised that at some point the boom swung around and struck her in the head on her right side. There was no blood observed on her head. 

     Victim advised that she got to shore at about 3:30 pm and began to feel bad. She advised that she went to the wellness center at about 6:15 pm because she started to have a migraine and the light started to bother her. She advised that her mother instructed the wellness center staff to have her checked out at the hospital. 

      Victim's attending physician was Dr.. Victim was diagnosed with a concussion and ordered brain rest. 

      Victim did not have any information about the vessel, but did advise that she and her friend were wearing life jackets while they were on the vessel. The remainder of the information needed to complete the boat accident report was obtained from Camp Tockwogh's Assistant Director of Waterfront Activities. 

       This case is closed. All events occurred in Kent County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0063
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER DAM 5
NearestCityorTown: CLEAR SPRING
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6, 2017 at approximately 1428 hours, I received a call from dispatch reference a boat accident that occurred on July 4, 2017.  I was advised to make contact with the complainant.  

 At approximately 1753 hours on July 6, 2017, Subject returned my phone call and we made arrangements to meet the next day to discuss the boat accident that occurred on July 4, 2017.

 On July 7, 2017 at approximately 1630 hours, I made contact with Subject at his residence.  Subject advised that he was out fishing in his 14' flat bottom boat (MD Registration MD 3861 AG) on the Potomac River on July 4 when the following events occurred.  Subject advised he was just down river from the Four Locks boat ramp and was headed back to the McCoy's Ferry boat ramp to secure for the day when a large red cigar type vessel passed him.  

Subject advised he observed the large cigar vessel moving at a high rate of speed, quickly cut around two pontoon boats, and pass Subject's vessel at a very close distance.  Subject advised he attempted to steer the bow of his vessel into the wake coming from the cigar boat in an attempt to keep from capsizing.  Subject said the size of the wake was so large that it caused his boat to roll over in the water.  Subject advised he was not wearing his life jacket and quickly swam to shore.  Subject was able to recover his 6 gallon gas tank before the boat completely sunk.  Subject then received a ride from the Four Locks boat ramp to McCoy's Ferry to retrieve his vehicle and trailer.  Subject and his cousin attempted to locate the sunken boat later that day but were unsuccessful.

 At approximately 1920 hours on July 7, 2017, I was able to make contact with Ofc. reference an attempt to locate the vessel.  Ofc. advised the dive team would be available to assist in the recovery of the vessel at a date to be determined. 

 At this time, the operator of the large red cigar boat is unknown.

 Attached is a boat accident report and a copy of Subject's voluntary statement. 

 All events occurred in Washington County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0064
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 11, 2017 at 15:36 hours I was alerted to a boating accident in the McHenry Cove area near the 219 Bridge on Deep Cr. Lake. I responded to the area and was walking along the shore line towards where the accident victim was seated. I was approached by a woman who advised that she had seen the accident. She advised that the subject was operating at a high rate of speed on a PWC and came inside the dock and struck one of the fingers of the dock. MOfc.  was also on scene, and I asked him to get her statement while I checked on the subjects in the accident. 

 I found the operator and he advised that he was ok. The female passenger was being looked at by personnel from Garrett County Emergency Services. They both refused first aid and transport from the ambulance service. 

 I asked if the operator had been drinking and he said no. I performed several FSTs and Operator1 appeared normal to this officer. Operator1 advised that he was operating the PWC when he got too close to the dock. He advised that he released the throttle and the vessel continued in a straight line and hit the dock. I advised Operator1 that PWCs have limited steering without power being applied to the vessel. The subject on the PWC behind the operator had hit her knee but was refusing treatment. 

 There were three additional PWCs in Operator1’s group. They were operating at a high rate of speed near the dock as we spoke. They were within 10 to 20 feet of the dock. There were personnel on the dock from the Aquatic Center trying to get the group to slow down. The end of the dock was only 50 feet from the shore. The group did not listen to the personnel and continued to operate at a high speed near the docks. They were ordered to return to the Aquatic Center by one of the owners of the business. 

 In my investigation I found that Operator1 was inexperienced and did not listen to the advice given to him during the training at the time of rental. I found that Operator1 had operated the PWC in a negligent manner and within 100’ of shore in excess of six knots. I issued him one citation for Negligent Operation. All events occurred in Garrett County


BARDID: MD-2017-0065
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAMBRIDGE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/10/2017 I, Officer First Class with Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a complaint call from the dock master of Cambridge Municipal Yacht Basin (1 Mill ST Cambridge, MD 21613), regarding a vessel that damaged one of their vessel slips on 07/08/2017. I made contact with Subject approximately 1200hrs and he showed me where the accident had taken place. The vessel was still in the slip and the vessel description was the following: red in color sail boat, with a diesel 80 hp motor, and with the name “Magic Kingdom on the vessel. The vessel damaged the following: broke the right entrance piling for the slip (facing the Choptank River), damaged the second piling on right side (facing the Choptank River), and damaged the finger pier and damaged the left rear piling closest to the shore power box (facing the Choptank River). The " Magic Kingdom had the following damage: scrape marks in the midship area on both port and starboard sides, broken wooden siding on both port and starboard side, and paint chipped on both port and starboard side. The total damaged to the slipwere the following:  4 pilings scraped, 1 piling broken, and damaged to the 3ftx8ft finger pier. I documented and took pictures of the damaged property.
   
   I asked Subject did he observe the incident and he said no, but he did hear the initial impact. I asked Subject could he recall the conditions for that day and he said the following: daylight, clear visibility, and wind speed less than 10 mph. Subject stated that after he had heard the initial impact he ran outside his office to see what happened. He said that he observed the vessel Magic Kingdom was in the slip B-7 which is normally docked in Pier L slip 13. Subject stated that he made contact with the operator/owner of the vessel, who was alone at the time of this incident. Subject advised that Operator1 stated to him that he was having issues with his vessel’s transmission not going into gear properly and lost control due to the wind condition and mechanical issues.  Subject stated the Operator1 did give him his issuance information. Subject provided me with Operator1 information so I could make contact with him regarding this incident.

 I contacted Operator1 approximately around 1400 hrs and we agreed that we would meet tomorrow at Cambridge Municipal Yacht Basin to discuss the incident that occurred on 7/08/2017.

 On 07/11/2017 approximately 1200 hrs I met with Operator1 to discuss the incident that he was involved in.  Operator1 described that day being the following: clear, daylight, wind coming out of the WEST direction, and the water was calm. Operator1 stated to me that he was backing out of his slip L-13 at the Cambridge Municipal Yacht Club to move to another vessel slip at the same marina. 

Operator1 then stated that once he had clearance from his boat slip he put his throttle in forward to head towards the other slip. When he did that his vessel jumped to a faster speed than intended and when he tried to slow the vessel down the vessel started to pick up more speed. Operator1 stated that he tried to slow the vessel down by placing the throttle in the reverse position. At this time Operator1 believed that his transmission cable was stuck or broken because his vessel would not react. 

Operator1 stated that he shut off the engine, but  the wind pushed his bow to the east towards the lighthouse at the marina Operator1 advised he decided to steer to an empty slip instead of hitting the concrete breakwater. Operator1 said that his port side bow and anchor (which was attached underneath the bow) hit the entrance piling for the slip and broke the piling, then hit the midship piling, and bounced off hitting the finger pier stopping all forward movement. Operator1 said that Yacht maintenance looked at his vessel and declared that his transmission was malfunctioning at the time of the incident and was repaired this morning and they are going to fix other issues with the vessel. I told him to forward all his documentation of maintenance work to me when they were finish.

   Subject advised the damaged would exceed $2,000 and would have a marine contractor to evaluate the damage to give a more accurate estimate.
   
   All events occurred in Dorchester County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0066
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl equipment
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 10, 2017 at 5:45 PM I received a call for a boating accident that happened at Camp Tockwogh in Kent County. When receiving the call I was informed that the victim was being transported to Chester River Hospital. After arriving at Chester River Hospital at approximately 6:40 PM I made contact with Victim and the medical staff who had just advised that Victim had a concussion. I then interviewed Victim and asked her how she got her concussion. 

 While talking to Victim I could tell that she was coherent and able to remember what happened during her day. Victim stated that she had been on the Chesapeake Bay just north of Meeks Point, in an 19 foot Flying Scott sailboat, HIN# GBD027011284, from 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM with 1 Camp Tackwogh counselor and 6 campers in the morning and the same counselor in the afternoon with 7 other campers, all campers about 8- 9 years old. Victim was taking turns with Subject operating the boat and teaching the campers. Victim stated that she was experienced at sailing and had worked at the camp 2 summers. In this time she stated that she had been hit in the head four times. 

 At approximately 11:30 AM, Victim advised that the boom from the sailboat was swinging from one side of the boat to the other and struck her in the head. Victim said she was later struck in the head by the boom a second time while trying to protect a camper and herself from the boom as it was swinging from one side of the boat to the other. Victim said she was also struck in the side of the head from the jib sheet line.

 At approximately 3:30 PM, Victim was trying to push the centerboard of the vessel down and as she stood up, she hit her head on the boom. At this point she went up to the bow of the boat and advised Subject that her vision was blurred and that her head hurt. At approximately 5:10 PM. Victim reported to the medical staff at Camp Tockwogh and they then contacted Camp counselor to take her to the Hospital.

 At the time of my arrival to the hospital there were no visible injures to Victim.

 All events occurred in Kent County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0067
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 12, 2017 at about 1715 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to a boat accident that occurred at Camp Tockwogh in Still Pond, MD. I was advised by DNR communications that the victim of this boat accident was transported to Urgent Care in Delaware. I arrived on scene at Camp Tockwogh at about 1540 hours. Both the operator and the victim were not on scene at the time of my arrival as they both went to Urgent Care in Delaware together.

While there I was advised by the assistant director of Camp Tockwogh, that while the vessel was underway in the bay area in front of Camp Tockwogh, Victim had fallen while seated on the bow seat of the boat, hit her head and caused her to get a headache. Assistant director advised that Victim was a counselor at Camp Tockwogh for the summer.  The operator of the vessel was identified, whom of which is also a counselor at Camp Tockwogh. Assistant director advised the vessel that was being used during this boat accident was a 2012 Boston Whaler 130 Supersport (MD 9637 CD). I advised Assistant director that I would need a statement by Victim about how this incident occurred when she fell and hit her head. On July 16, 2017 I received a statement from Victim stating that while she was seated in the bow of the boat, she fell backwards hitting her head and got a headache while the vessel was underway. She advised that she had got thrown around quite a bit because the water conditions for that day were rough. 

 On July 26, 2017 at about 1200 hours, I went to Camp Tockwogh to follow up with Victim and Stewart. During my interview with them, they were both able to confirm what Alex Assistant director advised me when I was previously there. Victim advised me that she had suffered a mild concussion but refused anymore medical treatment while at the hospital due to the fact that she began to feel better. Victim was released and able to go back to work at Camp Tockwogh. 
   
   All events occurred in Kent County, MD.
   This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0068
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: COVE OF SUE ISLAND - SUE CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ESSEX
County: BA - Baltimore
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
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-15-17, officers received a call for possible jet ski accident called in by a third party.  The caller stated the accident happened on the water near her pier.  Officers located the jet skiers heading north to sue creek.  Officers followed the just skis to sue island marina where they kept them.  Operator1 declined an ambulance at first. Once officers noticed the large amount of blood that had soaked through his shorts, an ambulance was called.  Officer interviewed operator1 while waiting for the medic to arrive.

Operator1 recently purchased two jet skis, one for him and one for his wife was operating operator1's wife's jet ski.  Operator1 was facing inland toward sue island (south west) not under power when the accident happened.  Operator2 was cruising at an unknown rate of speed (northwest) when he collided bow to operator1's port beam.  Operator1 stated operator2 hit him on his left side causing injury to this left leg and knocking him into the water.  Operator1 was able to get himself back on the jet ski and told Operator2 to take the jet ski back to the marina.  While being interviewed operator1  kept trying to get comfortable.  Operator1 stated his ribs hurt and seconds later passed out.  Operator1 was transported to shock trauma by medic.  At the scene Operator2 did not appear to have  any injuries nor did he complain of any injuries.  Operator2 was not treated by a medic.  At the time of investigation  it is undetermined the amount of property damage.

On 7-19-17, officer spoke with victim’s husband who advised her husband had been released from the hospital.  She also stated  he had a fractured pelvis, lower left and ribs.  He also received an unknown amount of stitches to his left thigh.   She stated as of this date the jet skis have not been assessed for damage.


BARDID: MD-2017-0069
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 15th, 2017 while on routine boat patrol myself (OFC.) and CPL at 1417hrs were dispatched to a report of a boat accident.  We were informed that a subject had fell off of a pontoon boat and had received lacerations to their foot and needed medical attention.  The beige Sweetwater pontoon boat was to meet Ocean City EMS at 49th street, just south of Seacrets.
      
      On arrival, we saw the beige Sweetwater pontoon boat tied up to the dock just south of 49th street with Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) on scene.  OFC. from OCPD informed us that Ocean City EMS had transported the subject to Peninsula Regional Medical Center Located in Salisbury,MD.   Victim had received deep lacerations across her lower back, buttocks, legs and right foot.  After receiving information I took statements.  I spoke with the operator of the vessel later and CPL spoke with the other passengers on the vessel.

      While speaking with Operator I smelled an odor of alcohol emanating from her person.  She advised she had only had one Bloody Mary around 1100hrs but she was holding clothes that had alcohol spilled on them.  At this point, I asked Operator to submit to Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST's) to which she said she would not mind.  While talking to Operator, she stated that she was allergic to the sun and that her hands and feet were swelling up and that the dock was too hot for her to stay on.  I advised here we could go in the shade of the carport underneath the condominium that was nearby to which she seemed content with.  I also allowed her to put her sandals on due to the temperature of the pavement.  After she was situated, I ran her through SFST's which showed negative results. 

      At this point I received all of Operator' information, the rental vessel information and any additional information I needed for an accident report.  I also asked Operator what happened that would make Victim fall off of the vessel.  She advised me that Victim was highly intoxicated and was dancing on the front part of the vessel with another occupant of the vessel, but not outside of the front gate.  

She said Victim fell into the front gate and rolled over it head first, falling into the water and between the front two pontoons.  She then told me they didn't see Victim surface for some time and then when she finally came up she was screaming something. She said that Occupant1 had jumped in and grabbed Victim and eventually Operator grabbed a life jacket and jumped in to help her.  The two girls swam Victim back to the vessel and helped her get back up the ladder.  Operator said they laid her down on the seat and occupant1, who has training in the medical field, wrapped her foot and elevated it.  Another occupant of the vessel called 911 to advise them that Victim needed medical attention.

      From this point on, Operator headed to the nearest open dock she could see.  They arrived at the dock just south of Seacrets and Ocean City Police and Fire/EMS were on scene.  Victim was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center and eventually flown to University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center located in Baltimore,MD to see a specialist.  

      I spoke with Operator on July, 17th 2017 and she advised that Victim was still being held at Shock Trauma in Baltimore but has regained slight feeling in her toes after the surgery.

 All events occurred in Worcester County,MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0070
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND CREEK
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/15/17 at approximately 1500 hours I received a call for a 17 year old male subject injured in a tubing incident on Still Pond Creek in Kent County, MD.  I responded from Stevensville to Shore Medical Center in Chestertown, MD.  I met the victim there along with another male.  Operator was the operator of the vessel which was towing the tube.  The vessel had a registration number of MD 9445 BL.  It is a 23 foot Chaparral powerboat registered to the father in-law of operator.

      I arrived at the hospital at approximately 1605 hours.  I had Victim complete a written victim statement.  I spoke with Operator and Victim about the incident. Operator told me he was operating the boat and his daughter was the observer.  Operator told me there were two people on the tube being towed including the victim.  Operator told me a large wake hit the tube and caused the occupants to bounce in the air which caused the knee of the other tuber to make contact with the victims nose causing it to bleed.  Operator told me the vessel was travelling at approximately 20 - 25 knots when the wake hit the tube. Water conditions in the area were choppy with a wave height of approximately one foot.  I asked  Operator if the tubers were wearing life jackets and he replied,  "yes, absolutley".  I asked Operator if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages that day and he told me he had not.

      Operator told me they had arrived at the hospital around 1400 hours.  There was no injury beyond the bloody nose.  Operator told me he decided to use the hospital only because there was no other medical facility in the area.  Operator told me he wanted to make sure the victims nose was not broken.  Operator and Victim left the hospital with me at approximately 1640 hours.

      All events occurred in Kent County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0071
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Incident Summary 

      
      On 7-16-17, subject reported that on 7-15-17, he was involved in a boating accident on the Chester River. Subject fell during a skiing accident and later went to the hospital for an injured ankle. Hospital treatment revealed that Subject had a sprained ankle. 


      Initial Information 


      On 7-16-2017 at about 1000 hours, I, Cpl, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from DNR Communications, in regards to contacting University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown Charge Nurse in regards to a boat accident that occurred on 7-15-2017. I subsequently contacted the Charge Nurse via telephone. The Charge Nurse advised that they were currently treating a patient that was involved in a boat accident that occurred the previous evening. The Charge Nurse advised that the victim fell while skiing and was being treated for an ankle/foot injury. I thanked the nurse and advised that I would come and speak with the victim. 

     I arrived at University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown at about 1035 hours. I subsequently made contact with a white male as he was laying in an emergency room hospital bed. Subject advised that he did not know he had to report the accident and apologized for not doing so. I asked Subject what had happened. Subject advised that on 7-15-17 at about 1730 hours, he was water skiing behind his vessel. Subject advised that he was using a slalom ski for the activity where his left foot was located in front of his right foot on the ski. Subject advised that his friend was operating the vessel while another adult acted as the spotter. Subject advised that they were heading down river across from Northwest Point on the Kent County Side of the Chester River. Subject described "Northwest Point" to be the sharp bend in the Chester River west of South East Creek. I knew where that area was and obtained GPS coordinates from Google Earth. Subject advised that the water was flat calm and visibility was good. Subject advised that he was "carving a sweet arc to port" when his ski dug into the water and he went end over end in a violent manner. Subject estimated that the vessel was traveling at about 28 knots. Subject advised that he felt like his left foot was injured and possibly sprained.

     Subject advised that he stopped skiing for the evening and applied ice to his left foot/ankle. Subject advised that he when he woke up on the morning of 7-16-17 and could not walk on his left foot and feared he had a more serious injury. Subject decided to go to the hospital and arrived at the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at about 0910 hours, as he was dropped off by a friend. 
  
       I asked Subject about his injury. Subject advised that the hospital staff advised that he had a "bad sprain" that affected his left ankle. 

      I spoke with Subject about his vessel. Subject was able to provide me with his vessel's information needed for the incident report and boat accident report. Subject advised that he was wearing a PFD while he was skiing. Subject advised that his vessel contained all necessary safety equipment. Subject was able to provide me with information to include his boating experience. Subject advised that operator had between 100 and 500 hours of boating experience. Subject subsequently called operator on the phone, allowing me to question him if he had ever taken a boating safety course. operator advised that he had never taken any such course. 

      I thanked Subject for his time and cleared from the hospital at about 1114 hours. 

      This case is closed. All events occurred in Kent County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0072
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER -AQUALAND
NearestCityorTown: NEWBURG
County: CH - Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 16, 2017, at approximately 1115 hours, I Ofc. Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to the report of a head injury victim on a vessel near the Harry Nice Bridge. While responding to the bridge I received notification that the victim had made contact with EMS at Aqualand Marina, and EMS was taking the victim to Charles County Regional Hospital. After receiving notification of the victims status I change my response to meet the victim at the hospital. 

 Once I arrived at the hospital I received information from the emergency room staff that it was a 10 y/o female, and the EMS unit was en route. Shortly after my arrival, the victim who was later identified, arrived to the emergency room with her father. 

 Father explained to me that Victim, and two other children were on a tube being pulled on the Potomac River just south of the Harry Nice Bridge when they heard a piece of debris/ wood hit the bottom of the vessel. Upon hearing this sound they noticed a piece of wood fly up behind the vessel and strike Victim in the face and knock her off of the tube. Father said that it appeared to be a 2x10 board that was lying under the water and when the vessel hit it, it broke and the broken piece is what flew up behind the vessel. Victim and the two other children on the vessel were all wearing life jackets. Victim at no point loss consciousness per family on the vessel. At this point, the vessel owner/ operator quickly turned the vessel around, Father jumped into the water to get Victim and bring her onto the vessel. They immediately noticed a large gash/ injury to Victim's forehead and called 911. EMS responded and met the vessel at Aqualand Marina where the patient was taken to the hospital. 

Another subject stated that it was a calm day, with no wake and at no time was he able to see the piece of wood. 

 I obtained all information on everyone who was onboard the vessel. All children including the ones on the vessel were wearing life jackets. 

 Victim after being evaluated at Charles County Regional, was determined to have a skull fracture, and bleeding behind the fracture. Doctors advised she was going to be flown out to Children's in District of Columbia. I made contact with family on July 17, 2017, who stated she was stable, and had a metal plate surgically placed in her skull due to the fracture. 

 All events occured in Charles County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0073
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday July 2, 2017 at approximately 8:23am I (Officer) received a call to respond to Paradise Point on Deep Creek Lake for a boat accident involving and injured water skier from Maryland Natural Resources Police dispatch.  While in route, Sgt. directed me to meet the victim at Garrett Memorial Hospital. Sgt. collected the information for the vessel, owner, operator and observer from the scene of the accident. After reaching Garrett Memorial Hospital, I met with the victim’s husband. 

Victim’s husband said that he was not on the boat or with his wife but she hurt her back attempting to get up on her skis. Victim’s husband went on to say that his wife has had back issues in the past from water skiing. The victim arrived at the hospital via Garrett County ambulance and was admitted to the ER for further testing. I met with Sgt. at the hospital and gathered the information he acquired. 

The operator and owner of the boat has over 50 years of boating experience and was operating his 2000; Correct Craft pleasure boat off of Paradise Point on Deep Creek Lake.  The observer was seated next to operator. I called Garrett Memorial hospital at approximately 11:00am and the staff advised me that Victim was waiting on X-rays. I then called back at approximately 1:30pm. The staff said that Victim was released and sustained a lumbar fracture. All event occurred in Garrett County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2017-0074
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2017, at approximately 1106 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call for service in regards to a boating related accident in the Still Pond area of Kent County, MD. I was advised by DNR communications that the victim was being transported to Chester River Hospital in Chestertown, MD. I arrived at the hospital at approximately 1130 hours. While there I interviewed the operator. 

Operator advised me that he is a camp counselor with YMCA Camp Tuckwogh. He advised that while working, he had taken 5 campers out water skiing at about 1100 hours in the area of Codjus Cove in Still Pond, MD. Operator advised that while he was underway on the vessel, the skier he had been towing fell into the water. He advised that when he picked the skier up to board the vessel, he noticed a laceration on the victims forehead. Operator called the proper authorities and brought the victim back to shore at the USCG Station Still Pond to wait for EMS to arrive.
   
        The second interview I conducted was with the victim of the skiing accident who advised me that while he was water skiing, the front end of his ski dipped into the water, came back up, and hit him in the forehead causing a laceration above his left eye. He advised that he fell into the water and when the vessel came back to get him, the counselor he was with transported him to shore. The doctor advised victim that he would need to get stitches for the injury. 
   
     
     
     All events occurred in Kent County, MD.
     This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0075
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2017, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to YMCA Camp Tockwogh located at 24370 Still Pond Neck Road, Worton MD, 21678 in reference to a skiing accident that occurred on July 3, 2017. This incident was not reported to DNR communications until July 4, 2017. On July 3,2017, at approximately 1530 hours, a camp counselor took 5 children from the YMCA camp out water skiing on the Chesapeake Bay in front of Camp Tockwogh. While interviewing the counselor, she advised that the victim had fallen off his ski into the water as he was coming back into the wake generated by the vessel she was operating. 

She advised that the victims knee and ankle went in opposite directions and the victim advised her that his ankle was sore. When the vessel arrived at shore, the victim was taken to the Health & Wellness Center located on Camp Tockwogh to be examined. The following morning of July 4, 2017, the victim was taken to the Middletown Hospital Emergency Room and it was reported to camp staff that the victim has suffered a sprained ankle. The counselor advised me that the injury is being treated like a fracture as the sprain is too close to a growth plate on the victims ankle. The victims parents picked him up in the morning hours of July 5, 2017.


BARDID: MD-2017-0078
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CONOCOCHEAGUE CREEK
NearestCityorTown: HAGERSTOWN
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 9, 2017, at approximately 1:53PM, I responded to a call for a boat accident on the Conococheague Creek at Broadfording Road.  Due to the high water, debris collected below the bridge and blocked all three passage ways.  I arrived on scene at approximately 2:13PM.  By the time I arrived, all of the boats and occupants were out of the water and Washington County EMS was on scene (Run #1715900).  I observed two subjects in an ambulance being prepared for transport to Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown.  

 I made contact with the two subjects in the ambulance and identified them.  Operator2 was visibly shaken from the accident but did not have any apparent injuries other than some scrapes and bruises.  V2’s son had a cut above his right eye and some bruising on the right side of his face.  I asked Operator2 what happened.  

Operator2 explained they were floating down the river and observed all of the passage ways under the bridge were blocked with wood debris from the previous rain storms.  Operator2 stated she could not stop her canoe as she neared the passage way and struck her husband's canoe which was hung up on a log.  Operator2 stated her vessel capsized after striking the other vessel.  Operator2 advised she and her son went into the water and were sucked under the debris.  Operator2 stated her husband, Operator1, rescued them out of the water on the other side of the bridge.

 After the ambulance departed, I made contact with Operator1.  I asked Operator1 to describe the boat accident to me.  I noted that Operator1' depiction was identical to what Operator2 had told me.  Operator1 stated once he observed the navigational hazard, he tried to get his boat to shore but the water was moving too fast.  Operator1 explained his canoe hit the log blocking the passage ways forcing his vessel to turn sideways becoming hung up on the debris.  Operator1 advised the other canoe, unable to stop, broadsided his vessel on the rear starboard side.  Operator1 stated his wife's canoe then capsized.  

 I asked Operator1 if anyone else was in his wife's canoe at the time of the accident.  Operator1 stated subject1 was seated in the front of Operator2' canoe.  Operator1 advised when the vessel capsized, Subject1 was able to self-rescue.  I asked Operator1 who was occupying his canoe during the accident.  Operator1 advised his son was in the middle of his vessel and Subject2 was in the front.  Operator1 stated they made it to shore safely after the accident.  

 Operator1 advised there were three life jackets in each boat, but only the children were wearing them at the time of the accident.  Operator1 advised he has routinely made this same float on the Conococheague for the past 15 years and has never seen debris collect on the bridge as it did that day.  Operator1 admitted to having three Pabst Blue Ribbon beers before the accident.  Based on my observations, alcohol was a factor in the accident.  

 I photographed the vessels and the log blocking the aqueduct (See attached photographs).  There was only cosmetic damages done to the vessels.  I asked Operator1 if he would give me a written statement describing the accident.  Operator1 agreed and provided me a written statement (See attached statement).

 I cleared the scene at approximately 3:15PM.

 At approximately 3:50PM, I arrived at Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown to assess the injuries.  I met them in the emergency room area.  Son’s only injuries were the cut above the right eye and the bruising on the right side of his face.  Operator2 was in better spirits but had minor cuts/scrapes and some swelling of her left leg.  An X-ray was performed on her leg but Operator2 advised nothing was broken.  Operator2 advised the doctor ordered a precautionary CT scan of her brain since she had undergone brain surgery in 2013.

 All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0079
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday July 11, 2017 at approximately 5:30pm I (Officer) received a call from Maryland State Police McHenry Barracks for a personal water craft accident on Deep Creek Lake. Maryland State Police said they received the call from Garrett Regional Medical Center. I arrived at Garrett Regional Medical Center at approximately 5:45pm. After arriving, I was able to speak to the operator of the personal water craft. 

Operator said he was operating a friend’s personal water craft, a green 3 person Seadoo, while his son age 13 and nephew age 13, where waiting to go for a ride on the dock. Operator wanted to splash his son and nephew on the dock and approached them at speed. Operator lost control and hit the dock causing the personal water craft to go over the dock hitting both his son and nephew. The watercraft struck son in the chest pushing him out of its path.  The nephew tried to get out of the way by climbing on a docked boat. The watercraft struck his right leg. All parties were wearing life jackets. The incident occurred at approximately 3:00pm. Son sustained minor injuries including a contusion on his chest and some pulled muscles in his hip. Nephew sustained a fracture to his lower right leg. Operator was issued a citation for Operating a PWC over 6 Knots within 100ft of shore and a warning for negligent operation.

 Citation
 8-704, 08.18.02.05k
 Op/Give Permission to Operate PWC Over 6 Knots w/In 100ft of (Shore, Structure, People in Water) 
 $85-1st/500; 2nd/1000 and/or 1 year 


 Warning 
 08.18.01.05B
 Negligent operation of a vessel


BARDID: MD-2017-0081
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: MARLEY CREEK
NearestCityorTown: GLEN BURNIE
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-17-17 I, Cpl. received a call from DNR Communications in regards to a jet ski accident that occurred on Marley Creek, Anne Arundel County, MD. DNR Communications advised a female subject was at the Baltimore Washington Medical Center with a leg injury sustained in a jet ski accident.

I arrived at the Baltimore Washington Medical Center and met with Operator2, who advised she was injured after her jet ski was struck by another jet ski. Operator2 advised while operating her jet ski she came to a complete stop to fix her hair and her brother, Operator1 came to see if she needed any help and ran into the left side of her jet ski. Operator2 was knocked off her jet ski causing some scratches and a possible knee injury. She stated her brother was operating at approximately 5-6 knots when he struck the left side of her jet ski. Operator2 was wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident. Operator2 was transported to the Medical Center by a friend.

I conducted an interview with Operator1 at the Medical Center. He advised while operating his jet ski he noticed operator2 stop her jet ski and decided to turn his jet ski around and see if she was ok. He also stated as he was approaching her jet ski he stood up to talk to her and his lanyard (kill switch) cut the motor off and the bow of his jet ski struck the left side on the jet ski operator2 was on. This caused Operator2 to fall off her jet ski and into the water. Operator1 was wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident and also advised he did not have a Boaters Safety Certificate and he was in the process of getting it online.

At this time no drugs or alcohol was a contributing factor in this accident. This accident was caused by operator error. 

Operator1 was charged with the following:
 At this time no drugs or alcohol was a contributing factor in this accident.  This accident was caused by operator error.      

 Operator1 was charged with the following:
   08-18-02-05C  Did fail to possess a boaters safety certificate (PWC)



 All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0082
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 18,2017 I responded to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center located in Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland in reference to a vessel accident. When I arrived I spoke with the victim explained that earlier on July 18 she and her daughter’s friend were tubing behind her husband’s pontoon boat with Delaware registration "DL 09815 X." Subject’s husband was operating the boat, and subject’s fifteen year old daughter was acting as an observer. The Subject’s four year old son was also onboard the vessel. The water was extremely calm and there was no other vessel traffic on the water.

 They had planned to stop tubing and anchor out in front of Duck Neck Campground. Instead around 1345 hrs they observed a vessel traveling up the river throwing a wake. Since their ride had been primarily calm, they decided to continue tubing and ride over the wake. At that time Subject was thrown from the tube. Subject remembers that her personal floatation device (PFD) rode a little high as she entered the water on her right side. Subject is not sure if it was the impact on the water or the force on her personal floatation device that caused the pain in the area of her right ribcage. Subject entered the vessel and attempted relax in a comfortable position while they anchored out, so the juveniles could swim. Subject stated that her pain was so great that she was having trouble moving, that is when they came to shore so the juveniles could walk to short distance to their house and Operator could bring her to the hospital. Subject was still receiving imaging of her side when I left the hospital but it is believed that she badly bruised or fractured her rib(s). 

 Operator, who was the other adult on the vessel, was operating the vessel at the time, so he did not witness what occurred. Operator just explained that his fifteen year old daughter told him that Subject was off the tube and to circle around. At the time of the incident, Operator stated that the vessel was traveling down river towards Chestertown in the middle of the river, just south of the “S” turn. Operator also explained that the vessel was traveling at approximately twenty knots.

 This case is considered closed with no evidence suggesting that there is anyone at fault. 

 All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0083
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: HOWELL POINT
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 20, 2017 at 1942 hours, I Officer First Class with the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call in reference to a boat accident that had previously occurred in the area of Chesapeake Bay at Howell Point in Kent County. 

 I spoke with an Echo Hill camp counselor who advised a camper was water-skiing in the area and injured her foot when she fell off the ski. I spoke with Victim and a second camp counselor at Chestertown Hospital who confirmed the same. The operator of the vessel was identified as a camp counselor at Echo Hill Camp. He was operating a camp owned vessel with (2) additional campers on board the vessel. All 3 campers involved in the incident were wearing PFD’s.

 Doctors took X-rays and advised Victim her foot was only bruised and not broken. Doctors advised she take Tylenol for pain. 

 All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0084
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTERTOWN
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of July 21, 2017 I, Officer, responded in reference to an explosion on a vessel. I arrived on the scene at approximately 2119 hours and met with two investigators from the Fire Marshalls office. At this point the victim had been airlifted to the Bayview Burn Center in Baltimore. Officer later met with Victim at the burn center to collect his statement on the accident.

      According to Officer, Victim stated that he was on his vessel, of which was docked at that time,  installing LED Lights, for about three hours when the explosion occurred below deck on the vessel. The cause of the explosion was a spark from a wire that had deteriorated and become bare and ignited the gas fumes below deck. Victim also stated that the explosion threw him backwards approximately 10 feet across the vessel. 

      According to Victim suffered minor to moderate injuries as a result of the explosion. The force of the explosion and being thrown approximately 10 feet knocked the wind out of Victim, broke two vertebrae’s and the immediate blast of fire that accompanied the explosion caused light burns to his hands and chest.  Victim’s hair on his chest and head were singed. According to EMS Victim was airlifted to the burn center because of light singing below his nose, possibly indicative of possible lung damage. 

      The vessel was a 22.5’ Maycraft fishing vessel name Wild Hair, HIN# MBL02521H697. The force of the explosion resulted in a large crack opening up in the deck of the vessel that spanned fully from the port side to the starboard side of the vessel. A small fire also occurred below deck on the vessel after the explosion was put out by the fire department. The vessel was totaled as a result of the explosion. (See attached photographs of Victim’s vessel)  Victim advised that his vessel was valued at $20,000. Victim estimated the damage value to his vessel to be $7,500-$8,000.

      All events occurred in Kent County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0085
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ISLE OF WIGHT
NearestCityorTown: BISHOPVILLE
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 21, 2017 I Corporal responded to the area of Smoke House Cove for a report of a boat accident.  I was unable to get to the location where the accident occurred due to the low tide, and lack of water in the creek.  Corporal responded by land, and advised that there was two subjects involved in the accident.  Occupant was the passenger on the personal water craft and was not injured.  Operator was flown to Peninsula Regional Medical Center for life threatening injuries.  

   Occupant advised Corporal that Operator  was operating the PWC.  Both subjects were traveling southeast coming under the bridge and lost steering(likely due to lack of propulsion) and hit a shallow area. Occupant stated that both he and Operator were ejected from the PWC, and that they were going about 20 to 25 mph.  Corporal spoke to Operator's father who advised Corporal that once Operator came out of surgery that it went well, but it would be a while before Operator would be able to discuss the situation.

   On July 23, 2017 I made contact with father and he advised me that Operator didn't have any broken bones, just internal injury to his liver.  He said Operator was doing good so far, but he wasn't doing any talking right now just resting. I request that this case remain open for further investigation and for possible charges that may be forthcoming.


BARDID: MD-2017-0086
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/21/17 at 1530 hours I received a call from dispatch to investigate a damaged vessel at Deep Creek Marina.  The vessel was a rental boat that had just been returned and pulled out of the water.  I contacted the management of the marina and examined the boat.  There was a 1 inch by 50 inch area on the keel where the fiberglass had been scraped off to the undercoat.  The damage was consistent with the vessel running over a hard object.  

 I spoke to the operator, who stated that on 7/16/17 while docking the boat at his rental house on Glendale Road he leaned over to get a rope and bumped the throttle out of neutral while on final approach to the dock.  The boat ran up on the dock about 6 feet and then slid back down.  No one was injured and he did not realize he had damaged the boat.

 The damage was discovered when the marina pulled the boat from the water.  He took full responsibility and was willing to pay for the damages.


BARDID: MD-2017-0087
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LANGFORD CREEK
NearestCityorTown: ROCK HALL
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Incident Summary

       On July 22, 2017, I Cpl. , of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from DNR Dispatch, in reference to a boat that was on fire in Long Cove, Kent County, MD. Off responded from the Kent Narrows (Queen Anne's County) while I responded from the Chester River. Both vessel occupants were able to leave the vessel with no injuries. The fire was extinguished by the Rock Hall Fire Company.

 Initial Observations

      On July 22, 2017, at about 1153 hours, I Cpl., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP), received a call from DNR Dispatch, in reference to a boat that was on fire in Long Cove, Kent County, MD. NRP Officer responded from the Kent Narrows, located in Queen Anne's County, MD. I responded to the call from the Chester River, once as I was finished completing another call for service near Queenstown Creek. Kent Central Communications contacted the Office of the State Fire Marshal and notified them of the fire. 

      Off and I arrived at Long Cove, located off of Langford Creek, Rock Hall, Kent County, MD, at about 1230 hours. As we arrived to the area, we could see fire trucks located near the bulk head at the Deckelman's Long Cove Marina, located at 22589 Hudson Road, Rock Hall, Kent County, MD. As we got closer, we could see a light green/blue colored vessel sitting on the lifting straps of a large travel lift, as it was charred and still smoking. Fire Department personnel were spraying water on the vessel as it sat on the travel lift. 

      I docked my NRP patrol vessel and proceeded over to the vessel. I asked the occupants if they were okay and asked if they needed medical treatment. They both advised that they were okay and did not need any medical aid. I subsequently took digital pictures of the damaged vessel and briefly examined the vessel.

    I escorted them down to my vessel where I talked to them about what happened. Operator advised that he and his wife were the sole occupants of the vessel, before it caught fire. They advised that they fueled their 1984 dual-console 24' Grady-White Tournament vessel, bearing Maryland registration "9865 CB" at the Deckelman's Long Cove Marina at about 11:11 AM. The marina is located in Long Cove, off of Langford Creek. Operator’s wife advised that the vessel took 40 gallons of gasoline. Operator advised that he had the vessel's engine compartment blowers turned on during the fueling and after the fueling was completed. Operator’s wife advised that she went to pay the gas bill after the fueling was complete. She spent 5 to 8 minutes inside of the gas dock shop as she paid the bill and purchased ice. She went back down to the dock and got on the vessel. Operator advised that he started the vessel, just prior to Operator’s wife coming back from paying the gas bill and buying ice. He left the engine compartment blowers on while he pushed away from the dock. 

    Operator advised that they proceeded eastbound in Long Cove, towards Langford Creek at idle speed. When they were about 40 yards away from the gas dock (to the east), directly in front of a pier with a sailboat with blue canvas covers, he heard a loud explosion at the rear of the vessel. The engine cover, that was set inside of the middle stern of the vessel, flew up into the air and landed directly to his left side, inside of the vessel. Operator’s wife advised that she was sitting in the port side bow area of the vessel when the explosion occurred. She turned around and saw flames coming from the uncovered engine. Operator advised that he told Operator’s wife to jump in the water immediately, which she did. He either threw the engine cover overboard or to the rear of the vessel. He then jumped in the water with Operator’s wife. Operator advised that they were not wearing PFDs when they jumped into the water. They were immediately retrieved from the water by a vessel of good samaritans that were traveling behind them in Long Cove. The good samaritans dropped them off to shore. Operator was unable to get the good samaritans information before they left…


BARDID: MD-2017-0088
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: BIG SLACK - POTOMAC RIVER DAM
NearestCityorTown: SHARPSBURG
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1437 hours on Saturday July 22, 2017; I, Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police-Echo Lake, was dispatched to a call for a tubing accident on the Potomac River by the Dam 4 boat ramp. I made contact with the caller via cellular phone and determined that the injured party had been transported to Meritus Medical Center. I met the parties involved at Meritus Medical Center and gathered witness statements from them. 

      Based on the statements, it appears that the subject executed a sharp turn just north of the no wake zone beside Dam 4 boat ramp while towing two tubes. At that time victim’s tube collided with the tube carrying two others. Victim was unable to stay on his tube. During the collision Victim sustained a concussion and a broken orbital. No other parties were injured and no equipment was damaged.
   
 All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0089
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OTTER POINT - BUSH RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EDGEWOOD
County: HA - Harford
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/22/17 at approx. 7:57PM, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police Responded to Otter Point Marina on the Bush River in reference to boat accident involving numerous vessels and property. Upon his arrival, he made contact with his supervisor (Sgt.) who informed him of the location of the operator of the striking vessel and that he was going to get witnesses statements and take pictures. Cpl. made contact with the operator and asked if he required medical treatment. He responded "No". With that said, Cpl. asked him what happened. 

Operator1 informed Cpl. of the following: "My son in-law was up getting the trailer for the boat and I was going to help by putting it on the trailer. I have very little boating experience and put the boat in reverse, lost control and this is where it ended up". Cpl. asked if that was it? Operator1 said "that's it". Cpl. asked if there was anything else and he responded "No, that's it".

     Cpl. observed the vessel in question (a 17ft. Key West) wedged up against another vessel in a slip with damage to the port bow (see photo attachments). He also observed damage to the console and bow railing of the striking vessel (Key West / see photo attachments) Operator1 was operating. As Cpl. surveyed the scene, he observed the trolling motor from the striking vessel on the stern platform of another vessel (34 Ft. 2002 Sea Ray Sundance named My Waterfront) that was damaged along with an electrical outlet on another pier. 

       Cpl. informed Operator1 of his findings and as he spoke, Cpl. could detect a moderate odor of and alcoholic beverage coming from his breath. His eyes were glassy and his face was flushed (red). Cpl. asked Operator1 if he had been drinking and he responded "yes". Cpl. then asked him if he would submit to some Standard Field Sobriety Test which he refused. At that time, Cpl. supervisor provided him with witness statements and photographs of the property damage to other areas of the marina (see photo attachments). At that time, Sgt. was informed of refusal. After speaking to witnesses and surveying damage to the marina and other property, Operator1 was issued citations for the following violations:

 1-Negligent Operation of a motor vessel
 2-Operating a motor vessel while under the influence of alcohol
 3-Operating a motor vessel while impaired on alcohol
 4-Operating a motor vessel while under the influence of alcohol and or drugs
 5-Operating a motor vessel while under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance 

 **Note- Damages on Boat Accident Form are only an estimate and may change when actual value is determined
                                             
   All of the above events occurred in Harford County Maryland


BARDID: MD-2017-0090
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 22, 2017 at approximately 4:30 PM I was contacted by DNR Communications for a PWC property damage accident. I responded to Island Watersports in the Fenwick Ditch area of the Assawoman Bay where the PWC were reported to be rented from. Once on scene I met with several staff members from the rental. They advised that two of their PWC had collided, causing severe damage to both, but no injuries from either subject involved. 

 Island Watersports Guide advised me that the two PWC were traveling through the riding area, approximately 100 plus feet apart. Both PWC began to make a turn towards port, with the yellow PWC (DL 285 AL) slightly ahead of the other PWC. The other PWC (DL 281 AL) was also turning to port slightly behind and to the inside. The Guide stated that Operator1 was not turning at as sharp of an angle as Operator2 and Operator2 was traveling far slower that Operator1. At that point the two PWCs made contact, striking bow to bow, then traveling down the side of each other. 

 I observed and documented the damage to both PWCs and it appeared to be consistent with the Guide's chain of events. I also interviewed both operators, Operator2 and Operator1 separately. Both stories were consistent with the damages observed and the guides story. I appears that Operator1 did not take the appropriate actions to avoid striking Operator2, and Operator2 was not keeping a proper lookout behind him prior to making a drastic turn. I found that both subjects contributed to the cause of the accident. 

 Operator1 was issued a warning for Rules of the Road Violation: Failure to take action to avoid collision; and Operator2 was issued a warning for Rules of the Road Violation: Failure to provide a proper lookout. 

 All events occurred in Worcester County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0091
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/23/2017, I was contacted by DNR Communications to respond to Garrett Regional Medical Center at Oakland, MD for a person injured while boating on Deep Creek Lake. I went to the emergency room and met the victim and his son. Operator was operating a rented vessel, and Occupant was seated next to him. The vessel struck a wake from another vessel. Occupant became airborne momentarily, and when he came down to the seat, he injured his back. They returned to the rental dock, and requested medical assistance. The Southern Garrett rescue squad transported Occupant to the hospital, where he was treated and released.

    Further details are on the attached Watercraft Accident report. This case is closed. All events occurred in Garrett County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0092
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ASSAWOMAN BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
While on patrol on July 23rd, 2017 I (OFC.) was dispatched to a boat accident which had occurred in the Assawoman Bay around 1600 hrs.  Dispatch informed me that there was a rental vessel that had an occupant that needed medical attention and that Ocean City EMS was dispatched to the location of the boat rental facility on 53rd Street in Ocean City.  The rental facility was Bayside Boat Rentals located at 5307 Coastal Highway Ocean City,MD 21842.  Shortly after, dispatch advised the subject was enroute to Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) located in Berlin, MD and Corporal advised he would be enroute to meet with the subject.

      Upon arrival to the facility by land I saw the owner of the rental company, who I identified from past encounters.  He advised me that the woman was enroute AGH.  He advised that the operator stated he made a turn moving about 10-15 MPH and the other occupant of the vessel, bearing Maryland registration 2184LB, was not holding on to anything and fell over hitting her head on the inside of the vessel.  Occupant received 17 stitches and was released from AGH.

 All event occured in Worcester County,MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0093
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. CLEMENS BAY
NearestCityorTown: CLEMENTS
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24 2017 at 6:21 AM Officerreceived a call from Sergeant in regards to a Canoe that was struck earlier that morning by an other vessel in St. Clements Bay. The original caller  informed Sgt. that he struck a canoe in St. Clements Bay and was unsure if the vessel was occupied at the time of the collision.     
      
      After being informed of the situation, I headed towards Neale Sound where patrol vessel NRP 724 is located so I could respond to the call. I was on scene at 7:00 AM, where the vessel was tied to green day marker #5 in St. Clements Bay, St. Mary's County. The canoe was green in color bearing Maryland Registration 9344CH. It was still floating, but laying on its side because it had taken on water from the collision. The port side of the canoe was dented in midway between the port and stern, and the structural supports of the canoe was severed and broken. I called DNR communications to run the registration of the vessel. It came back to the last registered owner of the vessel and was showing expired in 2013. I was also informed that owner was deceased. 
      
      At 7:20 AM, Operator1 came alongside my vessel and told me what had happened that morning. Operator1 stated that at 5:30 AM he was traveling north in St. Clements Bay on his 20' Sea Mark bearing Maryland registration 9344CH when he struck the canoe. Operator1 was traveling just outside of green day marker #5 and did not see the vessel in the water at the time of the collision. Operator1 said he looked in the canoe after it was struck to check for any signs of recent occupancy. There was a fishing rod and a pair of blue jean shorts left in the canoe. Operator1 surface searched the immediate surrounding area but did not find any signs of a person in distress. He towed the canoe to the green day marker #5, and tied it off to the ladder. Operator1  reported the incident to DNR shortly after the canoe was secured to the day marker. I recorded Operator1's driver's license and vessel registration information for report purposes, and he cleared the scene.      
      
      At 8:10 AM, I met Sgt. on the nearby shore and brought him to the scene aboard NRP 724. Corporal on patrol vessel NRP 856 arrived on the scene and assisted Sgt. and I on the surface search and shoreline scan of the area of the incident. There were no signs of a missing person or a person in distress. Sgt. and I towed the vessel to a nearby private launch, where the vessel was towed to Indian Creek NRP office and put into temporary storage. I was clear of the scene at 11:00 AM. All events occurred in St. Mary's county and Charles county.


BARDID: MD-2017-0095
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: PATAPSCO RIVER - HAWK COVE
NearestCityorTown: ESSEX
County: BA - Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/16/17 at approximately 1820hrs myself and Ofc. were dispatched to Hart Miller Island for a vessel in distress and a person in the water who has not resurfaced yet. I responded to Strawberry Point in my patrol truck and then got underway on NRP879. While en route I received updated GPS coordinates which put the incident in Hawk Cove, just off the main swimming beach of Hart Miller Island State Park. On my arrival Baltimore County Police Aviation was overhead searching the area and Baltimore County Fire Boat 268 had just arrived before me and was running side scan sonar around the suspect boat looking for the victim. I did a quick surface search around the vessel and then tied up to the "Wet Spot" (MD registration 0313BF) which was the vessel where the victim had entered the water. Other fireboats from Baltimore County arrived shortly after and began marking the vessel location with floats, doing side scan sonar searches, and started to coordinate human chain searches with bystanders in the area.

Subjects stated that around 1800hrs the 3 of them were getting ready to depart Hart Miller Island when VICTIM went to the bow of the boat to try and free the anchor which was stuck and not able to be brought up with the mechanical windlass. VICTIM then jumped off the bow of the boat to attempt to swim down and free the anchor by hand. After some time had passed the two female passengers became concerned that VICTIM did not resurface and began to call over nearby boaters and swimmers to come and help them. Multiple bystanders dove under the boat and followed the anchor line down to the bottom (and even pulled it from the bottom) but were unable to find the victim. The female passengers then called 911 on their cell phones for further help.

 SUBJECT1 and SUBJECT2 described VICTIM as approximately 6'02" tall, 240 pounds, wearing black swim trunks, short grey hair, and facial hair. They stated he was a good swimmer, however he has had 2 open heart surgeries and gets out of breath easily, but has been acting fine all day. They had consumed a few "pina coladas" during the afternoon but no other alcohol during their afternoon on the boat. SUBJECT1 stated they left out of Parkside Marina in Frog Mortar Creek around 1115hrs, went to "Miami Beach" for a few minutes but stated it was too rough, and then went to Hart Miller Island around noon where they stayed the rest of the day since it was much calmer. At 1800hrs they were getting ready to go back to Parkside Marina for the night. 

 SUBJECT2 stated she has been dating VICTIM for approximately 6 years and SUBJECT1 is SUBJECT2S twin sister. The 3 of them were the only ones on the boat that day. SUBJECT2 initially stated that VICTIM has no living parents, children, ex-wives, or siblings to notify and that his "family" other than her, were his friends and co-workers. After checking the boat registration it was discovered that it belonged to another subject, and SUBJECT2 stated that he was VICTIMs best friend and that the vessel had been registered in his name for monetary purposes. 

 At this point more resources had arrived on scene including NRP Ofc., two US Coast Guard vessels, and more Baltimore County Fire boats. Rescue divers searched underneath the vessel but were unable to find the victim. Divers did however find that the anchor line had gotten wrapped in the propeller but did end up cutting the line since they believed they may have seen blood on the rope (it was later discovered the red was painted on the line to indicate depth markings). It is unknown at this time if the anchor fell to the bottom of Hawk Cove, was recovered by the fire boat, or is still wrapped in the propeller of "Wet Spot". Since the victim was still not located, notifications were made to the Duty Officer on call, Lt., who also notified Special Operations Division to have a Criminal Investigator sent to the scene.

 Fire vessels continued to run side scan sonar and help organize human chains of approximately 20 people to help search the nearby area which was only 2-5 feet in depth. A second float was dropped where the boat was after the immediate bottom was cleared by the diver. This was then able to give us an approximate drift direction and area to search. Initial position marked by fire boats was N39°15.225 W76°22.404 and it had drifted to N39°15.274 W76°22.469 by approximately 1915hrs. Fire Command was run by from North Point/Edgemere Fire Company. 

 Sunset was at approximately 2000hrs and at that time fire department units halted all dive operations and made a few more passes with side scan sonar. They then cleared the area and stated they would return tomorrow if need be to help in the body recovery effort. NRP and Coast Guard units remained on scene with the victims  vessel awaiting NRP criminal investigators. At approximately 2100hrs Lt., and two NRP criminal investigators arrived on scene and were given a full update as to what we uncovered during our investigation and what happened during the search effort. All operations were turned over to Lt. and the investigation turned over to NRP investigators.
   
 Once initial interviews were completed Chesapeake Marine Salvage and Towing was contacted to tow the vessel and the two female passengers back to Parkside Marina at the request of the vessel owner. The location floats were left in the water to assist in the search effort once it was to resume at first light on 8/17/17. All NRP and Coast Guard Vessels then cleared the scene.
   
 On 8/17/17 a surface search was done by US Coast Guard and NRP Officers at first light with no results. Maryland Natural Resources Police Underwater Operations Team began a search at approximately 1000hrs. At approximately 1100hrs side scan sonar showed a potential target in the initial search area between the float markers. At the same time a Baltimore County Aviation Division helicopter also noticed an anomaly in the same area and helped lead NRP vessels onto the target area. A body was then recovered at approximately 1110hrs by officers on NRP vessel 851. The body was then packaged and brought back to the Strawberry Point boat station for identification. The body was transported by a US Coast Guard vessel with an NRP officer on board. After arriving at the NRP Strawberry Point boat station the body was positively identified and turned over to NRP Investigator. A Forensic Investigator was requested and later the body was transported to the Medical Examiners Office. 

   All events occurred in Baltimore County. Please see supplements and reports from NRP criminal investigators for further investigative details.


BARDID: MD-2017-0097
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - HELLEN CREEK
NearestCityorTown: LUSBY
County: CA - Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26, 2017 I (Officer of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) was on patrol when I received a call in reference to a boat fire. Upon arriving to the scene I spoke with subject who informed me that he was not the owner but that his son who owned the vessel was out of the state in Florida. Subject1 introduced to his grandson, who was at the residence when the fire happened.  Subject1’s grandson reported that he was inside the house and had no idea that the vessel was on fire and was not certain on how the fire would have even started.  
          
      It was at this time that Subject1 introduced me to the person who first witnessed the fire and alerted Solomons Volunteer Fire and Rescue.  He reported that he was driving when he noticed the vessel docked to the pier on fire.  Witness1 said that he called fire and rescue and proceeded to make Subject1’s grandson aware of the fire.  Witness1 also went onto the dock where the fire was happening to try and clear Subject1's kayaks and other boats out of the path of the fire. 

      The vessel that was destroyed was a 43 foot, fiberglass, cabin motorboat with duel diesel inboard engines.  It was a Tiara vessel that Subject1 had documented with the name "Mojo Risin."  The vessel has been completely destroyed by the fire.  The firefighters on scene reported that there were no fluids leaking out of the vessel however and for that reason they did not believe the fire was fuel related.  

      When speaking to the first firefighter on scene he reported that upon arrival the vessel had been tied up to the dock with all dock lines in tact, although the fire had quickly burnt through some on the stern side.  He also reported that the shore power plug was still connected to the vessel and that the AC was running.  He reported that he had to disconnect the plug from the vessel himself.  It is possible that the fire started from an electrical issue but due to the fact that no one was present when the fire actually started no one was able to absolutely say why it would have started.  

      Subject1 was currently on his way home from Florida when all events occurred, when speaking to me over the phone he had yet to make plans on salvaging the vessel. 

      On August 3, 2017 I spoke with Fire Marshal in regards to his investigation on this case.  He reported that the vessel had two air conditioning units running at the time of the fire.  Marshal was able to determine that the front unit of the two which was set to dehumidify started the fire. 
      
      Subject1 owns two additional boats that sustained damage from the fire.  One being a 1973 13 foot Boston Whaler registered through Maryland as 9826CH, the other being a 2007 23 foot Century registered through Maryland as 6356CA.  Subject1 reports that there has been some blistering to the sides of the boats as a result from the heat of the fire.  

      All events occured in Calvert County, case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0098
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07-30-17 I was advised of a boat fire. I responded to the area and was advised while responding that the fire was out. I arrived on scene and met with firemen from Deep Creek Fire Department. They advised that the fire had been put out by several subjects that were walking by and saw the fire. They had used the fire extinguisher on the boat to put the fire out. The subjects that had put the fire out had left the area. 

 The boat was docked and not running. It is owned by Deep Creek Boat Rentals and Sales. The business was closed for the night. The keys were not in the vessel. I inspected the damage and it looked to be an electrical fire in the wiring in the console. I finished my investigation and left the area. 

 On 07-31-17 I returned to the area and met with the owner of the business. He advised the keys had been taken out of all the boats at the close of business that evening. He advised that there was no insurance on the boat and it was only worth about $2000.00. He advised that the damage was $2000.00

 I met with Fire Marshall on 07-31-17 at the vessel. FM inspected the boat fire and came to the conclusion that the fire was electrical in nature. This investigation is closed at this time.


BARDID: MD-2017-0099
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTH EAST RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NORTHEAST
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/29/17 at approximately 1815 hours the passenger of a 22ft Grady White recreational fishing vessel fell while the vessel was attempting to get up on plane.  

 The vessel had travelled to Havre de Grace from North East Isles Marina and the group of five passengers had gone to church and lunch in Havre de Grace.  Upon returning to the North East river area the group sent some time relaxing.  The operator admitted to have two beers over a several hour period, which was confirmed by the group and based on this officer training knowledge and experience the operator was not intoxicated. 

 The owner and operator of the vessel decided to get the vessel up on plane and announced to everyone to hold on.  The passenger was standing up at the time, he remembers holding onto a hand rail but he lost his grip and fell backwards into a rack of rod holders near the transom of the vessel.  The impact was severe enough that he did not want to get up and remained seated.  The operator of the vessel drove the vessel to the marina from where they had departed,  an approximate 5 minute ride.  Upon reaching the marina the injured passenger could still not stand up and was complaining of back pain.  At this time EMS was contacted and North East Fire Company arrived shortly there after.  He was transported to Union Hospital, Elkton.

 There were no violations.

 All events occurred in Cecil County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0100
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: GRASONVILLE
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 4:05PM, I, Officer, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received at vessel in distress call from DNR communictions. Officer responded to the call first. A male subject and his grandchild were underway in a powered 10ft blow-up boat in the area of Kent Narrows North @ the Chester River. 

While under power Operator was ejected from his vessel and caught his shirt in the propeller of the motor. In his attempt to free himself and get back onto the vessel he caught left arm and torso in the propeller as he broke free. Operator's grandson remained on the vessel as it was stuck in gear traveling in a circular motion. Queen Anne's County Maryland Fireboard was the first on scene and were able to retrieve both Operator and his grandson from the water back to land near 1020 Kent Narrows Road the Holiday Inn Express. Operator was escorted to Queen Anne's County Maryland EMS Ambulance while waiting for transport from MSP Helicopter to Baltimore Shock Trauma for further medical treatment.

Operator had been drinking.


BARDID: MD-2017-0101
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHESTER RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHESTER
County: QA - Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/08/17 at approximately 1740 hours I, Cpl, received a call for a boat that had struck the Kent Narrows drawbridge on the south side.  The drawbridge operator called in the incident after he spoke with the boat operator. The vessel was a 42 foot catamaran with a documented name of "Magnificat" and a hailing port at Kent Island.  The accident occurred at approximately 1630 hours as the vessel was trying to navigate through the open span of the drawbridge.  I met with Subject later that evening at the drawbridge office and he completed a written witness statement.  Subject told me he was in the process of opening the drawbridge when Operator began to try and navigate through.  The mast rigging became entangled in the drawbridge span and the bridge opening was delayed.  Subject told me that he and Operator communicated via VHF radio to help free the vessel.  Subject told me the drawbridge operated without incident about an hour after the accident occurred.

      I met with Operator on 08/16/17 at his home and he completed a written statement detailing the accident.  Operator admitted to me that the accident was his fault.  Operator told me that he tried to time the opening of the bridge by advancing toward the bridge as the spans began to open.  Operator advised that the west span stopped while the east span continued to open.  Operator told me the current was very strong and was running south to north more or less.  Operator said he was unable to stop and the current pushed his boat to the west side of the opening causing the mast rigging to get caught in the beam under the west span. Operator told me there was damage to the base of the mast and the port stern of the hull.  There were no injuries and no damage to the bridge. Operator told me he continued on to Baltimore Marine Center where he kept his vessel docked.


      All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0102
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/10/2017, I, OFC, was made aware of a boat accident that occurred on Deep Creek Lake in the evening hours of 08/05/2017. The victim advised she never reported the incident until her insurance company said she would need a police report. 

The victim/vessel operator was identified. V1 subject said that on the evening of 08/05/2017, her vessel, a 2016 Sylvan pontoon boat , was docked at the Honi Honi Bar/Unos community docks. There was a docking assistant hired by the Honi Honi Bar that helped her secure the boat and also oversees the vessels while the passengers are on the restaurant grounds. V1 subject and her husband were having dinner inside between 1600 and 1800 hours. When they returned to the community dock to retrieve their vessel, the dock attendant said that their vessel was involved in a "hit and run" collision. The attendant saw a black pontoon boat bearing Maryland registration "MD 6014 CD", reverse from his slip, begin forward motion to head into the main body of Deep Creek Lake, and failed to provide adequate distance on his starboard side to avoid striking docked vessels. The leading edge of his starboard side pontoon struck the outboard engine of V1 subject's docked Sylvan pontoon. The dock attendant shouted at the suspect vessel and attempted to make contact but she advised the operator exited the area quickly and traveled towards the Glendale Bridge. 

   V1 subject sustained damage on her outboard engine, specifically scratches and a broken handle on the outer plastic housing, along with a dent to the inner metal casing. V1 subject estimated the damage to be greater than $2000. 

   I was able to run the suspect vessel's registration and found a listed owner. When I arrived at Operator2's dock I saw a black Harris pontoon boat tied to the dock, bearing MD registration: MD 6014 CD. The pontoon had damage consistent with the dock attendant's recollection of the event, namely a significant dent and tear in the aluminum of the starboard side pontoon, along with black transfer paint from V1 subject's engine housing. I made contact with Operator2 via his phone number on file with Deep Creek Lake Management and we set a meeting for 08/11/2017 to discuss the accident.

   On 08/11/2017, V2 subjects met me at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center to discuss the accident. Operator2 said that he was at the Honi Honi on 08/05/2017 by himself, he was there between 1630 and 1800 hours. Operator2 said that the restaurant was very busy that day and he had to wait awhile for two beers and left soon after. Operator2 said he returned to the community dock, reversed out of the slip, and had some difficulty maneuvering in the tight quarters, he also advised there was steady vessel traffic in and out of the community dock area. Operator2 didn't recall a dock attendant yelling for his attention, or feel his starboard pontoon strike the engine of V1 subject's pontoon boat but said the damage was consistent and he would take responsibility for the accident.

    Insurance information was then exchanged between the two parties and both were informed that an Incident Report would be available for them to review.

 All events occurred in Garrett County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0105
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/12/2017, I was contacted by DNR Communications to respond to Deep Creek Marina at McHenry MD for a report of damage to a rental pontoon vessel. I was shown the rented vessel, a 2017 Avalon Tahoe pontoon, MD 3747 LB. The vessel had sustained a gash in the left rear pontoon above the waterline (photo attached). The marina says the damage was not there when the vessel left the dock. The renter and operator say they did not hit anything, but can't explain the damage. When they took the vessel out, neither had done a lookover of the vessel before leaving the rental dock. The damage did appear to be recent. The rental company is indicating the left/ port pontoon will have to be replaced.
    The two sides are discussing how to resolve the cost of damage. 
    This case is closed. All events occurred in Garrett county, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0106
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SEVERN RIVER
NearestCityorTown: ANNAPOLIS
County: AA - Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 13, 2017, at approximately 1700 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for a boat accident in the Annapolis Harbor in front of the Fleet Reserve Club Building. 

      Upon my arrival, I located Officer of the Natural Resources Police who was already speaking with both captains of the vessels. Annapolis Police Department was also on scene to assist. Vessel number one (1) was the offender in this incident.  Officer relayed to me the story of what happened according to the captains and witnesses. 

      At approximately 1655 hours, Operator1 was leaving from slip number 9 in City Dock. As Operator1 was leaving, he started to pull forward but realized that his vessel wasn't responding when he shifted into reverse. His vessel headed straight toward the Fleet Reserve Club building. Bracing for impact, Operator1's vessel crashed bow first into the dock where he also hit a light pole; the resistance pushed him backward into the channel, barely missing contact with other vessels in the channel. His vessel then headed toward another vessel that was tied off to the dock and made contact on the engine and port stern. His vessel was then pushed into the dock where they could safely tie off. 

      Vessel number two (2) was unoccupied at the time of the accident. V2 owner was at the Fleet Reserve Club at the time and watched the incident happen. Operator1's vessel is described as a 28 foot Sea Ray and V2 owner's vessel is described as a 20 foot, 11 inch Pro Line. Both boats had minor damage, mostly scuffs and paint transfer (See attached). 

      Annapolis Harbormaster's office had video footage of the entire incident which confirmed what Operator1 explained. Operator1's vessel was found at fault and Operator1 was in contact with his insurance company to make the claim. Both vessels will receive estimates on their vessels and will be contacted for a follow up. The vessels appeared to be operatable and were able to leave the scene. 

      All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0107
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/13/17 at approximately 1700 hours subject was injured while tubing on Deep Creek.  The victim's ring finger on her left hand became entangled with the rope handle when the tube hit a wake and she was thrown from the tube.  The victim later went to Garrett Memorial Hospital on her own.  The finger was found to be broken.  The victim was treated and released.  No charges were filed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0108
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/15/17 at approximately 1300 hours, while operating a rented jet ski  subject was thrown from the vessel and injured himself.  The victim was operating on the main body of Deep Creek Lake when he hit a wake he did not see and was thrown over the handle bars of the vessel.  The victim landed awkwardly and had the wind knocked out of him.  The victim was able to reboard the vessel and return to Funtime Watersports where the vessel was rented.  The victim then transported himself to Western Maryland Regional Hospital in Oakland where he was treated for bruised ribs and a sprained left ankle and released.  The operator was not charged.


BARDID: MD-2017-0109
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK
NearestCityorTown: SWANTON
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, August 16 2017 at approximately 2:20pm I (Officer) received a call from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources dispatch for a boat accident in North Glade Cove on Deep Creek Lake. I was responding by marked patrol boat where the reported accident occurred. While in route the operator of another vessel flagged me down. T

he operator of the vessel said that he was the one that hit the dock. When asked what happened, Operator said that he was traveling out of North Glade cove at approximately 20mph. He became distracted by his kids that were on board and hit the dock. Operator said that everyone was ok and that no one was injured during the accident.  I collected Operator’s information and instructed him to take the boat back to Bill’s Marine where he rented it so they could check for damage.  

I arrived on scene at approximately 2:37pm. Subject1 was at the dock and said she witnessed the event. She told me that the boat struck the first dock (#22928A), went over top of it and hit the second dock (#22914) and finally came to a stop with the bow of the boat touching the shore between the two docks. The marks on both of the docks support this as seen in the pictures attached. I then called Deep Creek Lake Management to find out who owned the docks.   I then called Bill’s Marine to find out the extent of the damage to the boat. staff told me that the boat only had minor scratches.  I attempted to contact operator at approximately 4:00pm. Operator attempted to contact me at approximately 9:15. I was able to contact Operator on Thursday, August 17, 2017 at approximately 12:00pm. I issued him a citation for negligent operation of a vessel. All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0110
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Incident Summary 

      On August 18, 2017, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to Camp Tockwogh in regards to a boat accident. I was advised by DNR communications that the victim was being transported to Christiana Urgent Care hospital. While there at Camp Tockwogh, I identified the operator of the vessel as a counselor at the camp. 

He advised me that while underway on the vessel, a 2011 Boston Whaler 170 Supersport, his hand slipped off the steering wheel causing the vessel to abruptly turn to the starboard side, throwing the victim into the gunwale of the vessel. 

I gathered his information and advised that I would come back the following day to interview the victim. On August 19, 2017, I conducted a follow up investigation at Camp Tockwogh with the victim. I identified the victim as a counselor at the camp. He corroborated the same information. She advised that she was released from the hospital that night as she only had minor bruising of the tendon in her elbow. She advised that she does not have to go back to the hospital to do a follow up for her injury.


BARDID: MD-2017-0111
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ELK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 8, 2017 at approximately 6:45PM I, Officer, responded to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Chestertown Maryland to interview the victim of a boating accident that occurred at the Echo Hill Camp located at 13655 Bloomingneck Road in Worton Maryland. 

      The victim stated that the accident occurred at approximately 4:15PM while she was waterskiing slalom-style in the wake behind one of the camps vessels. Victim said that she attempted to turn out of the wake and this caused her to fall. When she fell her waterski became detached from her foot and struck her in the left arm just above the elbow. The fall and subsequent strike to the elbow by the waterski resulted in only a minor contusion to the left elbow with no further injury reported. Victim was released from the hospital shortly after the conclusion of my interview. 

      The vessel that was towing Victim at the time was a 2003 16’ McKee Craft Waypoint named Red Boat, hull ID# MCK62575D303, Maryland registration MD 1067 BV. The vessel had three more campers aboard. The vessel sustained no damage in the accident and no additional injuries we reported to anyone else on board the vessel. 

      All events occurred in Kent County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0112
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WILLIAMSPORT
County: WA - Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/19/17, at approximately 1900 hours, Master responded to a report of a boating accident on the Potomac River near Williamsport, Maryland.  Operator2 and Operator1, who are longtime friends, were each operating personal watercrafts on the river stretch known as Big Slackwater.   Each riding alone, the two subjects headed toward each other.  When they were within a few feet of each other they both tried to abruptly turn in opposite directions in an attempt to splash each other.  However Operator1 turned left into the path of Operator2.  Due to their excessive speed and close proximity,  Operator2 lost control of his PWC.  Operator2 spun around causing his stern to collide with starboard side of Operator1's PWC (see attached diagram).  When the officer arrived on scene at a private WV boat ramp, he found a crowd of people near a heavily damaged jetski (see attached photo, PA 2755 BS). 

 This vessel had been operated by Operator1.  Operator1 had already been transported by ambulance to the Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg, WV. No witnesses to the accident could be found. The officer was told the 2nd vessel and subject involved could be found at a ramp a short distance down river.  At another WV boat ramp, Off. found a partially submerged PWC (see attached photo, PA 3985 CB) with a cracked hull at the stern.  He also located the second subject, Operator2. 

As the officer walked toward a cabin, he was approached by Operator2 and an unknown companion.  Operator2 was carrying a can of Yuengling Lager beer.  There was a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on Operator2's person.  His eyes were bloodshot and glassy. He also had a scalp laceration on the upper right side of his head with blood running down to his neck (see attached photo). The companion stated that Operator2 had not been drinking alcohol while operating the PWC, however after the accident and on shore Operator2 consumed several cans of beer.  Operator2 admitted to operating the PWC and being involved in the accident. Sgt. arrived to assist.  
 Operator2 received citations for the following:

 NR 8-704  08.18.02.05M     Negligent operation of a PWC                                                                 $320          max. $500
 NR 8-704  08.18.02.05L     Operate PWC in excess of 6 knots within 100' of another vessel        $85            max. $500

 MOff. then went to the hospital where Operator1 was being treated for fractures to his right leg and wrist.  Operator2 was present in Operator1's hospital room. Operator1 admitted to being involved in the accident stating he and Operator2 were "screwing around".  Operator2 drew a diagram of the accident for the officer.  Both stated they were equally at fault.
 Operator1 received citations for the following:

 NR 8-704  08.18.02.05M     Negligent operation of a PWC                                                                 $320          max. $500
 NR 8-704  08.18.02.05L     Operate PWC in excess of 6 knots within 100' of another vessel        $85            max. $500

 The incident occurred in Washington County, Maryland, however the majority of the investigation took place in West Virginia.


BARDID: MD-2017-0113
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CAMBRIDGE
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday 8/20/17, Corporal and myself were on small boat patrol in the area of Cambridge Yacht Basin when we heard a non-emergency distress call over the VHF for a boat that has sunk. The caller was requesting TowBoat US for assistance. We met up with TowBoat entering the harbor and waiting for the drawbridge to open. 

      Once on scene at Blue Water Marine slip #13, we saw a 34 foot Baja boat that was still tied up to the dock but mostly underwater and leaning to the port side. Both  300 horsepower Yamaha outboards were submerged. The majority of the deck and the center console area were also submerged. See attached pictures. 

      The caller was also on scene and soon identified. Subject owns the marina and the boat slips attached. He advised me that he was attempting to make contact with the owner by cell phone. Soon the owner of the vessel was on scene. Subject1 was distraught and bewildered that his boat was under water. He talked with TowBoat for a while about plans on recovering the vessel and received an estimate on the recovery cost as $7,000. There were not any noticeable fuel leaks or fluid entering the water. An oil boom was placed around the vessel just in case. 

      Subject1 told me that he did not have insurance yet and has received several quotes from various agencies but has not finalized anything yet. The boat did not have any Maryland registration stickers on it. I was told that Subject1 has only owned the boat about two weeks and just took off the old stickers and has the replacement stickers in his vehicle (which I later identified to be MD 9839DA). I ran the vessel which was valid and registered to Subject1. Subject1 said he took the boat out Saturday to watch the boat races and was back to the slip by 1700 hours. He also said he came to the boat this afternoon around 1230 hours to put some fuel in the boat. He put about 7 gallons of gas from two gas cans in the boat and left. The next time someone noticed the boat was when it was under water around 1700 hours. Subject was the one to notice the boat and make the calls for service. After getting as much information that we could for the time being, Corporal and myself cleared the scene. 

      On 8/23/17, I made contact with subject2 by cell phone. She advised me that the boat was pulled out of the water on Monday morning around 0100 hours. Upon inspection of the vessel, there is nothing obvious that would relate to the sinking of the vessel. She also told me that they originally bought the vessel from Michigan and put new motors on it. These 300 horsepower Yamaha motors were installed by Blue Water Marine two weeks ago. They apparently ran the boat for the last two weeks without any problems and when asked if they ever had water in the hull she said it was always “bone dry.” I advised her to call me if they receive any more information on the damage or the cause. 

      All events occurred in Dorchester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0114
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: POTOMAC RIVER - JUTLAND CREEK
NearestCityorTown: RIDGE
County: SM - St. Mary’s
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 22nd, 2017 at approximately 5:58 pm, I (Off. Of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) responded Medstar St. Mary’s Hospital regarding a boating accident.  

      Officer and I arrived at Medstar St. Mary’s Hospital at approximately 6:39 pm.  Hospital staff informed us that the victim, Victim was in the ICU and heavily sedated.  I was able to speak with and receive a written statement from Victim’s boyfriend of 12 years.   Victim’s boyfriend was on the vessel with Victim at the time of the incident.  The Vessel is a 42’ Tartan Legacy Yacht, powered by an inboard Cummins 660 horsepower diesel motor.  The vessel is documented with the name “Jewel Box” and the port of call is Lewes, DE.

      Victim’s boyfriend’s recounting of the events is as follows:  On August 20th, 2017 Victim’s boyfriend and Victim had taken their boat out for a maiden voyage on the Potomac River.  Victim’s boyfriend was operating the boat when they decided to pull into Smith Creek around sunset(7:54 pm).  As they entered Smith Creek the boat began to have issues with the engine stalling at higher speeds.  Victim’s boyfriend was able to drive the boat at between 5-6kts without issue but beyond that, the boat would lose power and the engine would stall.    Victim’s boyfriend thought that he may have snagged a line or fish net in his engine propeller.  

      The boat was anchored in Jutland Creek, off of Smith Creek and just north of the Corinthian Yacht Club.  Victim’s boyfriend and Victim decided they would spend the night on the boat and check on the propeller in the morning.  

      On the morning of August 21st, 2017 at approximately 11:00 am, Victim decided she was going to jump into the water and swim down to investigate the propeller.  She grabbed a knife and climbed down into the water without a lifejacket.  Victim then dove down beneath the stern of the vessel to attempt to clear any line that the propeller had run afoul with.  After about 30 seconds passed, Victim’s boyfriend stated he started to become worried.  Another minute elapsed and it was then that Victim’s boyfriend noticed Victim, unresponsive, floating face down 20-30 feet from the boat.  

      Victim’s boyfriend jumped off the boat, into the water and began to swim towards Victim.  When he reached Victim, he turned her over and began to breathe into her mouth.  Victim started to breathe again but did not regain consciousness.  Victim’s boyfriend swam back to the boat while holding onto Victim.  

      Victim’s boyfriend was unable to lift Victim up into the boat.  He spent the next several hours in the water, holding onto both the boat and Victim, yelling for help.  At around 2:00 pm, Victim’s boyfriend stated that Victim regained consciousness long enough to help Victim’s boyfriend get her into the boat.  Victim’s boyfriend then attempted to hail NRP and any vessels in the area over Channel 16 on his VHF radio.  After receiving no response he called 911 from his cellphone.

      St. Mary’s County Fire and Rescue was dispatched at 2:09 pm and arrived on scene at 2:28 pm.  Victim was transported to Medstar St. Mary’s Hospital by St. Mary’s County EMS Ambulance #389.  Victim arrived at the hospital at 3:15 pm.  She was placed in the ICU with injuries consistent with drowning.

      I asked Victim’s boyfriend how much boating experience he had.  He stated that while this was his first motorboat.  he had owned various sailing boats since 1976 and had well over 1,000 hours of experience.  

 Victim’s boyfriend and Victim have been living aboard their boat since July 5th, 2017.

 Victim’s boyfriend stated that no alcohol had been consumed the day of the incident.

 I cleared from Medstar St. Mary’s Hospital at approximately 8:38 pm.

 On August 22nd, 2017 Victim was removed from the ICU and in stable condition.


 Victim and witness statements have been attached to this report. 
 All events occurred in St. Mary’s County, Maryland.
 This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2017-0115
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: SINEPUXENT BAY
NearestCityorTown: OCEAN CITY
County: WO - Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 22, 2017 at approximately 11:10AM, I (Sgt.) was on vessel patrol in the commercial harbor, Ocean City, Maryland. I observed a PWC displaying a Maryland registration of 7622 DA approaching my vessel. The operator advised me that he believed he had just broken his ankle. I asked him if he would like me to contact an ambulance for him. He refused any medical aid and advised that his friends would transport him and requested directions to the nearest hospital. I observed victim’s left ankle to be swollen and deformed. 
      I asked him what had happened. He advised that he was traveling East out of the Ocean City Inlet at approximately 10 knots. He stated that he went over a wave and landed awkwardly on his foot. He immediately felt pain in his left ankle and came right back in. 
      All of the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0116
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: NORTH EAST RIVER
NearestCityorTown: CHARLESTOWN
County: CE - Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/20/2017 at approximately 1830 hours this Officer responded to Lee's Marina on the North East River for a boat accident.  The owner/operator of "About Time" MD 2587 BP, a 30ft Cruisers yacht struck the side of a docked vessel while he was docking  According to eye witnesses, Operator2 was backing into his slip, number 26, at the North East Marina and then drove forward and stuck the starboard side of "Essex Villers" MD 6397 BG a 28ft Chaparral yacht.  V1 owner was standing on the dock behind his vessel at slip A-13, when Operator2 struck his vessel.  V1 owner then observed Operator2 reverse his vessel and then drive forward again striking the same place on the starboard side a second time.  At this point Operator2 was able to reverse his vessel into his slip and secure his dock lines.  V1 owner's vessel sustained a broken side window, bent cleat and possible structural hull damage from the impact.

 A verbal argument took place across the fairway between V1 owner and Operator2 and according to V1 owner and another eye witness, Operator2 was intoxicated.  V1 owner instructed Operator2 to come over to his dock and Operator2 complied.  Operator2 was asked how much alcohol he had consumed he replied "Too much".  Operator2 did provide his name, address, insurance information and driver's license number but not his phone number or vessel information to V1 owner, as required by state regulation.  V1 owner and Witness told Operator2 at least four times that he had to stay until the Maryland Natural Resources Police arrived however Operator2 got in a Silver BMW 700 series and left the scene.   

 When officer's arrived on scene and found that Operator2 had left the scene a BOLO was sent out through MSP.  Operator2 was not located.   Based on eye witness statements it is possible Operator2 was intoxicated while operating a vessel however there is not sufficient evidence to charge Operator2 with this offense.  It is this officers opinion based upon his training, knowledge and experience there is probable cause to charge Operator2 with operating a vessel in a Reckless or Dangerous Manner and with Negligent and Reckless boating based upon the facts that the first time Operator2 struck V1 owner's vessel it would be considered Negligent boating since it was unintentional.  However the second time Operator2 struck V1 owner's vessel he had the option of stopping the vessel and assessing the situation but he drove into V1 owner's vessel again and therefore considered intentional and thus Reckless boating.

 All events occurred in Cecil County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0117
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-24-2017, I, Cpl., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, met with Camp Tockwogh Staff, located at 24370 Still Pond Neck Road, Worton, MD, 21678, in regards to a boating accident that occurred on 8-18-2017. Camp Staff advised that initially the accident victim did not seek treatment above basic first aid for his injury, but later learned that he was taken to an urgent care facility for increased foot pain. 

    At about 1405 hours, I met with operator who advised he was operating a Camp Tockwogh vessel (2011 Boston Whaler Super Sport 170, Maryland registration "9638 CD"), herein referred to as "Whaler", in the Chesapeake Bay. He advised that at about 1545 hours, he was operating the Whaler, just north of Camp Tockwogh, when he saw a Camp Tockwogh "Sunfish" sailing vessel sitting in the marked navigation of the Chesapeake Bay. Operator1 advised that the vessel was occupied by two people as they were sitting side by side in the "Sunfish". Operator1 advised that that boys appeared to be having trouble with navigation. Operator1 advised that he proceeded to tow the "Sunfish" back to the Camp Tockwogh "main beach". Operator1 advised that during the towing operation, the vessel's motor accelerated rapidly without any throttle input. Operator1 advised that before he could throttle the vessel down, the "Sunfish" capsized and ejected the subjects. Operator1 advised that Victim and Subject2 screamed for help. Victim advised that his right ankle was hurt. Operator1 drove the vessel over to Victim and Subject2 and had them hang on the side of the Whaler while he radioed for an additional Camp Tockwogh vessel to come and assist with the situation. Camp Staff speculated that the "Sunfish" struck Victim's right ankle when it capsized. 

     Operator1 advised that a second Camp Tockwogh vessel arrived several minutes later. Operator1 advised that the boys were placed in the second Camp Tockwogh vessel and taken back to shore, where they were immediately taken to the wellness center. Operator1 and (Camp Tockwogh Water Sports Coordinator), advised that Victim was give ice for his injured right ankle, which initially reduced the pain. He advised that Victim was then released and taken home by his parents. Subject2 was not treated for any kind of injury. 

      He advised that Victim's parents called Camp Tockwogh on Saturday (8-19-2017) and notified them that Victim was taken to a hospital for treatment for his injured right ankle.  

      I contacted Victim's mother and spoke to her about her son's treatment. She advised that she took him to "Children's Hospital Urgent Care in King of Prussia" on Saturday morning (8-19-2017) at about 10:30 AM, as her son complained of increased foot pain.  Victim advised that an x-ray revealed that her son had a broken growth plate in his right foot and would need further treatment from an orthopedic specialist. I provided her with the NRP case number for this boat accident report. 

   I obtained all of the known vessel information for this incident and cleared from Camp Tockwogh at about 1500 hours.

    This case is closed, all initial events occurred in Kent County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2017-0118
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER
NearestCityorTown: WOOLFORD
County: DO - Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/03/2015 I was dispatched to a boat fire call in Woolford MD. I arrived on scene at 0901. Upon arrival I made contact with one of the passengers aboard the vessel. Subject1 stated that the two other occupants of the vessel had been transported to seek medical attention. The other passenger was transported to Dorchester Hospital with a broken heel. The owner/ operator was flown out to Bay View Hospital in Baltimore for second degree burns on 15 percent of his body.

 OFC responded to Dorchester to get a statement and information, while CPL responded to Bay View to meet with Operator. Upon hearing of the injuries I called the DO for the Day LT, to see if it was something that should be turned over to SOD. The determination was made that it would not be necessary to turn it over. 

 I began my interview with Subject1 and asked if he felt comfortable giving a statement about the events that occurred, he stated that he would prefer if I wrote it down for him. Subject1 said that his brothers and he were about to take the boat (a 1993 Ken Craft, MD 7174C) out on a fishing trip. Operator wanted to check the oil before the trip began. Subject1 stated that the cover was off the motor for roughly 15-20 minutes while Operator checked the oil and other things around the motor.  The cover was closed before the vessel was started. Operator backed the vessel off of the lift and was reversing out. Once Operator put the vessel in forward Subject1 stated he heard a loud explosion and a fire broke out. Subject1 stated that the explosion was powerful enough to flip the engine cover over, which he said weighed around forty pounds. 

 Subject1 had to rush to the port side of the vessel and pull Subject2 back into the boat. The explosion nearly knocked Subject2 completely off the boat and into the water. Subject1 said he went into the cabin of the vessel and grabbed three life jackets. All occupants put on their lifejackets on and jumped from the vessel. Subject1 stated that they swam ashore and someone called 911. Subject1 also stated that they had just filled the vessel up with 40 gallons the night prior. 

 At 0940 Cambridge Fire Department arrived and set up a pollution ring around the vessel to contain any gas or oil leaks. 

 All events occurred in Dorchester County.


BARDID: MD-2017-0119
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: MCHENRY
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday August 3, 2017 at approximately 10:21am, I (Officer) received a call from Maryland Natural Resources Police Dispatch for a boating accident on Deep Creek Lake.  Dispatch informed me that the victim had sustained lacerations and was currently at Garrett Regional Medical Center. I arrived at Garrett Regional Medical Center at approximately 10:34am. The victim was identified. 

Victim was attempting to ride a type of knee board on Deep Creek Lake south off of Turkey Neck Road. Victim said that while he was riding the board he slipped off and the fins on the bottom of the board cut his feet. The operator and owner of the 2002 Ski Nautique has over 20 years of boating experience. Observers on the boat confirmed these events. Victim was treated for minor cuts to his feet at Garrett Regional Medical Center and was discharged. All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0120
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: STILL POND
NearestCityorTown: STILL POND
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1600 hours on August 3, 2017 I, Cpl, responded to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland in reference to a juvenile who was brought in from YMCA Camp Tockwough. 

Upon arriving at the hospital I made contact with the victim. I observed that Victim had a bruise and small gash under his right eye and that his nose was bruised and slightly bent in the center. Victim explained that the injury occurred while he was waterskiing. Victim stated that he fell while traversing from the outside to the inside of the boats wake, striking his face on the right ski. Victim continued that when he emerged from the water he noticed a lot of blood. The vessel he was skiing from came back and retrieved him from the water and took him to shore. Once on shore the nurse from the Wellness Center arrived to evaluate him and made the decision that he needed to be taken to the hospital. Victim stated that there was a total of six people on the vessel and each of them, including himself, had a personal floatation device on. Victim also stated that at the time of his fall he was also wearing a helmet. 

On August 9, 2017 I spoke with the operator of the vessel. Operator stated that she was operating the vessel with a juvenile (13 years of age) next to her sitting backwards as the observer, so she did not witness the incident. Operator explained at the time of the incident she was operating northbound on the Chesapeake Bay out front of Camp Tockwough, there were no other vessels in the area, and the wind was calm. Operator also stated that she was cruising at approximately 15-20 knots at the time of the incident. When the juvenile stated that victim fell off the skis Operator circled around to get him, that is when she observed that he was holding his nose with blood coming from it. At that time, Operator picked him up from the water and took him to shore to be evaluated. 

This case is considered closed with no evidence suggesting anyone was at fault. 

All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0122
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: DEEP CREEK LAKE
NearestCityorTown: THAYERVILLE
County: GA - Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, August 9th, 2017 at 1749 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a report of a PWC passenger who had fallen overboard in Paradise Cove of Deep Creek Lake and was unable to re-board the vessel.  

I arrived on scene in NRP vessel 881 at 1757 hours and observed the individual floating in the water behind a Yamaha PWC displaying Maryland registration 2773 LB with one operator.

Victim informed me he had fallen overboard and was unable to lift his weight back aboard the PWC.  I asked Victim about his current condition and he informed me he was exhausted from swimming and trying to lift himself out of the water.  Victim asked if I would take him onboard my vessel to return him to Fun Time Water Sports where he and Operator had rented their vessel.  I cast Victim a throwable personal flotation device and helped him aboard.  

Victim laid down in the back of my patrol vessel, holding his chest and breathing heavily.  I asked Victim about his condition again and he said he was experiencing chest pains and having trouble breathing.  I asked Victim if he required medical attention and replied that he did want medical assistance.  

I notified dispatch to have EMS respond and transported Victim to shore at 20721 Garrett Highway, where we were met by Garrett County Medic 951 at 1806 hours.  

EMS personnel advised Victim's blood pressure and heart rate were elevated and offered to release or transport him.  Victim requested to be transported for evaluation at Garrett Memorial Hospital at 1823 hours.

I met with Operator at Fun Time Water Sports to inform him of Victim's condition and location.  Operator contacted me by phone at 1930 hours to inform me he had retrieved Victim from Garrett Memorial Hospital where Victim was not treated for any injuries or medical conditions.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2017-0124
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: ECHO LAKE
NearestCityorTown: WORTON
County: KE - Kent
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2017 at approximately 4:20 PM I, Officer, responded to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Chestertown Maryland to interview the victim of a boating accident that occurred at the Echo Hill Camp located at 13655 Bloomingneck Road in Worton Maryland. 

     The victim stated that the accident occurred at approximately 3:00PM while she was waterskiing slalom-style in the wake behind one of the camps vessels. Victim said that she attempted to turn out of the wake and this caused her to fall. When she fell her waterski became detached from her foot and struck her in the head just above and to the rear of her left ear. The fall and subsequent strike to the head by the waterski resulted in only a minor cut behind the left ear with no further injury reported. Victim said that cut was treated with “a few” stitches and there were no signs of a concussion.  Victim was released from the hospital shortly after the conclusion of my interview. 

     The vessel that was towing Victim at the time was a 2003 16’ McKee Craft Waypoint named Red Boat, hull ID# MCK62575D303, Maryland registration MD 1067 BV. The vessel had two more campers aboard.  The vessel sustained no damage in the accident and no additional injuries we reported to anyone else on board the vessel. 

     All events occurred in Kent County Maryland.


