# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: LA-2016-0032
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:58:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal
NearestCityorTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 2, 2016 at approximately 7:58 p.m. Operator and his passenger were traveling South in the Intracoastal waterway in Iberville Parish.  Operator was operating a 15ft homemade skiff with a 15hp Yamaha outboard tiller motor.  According to witness statements Operator hit a wave traveling too fast and got ejected from the back of the vessel.  The vessel then began to circle ejecting his passenger.  Operator and his passenger started swimming to the East bank of the Intracostal waterway.  Operator was not able to make it to shore before he went underwater for several minutes having to be rescued by a witness.  The witness started CPR until first responders arrived to take over.  Operator was transported to Oschners Hospital in Plaquemine where he was placed on life support.  The passenger was rescued and received no injuries.  Neither subjects were wearing PFD's.  Operator also did not have a kill switch attached to him.  Passenger also advised us that Operator had been drinking and smoking marijuana all day long.


BARDID: LA-2016-0033
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Darbonne Bayou
NearestCityorTown: West Monroe
County: Ouachita
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
OtherAccidentEvent: accidental shooting
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/5/16, Operator launched his vessel at Joe Bob's Landing and was fishing on Darbonne Bayou in Ouachita Parish.  At approximately 11 p. m., Ouachita Parish Sheriffs Office was advised that he had not returned from fishing.  LDWF Enforcement agents, OPSO deputies, friends and family members were involved in the search.  Operator was located at approximately 4:40 a.m. on 5/6/16.  He was still sitting upright in the operators seat, deceased and in full rigor.  He was wearing a Type 3 PFD (unbuckled) with the kill switch still attached to the PFD.  The motor was in gear and throttle was at approximately 3/4. Ignition was in the "ON" position.  The gas tank of the vessel was empty.  The vessel also had one Type 4 PFD and one Type 3 PFD on board.  His vessel had left the channel of Darbonne Bayou striking several small trees until it came to rest.  

No problems with the steering or damage to the motor was observed.  Several small tree limbs were broken as the vessel travelled through trees.  Operator had several abrasions on his face/forehead and a busted lip.  He also had what appeared to be a puncture wound on the right side of his naval.  It was later determined by the coroners office that the puncture wound was not from a tree limb or stick but from a gunshot.  A pistol was located on the floor of the vessel near Operator' left foot strapped in a holster.  The pistol was examined by Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office investigators and a spent round was located in the chamber.  The Ouachita Parish Coroners Office listed the cause of death as a gunshot wound of abdomen. 

 OPSO investigators concluded that it was an accidental discharge when the firearm apparently fell from the console of the vessel.   Toxicology showed no signs of drug use, but Operator' %BAC was .053 and his %w/v was .041.


BARDID: LA-2016-0034
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TICKFAW RIVER
NearestCityorTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/7/2016 the operator of a 39 foot 2005 Outter Limits vessel (Operator1) was traveling north on the Tickfaw River at a high rate of speed and was over taking another vessel as they approached a curve in the river. As he was attempting to pass in the turn there were two other vessels in his line of travel. Operator1 executed a hard turn in an attempt to avoid the oncoming vessels and as such over corrected his steering. This sudden turn caused all passengers including the operator to be ejected. Operator1 stated he knew the turn was sudden and was able to put the throttle in reverse before being ejected. The vessel continued into the bank of the east side of Tickfaw River. All passengers were subsequently rescued from the water and two of them were transported to North Oaks Hospital for minor injuries. Operator1 was escorted to a nearby facility where he was given standardized field sobriety testing. Operator1 showed no signs of impairment on the standardized field sobriety testing. Operator1 was cited for careless operation and released. On 5/8/2016 Operator1 advised Officer1 that he voluntarily went to the hospital after he was released by agents for a blood test. Results are pending on the test. Operator1 stated he wanted a blood test to clear himself of any civil action that may occur in the future concerning alcohol or drugs involving the incident. There was no damage to the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2016-0035
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Calumet Cut
NearestCityorTown: Patterson
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/9/16, at 11:48 a.m. Officer1 and Officer2 were notified by LDWF dispatch about a boat incident in the Calumet Cut located in St. Mary Parish. Upon further investigation, agents learned that Operator was operating a remote steered aluminum vessel in the Calumet Cut.  Operator was headed South in the Calumet Cut around 8:00 a.m., when for unknown reasons, Operator began veering to the port side.  Eventually Operator struck a tree with the port side bow of his vessel on the East bank of the Calumet Cut.  The impact caused Operator to be thrown into the helm, causing severe cracking and denting to the helm and steering wheel.  At approximately 11:00 a.m. Operator was able to flag down a commercial fisherman that was heading North in the Calumet Cut.  The commercial fisherman called 911 and rendered assistance to Operator until medical personnel arrived.  Once medical personnel arrived, Operator was transported to the Calumet Cut boat launch.  Once at the Calumet boat launch, Operator was transported to Lafayette General Hospital via Acadian Air Med.  Upon speaking with the commercial fisherman that located Operator, agents learned that Operator was not wearing a PFD (lifejacket) at the time of the incident.  Agents do not suspect drugs or alcohol to be contributing factors to the incident.


BARDID: LA-2016-0094
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMITE RIVER AT LAKE MAUREPAS
NearestCityorTown: KILLIAN
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24, 2016, operatorwas operating a vessel (LA-7867-FK) along the Amite River near Lake Maurepas, located in Livingston Parish. Operator and his passengers were traveling downstream near the mouth of the Amite River. He traveled through a pass to Lake Maurepas which was marked with signs warning of submerged stumps. The vessel was new to Operator and he was not familiar with the area of the Amite River where the incident occurred. The area of the incident is shallow with submerged objects (stumps) throughout and Operator continued, unaware of the dangers.

 Operator struck a submerged object which caused his vessel to rapidly take on water. Operator and his passengers were able to secure the vessel to a structure on the water but were forced to abandon the sinking vessel. There were no injuries during this incident and all persons were able to safely aboard an assisting vessel. All required safety equipment appeared to be present on the vessel and all persons were wearing the proper PFD. Alcohol and or Drugs were not a contributing/causing factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2016-0095
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caminada Pass
NearestCityorTown: Grand Isle
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/31/16, Sgt. received a phone call from Lt. concerning a vessel accident that occurred.  I contacted the Port Fourchon harbor Police Department at 1:40 AM, was informed that a 911 call was received and they were informed about a vessel that struck a piling at 1:14AM.  

The vessel docked  at the Baker Hughes fuel dock in Port Fourchon, LA. Lt. and I arrived on scene at 2:14 AM and began speaking to the individuals.  

Vessel # LA1616FP left the Sand Dollar Marina with 10 additional passengers.  At/or around 1"AM they traveled west toward Caminada Pass.  

As Operator was exiting the pass and entering the Gulf of Mexico, his vessel struck an unlit/unmarked piling on the starboard bow of the vessel, which caused the bow of the vessel to bounce off the piling.  

One of the passengers was leaning over the starboard side of the vessel near the center console when the vessel hit the piling.  When the bow of the vessel bounced off of the piling, the piling hit Victim in the head, throwing him from the center of the vessel to the stern of the vessel.  The driver, Operator, a registered nurse, immediately started administering CPR on Victim.  The passengers radioed in for help on the VHF and called 911 at the time of the accident.  Two additional individuals, who were not passengers in the vessel, arrived on the scene of the accident in order to assist.  

One of the individuals assisted with CPR and the other individual drove the vessel into the Baker Hughes Marina In Port Fourchon.  Victim was pronounced deceased by Dr. from Our Lady of the Sea.  

The vessel was a 28 foot, center console, hydraulic steering vessel that contained, 6 type !, 13 type 3, and 2 type 4 pfd's, none of which were worn during the time of the accident.  Operator agreed to provide a sample on the intoxilizer 5000 breathalyzer and provided a proper sample of .066 gram %.  Operator was cited for 14:99, Reckless operation of a watercraft and 34:851.20F, Expired boat registration.


BARDID: LA-2016-0096
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caminada Bay
NearestCityorTown: Grand Isle
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At 5:12 AM on Sunday, August 7, 2016, I, Sgt. received a phone call from the Grand Isle Police Department concerning a vessel accident.  Grand Isle Police Department informed me that an notified them about wrecking his boat on the rocks in Caminada Bay.  

After several unsuccessful attempts to contact Owner, I went to the location of the accident. I arrived at the scene of the accident at 5:45 AM and noticed that a vessel, LA9437FD was grounded on one of the several rock jetties in the area.  I immediately took pictures of the scene.  At 6:30 AM, I noticed an individual flagging me down from the dock and the individual was identified as the owner of the vessel.

 Owner informed me that the and four other individuals were out fishing under Caminada Bridge and he had a "little too much to drink", so he asked one of the passengers, who hadn't drank anything to drive the boat back to the camp.  

Operator was not familiar with how to operate a vessel nor did she know the area.  Around 3:30AM, as Operator was approaching the rock jetties, she missed the openings through the rocks and the vessel went up and over the rocks.  This caused the aft of the vessel to become grounded on top of the rocks and the bow of the vessel to become submerged.  The accident also caused the lower unit on the motor to be completely ripped off.  The passengers in the vessel called Operator's father-in-law and he retrieved all five individuals from the vessel and brought them back to the camp.  None of the 5 individuals in the vessel were hurt nor were they ejected from the vessel.  

During the investigation, I learned that Operator was not using the GPS on the vessel.  No one was wearing a pfd during the accident, however the vessel was equipped with 6 type I, 1 type 3, and 1 type 4.  Operator violated rule 16 and rule 20 of the rules of the road for vessels.  rule 16 states that all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the owner at all times.  Rule 20 states that the owner shall maintain a proper lookout.  Alcohol and/or drugs were not a factor with the driver of the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2016-0099
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Union Oil Canal #2
NearestCityorTown: Franklin
County: St. Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/20/16 S.A. received information of a boat incident that had occurred in the Atchafalaya Basin located in St. Mary Parish. Agents learned that it was a single vessel incident with one occupant. The vessel was a 19.5 foot aluminum skiff powered by a 35 HP, tiller handle, Gatortail surface drive. The operator was traveling North in Union Oil Canal #2 on the Attakapas WMA. 

Operator was cruising on plain and pulled the drain plug in order to drain water from the vessel. Operator' vessel made an abrupt turn to starboard and struck a tree. Clement was ejected out of the vessel as a result of striking the tree. Operator was not wearing a PFD nor a kill switch lanyard at the time of the incident. Operator was brought to Franklin Foundation Hospital where it was learned he had 4 broken ribs on his right side and 4 fractured vertebrae in the lumbar section of his spine. Agents do not suspect the use of drugs or alcohol to be contributing factors.


BARDID: LA-2016-0101
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST PEARL RIVER
NearestCityorTown: PEARL RIVER
County: ST TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 17, 2016, Sr. Agent was notified of a single vessel incident that occurred on the West Pearl River at approximately 1530. Agent and other responding agents learned that two juveniles were injured when the tube, they were being towed on, struck the dolphin piling, of the fender system, at the Railroad Bridge crossing West Pearl, near I-59. 

Both injured juveniles were transported to Slidell Memorial Hospital for treatment for severe head injuries. Both subjects on the tube were wearing PFDs. Alcohol and/or drug use is not suspected to be a factor in the incident.


BARDID: LA-2016-0103
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Cheramie
NearestCityorTown: Morgan City
County: Assumption
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/11/16 at approximately 1400 hours agents were notified of a boat incident which had occurred in Assumption Parish. Agents were advised that EMS and Acadian Ambulance had responded to the new boat launch along Highway 398 and was administering medical attention to a 7 year old female (Victim1). Upon agents arrival the subject had been transported to Teche Regional Medical Center in Morgan City. Agents also noted that the two vessels involved were at the landing. After speaking with the operators and passengers it is believed that Vessel 1 was traveling South in Bayou Cheramie when it was met by Vessel 2, traveling North, in a starboard turn. When the vessels met, Vessel 1 turned to port and Vessel 2 turned to starboard as Vessel 2 decreased its throttle. At this time the bow elevated on Vessel 2 allowing Vessel 1 to impact Vessel 2's undercarriage towards the bow. When Vessel 1 impacted Vessel 2, Victim1 was impacted between Vessel 1's console and the keel of Vessel 2 at which time she sustained fatal injuries. The operator of Vessel 1 was also struck by Vessel 2's keel on his right shoulder and arm area. He also received treatment at the Teche Regional for a contusion along with minor cuts. The 3 passengers in Vessel 1, this is including Victim1, were wearing their PFD's at the time of the incident. The operators of both vessels were not wearing PFD's at the time of the incident. Alcohol or drugs are not a factor in this incident. The operators voluntarily submitted proper breathe samples, both resulting in .000g%. The specific location of the incident was unable to be determined therefore no citations were issued.


BARDID: LA-2016-0104
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Teche
NearestCityorTown: Breaux Bridge
County: St. Martin - 50
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Witness stated subjects were paddling a pirogue while fishing in the Bayou Teche just south of Breaux Bridge. The witness stated that two people had been smoking incense (synthetic marijuana) from a pipe.  As they were slowly drifting south he heard the two arguing and "play fighting" at approximately 0230.  After daybreak the pirogue was found nearby half sunken.  
LDWF agents were contacted at 1300 hours and responded by vessel.  One body was found with the body drag at approximately 1500 hours and the other was found with the body drag at 1730 hours.  Blood was drawn from both subjects by Coroner.  See attached toxicology reports.
Toxicology reports for both subjects contain positive findings for the following:
a) 5F-ADB - (Synthetic Cannabinoid)
b) Amphetamine - Schedule II CNS Stimulant
c) Methamphetamine - Schedule II Stimulant
d) Delta-9 THC - Active ingredient of Marijuana (Schedule I Hallucinogen)
e) Delta-9-Carboxy-THC - (Inactive Metabolite of THC)


BARDID: LA-2016-0142
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-12-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Prien Lake
NearestCityorTown: Lake Charles
County: Calcasieu - 10
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On December 2, 2016 at approximately 0600 a.m. Operator1 was cruising north from Prien Lake boat launch.  (V2) a commercial work crew vessel, with seven (7) passengers aboard was traveling east on Prien Lake from a dredging site under interstate 210 bridge.  

Operator1 stated after passing under I210 bridge he was looking to his right side at the nearby I210 boat launch for boat traffic.  Operator1 stated he was traveling approximately 30 mph.  At the approximately same time V2 was on step cruising towards I210 boat launch for shift change.  Operator1 then advised as he was turning to look forward is when he collided with V2.  Operator2 stated he did not see V1 until collision.  

V1 collided with the bow contacting the rear starboard side of V2.  Operator1 was ejected from V1 and landed into the water conscious.  Then the work crew aboard V2 retrieved Operator1 from the water and called 911.  Operator2 brought Operator1 to I210 boat launch.  Emergency medical technicians arrived and transported Operator1 to St. Patrick hospital in Lake charles.  There was no injured person aboard V2.  

Operator1 was discharged several hours later with a broken fibula (left leg), bruised thigh and hand, and minor cut to face.  No alcohol or drugs were cause of incident.  PFD's were present but were not worn on V1.  PFD were present and worn on V2 adults.  Both vessels are equip with remote steering.  Contributing factors are operator inattention and no proper lookout. The type of incident is collision with vessel.


BARDID: LA-2016-0143
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-12-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityorTown: SLIDELL
County: ST TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On December 5, 2016, at approximately 1315 a single vessel Swamping/Capsizing occurred in Lake Pontchartrain near the Southern Railroad Bridge. Vessel 1 was a 2005 15' Alweld aluminum flat bottom boat (no MI numbers displayed) that was owned and operated at the time of the incident by subject.  He was the only person on board Vessel 1 at the time of the incident. Prior to the incident, Operator was trolling near the Southern Railroad Bridge under the power of Vessel 1's 40 HP Evinrude tiller steer motor. Vessel 1 was headed north, and Operator was actively fishing.  The weather at the time of the incident was poor, it was raining, winds were strong and seas were heavy, also a strong tide was falling. Vessel 1 took on rain water, and waves over the stern, swamped then capsized. Operator was able to don his adult sized type III PFD before he went overboard, but was not wearing it as required by state law, while Vessel 1 was underway. Operator was treated for mild Hypothermia at Slidell Memorial Hospital than discharged a few hours later. Use of Alcohol is not suspected.


BARDID: LA-2016-0144
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-12-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Catfish Bayou
NearestCityorTown: Morgan City
County: St Mary
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/18/16, a vessel, LA-8422-EX, powered by a tiller handled outboard, exited the Atchafalaya River and entered Catfish Bayou due to rough water being caused by a strong North wind. Upon entering Catfish Bayou, the vessel became stuck in shallow water and water lilies. 

While the vessel was stuck, a storm passed over with heavy rain fall. All 3 subjects on board the vessel became extremely wet. Due to the temperature being in the 30's and a strong North wind, one of the passengers became hypothermic. 

The vessel operator and one of the passengers managed to free the vessel and leave Catfish Bayou. After leaving Catfish Bayou, the vessel ran aground on a sandbar while attempting to enter the Atchafalaya River. The operator and passenger managed to bail the water out of the vessel and free the vessel from the sandbar. The operator then crossed over to the East bank of the  river to seek shelter at a nearby work site and ran aground again. 

The vessel operator and one of the passengers managed to keep the vessel from taking on too much water and while flagging down another vessel to assist them. The other vessel assisted by placing all three persons onboard its closed cabin vessel with a heater. The assisting vessel then towed the vessel that was in distress back to the Berwick boat launch. 

The passenger that had become hypothermic was transported to Thibodaux Regional Hospital and the other two subjects refused medical attention. Agent does not suspect alcohol or drugs to be contributing factors in the incident. PFD's were onboard the vessel but were not used.


BARDID: LA-2016-0145
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-12-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend Lake
NearestCityorTown: Zwolle
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On December 28, 2016, Operator was operating LA vessel 1991 AT on Toledo Bend in Sabine Parish. LA vessel 1991 AT is a 1981 16 foot Cajun Special with an aluminum hull, powered by a 75 horsepower Evinrude outboard. The vessel is remote steering. Prior to impact Operator was sitting in the driver's seat and his son was in the passenger's seat. Both had on PFDs and Operator states that he had on the kill switch.

            They were idling through an area that had a lot of stumps. The water depth was approximately 5 feet. They were looking for ducks when the vessel struck a stump. The stump was approximately twenty five inches in diameter and was approximately nine inches above the water.  Operator stated to me that the vessel got stuck on top of the stump with the bow higher than the stern pushing the stern into the water.  When they tried to get the vessel unstuck water started to enter the vessel at the stern.  The vessel then slid off the stump backwards. When the vessel was off the stump it had already taken on a lot of the water. The vessel then listed to the starboard side with the amount of water that was in the vessel and it then became submerged. 

        Operator and his son were able to straddle the submerged vessel and contact 911. Sabine Parish Sheriff Office contacted Lt. and me at 3:47pm. They advised us of the situation and said they had a deputy launching a boat to assist. Sabine Deputies along were able to locate them and get them safely into their vessel. They were brought to the Blue Lake launch on Hwy 3229 where Med Express was on standby.  Med Express examined Operator and his son. Both were uninjured, they were just cold and wet from the waist down.  

      On December 29, 2016, I went to the location of the accident to examine the vessel. It was still submerged upside down.  On January 17, 2017 Operator was able to recover the vessel. The vessel is presumed to be a loss. The trolling motor, the cowling to the outboard and a fishing seat was lost.  Operator estimates the lost at $3000.


BARDID: LA-2016-0146
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-12-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Terrebonne
NearestCityorTown: Montegut
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 20 ft Allison fiberglass vessel with a 200 hp Mercury outboard motor, operated by Operator was traveling north in Bayou Terrebonne. Operator stated that he was travelling at a speed of 65 to 70 MPH. Operator claimed that the bow of vessel "nosed down" for some reason, (Operator thinks he may have a struck a submerged object). The vessel then bit and spun 180 degrees ejecting the two passengers from the starboard side of the vessel. The vessel then grounded itself on the western bank of the Bayou.The two passengers both sustained injuries and were transported to Terrebonne General Medical Center. 

One occupant sustained a broken wrist and the other sustained a broken hip and Femur.The operator Operator did not sustain any injuries.

The vessel has remote hydraulic steering and all safety equipment, Neither alcohol nor drugs were not suspected in the accident.


BARDID: LA-2016-0147
State: LA
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Larto Lake
NearestCityorTown: Jonesville
County: Catahoula
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 9, 2016 Agent of Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries was informed of a boating incident that occurred on Larto Lake in Catahoula Parish on October 22, 2016.  On this date at approximately 7:00 AM, Subject was underway on Larto Lake when his vessel impacted a group of trees along the bank.  Operator stated that on October 22, 2016 he launched his vessel at Larto Landing at approximately 7:00 a.m.  Operator continued to state that he was going to be travelling to a nearby island to go hunting.  Operator stated he was operating at idle speed in Larto lake before daylight while travelling with the aid of a GPS and spotlight when he noticed several jug lines in the lake.  When he noticed these lines, he turned away in an attempt to miss them when he started making contact with trees.  Operator stated that he was thrown to the front of the boat and was knocked unconscious at this time.  After regaining consciousness, Operator contacted the owner of Larto Landing, who along with a customer launched a vessel and came to his location for assistance. 

Operator was transported to Rapides Regional Medical Center then later transported to LSU Shreveport Hospital where he was treated for multiple face fractures and broken ribs.   Further investigation of the incident revealed that that this incident was caused by operator inattention, excessive speed and operating in a careless manner.


BARDID: LA-2016-1000
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private pond
NearestCityorTown: Denham Springs
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to news media reports, two people who were fishing in a vessel capsized, throwing them out of the boat.  The younger occupant was able to swim to shore safely, but the adult occupant allegedly drowned.  There is no information on the cause of the vessel capsizing.


BARDID: LA-2021-0024
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tickfaw River
NearestCityorTown: KILLIAN
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
(operator) was attempting to move the vessel slightly forward in order to create enough slack in the line for victim (vessel owner/ victim) to untie from the dock. Operator accelerated more quickly than intended, panicked and over-corrected by putting the vessel into reverse, then over-corrected again putting the vessel in forward. The final shift into forward gear was at nearly full-throttle, because of the momentum created by the back and forth. The bow of the vessel struck the dock, ramped upward/forward, and landed on top of Victim, pinning him between the starboard pontoon and the dock. Bystanders rushed to the scene and lifted the vessel, pulling him out to safety. (See supplemental details page).

Operator was arrested and booked for DWI, Vehicular Negligent injury, and Reckless Operation

PFD'S were on board, but not used. Vessel was equipped with remote steering.

Type of incident: Collision w/Fixed Object

Contributing factors: 1. Alcohol - 2. Operator Inexperience - 3. Reckless Operation


BARDID: LA-2021-0025
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: The Pen
NearestCityorTown: Lafitte
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator left Joe's Landing in Barataria at daybreak with his son .  His vessel is a 20' Skeeter bass boat with remote steering.  He was cruising on step across the north end of The Pen at approximately 45-50 mph following a track line from a previous trip.  While passing through a row of pylons that stretch across the pen, his vessel and motor struck a bore pipe that was floating at or near the surface of the water.  The pipe was laid out along the pylons and tied to them.  This collision caused significant damage to the outboard and the transom of his vessel.  Both he and his son were wearing PFDs and neither one of them was injured in the accident.  Alcohol is not believed to be involved.  The contributing factors leading to the accident are believed to be primarily a lack of marking on the pipe itself between the pylons at the time of the accident.  The weather was a secondary factor.  Choppy waters caused by the wind may have helped conceal the pipe sitting at or near the surface of the water.


BARDID: LA-2021-0026
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Pontchartrain
NearestCityorTown: Slidell
County: St. Tammany
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 25, 2021 at approx 7:00 pm, a 40' wooden trawler type vessel,", with two persons on board, was east bound in the North Shore Channel in the Lake Ponchartrain Middle Ground area (between the Old Hwy 11 bridge and the I-10 Twin Span) and  collided with the I-10 Twin Span overpass fender system (south side of the channel). The owner and operator of the vessel, was operating the vessel eastbound from Mandeville to Slidell. His wife, was also on board the vessel. The vessel was perpendicular to the bridge upon impact. Operator stated that he believed that his engine was operating at around 1700 RPM's at the time of the collision (approx. 5-6 knots). The vessel approached the I-10 Twin Span to navigate under and through the bridge when the vessel struck the south side piling and fender of the overpass at an angle of almost 90 degrees. The vesel sustained major damage to the bow and quickly took on water, swamped and partially sank.  It is not known why the vessel veered off course and struck the bridge's large concrete bumper system.  After impact, both subjects donned their PFD's and used the vessel's VHF radio to issue a mayday call on channel 16. A vessel in the immediate area responded to the call and both subjects were safely returned to shore. They both refused service from EMS personnel. St. Tammany Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the incident and notified LDWF agents. The operator admitted that he consumed one beer in Mandeville and one beer while traveling from Mandeville toward Slidell within a 4-hour period. Alcohol is not believed to have directly contributed to the incident. Although Operator was not sure why he veered off course, he believes he was not paying attention and became distracted while using his iPad just before the incident. Also, it is believed that Operator did not maintain a proper lookout, and that Operator was in the shower at the time of the incident.


BARDID: LA-2021-0027
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atchafalaya River
NearestCityorTown: Butte La Rose
County: St. Martin - 50
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29, 2021 at approximately 2:00 p.m. Vessel one, (LA3008EX) a 15ft Alweld aluminum remote-steer outboard vessel was cruising on-plane left of center channel, north bound on the Atchafalaya River in St Martin Parish.  

Vessel Two (LA2352BG), a 14ft home-made aluminum remote-steer outboard vessel, operated by Operator2 along with one passenger was also cruising on-plane right of center channel south bound on the Atchafalaya River.  

The path of each vessel immediately prior to impact is inconclusive.  Vessel One and Vessel Two then collided with each other, with Vessel One's starboard bow impacting Vessel Two's port bow (See attached Diagram of Incident.)  

Upon impact Operator1, who was wearing a PFD, was rendered unconscious but remained in his vessel and suffered a laceration to the right side of his head, a fractured skull and a severe brain injury. 

 Operator2 and his passenger, who were not wearing a PFD, were ejected into the water where Operator2 was seen swimming for a brief moment by his passenger, but ultimately went below the surface of the water and was unable to be immediately located by any other witnesses or personnel on scene.  

Operator1 was recovered from his vessel by another boater and was transported to the Butte LaRose public boat launch where he was picked up and transported via AirMed to Lafayette General Medical Center.  

The passenger of Vessel Two was recovered from the water by another boater and brought to shore nearby the incident site.  Sr. Agent arrived on scene, picked up V2 occupant and transported him to the Butte LaRose public boat launch where he refused immediate medical treatment.  

Sr. Agent executed a warrant to draw a blood sample from Operator1 in order to determine if there was any use of drugs and/or alcohol that may have contributed to the incident.  (See attached Scientific Analysis Report).  

Search and rescue operations were conducted and don May 7, 2021 at approximately 6:00 p.m. St Martin Parish Sheriff's office was able to recover the body of operator2 and he was pronounced deceased by the St Martin Parish Coroner's Office.   

An autopsy has been conducted on operator2 and blood was drawn in order to determine if there was any use of drugs and/or alcohol that may have contributed to the incident.  Toxicology came back positive for ketamine.  Vessel One has yet to be located or recovered from the incident site.


BARDID: LA-2021-0029
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Pontchartrain
NearestCityorTown: METAIRIE
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/9/21 around 8:00pm, Sr. Agent Received a call from LDWF Lt.about a potential boat accident in Lake Pontchartrain involving a personal watercraft, which will be vessel 1.  When Agent arrived at Coast Guard Station New Orleans, the operator had already been arrested by Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s (JPSO) office for a possible DUI.  The operator had a .025g% BAC and is pending blood results.  The arresting officer of JPSO. While at the Coast guard facility, Agent was able to speak with the responding Coast Guard personnel.  The USCG personnel stated that during the rescue they smelt the odor of alcohol coming from the operator of the vessel.  They also mentioned that during the attempted recovery of the vessel, the bow eye broke off and the vessel began to sink due to taking on water.  The pictures that the Coast Guard were able to get, shown damage in the starboard side of the hull just rear of the bow.  Agent also spoke with the operator of vessel 1 while he was in custody of JPSO at 1st district.  

The operator stated he was traveling westbound around 6:40pm in Lake Pontchartrain when his vessel came to a sudden stop throwing him off.  When the operator tried to roll the vessel over, he noticed damage to hull and that the vessel was taking on water.   The subject stated the damage to the hull was in the same spot as a repair that was previously conducted.  The forecasted weather conditions were winds around 10-15 SSE, waves around 2' and official sunset was 7:28pm.  The operator was wearing a PFD and cut-off lanyard was used.  Alcohol and other substance use was also believed to be involved.  The main factor is believed to be the hull having recurring damage from a repair job giving out.  This fault may also be contributed to the water conditions brought on by the weather and speed at the time of operation.


BARDID: LA-2021-0030
State: LA
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2021-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Oyster Lake
NearestCityorTown: Franklin
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29, 2021 at approximately 12:45p.m. Operator was operating vessel traveling along the northeast shoreline of Oyster Lake, with one other occupant onboard identified as Occupant. Operator and Occupant were participating in the Seacor Rescue, working under the United Cajun Navy.  They  traveled up the northeast shoreline of Oyster Lake searching for washed up debris from the Seacor incident.  At this point, they collided with a structure that was protruding above the surface of the water.  They then started observing large amounts of water entering the vessel, so Operator grounded the vessel at the mouth of Oyster Lake and Oyster Lake Bayou.  Vessel was equipped with remote steering and the proper amount of PFD's for each occupant.  Neither were injured and alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a contributing factor in this boating incident. On April 30, 2021 was recovered by Operator. 


BARDID: LA-2021-0031
State: LA
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2021-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caney Lake
NearestCityorTown: Jonesboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
5/2/21 just several minutes after midnight, I, Sgt., responded to a boat accident on Caney Lake. I was notified there were 2 occupants in the vessel at the time of the accident. I arrived on scene and made contact with the operator, Operator. He was very disoriented and appeared to have a severe shoulder injury. I detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage on his person as I spoke with him. He stated he left Hooks Marina traveling west towards Browns Landing. Shortly after, Operator impacted a sea wall along the bank of the lake. Operator was unsure where his vessel was at the moment as he had been walking through the woods trying to find help. Due to the nature of his injury, he was transported to the Jackson Parish Hospital. Cpl. and I located the vessel to the East of Redhill Road approximately 50 yards inland off of the bank of the lake. I immediately observed 2 empty white claw alcoholic beverages in the vessel. I observed where the vessel impacted the sea wall and prop marks on the ground where the vessel traveled, narrowly missing several trees. I observed the throttle to be in forward gear and the vessel to be equipped with a hot foot throttle. I obtained a search warrant signed by Judge for his BAC results of a blood draw performed by Jackson Parish Hospital Nurse staff. The results indicated him to have a BAC of .137g%. This was approximately 3 hours after the time of the accident. I believe alcohol and speed to be a major factor of the accident. Onboard the vessel there was 1 type IV throwable, 2 type III, and 1 unserviceable type V. PFDs were not worn at the time of the accident.


BARDID: IL-2022-0028
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityorTown: Bath
County: Mason
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 5th, 2022, both vessel 1 and 2 were among other boats in the Bath Chute while competing in the annual Redneck Fishing Tournament.
The following is a summary (not verbatim) of various, conflicting witness statements.
Vessel two hit and went over an underwater obstacle causing a reduction in speed. In reaction, the operator of vessel one shifted from forward to neutral to reverse. When vessel one had ceased forward motion, an unknown/unidentified boat (not pictured) hit the stern (rear) of vessel one, causing the bow (front) of it to hit the stern of vessel two. The motor cowling, the left side of the lower unit, and the prop was damaged on vessel two. Vessel one did not sustain any damages.
The proximity and speed of the vessels along with the underwater obstacle contributed to the accident.
No injuries were reported.
the owner and operator of vessel two reported between $3,000 and $4,000 in damages to his vessel.


BARDID: IL-2022-0029
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kankakee River
NearestCityorTown: Wilmington
County: Will
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Unit #1 operator said Unit #1 and Unit #2 were traveling westbound on the Kankakee River and were initially parallel to each other just north of Bardwell Island. He said Unit #3 (Witness) was about seven hundred feet ahead of them. Unit #1 operator said he pulled ahead of Unit #2 as they approached Grape Island. At some point, Unit #1 operator slowed down and turned into the path of Unit #2. Unit #1 operator said he almost came to a complete stop and lost
steering due to his low speed. Unit #1 operator attempted to use Unit #1's reverse to get out of the way of Unit #2. Unit #1 operator said he was unable to get out of the way in time. Unit #1 operator said Unit #2 was traveling at approximately forty miles per hour when it struck the middle of the right side of Unit #1 at
a perpendicular angle or broadside. Unit #1 operator said he broke his right femur and his pelvis in two locations and was flown by helicopter to the Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downer's Grove for treatment.
Unit #2 operator said Unit #1 and Unit #2 were initially traveling west on the Kankakee River and were parallel to each other just north of Bardwell Island. He said Unit #1 pulled ahead of Unit #2 as they approached Mulberry Island. Unit #1 and Unit #2 both began traveling northwest to travel passed the east side of Mulberry Island. While approaching the island, Unit #1 operator slowed down and turned into the path of Unit #2. Unit #2 operator said he was looking over to the left at Unit #3 and did not initially see Unit #1 turn into his path. Unit #2 operator said when he looked up, Unit #1 was right there. He said he only had one to two seconds to react. Unit #2 operator said he tried turning to the left just before Unit #2 struck the middle/back of the right side of Unit #1 at a perpendicular angle. He said Unit #1 operator was badly injured. The night of the crash, Unit #2 operator initially said he was uninjured. The day following the crash, he went to the Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downer's Grove due to the fact he was feeling sick and light headed. He was advised by hospital staff he may have had a concussion in the crash.
Witness #1 & Witness #2 said they were on Unit #3 (Personal Watercraft-PWC) approximately thirty feet ahead of Units #1 & #2 which Witness #2 believed to be traveling at an estimated speed of forty miles per hour. Both Witness #1 & #2 thought Unit #2 was ahead of Unit #1 and believed they saw Unit #2 turn left at which point Unit #1 struck Unit #2. They said Unit #1 operator was ejected and landed in the water. Witness #1 & #2 said they stopped and helped Unit #1 operator who was badly injured. They said they transported Unit #1 operator back to shore at which point an ambulance arrived and transported him for treatment.
Witness #3 said he was on a PWC on the Kankakee River when he came upon the crash after it had already occurred. He said he observed three PWCs in the middle of the river at the bend between Mulberry and Bardwell Islands. He noticed one of the people had a severe leg injury so he directed them to his property just down the river. He said an ambulance arrived at his property once they pulled up.
Witness #4 said he received a telephone call from Unit #3 operator notifying him of the crash. He said when he arrived at the crash site, he noticed Unit #1 operator was badly injured and escorted them to the property where the ambulance arrived.
Witness #5 said he was on board the same boat as Witness #4. He said when they arrived at the crash site, he observed an injured person on scene who was transported to another person's property.
Unit #1 had damage to the right side of the fiberglass hull and several plastic parts on the top. There was noticible damage in the middle of the right side of Unit #1 with blue paint transfer which was similar to the paint on the keel of Unit #2. The damage traveled upwards in a straight line and across the letter 'A'
on the 'SEA'DOO' sticker near where the seat was attached.
E


BARDID: IL-2022-0036
State: IL
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2022-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityorTown: Marseilles
County: La Salle
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3, 2022 at approximatly 8:00 PM, V1 Operator and Witness were operating two different recreational boats on the Illinois River upstream from the Marseilles Lock and Dam. V1 Operator was traveling downstream, westerly, when he observed a large boat approaching in his direction. V1 Operator and Witness turned their boats around and proceeded away from the large boat in an easterly direction. V1 Operator said he increased the throttle quickly and heard a pop. He looked behind him and observed smoke coming from the engine area. Witness was operating a different boat in front of V1 Operator. He looked back and saw smoke coming from the boat V1 Operator was operating, so he turned around to get him. V1 Operator grabbed his phone and wallet and jumped out of the boat into the Illinois River, without turning off the engine. He boarded the boat Witness was operating. The boat caught on fire. Marseilles Fire Department extinguished the boat fire. The boat was towed back to the boat ramp and removed from the water. The exact cause of the fire is unknown.The boat was a complete loss.


BARDID: IL-2022-0038
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kankakee River
NearestCityorTown: Kankakee
County: Kankakee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/30/22 I, CPO, conducted an interview regarding a boat accident that occurred on the Kankakee River on 8/27//22. I located the victim, Injured at his residence. Injured willingly provided a written statement. He stated that on 8/27/22 at approximately 3:00 P.M. he and several others were boating and tubing on the Kankakee River. Injured advised that after tubing he tried to get back to the boat utilizing the rear of the watercraft. The operator had the watercraft in reverse, in an attempt to get closer and pick up Injured. Injured advised that while trying to board the watercraft, the operator failed to put the watercraft in neutral and the prop of the watercraft made contact with his left calf, causing a significant laceration. Injured also advised that the ski rope got entangled in the prop after he was struck by the propeller.
 On 9/1/2022 I conducted an interview with the operator (statement attached) and a witness who was designated as the spotter, Passenger 1 (statement attached). Operator was operating a 23 FT Chapparal Sunsesta deck boat. Operator advised that he circled back eastbound on the Kankakee River to pick up a downed tuber (Injured). Operator stated "I was pulling a tuber and he fell off. I swung around to bring the tube back around and he was trying to get on and couldnt. So I went in reverse to take pressure off the tube so he could get on and then put shifter in neutral, but it stayed in gear and was going towards him without my knowledge, and before I knew it his leg was in the prop."
 The spotter, Passenger 1, advised that Injured fell off the tube and was trying to get back onto the tube. He advised that Operator circled back to get Injured and he was trying to get back onto the tube as the boat got closer too him.
Passenger 1 advised that he yelled to have the operator turn off the boat, right as Injured jumped off the tube and was struck by the propeller. Passenger 1 yelled and told the operator to stop the boat, but Operator had the boat in reverse and was unable to get the shifter into neutral which caused the prop to collide with Injured's left calf.
 After the accident, the occupants of the watercraft loaded Injured back onto the watercraft. Passenger 3 was one of the passengers on the watercraft who is a nurse at Carle Hospital in Champaign, IL. Passenger 3 cleaned the wound with water and wrapped it in a towel.
The occupants of the watercraft contacted EMS and Riverside ambulance responded to the scene. Injured was transported to Riverside Hospital in Kankakee where he was treated for a laceration to his left calf and released.
 Injured admitted during the interview that he had consumed alcohol duirng the trip on the river


BARDID: IL-2022-0039
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 9, 2022 at approximately 12:55 PM Tow Boat US was contacted by Operator. Operator's vessel suffered an engine failure and drifted onto the rocks at Morgan Point near 47th St and Lake Shore Drive. Due to conditions and owner's unwillingness to pay, Tow Boat did not remove the boat.
On August 30, 2022 I spoke to Operator in person. Operator informed me that his watercraft had suffered a single engine failure and was being towed by his buddy "friend". The second engine failed and Operator's boat broke free from the tow. Operator told me he was approximately "30 feet" from the shore and that his watercraft drifted onto the rocks were it became stranded. When I asked Operator for friend's information, Operator said he did not know friend's last name, phone number, or boat information.


BARDID: IL-2022-0041
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grass Lake
NearestCityorTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/4/2022 at approximately 1:50 PM, I observed a PWC with 2 occupants travelling northwest across Grass Lake on the Fox Chain of Lakes. The PWC was travelling at a high rate of speed and wave conditions were moderate with wind, and the occasional large wave from heavy boat traffic. I observed the PWC hit a large wave and both occupants get ejected. I arrived to find both occupants in the water and both appeared stunned. CPO 2 and I were able to pull both occupants in to our patrol boat. Passenger complained of chest pain and was unable to catch his breath. We secured the PWC and towed it back to the Chain of Lakes State Park with both occupants in our boat. When we arrived at the launch Fox Lake Fire Dept evaluated Passenger for injuries. He was transported to Northwestern Medicine in McHenry for further diagnosis. No damage to the vessel was sustained. The vessel was released to the registered owner who was standing by at the park


BARDID: IL-2022-0043
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Spring Lake
NearestCityorTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Property owner called to report an unknown boat struck her shore station at her address and dragged it 3 feet out towards the channel center. The boat would have most likely traveling N/B to have struck the shore station. No boat or operator information is known at this time and there are no known witnesses.


BARDID: IL-2022-0044
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Marie
NearestCityorTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was drifting close to a dock located at N Elime Rd in Antioch. After reversing the boat S/B for an unknown reason, V1 accelerated quickly NW and struck the pier and boat lift. V1 rode onto the dock and came to a stop on top of vessel 2 which was parked (unoccupied) tied to the dock facing west. No injuries reported. Vessel 1 was towed from the scene by the Boat Yard Antioch.


BARDID: IL-2022-0045
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sequoit Creek
NearestCityorTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Operator behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05-15-22, Unit 1 (kayak) was paddling northbound on Sequoit Creek, approximately 1/4 mile south of Grimm Road (Antioch, IL.). At approximately 1:45 p.m., the operator floated under a low hanging tree branch and grabbed onto it with his right hand. He became stuck in that position and consequently sustained a dislocated right shoulder from hanging onto the branch. He was able to get up and walk onto the bank, then to Grimm Road, where EMS
transported him to the hospital. His shoulder was put back into place and he was released. There were no additional injuries and no damage to the kayak.


BARDID: IL-2022-0051
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox Lake
NearestCityorTown: Nippersink
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Deputy, I, was dispatched to a boat accident with injuries.  On arrival I observed the operator of the jetski (unit 1) had been removed from the water by witness #4.  Operator unit 1 was transferred to 5971 for transport to Marine Base where Fox Lake rescue was waiting.  All witnesses stated same that unit #1 was operating carelessly and collided with Unit 2.  Unit 2 avoided 1st collision with unit 1, unit 1 swerved again colliding with unit 2.  Operator unit 1 received a careless operation citation.


BARDID: IL-2022-0064
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kaskaskia River
NearestCityorTown: New Athens
County: St. Clair
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Aug.15 2022 at approximately 3:17pm Witness 3 and wife (Witness 2) were operating their watercraft south on the Kaskaskia River.  They observered a individual standing on the west bank waving his hands trying to get their attenting. They were 2.4 miles north of the New Athens boat ramp where they launched their watercraft.  Witness 3 pulled his watercraft up to the bank and the individual (Passenger/ Injured 2) stated his buddy was hurt bad.  Witness 3 and Witness 2 observed a Green/White fiberglass watercraft on the bank in the woods.  The watercraft was completely out of the water by approximatley 8 feet and the skeg from lower unit embeded in the mud.  Witness 2 introduced herself as a Nurse Practitioner as she walked up to the watercraft on the bank.  She observed a individual (Operator / Injured 1) having difficulty breathing lying in the watercraft.  She immedately called 911 for emergency assistance at 3:20pm and administered medical aid.  New Athens Fire and Rescue arrived on scene approximately 7 minutes later.

Witness 3 and Witness 2 launched their watercraft sometime after 2:00pm at the New Athens boat ramp.  They remember seeing Operator and Passenger assisting another boater, who was alone attempting to launch his watercraft.  Witness 3 and Witness 2 were approximatley 1mile north of their launch when Operator and Passenger passed them.  They observed Operator and Passenger trun off the maine channel of the river on to silver Creek.  They could not remember who was operating Operator's watercraft.  Witness 3 and Witness 2 proceeded north for approximatley 6 miles, turning around prior to Fayetteville.

On Aug. 15 2022 at approximately 3:28pm I, CPO 1, was informed by ISP dispatch of a single watercraft accidnet with injuries on the Kaskaskia River near New Athens.  I contacted CPO 2 and CPO 3 to assist at the New Athens boat launch.  I arrived at the New Athens boat launch at approximatley 4:05pm and observed New Athens Fire and Rescue watercraft return to the launch.  Operator was being treated for difficulty breathing and transfered over to ARCH emergency medical team.  Operator was air lifted to St. Louis University Hospital at 4:15pm.  I briefly spoke with the passenger on the watercraft operated by Operator.  Passenger and Operator picked up Operator's watercraft from Taylor Marine prior to taking it out.  They arrived at the New Athens launch around 2:00pm and assisted another individual launch his watercraft.  Passenger estimated leaving the launch around 2:15pm heading north on the river.  Operator was operating back south down river and Passenger was sitting in the rear passenger seat facing the stern.  Passenger thought they might be a little close to the bank and before he could say anythng he felt a slight jolt with the bow pushing to the port side.  He heard Operator say I can't turn.  Passenger looked over his left shoulder and saw the bank and trees.  He turned back arund and ducked down in his seat.  Passenger estimates their speed was around 30mph.  The passenger and drivers seats broke loose from the floor of the watercraft upon impact.  Passenger go up to helped Operator lay back and noticed he was have trouble breathing.  He heard another watercraft heading down river towards him and he waved them down.  Passenger stated they bought a 6 pack and only had a couple beers today.  CPO 3 received name and contact information from Passenger.  I did not detect the smell or notice impairment of alcohol on Passenger.  I spoke with medical / rescue personnal treating Operator and they did not smell or suspect impartment from alcohol.  Passenger was taken by ambulance Belleville Memorial Hospital where he was treated with ibprohen for muscle sorness and bruising.  Operator fractured several ribs puncturing both lungs and two lumbar fractures.  Operator remains in St. Louis University Hospital ICU.

Two of the New Athens rescue personal showed myself, CPO 2 ...


BARDID: IL-2022-0065
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, 08/19/2022, at approximately 8:45 PM, a collision occurred on Lake Michigan near Dime Pier/Chicago Lock - Vessel 2, operated by V2 Operator, was traveling southbound from the "Play Pen" to Monroe Harbor and Vessel 1, Operated by V1 Operator, was traveling northbound to the Chicago Lock.

Per V2 Operator (Vessel 2):
On Friday, 08/19/2022, The Vessel 2 was acting as a tender service picking up 2 paying passengers from a vessel believed to be named Saint Neptune in the "Play Pen". The Vessel 2 was sounthbound from the "Play Pen" to Monroe Harbor to drop the passengers off. V2 Operator was talking with a guest and looking to his right as he talked with the passengers, he advised me he was looking that way because he would be able to see vessels he had to giveway to. The Vessel 2 was traveling approx. 22 knots (25 MPH) prior to the collision. The Vessel 2 then collided with Vessel 1 near Dime Pier, the other vessel was traveling westbound at approximately 13-14 knots (16 MPH). No injuries reported. Contact information was exchanged between the two operators, V2 Operator notified CPD Marine Unit of the accident and was referred to DNR. Photos provided show damage to the portside-bow, the inflatable portion of vessel 2 was punctured and damage to the fiberglass occurred. 

Per V1 Operator (Vessel 1):
On Friday August 19, 2022 at approximately 8:40pm they were involve in an collision with a small taxi boat from the company YACHTI which was being operated by V2 Operator. V2 Operator crashed into their vessel nose to nose, his front left hit their left front. Vessel 1 was traveling from 31st Harbor northbound to the Chicago Lock to go to the Chicago River with 11 people on board. Vessel 1 was traveling approximately 2 MPH prior to the collision between Navy Pier and the Chicago Lock. No injures reported, operators exchanged information and contacted DNR later that evening.  Estimated damage over $10,000.

On 08/29/2022, I contacted V2 Passenger 1, a passenger on Vessel 2. V2 Passenger 1 stated the following: He contacted V2 Operator's taxi service to come pick up himself and girlfriend in the Play Pen. V2 Passenger 1 stated V2 Operator charges $60.00 per person. They were southbound, south of Navy when the collision occurred. V2 Passenger 1 did not see the other boat until they collided with it. No injuries reported.

V1 Operator sent me a written statement via email, in the statement he listed 3 operators. I called V1 Operator to clarify who was operating the vessel at the time of the collision. V1 Operator advised me V1 Owner was operating. In V1 Operator's statement he says they were sailing; their vessel is a motorboat. V1 Operator also states that V2 Operator's vessel was hit on the left front and V1 Owner's vessel was also hit on the left front. From the photos sent to me, the damage was shown on the starboard-bow (Right front). 

I contacted V1 Owner and he advised me he was not operating at the time of the collision. V1 Owner stated his uncle, V1 Operator, took over so he can go to the bathroom. V1 Owner advised he was in the bathroom at the time of the collision and did not see what occurred. V1 Owner stated the repair cost $18,000; I requested the estimate/repair bill for his vessel. V1 Owner is yet to forward me the paperwork.

On 09/25/2022, I met with V2 Operator at Burnham Harbor J-Dock. V2 Operator advised he was doing most of the repairs himself. He stated his vessel received additional damage to the mechanical components. I checked the safety equipment on board, he had all required equipment. He did not have a Passenger-for-hire license but did apply for it after the accident. He stated he understood he could not have more than 6 passengers on board. I went to 31st Street Harbor to check V1 Owner's vessel, the boat was repaired and painted.  

Based off the damage the vessels received; Vessel 1 owned by V1 Owner should have been the give-way vessel due to the damage on the Starboard-Bo...


BARDID: IL-2022-0066
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox Lake
NearestCityorTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/22/22 at approximately 1:55 PM I received a call from ISP Telecommunications reference a boat crash on the Fox Chain of Lakes in Antioch.  I spoke with reporting party V2 Owner who advised an individual (who I later identified as V1 Operator) was operating a pontoon boat on Fox Lake when he struck the back of her pontoon which was currently on a lift out of the water in Antioch.  She stated V1 Operator was still on scene.
 
When I arrived on scene I made contact with V1 Operator.  V1 Operator stated he was working for BRP Marine and was testing out one of their new prototype vessels and Rotax outboard motors.  V1 Operator was close to the shoreline inside the "no wake" buoys.  V1 Operator said he was operating close to shore as part of the low idle rpm test and wanted to avoid faster moving traffic.  V1 Operator stated he was heading towards the shoreline listening to music on his phone when a Prince song came on. V1 Operator stated he wanted to change the song and accidentally dropped his phone.  As he was reaching for his phone on the floor of the boat, he heard a woman yelling from shore.  When he looked up he was heading straight for the back of V2 Owner's pontoon as it was parked on the lift at the end of the dock.  V1 Operator stated he threw the motor in reverse but it was too late to avoid the collision.   The tip of the bow on the right side pontoon of V1 Operator's vessel made contact with the lower unit of V2 Owner's vessel, just above prop level.  (see attached photos 1-3)  The tip of the left side pontoon of V1 Operator's vessel made contact with V2 Owner's dock post, bending it from its normal straight position.  (attached photo 4)  V1 Operator's supervisor arrived on scene and provided a copy of their company insurance card.  The card provided showed an expired coverage date, however he assured their test vessels were all covered under the companies insurance with the same policy and up to date.  (Attachment 1)
 
I spoke with neighbor who witnessed the event.  She confirmed she saw V1 Operator's head down, not looking as he approached the parked vessel.  She yelled and waved her arms and was able to catch his attention, but not before the collision.  (Attachment 2 : written statement)
 
The extent of the damage is unknown and will need to be evaluated by a marine repair shop for official quote.  There is significant damage to the lower unit however and with potential spine twisting it should not be operated until professionally diagnosed.   With the damage likely exceeding the $2,000 threshold, a US Coast Guard Boat Accident Report will also be completed.  After quotes are received, V2 Owner was advised to give me the repair estimates for the final Coast Guard report.


BARDID: IL-2022-0067
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chicago River
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/15/2022, I, CPO, received notification from Vessel 2 [V2] regarding a boat accident his vessel was in when an unknown boat, Vessel 1 [V1], violated the "no wake" zone in front of River city Marina, causing an approximate $10,000 worth of damage to V2 Boat. On 7/23/2022, at approximately 11:30PM, V2 boat was tied up at his slip at River Side Mariana, located at 900 S. Wells St, Chicago, IL.
 
Speaking with the owner of V2, he stated on the above date and time V1 was traveling southbound on the river at a high rate of speed, violating the "no wake" zone when it passed V2, which was tied up at its slip on the outside wall, resulting in V2  slamming into the wall. Damage was sustained to starboard side from bow to stern. V2 estimated the damage to be approximately $10,000. 
 
V2 stated no one was on board and no injuries were sustained at the time of the accident. 
 
I reached out to the harbor, local business, and CPD marine unit for any camera footage of the incident in attempts to identify V1. No video was able to be located.


BARDID: IL-2022-0068
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox River
NearestCityorTown: -McHenry
County: McHenry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 13, 2022 IDNR Conservation Police responded to a personal injury boat accident involving two personal watercrafts (PWC).  The accident occurred at approximately 6:50 PM on the Fox River near the 97 mile mark in McHenry County, Illinois.  The watercraft operators were identifed as: V2 Operator and V1 Operator.  The Vessels were traveling north on the Fox River when Vessel 2 was stopped and then struck from the rear port side by Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2's operator ejecting him into the water.  The operator of Vessel 1 was uninjured.  Vessel 2's operator was transported to local Hospital to be treated for injury to left leg and pelvic region.  Both operators were wearing PFD's at the time of the accident.  Vessel 1 operator inexperience was a contributing factor.  It was confirmed alcohol was not involved.  Both Vessels were damaged from the collision.  V2 Operator (Vessel 2) injuries were documented as pelvic ring fracture; pubic symphysis distruption, left zone II sacral fracture.  V1 Operator (Vessel 1) was cited for careless operation of watercraft.


BARDID: IL-2022-0069
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Holiday Shores Lake
NearestCityorTown: Edwardsville, IL
County: Madison
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/21/22, I, CPO, was contacted by Holiday Shores Lake Association concerning a boat accident that occurred on their lake on 07/14/22. I made contact with V2 Operator and met him at his residence on 07/23/22. V2 Operator informed me he was coming out of the "No Wake" cove southwest of the Holiday Shores Club House and was traveling south. V2 Operator stated his boat was struck by a pontoon boat operated by V1 Operator. The damage to his boat was on the rear port side. Initially, V2 Operator believed the damage was minor and headed toward the dock at the public marina. Upon arriving at the dock he noticed a large gash in the port side. He made contact with V1 Operator and they exchanged insurance information. V2 Operator informed me V1 Operator and he had the same insurance company and the case had been settled on the damage. On 08/11/22, I met V1 Operator at her address. V1 Operator stated she was travelling back to the Marina to put their boat up for the day. V1 Operator and her husband were crossing the lake between 10-20 MPH. V1 Operator stated she did not see V2 Operator's boat approaching from their right due to the sun coming out of the northwest. When she saw V2 Operator's watercraft, she attempted to pull back on the throttle to reduce her speed and avoid the collison, but was unable to get it stopped in time. This accident occurred approximalte 75 ft from the exit of the "No Wake" zone. Due to environmental conditions, (bright sunlight and obscurred view) and transition from "No Wake" to coming on plain, its difficult to determine an at fault operator. No injuries were observed and both parties have settled the accident without issue.


BARDID: IL-2022-0070
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:57:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chicago River
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/6/2022 at approximately 9:57 PM a Pontoon boat and a 410 Sea Ray Sundancer collided in the Chicago River lock waiting area.

At 10:43 PM I, CPO, was informed by the Chicago Police Marine of the collision and given a call back number. I contacted the caller, V2 Passenger 1, for information about the accident and left a voice mail.

On 8/10/2022 I spoke with V2 Passenger 1. V2 Passenger 1 explained that while watching the Navy Pier fireworks show on his family's boat in the lock waiting area, a pontoon boat with its navigation lights off collided with the back of the Sundancer's swim platform. V2 Passenger 1 stated that their boat was sitting stationary using "sky hook" when the collision happened. V2 Passenger 1 stated that him and his friends saw the pontoon coming and attempted to push it away from the swim platform to avoid the collision, but they were unsuccessful. V2 Passenger 1 said the pontoon boat had "rental" on the side in big white letters and "Aunt Patti" written across the back. V2 Passenger 1s family tried to get the watercraft to stop. The operator, described as a black female, and passengers began yelling obscenities at them and immediately left area. V2 Passenger 1 stated that they spotted the pontoon boat by Trump Tower after the firework show, but did not confront the operator and passengers. 

Camera footage from the Chicago Marine Station did not show the collision. The footage taken from the Chicago Marine Station did show a ponton boat with no navigation lights weaving between other watercraft in the direction of the Sea Ray and leaving while the firework show was still in progress.

On 9/25/22 I spoke with V1 Operator, the operator of the pontoon boat. V1 Operator stated that on the night of the accident she was operating the vessel and stationery at the time of the accident. V1 Operator stated that the Sea Ray backed into their boat. V1 Operator said that the individuals on the Sea Ray began yelling racial slurs at them, so they left. V1 Operator told me that she was called back to the rental company dock by Chicago Electric Boat employees because they had been reported by the individuals on the Sea Ray. V1 Operator never stopped or provided her information to the other operator during the collision.


BARDID: IL-2022-0072
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/07/2022 at approximately 4:22PM, I received a complaint from V2 Owner, informing me of a vessel hitting the bow of his boat, a 2008 Tiara, V2, while it was docked at slip, at Belmont Harbor on 9/16/2022. A witness informed V2 Owner that he observed the sailboat belonging to suspected owner of suspected V1, contact V2 Owner's boat as it was attempting to dock in an adjacent slip.
 On 10/09/2022, I met V2 Owner at his slip to examine the damage sustained to his boat. V2 Owner proceeded to show me a scrape along the chrome bumper strip, and a bent handrail post on the uppermost Bow portion of his boat. V2 Owner told me he did not personally witness the boats make contact. 
After speaking with V2 Owner, I went to G slip where suspected V1 was docked and examined it for damage. There were some scratches and transfer marks near the waterline of the hull of suspected V1 but, there was no damage on suspected V1 to indicate that it hit the bow portion of the boat V2 where V2 Owner was alleging contact. I noticed upon further examination the gunwales (the sides of the hull) on suspected V1 were lower than the contact point of V2's bow and unlikely contacted the chrome bumper strip. It could not be determined what caused the damage to the foremost hand rail post.
-End of Report-


BARDID: IL-2022-0073
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-10-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake of Egypt
NearestCityorTown: Goreville
County: Johnson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/27/2022, Vessel 1 was travelling southbound of Lake of Egypt at approximately 3:00 PM.  Vessel 2 was facing East to Northeast on spot-lock fishing near No Ski Island.  Vessel 1 was manuevering South of No Ski Island and noticed Vessel 2 a short distance away.  The operator of Vessel 2 tried waving his arms and shouting to get the attention of Vessel 1 operator.  Vessel 1 tried to avoid collision by turning the watercraft port side but still colided with Vessel 2.  Vessel 1 nearly came out of the water on impact and came to rest nearby.  There were injuries or ejections of any occupants, however the operator of Vessel 1 was briefly unconcious after the collision.  Vessel 1 had fiberglass damage on the starboard chine and Vessel 2 had a console completely damaged with small fiberglass damage on the port side.


Vessel 1 has an estimate of $9,631 for repairs.  Vessel 2 is an educated estimate of $12,000 based upon greater damage than Vessel 1.


BARDID: IL-2022-0074
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityorTown: Hennepin
County: Putnam
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/03/22, Conservation Police responded to a personal injury personal watercraft accident on the Illinois River near mile marker 203.5 in Putnam County. An Investigation into the accident shows that a male operator and female passenger of a Bombardier Jet Ski were jumping the passing wake of another unidentified passing vessel when control was lost and both occupants were ejected from the Jet Ski and into the water. The female passenger was struck by the male operator''s body as they impacted the water. The collision between the two caused injury/trauma to the female''s chest area (left side). The operator reported no injury. Alcohol was a contributing factor in addition to careless operation. Witnesses corroborate the operator''s version of events. The operator admitted that he was driving the Jet Ski beyond his ability to control it. No other vessels were involved or damaged in this incident and no damage to vessel 1 was observed. Operator was cited for Careless Operation of Watercraft.


BARDID: IL-2022-0076
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Accident Summary:

V1 Operator, was captaining the rental vessel (Vessel 1) and cruising in the "playpen" on Saturday, August 13th, 2022. Around 5:10 P.M. V1 Operator was attempting to set anchor in anchorage are C. During his attempt to drop anchor, V1 Operator stated the windlass malfunctioned, and his vessel began drifting. V1 Operator stated that he was close to a vessel in front of him, and began to reverse in order to not strike that Vessel. V1 Operator stated that he did not see a raft floating in the water behind him, and while moving astern, Vessel 1 backed over a raft with multiple individuals on it. The individuals on the raft were dragged down into the prop. V1 Operator vessel also made contact with Vessel 2, striking the swim platform, and breaking the davit and loading site for the dinghy.

Both injured parties were transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital with serious injuries. 
Injured 1 suffered a traumatic aputation of her pinky finger, and a laceration on her right forearm.

Injured 2 suffered traumatic amputation of both feet.

This accident remains under investigation by The Illinois Conservation Police, the US Coast Guard Investigative Service, and Marine Safety Unit Chicago.
Further information is contained in IDNR Case. Charges are pending.


BARDID: IL-2022-0078
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chicago River
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Dam/lock
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
CPO 2 and I were on boat patrol and locking through at the Chicago River/ Lake Michigan. Vessel one(rental boat captained by USCG captain) reversed into Vessel two, a privately owned boat(captained by a USCG captian). The collision caused damage to the V1 owned by Pinnecle yachts to the swim platform. Damage sustained by V2 was a cracked hull without leakage and an accessory light was no longer functioning.

No injuries sustained. Only property damage was sustained.


BARDID: IL-2022-0079
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/15/22 two individuals were operating personal watercrafts in front of montrose beach. Operator2''s jet ski died. He tried to get back on but the water was to choppy. A samaritin tried to help operator1 and operator2 with the two jet skis.  Life guards seen individuals were unable to mount jetskis and attempted to rescue them. Life guard boat had a rope get stuck in their propeller. Winds are reported 28 knots and 4 foot waves. Chicago police units responded. Jet skis were initially towed in by lifeguard boats, cpd came to tow the life guard boat and the jet skis  and operator2''s jet ski was lost/ searched for and found later with minimal damage.


Operator1 claims the watercraft sustained damages during the tow from harsh towing practices. Rope around handle bars instead of bow eye and being submerged. 

I contacted operator1 

After jetski was appraised for damages, owner wanted a report filed on the incident.

Operator2 was unable to remember or retrieve the number of the owner or registration of the jetski he used. He said damage was minimal, it was fixed and returned in short order.


BARDID: IL-2022-0080
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Calumet Sag Channel
NearestCityorTown: Alsip
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis: Three males were traveling West bound in the Cal Sag channel returning to the Worth boat launch. All three occupants suffered injuries beyond first aid. Upon arrival Passenger AA was on his back laying on the deck of the boat while Fire and Rescue were administering first aid. Fire and rescue had stated there was a third person but had already been taken to the hopital. Injured 3 and Injured 2 were transported to the ambulance via the fire boat due to the 8 foot wall on the shore line.

After going to the hospital and speaking with the individuals, Operator was operating the boat, looked at his phone, hit a log; lost control and then collided with the steel/concrete wall. While at the hospital Injured 2 stated they had a couple beers at the marina stayed for a little while. Operator was groaning and stated he looked down at his phone and remembers being on the ground.

The operator suffered a back fracture to a thoracic vertebrae, A 6+ inch laceration to his left forearm which recived stitches.

Injured 2 suffered a contusion to the left eyebrow receiving multiple stitches. 

Injured 3 - 3 evulsions to a shin.




They stated they had hit a log and ran into the wall.

The next day Sgt. 2 and I went to the scene to find the scene of the accident. We found paint transfer on the wall corresponding to the boat damage. Rust transfer was on the aluminum boat indicating it hit something iron based: the wall.

Subpoena was request was sent to ASA 9/15/2022. ASA was told about it over phone as well. Followed up in beginning of November over phone. ASA stated she would work on it. No response as of 12/1/22


BARDID: IL-2022-0081
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
-On Wednesday August 17, 2022 at approximately 1900 hours a black male fell overboard while a boat was on plane near Anchorage Area "C". The person was in the water for approximately 2 minutes before they never resurfaced. 
-The individual was later identified as Deceased/ Passenger 1. 
-USCG was the first to arrive on scene. They transported a Jane Doe from the vessel to the CTA turn around north of Navy Pier. The unnamed female was transported on Ambulance 66 to Northwestern Hospital but was not injured (per state). 
-USCG took two other individuals from the vessel (Passenger 4 and Passenger 3) to try to locate the last sign of life location. The two males told USCG three possible locations that ranged a span of 7/10 of a mile. 
-CPD Marine and CFD Marine arrived on scene to assist. 
-No driver information or owner information was obtained from the passengers at this time.
-The vessel was released to return to their unknown dock.
-I, CPO 1, arrived on scene with CPO 2 at approximately 1935 in which we proceeded to run sonar for the individual.
-The two individuals (Passenger 4 and Passenger 3) were transported back to the CTA turn around where CPO 3 was waiting to take their statements. 
-I proceeded to the bus stop and picked up CPO 3. We followed the CPD Marine vessel to 31st Street Harbor. The individuals said they got on the boat there, but didn't know which dock. 
-Once we arrived at 31st Street Harbor they stated they got on the boat from "F" dock.
-The two individuals were released on the dock and proceeded to the parking area where they met up with others individuals that were on the boat. 
Passenger 2, Friend, and Passenger 5.
-We obtained passenger information. Passenger 2 stated she organized the trip and paid and individual to take them out on Lake Michigan. She stated she invited-Deceased and that they were co-workers at USPS. 
-We charged Passenger 2's phone and obtained Deceased's phone number.
-We located the vessel that they were on and took pictures of the vessel. 
- The vessel has expired Indiana registration. We obtained the HIN and name of vessel. 
-On Aug 20, 2022 at approximately 1646 hours Marinve Vessel 2 recovered a body matching Deceased from Anchorage Area "C".

-The operator was found and interviewed. Enforcement action to be taken at a later date.


BARDID: IL-2022-0083
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Round Lake
NearestCityorTown: Round Lake Beach
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/23/22, at approximately 4:09 p.m., unit one was traveling northbound on Round Lake, approximately 150 feet east of the shoreline of the main beach.  Unit two was traveling northbound, east of and slightly north of unit one.  Both units were traveling at approximately 30 mph.  Unit one turned to the right and impacted unit two's port side (rear) with it's front starboard side.  The operater of unit one was ejected at impact.  The operator and passenger of unit two were both ejected at impact.  The passenger sustained severe injuries to her left leg (compound fracture) and was transported to the hospital.  The operator of unit two was not injured.


BARDID: IL-2022-0084
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-10-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Crab Orchard Lake
NearestCityorTown: Carterville
County: Williamson
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/23/22, at approximately 3:00 PM, I, CPO 1, was notified of a sinking boat on Crab Orchard Lake.  I spoke with Crab Orchard Refuge Officer.  Refuge Officer was on scene and stated a boat was swamped by large waves.  He stated the boat was travelling west and turned North at the Haven.  A South wind was gusting 20 mph and created large waves.  When Operator turned North a large wave swamped his boat.  He motored to some rock along route 13.  The boat continued to sink and Operator exited onto the rocks.  I arrived at 4:00 pm and photographed the boat.  The weather conditions were rough and I made arrangements to remove the boat the next morning.  
On 10/24/22 CPO 2 and I pumped water, out of the boat, and towed it to the boat ramp.  Operator was able to trailer the boat.  The boat appeared to have damage to the port side, near the passenger position. the damage appeared to be caused by the rocks.


BARDID: IL-2022-0086
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nippersink Lake
NearestCityorTown: Fox Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 and 2 were traveling south on Nippersink Lake from the Grass Lake Bridge.  Unit 1 and 2 collided with each other (sideswipe). 

Both operators claimed the other boat was operating aggressively and struck them.  The crash report was delayed and both offered varying accounts of what happened.  BWC Activated.

Sgt 1

Unit 1 had damage to back right side of jetski and the collision destroyed right speaker and mirror.  Jim Potts Motor Group in Woodstock, IL. did estimate and repair. 

No known damage to Unit 2.


BARDID: IL-2022-0087
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grass Lake
NearestCityorTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
The owner of unit 1 reported the boat struck an unknown object while being repaired on Grass Lake.  Unit 1 struck an object that was not visible and below the waterline.  No injuries were reported and the boat was disabled.  Damage was done to the lower unit/propeller.  This was delayed report and not on scene (desk).


BARDID: IL-2022-0089
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:21:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityorTown: Seneca
County: La Salle
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel had just completed fueling. All fuel lines were removed from vessel. Vessel exploded while still at fuel dock. 19 people were on board. 15 people on board were injured. Victim died of his injuries on 6/24/22.

The starboard motor was not running from slip to fuel dock. Starting fluid was sprayed into starboard motor while at the slip. The time from when the boat left the slip until it exploded was 38 minutes. The time from when the boat arrived at the fuel dock until it exploded was 28 minutes. The time from when fueling operations were complete until boat explodes was 3 minutes. 

Neither motor nor the generator were running at the time of explosion. Three people stated the engine blower motor was on. Subject1, who was closest to the blower motor, does not remember hearing it running. The rest of the occupants did not know. No one can tell me why Victim was going into or was in the cabin when the boat exploded. The boat had been operated, after recently being purchased, twice by Victim without incident. The port fuel tank had been fueled and boat operated after being purchased.

On 8/12/22 an joint inspection of the vessel was started by marine surveyors. It was determined the vessel needed to be moved to a different facility to complete the inspection. On 11/15/22 the attorney representing subject informed me "All interested parties, claimants, and potential claimants declined further joint inspection of subject’s vessel." 

Without a further joint inspection the cause of the explosion is unknown.


BARDID: IL-2022-0090
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Summerset
NearestCityorTown: Davis
County: Stephenson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/16/2022 I, CPO, responded to a call of a boat accident on Lake Summerset in Davis, IL.  Upon arrival at Delburne Drive I met with the complainant, V2 Owner.  V2 Owner said on 8/15/2022 at approximately 5:47 pm she and Witness 1 were sitting in their home when they heard a loud crash.  Upon looking out the window towards the lake they observed a pontoon boat which had just crashed into their boat and lift station.  V2 Owner provided a video of the incident.  

The pontoon, operated by V1 Operator, was traveling in a posted No Wake Zone, at a speed greater than no wake.  V1 Operator and the pontoon approached V2 Owner's pontoon and lift station from the West.  V1 Operator struck the right side of the stationary watercraft and forced the shore station to move several feet.  V2 Owner and Witness 1 ran down to speak with V1 Operator.  V1 Operator stated he was “tying a knot” when he crashed.  There were no reported injuries.  V2 Owner's boat sustained severe damage to the ladder, transom and right pontoon.  V2 Owner's lift station sustained catastrophic damage and needed to be replaced.  V1 Operator's pontoon boat sustained damage to the front right panel and right navigation light.   

The estimate for V2 Owners lift station is $12,912.61
The estimate for V2 Owner's pontoon boat damage is $6,139.36.  I estimate the damage done to the pontoon, operated by V1 Operator, to be $500.00

Due to V1 Operator's lack of cooperation I am seeking an arrest warrant for him through the Stephenson County States Attorneys Office.  All charges are pending in this case. 

Pending charges: Careless operation, Failure to display registration numbers, Failure to display valid expiration decal and Failure to report boat accident.


BARDID: IL-2022-0091
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-11-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityorTown: Henepin
County: Putnam
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 11-25-2022 at approximatly 3:15 P.M vessel #1 was leaving the Hennepin boat store. The wake generated by vessel #1 caused vessel #2, which was tied up to the boat dock, to take on water and sink. Vessel #2 was equiped with a 60 horsepower tiller steer motor that it''s estimated replacement cost is $10,500 was under water for over 1 hour.


BARDID: IL-2022-0092
State: IL
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2022-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shelbyville
NearestCityorTown: Sullivan
County: Moultrie
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/13/22, at 11:45 P.M., I CPO arrived at the Bo Wood boat ramp on Lake Shelbyville after being advised that there was a boat accident in which a man fell overboard and never resurfaced.  At that time I spoke with three men who were on board the vessel when the man had fallen overboard.  All three men were interviewed individually and had matching accounts of what had happened.  The man who had fallen overboard and was still missing at the time was Victim.

At approximately 10:40 P.M. the four men had launched Operator''s boat and after Operator took the boat for a short warmup ride, they all boarded.  Operator was the operator with Occupant1 sitting in the middle and Occupant2 sitting on the port side of the bench seat of the Ranger fishing boat.  Victim was sitting on the front deck of the boat, facing the rear, with his feet on the floor.  

Operator headed west from the boat ramp at a cruising speed that he said was at half throttle.  The men stated that Operator made a few gentle sweeping turns to the right and to the left.  As Operator made another maneuver to the right, Victim lost balance from his seated position and fell out of the boat over the port side.  

Operator then turned to the left and threw the boat into reverse.  The men began looking for Victim in the water.  Occupant1 dialed 911, and handed the phone to Operator.  Occupant1 was able to see Victim''s hand up out of the water.  Occupant1 placed a life jacket on and dove into the area where he saw Victim''s hand.  He was unable to make contact with Victim and they did not see him again.  The three continued to look for Victim until the dive team boat arrived, and they advised them to return to the boat ramp.

I, along with CPO, took written statements from all three men.  I did an inspection of the boat and found no violations as well as took photographs of it.  The dive teams were unsuccessful in locating Victim''s body throughout the night.  Multiple agencies assisted in searching for Victim the following day.  At approximately 10:30 P.M. on 5/14/22, Victim''s body was located underwater.  His body was retrieved and he was pronounced dead at 11:10 P.M.  No autopsy was performed on Victim per family request and order of the coroner.  Attached to this report you will find written statements from Operator, Occupant1, and Occupant2.

After investigation it was determined that Victim died due to falling out of the boat during a turning maneuver of the watercraft.  Victim was not wearing a life jacket and was unable to swim.  Victim died due to drowning.


BARDID: IN-2014-0001
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-01-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: White River
NearestCityorTown: Petersburg
County: Pike
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/3/2014 Operator was traveling downstream from the confluence of the east and west forks of the white river when he advised that the bow of the boat dipped forward suddenly. He stated water rushed in and the boat tipped suddenly causing himself as well as the two passengers to fall into the water unexpectedly. Operator and occupant1 grabbed onto floating objects [decoy bags] and managed to swim to shore. Occupant2 stayed with the now overturned boat and called 911. The call directed him to the pike co. Sheriffs dept. And the appropriate responding agencies were notified. Occupant2 was rescued from the disabled craft approximately a mile downstream from the initial accident. All three men were transported to vincennes hospital and treated for hypothermia and released a short time later. On 1/4/2014 ico units recovered the boat for Operator.


BARDID: IN-2014-0002
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Flat Rock River
NearestCityorTown: Columbus
County: Bartholomew
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 6, 2014, at approximately 11:30 am, I, Indiana Conservation Officer, responded to Bartholomew County in reference two kayaks overturned in the Flat Rock River near Mill Race Park where one subject failed to resurface in the river. Upon my arrival at approximately 12:30 pm there were several Bartholomew County Deputies and Columbus Police Officers present on scene along with the Bartholomew County Swift Water Rescue Team. Additional Conservation Officer's were also in route including members of the dive team, jon boats, and an air boat to assist with search efforts. I began to investigate the incident. 

I made contact with Detective, Bartholomew County Sheriff's Dept., who was on scene also. Together we made contact with the surviving kayaker, and directed him to take us to the last point he had seen the missing kayaker. Survivor walked us to a point on the east bank of the Flat Rock River just south of the 8th Street bridge in Columbus. He pointed to a couple of trees near the bank and stated that Victim went under the water at that point and never resurfaced. 

I escorted Survivor away from the river at that point and asked him to explain to me exactly what had happened. Survivor stated that his long time friend Victim was visiting from Michigan. Survivor claimed he purchased two kayaks on 4/4/14 with the intentions of kayaking on 4/6. He stated that on the morning of 4/6, he and Victim traveled to parking lot just north of the 8th street bridge(1285 Indianapolis Rd.) with the two kayaks. They launched the kayaks in a shallow flooded area back behind the business and began to navigate out to the Flat Rock River. Survivor stated they were not kayaking on the river for long as they had just passed under the 8th street bridge heading toward Mill Race Park when Victim's kayak capsized near the middle of the river. Survivor stated he immediately noticed Victim struggling and paddled quickly towards his location. He stated without thinking he jumped from his kayak in order to try and help Victim. Survivor grabbed a hold of the hood on Victim's jacket and began to attempt to pull him towards the east bank. Survivor stated that he was able to pull him to a large standing tree approximately 10 yards away from the bank. He stated that Victim was able to grab hold of the tree so Survivor let go and swam to a tree approximately 5 feet closer to the bank. Survivor stated that Victim was holding on to a log that was lodged in between the two trees. He stated the current was very strong and the log came dislodged. Victim went under water and never resurfaced. Neither Survivor nor Victim was wearing a life jacket. Survivor stated he then began yelling for help and was able to swim the rest of the way to shore and exit the river. A civilian nearby heard Victim yelling and called 911. 

Survivor also stated that Victim was a long time friend whom he grew up with in Miami, Fl. He stated that Victim currently lives and works in Michigan with his fiancé. He stated he was around 26 years old and was wearing a grey hooded jacket with black shorts. Survivor claimed that Victim was visiting for the weekend while his fiancé traveled back to Miami for her bridal shower, as they were getting married soon. He stated Victim drove down on Friday 4/4 and was planning to travel back to Michigan later that evening. I asked Survivor if he had any contact information for any of Victim's family or fiancé. Survivor stated that Victim's family lives in Miami and that he did not have their phone numbers. I escorted Survivor back to his vehicle where he was able to give me Victim's cell phone. Survivor was then released to go home from the scene. 

Shortly thereafter Victim's phone rang and I answered it. I identified myself and asked who I was speaking with. The caller was Victim's father. I explained to father what had transpired that day and that it was very unlikely that Victim had survived.


BARDID: IN-2014-0003
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Tell City
County: Perry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude 
on april 1, 2014 i (indiana conservation officer) was contacted by tell city police department reference a sinking boat. When i arrived on scene i spoke to the owner of the boat who stated that he forgot to put his plug in his boat. 

on tuesday april 1, 2014 i was contacted by tell city police department reference a sinking vessel at approximately 1715 hrs. The boat was located on the ohio river on the indiana side of the river bank roughly 100 yards west of the boat ramp. The boat was a brown, 1987 fiber king classic. 
At approximately 1745 i arrived on scene and spoke with the owner of the boat. Owner advised that he had been out on the river for a couple hours but most of that time was spent cruising around the river (on plane). Owner then advised that he stopped the boat near the bank to take a break, when he attempted to start his boat the boat would not turn over. At this point owner stated he open his engine compartment and realized he had forgotten to put his plug in the boat. The boat then drifted to the bank where owner tied off his boat. I asked owner how many boats he had owned, owner stated that this was his first boat and the first time on the water. 
After speaking to owner i advised him that due to the weight of his fiberglass boat and with the additional weight of the water i would not be able to pull his boat back to the ramp. I then called his insurance company (strobel formost insurance), and told them that owner's boat was sunk and would require a salvage crew. After speaking with the insurance company, owner called his claim adjuster and started the process of arranging the removal of the boat. I then requested owner call and leave a message with tell city dispatch when the boat was removed. 
On thursday april 3, owner contacted tell city police dispatch advising that his insurance company had removed his boat.


BARDID: IN-2014-0004
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On april 18, 2014 at or about 1717 hours ico central dispatch received a call in reference to a female that had fallen from a double deck pontoon boat and hit her head. This took place in allen's creek cove on lake monroe. The caller advised they would be en route from allen's creek to paynetown. While in route the boat the victim was on died and would not operate correctly. I responded and arrived on scene near moore's creek boat ramp at 1725 hours. 
The victim was on a purple double deck pontoon with indiana registration in9535df. She had what appeared to be a small laceration on the back of her head. She was also intoxicated upon my arrival. I assisted her into my boat with the aid of several people. I then transported victim, two witnesses/friends and park security to the paynetown rental docks. Monroe county ems 2164 met us at the docks a short time later. The medic on board advised victim would have a few staples put in and would be sent home that evening. Victim was transported by ambulance to the hospital where she was treated for her injuries. 
I spoke with witnesses to the incident and they advised victim was sitting on the side of the top railing of the boat. Victim fell backwards onto another boat hitting her head on the top deck of that boat. Due to their being 13 boats hooked together i was unable to find out which boat victim fell from or which boat she fell onto. The boat listed in this report is the boat she was on when i picked her up.


BARDID: IN-2014-0005
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hardy Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Austin
County: Scott
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On april 26th, 2014, corporal called me at home to see if i could assist officer on a death investigation at hardy reservoir. 
I responded and began my shift at 15:00 hours. (3:00pm). While in route, i talked with Officer by cell phone. Officer was at the scott county hospital with operator and his family members. Officer advised operator had been involved in an accident while fishing at hardy reservoir with his wife. Officer told me operator had been pronounced dead at the scott county hospital. 
I began an investigation into operator's death when i arrived at the hardy reservoir at 15:30 hours (3:30 pm). 
Operator's boat was moored in the second slip from the marina boat house on the east side of the dock. The boat was a 2004 maroon ranger bass boat. The registration # was in5063bz. Dispatch ran the registration # for me. It was registered to operator. 
After taking photos i boarded the boat. I took additional photos and notes after boarding. Hardy reservoir personnel said there were fishing poles and a dip net in their boat house that were removed from the boat for safe keeping. Operator's boat had two pedestal style seats. Both of the seats were in the upright position. There were two red mustang inflatable life jackets in the floor of the boat. Both jackets appeared to be new and in good condition. A white throw cushion was in the passenger seat and it also appeared to be in good condition. A white towel had been placed between the passenger seat and the operator's seat. The towel had no obvious bodily fluids on it, but was damp. A sack of partially consumed food was in the floor at the foot of the passenger's seat along with a polar pop style drink. In the walk through area between the consoles was a blue and white cooler containing two water bottles. Also in the same area was a small, red and gray tackle box and a yellow and white minnow bucket. On the floor against the seat was an anchor weight. Under the operator's console on the floor, were two orange marker buoys. 

At the bow was a minn kota maxxum 65 trolling motor and a fish finder. Both of these were in good operating condition. The fish finder was off. The aft supported a mercury 150 optimax motor. The prop on the motor was undamaged and the motor ran well with no damage visible. A hummingbird fish finder was positioned by the operator's seat. It was on, and operating properly. The fuel gauges were checked. The fuel level was slightly less than half. The bilge pump was also in good working order. There was no water in the hull of the boat. 

Operator's maroon chevy silverado and his boat trailer were parked on the east side of the parking lot of the main ramp. I had dispatch run the two plates. Both came back to Operator. The truck and trailer were parked in tandem with the driver's side being just over the line of the parking spaces. Photos were also taken of the truck and trailer. 
Scott county deputy supplied the names of witnesses to Officer who in turn gave them to me. 
I contacted each of the witnesses by phone. 

Witness along with fishing companion were the first two to reach Operator's boat after hearing Occupant’s desperate calls for help. All the parties involved were fishing the stick ups just south of the wooster ramp. Witness said "he (Operator) was laying face down in the water and she occupant was having a hard time holding onto him." "she wasn't very big and he was too big for her to move." Witness and fishing companion tried in vain to pull Operator from the water. 
Two more boaters arrived to assist. The three men then retrieved Operator from the water and onto Witness's boat. 
 
Witness2 was the only witness to see victim fall into the water. Witness2 said, "it just looked like he fell over in the water." "i didn't think he was in trouble till she started yelling for help."
 
While in route fishing companion preformed cpr on victim, who spit up water during the cpr attempt. He was then transported to the hospital.  The coron


BARDID: IN-2014-0008
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bass Lake
NearestCityorTown: Knox
County: Starke
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vehicle 1 and vehicle 2 were traveling parallel with each other at a speed of approximately 30 mph.  Vehicle 1 made a hard left turn infront of vehicle 2.  Vehicle 2 struck vehicle 1 sending operator 1 and operator 2 into the water.  Operator 1 and operator 2 were both transported to iu starke knox memorial hospital.  Operator 1 was released with a bruised left hip.  Operator 2 was transfered to south bend memorial hospital with 3 broken ribs, 2 fractured vertebras, and fluid on his left lung.  Both operator were wearing pfd's.


BARDID: IN-2014-0009
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salamonie
NearestCityorTown: Wabash
County: Wabash
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
5/26/2014 @ 1500 hrs) 
i corporal was on boat patrol at salamonie reservoir. I was informed of a watercraft that had an injured passenger on board. I went over to the watercraft and asked if everything was okay. The operator informed me that two of his passengers were being pulled on a tube by him. One passenger was thrown from his tube. after being thrown he landed on the other person, causing two injuries: one a broken nose, the other head pain and mild dizziness. 
I transported both to shore where they were going to seek medical attention on their own.


BARDID: IN-2014-0011
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 23, 2014, at approximately 7:15 am, i, indiana conservation officer, was called out to assist with a boat accident on brookville reservoir.  When i arrived at garr hill boat ramp on the southeast side of brookville reservoir, i observed a boat that was floating upside down near the seawall just south of the boat ramp.  

I spoke with two individuals who said that they were launching their boat and realized that the plug was not in the boat.  By the time that either of them realized this, it was too late and the water was coming over the transom.  Occupant further explained that his father, operator, was driving the boat, picked him up on that dock, and the boat sank as they were pulling away from the dock.  Both men jumped out of the boat, the boat overturned, and occupant pulled the boat back to the boat ramp.  Occupant also advised that he gathered all of their floating belongings and that neither of them received any injuries.

Due to the shallow water, i put on my state issued dry suit, entered the water, flipped the boat right side up, and walked the boat onto the boat trailer.  At this time, ico arrived.  He took down the information for the boat and took pictures of the boat for my report.  I finished gathering information from all involved, and the subjects were able to take their boat back home.


BARDID: IN-2014-0012
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Clarksville
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Boat 1 had three occupants on board who were all wearing their pfd's.  Boat 2 did not have any passengers but had broken loose from where it was tied up and drifted to the gates located on the dam of the ohio river.  When boat 1 attempted to free boat 2 it was sucked into the gates where it capsized.  From there the three occupants from boat 1 were swept down stream and rescued around the lewis and clark boat ramp.


BARDID: IN-2014-0013
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Hammond
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
vessel owner/operator stated that they went to the hammond marina for fuel, but upon their arrival the fuel dock was closed. Upon exiting the hammond marina harbor, operator1 turned left and proceeded to travel between a buoy marking the submerged breakwall and the elevated breakwall. Operator1 stated that he was traveling 10 to 15 mph and struck the submerged breakwall with the hull and propellers of his vessel disabling his vessel. Operator1's vessel then drifted south into the elevated hammond marina breakwall. All occupants were wearing lifejackets after the accident at the request of the uscg. Cpl. took photographs of vessel against the hammond marina breakwall. Operator1's vessel was taking on water but the bilge pumps were able to keep up with the water entering the hull. A short time later uscg vessel 45604 was able to remove operator1's vessel from the breakwall and side tow it into the hammond marina. Great lakes towing then towed operator1's vessel to crowley's yacht yard in chicago, il for removal from the water.

on june 2, 2014 i spoke with operator1 and asked him about the accident again and damages to his vessel. Operator1 stated that he had been to hammond marina numerous times and knew about the submerged breakwall. Operator1 stated that the accident was pilot error and nothing else. The damage included two sheared off zeus drive pods, keel damage, fiberglass damage on the stern and starboard side of the vessel. Total damage cost $176,352.23. The cost to tow the vessel was an additional $70,000.00.


BARDID: IN-2014-0014
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Noblesville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At this time, i heard and saw a white female yelling to sgt. who was on the patrol boat at this time. I heard the female tell sgt.  that she had been involved in a boating accident. 

Shortly afterwards i made contact with subject who showed me the damaged boat that she had been riding on.  At this time, the 1993 blue mastercraft maristar 225 (in3387bb) was lifted out of the water on a dry dock.  I was able to see a large hole in boat's port side. The driver of the boat, Operator2, identified himself with his indiana driver's license.  Both operator2 and subject stated that they had not received any injuries and did not need medical assistance.  At this time, i had operator2 explain what happened.  Operator2 informed me that he was operating southbound parallel to morse beach at approximately 15 mph.  Operator2 stated that he saw two jet skis to the south headed northbound.  Operator2 informed me that approximately 1-2 minutes before the accident he made a right hand turn westbound to go to the hinkle creek idle zone.  Operator2 informed me that immediately before the accident he looked up and saw a jet ski approximately 50 feet away coming at him.  At this time, operator2 reportedly put the throttle into neutral and made a quick right turn in an attempt to avoid a collision.  As he was attempting to turn right, his watercraft was struck on the port side by the pwc.  Operator2 stated that the male driving the pwc was thrown off the machine into the water and was being helped by a female on another pwc.  

Operator2 noticed his boat was taking on water and told the male to meet him back at shore. At this time, operator2 told me that he left the scene and quickly drove back to the marina to avoid sinking. Subject informed me that she was seated in the back driver's side seat with her dog at the time of the accident.  Subject advised that she saw the accident from point of impact and did not see anything prior to impact.


BARDID: IN-2014-0015
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saint Joseph River
NearestCityorTown: Mishawaka
County: Saint Joseph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1145 hours on june 6, 2014, operator was operating his 16' white 1982 sylvan aluminum boat downstream of bittersweet bridge on the saint joseph river in mishawaka. The boat was on plane when it struck a 2"x8"x8' board floating in the water. The impact caused the boat to come to an abrupt stop throwing occupant overboard. occupant was seated on a raised seat near the stern of the boat. occupant struck the 40hp outboard motor causing a 6 to 8 inch laceration to his head. occupant was transported to saint joseph regional medical center for treatment. The boat had little to no damage. Neither were wearing pfd's at the time of the collision.


BARDID: IN-2014-0016
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Freeman
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: White
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Upon arriving the injured individual was already on a back board and was in the process of being taken up the stairs to board the ambulance.  

As described by both operator and occupant1, they were headed southbound from the area of the sandbar on lake freeman, headed around the corner of ohio street towards the main lake, and as they got directly out from the first all brick house on the right the boat struck a fixed object on the port side of their vessel.  At this time passenger victim was thrown forward from her seat directly across from the driver.  As victim was thrown forward she struck a hard plastic case that contained skis inside of them on the floor of the boat.  Operator stated that at this point she turned back around to see what they had hit and the wake and wash of their boat had clearly exposed a stump that had been just below the surface of the water.  At this time occupant1 moved over into the driver's seat and continued to go southbound towards the sportsman inn while operator sat on the floor with victim while she called 911.  Upon arriving at the sportsman inn the medics met the boat at the docks and operator rode in the ambulance to the hospital with victim and occupant returned his boat to poncie's hillside and met up with operator and victim at the hospital shortly after.
I informed all three individuals of how they could get ahold of myself if they were to need anything else and that i would complete a report within the coming week.
No warnings or citations were issued.


BARDID: IN-2014-0018
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Owner/operator explained that she was operating her pontoon boat toward fairfax boat ramp not far from the shore line.  Operator stated the other vessel was much larger in size and was operating toward her passing her on her starboard side.  Operator explained that the wake of the oncoming vessel came over the bow of her pontoon boat a caused damage to the front door and both aluminum side panels.  Operator showed me the damage to the front of her pontoon boat, which i photographed.  Operator stated that when the door panel was ripped off the frame, it caused a tear to the front starboard seat.

I supplied operator with the "report of indiana operator's boat accident" (state form 42528).  I confirmed her indiana driver's license is valid and her pontoon registration is valid.


BARDID: IN-2014-0019
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tippecanoe River
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: White
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday, june 8, 2014, at approximately 1400, operator was traveling downstream on the tippecanoe river.  Operator was operating a 2009, yamaha vx1100 pwc, registration of in 2875 dj.  Operator and his son were up in the river farther than they had ever been before and were unfamiliar with the area.  Son was operating a 2005, yamaha waverunner, registration of in 5819 cb, and was following behind his father.   Operator struck a large rock that was submerged just below the water's surface.  The impact threw operator from the pwc.  Operator struck the handlebars as he was thrown over the front of the pwc.  Operator stood up immediately after the accident and appeared to be fine.  Son helped his father up onto the pwc that he was operating.  Shortly after getting onto son's pwc, operator passed out and fell from the pwc back into the water.  Son pulled his father to the nearest shore and was able to get a local resident to call 911.  
	 buffalo first response and the monticello fire department ambulance responded to the scene.  They transported operator to iu white memorial hospital where he was immediately flown to st. Vincent's hospital in indianapolis for possible internal injuries. 
	 the pwc that operator was operating sustained damage to the hull of the vessel.  When i arrived at the scene, the pwc was filling with water due to the hull damage.  Both operator and son were wearing us coast guard approve pfds at the time of the accident.   
	 Operator’s wife advised that operator did undergo surgery for internal injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.


BARDID: IN-2014-0021
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bass Lake
NearestCityorTown: Knox
County: Starke
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator 1 was operating vessel 1 through a ski salmon course on bass lake.  Operator 2 was operating vessel 2 just to the north of the ski salmon course.  After operator 1 finished the course she made a hard left turn in front of operator 2.  Operator 2 was unable to avoid the collision between vessel 1 and 2.  Neither operator was ejected from their vessel. Operator 2 boarded operator 1's vessel and transported her to the bass lake marnia for medical attention.  Operator 1 was transported to the iu starke hospital and treated for a contusion on her left leg and deep bruising.  Both operators were wearing appropriate pfd's.  Neither operator had consumed alcohol.


BARDID: IN-2014-0024
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SHAFER
NearestCityorTown: MONTICELLO
County: WHITE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 5, 2014, at approximately 1645, i was contacted by the white county communications center in reference to a boat accident that occurred on lake shafer. I met with all of the subjects that were involved in the accident at tall timbers marina. I gathered information from both operators and all of the passengers from both boats. I also interviewed all of the subjects involved in the accident. 

The operator of vessel 1, stated that he was traveling downstream, along the west bank of lake shafer near volleyball island. There was heavy boat traffic out on lake shafer that day. Operator 1 stated that he looked ahead and saw vessel 2 in front of him, but he stated that he thought the vessel was traveling downstream as well. He stated that he turned to look at other boat traffic around him, and when he looked back up again, he realized that vessel 2 was coming at him instead of away from him. Operator 1 stood up and tried to quickly turn the vessel to avoid a collision. Operator 1 was unable to avoid striking vessel 2. 

The operator of vessel 2, stated that he was traveling up stream, along the west bank of lake shafer in the area of volleyball island. Operator 2 stated that he saw vessel 1 traveling directly at him. Operator 2 stated that he tried to go to the right, but that vessel 1 kept coming directly at him. Operator 2 stated that he then stopped his vessel and that vessel 1 continued o travel directly at him. Operator 1 stated that he then began to sound the horn on his vessel and that the passengers began to scream at the operator of vessel 1. Operator 2 stated that he saw a man stand up and take the wheel of the boat and try and turn it to avoid the collision. Vessel 1 was unable to turn in time and struck vessel 2. Vessel 1 came in direct contact with vessel 2's pontoon which punctured a slit clear through the fiberglass hull. The impact also caused heavy damage to vessel 2. The starboard bow skirting of the pontoon was heavily damaged. 

Some of the passengers on vessel 2 complained of minor pain but refused any medical treatment at the scene.


BARDID: IN-2014-0025
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: TIPPECANOE LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LEESEBURG
County: KOSCIUSCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call about a boating incident on tippecanoe lake. I learned the boat operator left  the scene and was inside a nearby residence. I arrived on scene approximately 45 minutes after the initial call. I interviewed operator and he told me he was sitting on the gunwale and driving the boat into a channel connecting tippecanoe lake to oswego lake when he struck a docked pontoon boat. Operator said he could not see well due to it being dark. Upon colliding with the pontoon boat operator was ejected into the water. Operator said he climbed back into the deck boat and left the scene because the juvenile occupants in the boat were scared. There were no injuries observed or reported. The evidence at the scene shows operator was unsafely operating the deck boat at a high rate of speed, exceeding the night speed limit of 10mph when he struck an occupied, docked pontoon boat. The impact caused extensive damage to the stern, port side, and mechanical units of the pontoon boat and the per it was docked at. Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor.


BARDID: IN-2014-0027
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: CEDAR LAKE
NearestCityorTown: CEDAR LAKE
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/15 at approximately 4:30 pm, a boat accident resulting in property damage occurred at the pine crest marina fueling dock on cedar lake. (boat owner 1) was fueling up is 2008 godfrey marine pontoon boat (in9502dd) and was struck from the stern by a 2007 crownline ls watercraft, (boat owner 2). Damage to the portside pontoon wall and front starboard pontoon is evident on v1 watercraft. I photographed the damaged pontoon boat on 7/6/14. During a follow up conversation, owner1 stated  that contact and insurance information was exchanged between both parties. No damage to the crownline  watercraft was reported. owner1 stated that he received a damage estimate exceeding $2,000. The cause of the accident is believed to be from the accelerator slipping forward on the crowline, while waiting for fuel at the pine crest marina. I have been unable to make contact with boat owner 2.


BARDID: IN-2014-0031
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OHIO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EVANSVILLE
County: VANDERBURGH
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Inland marine has security cameras that recorded the entire encounter.  On july 2nd, i viewed the footage at the marina.  The footage shows clearly that vessel1 was tied off to the dock during the storm.  It then shows another white vessel approach the gas dock's.  The vessel had a readable indiana registration number of 6382dm.  This vessel pulled up to the gas docks and tied off.  All of the occupants exited the boat and stood under the awning during the storm.  After a while, one white male boarded the vessel and pushed off from the dock.  The operator was the only occupant aboard the vessel and appeared to be skinny with tattoos.  The operator maneuvered the boat away from the dock then engaged the motors rapidly causing his boat to lurch forward towards docked vessel1.  The bow of the boat then struck the rear portion of the starboard side of vessel1 pushing it violently against the dock.  The vessel then floated in the water until owner1 exited his cabin and confronted the operator.  The operator appeared to speak with owner1 before speeding off.
 
No safety equipment or pfds were used.  No injuries were reported.


BARDID: IN-2014-0032
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE SHAFER
NearestCityorTown: MONTICELLO
County: WHITE
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the afternoon of saturday, july 12th, 2014 at approximately 4:00 p.m. a yamaha personal watercraft struck the security cables near the norway dam.  As a result of the collision with the cables victim sustained massive trauma to her face and neck.  After being removed from the water by passersby victim and passenger were both transported to the shore where police personnel were waiting.  passenger was uninjured in the collision.  Cpr was started by police personnel before monticello ems arrived minutes later and took over.  Victim was transported to iu white memorial hospital where she was treated before being flown to iu methodist in indianapolis.  Victim was later pronounced dead at iu methodist.


BARDID: IN-2014-0033
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OHIO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: EVANSVILLE
County: VANDERBURGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude/summary
 
Officer and i were on boat patrol on the ohio river just after dark.  We responded to a boat accident near the dogtown boat ramp.  Operator2 had dropped some friends off at the ramp and was driving away.  He was powering up his boat to come onto plane and travel down stream. He did not see another boat waiting to load up at the ramp.  Operator2 stated that he could not see due to a reflection coming from the bow lights on his boat.  Operator2 continued to operate his boat without being able to see and caused a collision with the other boat at rest.  Operator2's boat received scratches on the bow and hull area.  Except for the engine and drive, the rest of boat1 appeared to be totaled.


BARDID: IN-2014-0036
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: OHIO RIVER
NearestCityorTown: NEW ALBANY
County: CLARK
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that he and the Victim had been fishing on the ohio river near the k&i brigade, when they decided to go to shore to relieve themselves.  Operator stated that he was headed up upstream when his vessel struck a submerged object, stopping the boat almost instantaneously.  Operator said that when his vessel hit the obstruction, victim was thrown out of the boat some 200 feet.  Evidence located at the scene indicated that operator vessel possibly struck on old, stone dyke that was part of the old ohio river dam system, or a submerged pile of large rocks.  Operator stated that he was traveling at "wake speed" or less when the impact occurred.
 
Operator advised that after being thrown in the water, victim immediately stood up, and was in about waist deep water.  Operator stated that victim began to make his way to the edge of the boat, and collapsed while trying to climb over the gunwale/side.  Operator stated that he pulled victim the rest of the way onto the boat and began to yell/call for help.  He also stated that he attempted cpr, but was unsure on how to perform it.  Operator stated that while giving chest compressions water was expelled from victim's mouth and nose.  A passerby observed operator motioning for assistance and came to his aid.  Good sam, was able to get to operator vessel, transferred the two from the damaged boat and began towing it to the new albany access ramp.  Members of the louisville fire department met them while en route and transferred victim and operator to their vessel for ems assistance.  Victim was then transported from the ramp area to the emergency room where he was later pronounced deceased.  While being towed, operator boat began taking water, becoming pinned against a bridge abutment near the indiana shoreline.
 
An autopsy was performed n 7/21/2014 at the jefferson county kentucky medical examiners office.  Preliminary results indicated that victim died of a cardiac event brought on by the aggravating incident of the boat accident and his being thrown into the water.  No fluid was found in his lungs or stomach.
 
Notification of next of kin was complicated by victim having no local living relatives, and record checks through counseling and welfare agencies provided no results.  After sourcing a record of a brother in florida, contact was made with a sister of the victim.
 
vessel was last seen pinned against the upstream side of a bridge abutment for the k&i railroad bridge, near the indiana shore.  Operator was provided information to towing services along the river available in the louisville area.  Rivers edge towing contacted me on 7/21, advising that they would be doing the recovery. I met with them on the ohio river at the location where the vessel original capsized on 7/20.  The vessel had apparently became dislodged from the bridge abutment and floated downstream. checked with the new albany police department, and they advised that oen fo their officers had observed  a vessel matching that of the one belonging to operator tied off to the indiana shoreline just downstream of the sherman minton bridge.  The vessel was located where advised and was removed to the new albany access ramp.


BARDID: IN-2014-0037
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE MICHIGAN
NearestCityorTown: PORTAGE
County: PORTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was westbound around 15 mph and about 50 yards north of the port of indiana breakwall when it struck a submerged pipe.  The collision ripped the lower outdrive from the boat, rendering it completely disabled in the water and taking on water.  Both the operator and passenger put on pfd's and waved to a nearby boat for help.  The boat that approached was from m.c.m. marine, the company that is doing the dredging near the port of indiana.  The operator of this boat (name unknown at this time) apologized for the accident and said that they were floating the dredge pipe to move it.  This worker for mcm stayed with the disabled boat until cms marine came to tow the boat in.  Uscg out of michigan city also arrived, but after determining that everyone was ok and the boat was in the process of being towed, left to handle another incident.


BARDID: IN-2014-0039
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/9/14 i, indiana conservation officer was dispatched to an injured person on a boat at the paynetown boat rental on monroe reservoir. Upon my arrival i found that a female subject was on a rental pontoon boat and had been injured. Speaking with her she advised me that she was going to jump off of the top deck of the boat into the water. When she started to jump off she got scared and grabbed the railing. This caused her to swing down and she hit the bottom railing with her upper back. She fell into the water but was able to climb back onto the boat. After a few minutes she started feeling extreme pain and said she could hardly move without being in pain. Her friends had her lay down and they held her still until medical personnel's arrival. I asked her if she had consumed any alcohol and she stated that she had drunk a bottle of champagne since approximately 3:30 that afternoon. Ems personnel arrived at the scene and she was transported to bloomington hospital.
   later in the evening i was notified that she had sustained a broken scapula.


BARDID: IN-2014-0041
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Michigan City
County: LaPorte
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The occupants of vessel 1 (9 total) were at drift in vessel 1 on lake michigan, approximately 1.5 miles north of mt. Baldy.  Two occupants on the vessel jumped off the boat to swim.  While in the water the two  swimmers began struggling to stay afloat.  The swimmers began to panic and  called out for help.  The two swimmers were not wearing pfd's.  Other passengers on the boat jumped off the boat to render aid to the two struggling swimmers.  One swimmer was helped back to vessel 1.  The other swimmer and all others in the water began to drift further away from vessel 1.  A member of the boat crew swam out with pfd's to provide those in the water with a pfd.  Pfd's were provided to each person in the water except for the victim.  One of the boat owners attempted to start v1 but could not get the engines to fire.  It was later discovered the engines were left in gear, causing the engines not to fire.  The uscg and another good samaritan vessel rescued 5 persons in the water.  The victim who did not have a pfd slipped under the water and was recovered 26 days after the accident.  All members on board vessel 1 except for one, were consuming alcoholic beverages.


BARDID: IN-2014-0042
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Rockport
County: Spencer
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The boat operator was arrested for operating a boat while intoxicated causing a fatality. 
Narrative
He advised the victim had been caught in a boat prop and had died due the injuries he had sustained. We then got a ride to french island were the incident had taken place. We got on shore and deputy advised the operator of the boat operator had tested .10 on the portable breath test. 
I did notice two coolers in the boat that contained empty busch light and bud light beer cans. 

All of these individuals were 21 years old except for the victim who was 19 years old. 
After receiving general information everyone was released to return to shore. Lt. and i were unfamiliar with the boat and asked for someone to operate the boat back to shore.  Subject was familiar with the boat. I observed him try to start the boat by moving the throttle and gearing around in different positions and jiggle the key several times to get it to start. He had to throttle the boat up quite a bit to get the boat to stay running and reved it loud to pull away. He explained they had recently put a different carburetor on the boat. The boats engine was very loud and did not run very smoothly. Once on shore lt. and i photographed and examined to boats prop. The boat was a 1992  white baja outlaw 24' in length. The registration was 2014 ky0266ze. The prop was a kb quicksilver mirage 48 and the boats vin number was 13702a4121pv06r. After checking the boat it was released to father. We also interviewed the 4 witnesses again to confirm we had contact information for each of them.

Operator advised he, and three others arrived at french island around 4pm. They were there approximately 45 minutes to an hour. While there operator stated he had 5 to 6 beers then they decided to go to a different island. He thought everyone was on the boat and started the boat up. He let it idle for approximately a minute. He stated two people were in front of his boat to help push it off. He put the boat in gear and went in reverse. He stated no one knew victim was behind the boat and did not hear anyone say anything. While backing up he heard a girl scream and felt the motor become stuck. The other guys on the boat said victim is back there. He went to check on victim then called 911. After getting victim on shore people on shore gave him cpr.  
After the interview lt. and i filled out the affidavit for probable cause for boating while intoxicated causing fatality. 

On july 8th, 2014 i interviewed three people at their home after hearing they were possible witnesses. They explained there were several boats on the island that sunday afternoon. He did hear a rumor that victim was reaching across the boats prop for the ladder or possibly a whiskey bottle but did not witness this. 

I also obtained the victim cell phone reported to be a black i-phone. It is believed this phone contains pictures of the scene that day. It was rumored that possible photographs were taken with the phone and uploaded to the social media accounts on facebook and instagram. I did have those accounts frozen by legal department of facebook until warrants can be obtained. Toxicology results from the kentucky medical examiners office did show a positive result for alcohol and thc in victim victims blood system. Victim was 19 and the rest of the party was 21 we still do not know how he obtained the alcohol or thc.


BARDID: IN-2014-0043
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Silver Lake
NearestCityorTown: Silver Lake
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Two people went out on the lake around 1100 hours by themselves. Around 1500 hours they went to the trailer to pick up two others. They were all swimming with pfds on but took the pfds off to get back on the boat. They had forgotten the ladder for the pontoon so they had to push down on the front of the boat to pull themselves up. Victim was the first one on the boat and she was still standing on the front when subject1 tried to board the boat. While subject1 was trying to board the boat victim fell of the boat backwards. At first they thought she jumped in to get her sunglasses that fell off her head but when she didn't resurface they knew something was wrong. Subject1 dove in looking for victim and told subject2 to call 911. 

Subject1 also advised victim had several medical conditions in the past but hasn't had any problems for 5-6 years. Victim had a history of heart murmurs, diabetes, migraines, and passing out. Subject1 advised she was not on any medicine; they were treating her medical issues with a regimen of essential oils. Subject1 also stated victim had been drinking fruity alcoholic drinks (consumed the equivalent of 3 shots of vodka) and she hadn't had anything to eat all day.	   
the victim at 2103 hours in 22 feet of water with a water temperature of 66 degrees.

During the autopsy the doctor did not locate anything that indicated victim suffered a medical condition causing her death. The doctor did locate some fluid on the brain but ruled it out as a factor of cause of death. The doctor gave a preliminary cause of death of asphyxia due to drowning. The official report will be pending the results of the blood and tissue samples taken and sent to the toxicology lab.


BARDID: IN-2014-0044
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Mary's River
NearestCityorTown: Decatur
County: Adams
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 27th, 2014 i was called to a possible drowning that occurred on the st. Mary's river in adams county.  Two male subjects were kayaking on the flooded river when both of their kayaks were swept into a large log jam.  The first subject was able to steady his kayak and hang on to one of the tangled logs. The second subject was trailing subject1, and his kayak rammed into subject1's as he was holding on to the log jam.  Victim’s kayak capsized and he was swept under the log jam by the current and never reappeared.  Attempts to located victim were unsuccessful until his body was located in a log jam on june 30th by members of the adams county fire department


BARDID: IN-2014-0046
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hardy Lake
NearestCityorTown: Scottsburg
County: Scott
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 20, 2014 I was notified of a boat accident that had occurred at Hardy Lake At approximately 3:00PM. While en route to the scene from Salem I was informed that the victim was being taken to the hospital by helicopter for head injuries.

When I arrived on scene the victim had already been taken from the scene to Kosair Children's Hospital in Louisville, Ky. I was informed that the victim, Victim, had been riding on a PWC with her uncle. Victim was said to have fallen off the back and was struck in the head by another PWC operated by operator1. Operator1 is the victim's grandmother. Both PWC's had already been loaded on the trailer and were sitting in the parking lot prior to my arrival. One of the PWC's had blood visible on the console and handlebars. I spoke with the EMS 3480 units on scene and was informed that Victim had a head laceration and possible cranial fracture. Victim was taken by Air Methods, Kentucky 11, to Kosair. 

 I began taking a statement from Operator1 about the incident. Operator1 advised that she was operating a PWC in the main body of the lake with her granddaughter as a passenger. I asked her where that was and she pointed to the middle of the lake northeast from the Alpha ramp. Operator1 stated that her other granddaughter was riding on the rear of another PWC. Operator1 said that she was operating at half throttle and believed to be traveling approximately 20 miles per hour. Operator1 said that she was traveling at a diagonal to the rear of Operator2's PWC and was going to cross the wake behind him. She advised that she was approximately 30 feet behind the PWC. Operator1 stated that she saw Victim fall from the back of the machine and was unable to stop or turn to avoid hitting her. Operator1 advised that she thought she struck Victim with the front left portion of her PWC. Operator1 advised that after the impact she tried to pull Victim onto her PWC, but in doing so she fell from the PWC as well. At this time she said that Operator2 placed Victim on the PWC that Operator1 had been operating and then he transported her to shore. Operator1 advised that Operator2 had already left the scene and was en route to the hospital. I asked if everyone had been wearing personal flotation devices and was informed they were. Operator1 stated that Victim had been wearing the yellow one. They retrieved it from a storage compartment on the front of the trailer. This PFD was soiled with blood. It was a coast guard approved jacket, but was only intended for an infant up to 30 pounds. 
 

Person on shore advised that he did not see the accident. Person on shore stated that he observed Operator2 coming through the Idle Zone to the boat ramp at a high rate of speed. Person on shore stated he was yelling at them to slow down until he realized what happened. Person on shore stated that he then called 911. Scott County Dispatch advised that the initial 911 call came in at 2:41PM. 

 I inspected the PWC that Operator1 was operating and located a long dark hair entangled in the bow eye located on the front center of the PWC. I also observed what appeared to be a small amount of blood near the bow eye. I observed some damage to the rub rails on both sides of the PWC and was informed that it was there prior to the accident. 

 Photographs were taken of the PWC's and PFD's.  Operator1 and Person on shore Operator2 were allowed to leave the PWC's  at the main Office maintenance area. They then left the Lake property to go the Hospital.

 Shortly after leaving, Operator2 and Operator1 returned to the Lake. I spoke with them and was told that they were informed that Victim was about to be released from the hospital. They advised that it appeared she had only sustained a laceration to her head. The pwc's were then picked up from the office.

 On September 28, 2014 I made contact by phone with the victim's mother. She advised that Victim's injuries consisted of a head laceration and concussion. On this date I


BARDID: IN-2014-0047
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Chesterton
County: Porter
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was in the area of the rear of the cabin and Subject1 was towards the middle of the cabin just behind the operator's station. Operator, the vessel operator, engaged the one engine and began to move forward out into the lake while the other two occupants were still on the narrow decking (walkway). Subject1 and Victim were attempting to come back to the rear deck area at that time. The area Victim was at was the transition point to where the fiber glass deck and the wood decking began, also, a small block of wood is located at that transition point. Victim fell off the boat at this time. It is believed that he may have slipped on the wood decking, this decking would have been very slippery if it was wet and Victim had no shoes on. The wood decking is very slick with many coats of clear coat paint. Subject1 observed Victim fall in and began to pound on the cabin window to notify Operator. Operator saw Victim twice come up from the water for a brief second. Operator immediately turned the vessel to the starboard side (right). Subject1 threw a white pillow out into the water for Victim but she could not see him anymore. Operator advised it took 45 seconds for the boat to make a turn with only one engine and that Subject1 went to the other side of the boat to look for Victim and he could not be seen. Subject1 called 911 for help at this time and they searched for Victim while help was en-route. After first responders arrived Subject1 and Operator remained out on the lake searching until dark then returned to Marina Shores in Portage Indiana. Alcohol may have been a factor in the fall overboard, but cannot be determined until after toxicology results are known.


BARDID: IN-2014-0048
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Aurora
County: Dearborn
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On august 5, 2014, approximately 12:00 hours i was patrolling on the ohio river in my jon boat half way from rising sun to laughery creek when dearborn county dispatch contacted me and advised me of a boat crash near laughery creek involving injuries.  Upon arrival i observed two jet skies  near the mouth of laughery creek and asked if they had been involved in the accident and they said yes.  One of the jet ski's would not run so i assisted them with a tow rope to pull the other in.  I then proceeded to light house yacht club and located a runabout boat with the victim sitting on the ski platform located on the back of the boat.  

Victim was in extreme pain.  I assisted aurora ambulance personnel in getting victim off the ski platform and into the ambulance so they could transport her to air care helicopter from university of cincinnati which had landed at the marina.  I then wrote down all the personal information of those involved, and took brief statements on what happened, advising i would contact them later via phone.
Operator2 stated she and one person were on a jet ski bearing registration in 1019 bk.  Her sister operator1 and her aunt victim were on another jet ski bearing in 8097 bh, that they had left the marina near the mouth of laughery creek, that they were riding them on the ohio river, that they saw pwc owner come out of the laughery creek.  Operator2 stated both she and her sister operator1 went to PWc owner’s boat.  Operator2 stated that operator1 got to pwc owner's boat before her, that she didn't see operator1 and her aunt victim and struck them from behind.  Operator2 stated that she didn't see them because of the wake/wave made from pwc owner's boat.  
I then had aurora auto tow both jet skis to their location and contacted ico, a certified boat accident re-constructionist, to come and do a boat accident reconstruction.  
  
On 9/29/14 i contacted victim by phone and interviewed her.  Victim stated that they (she and her niece operator1) had gone out on the ohio river riding her boyfriend's jet ski waiting on him to bring his boat out.  That her other niece operator2 and her occupant was on pwc owner's other jet ski.  That they all had been riding approximately 10 minutes when pwc owner came out and proceeded downstream.  Victim stated that operator1 drove the ski over to pwc owner's boat and stopped.  Victim stated she didn't remember anything after that.  Victim was able to tell me the extent of her injuries which included a broken back, broken ribs, and punchured lung.
On 10/1/14 i was able to contact Pwc owner and interviewed him.  Pwc owner stated they got to light house yacht club about 12:00 noon, that the girls took his jet skis and proceeded to go out on the ohio river to ride.  Pwc owner stated that he got out on the river approximately 12:30 pm and started down river.  Pwc owner stated that shortly after that he heard a crash and saw that there had been a crash between the two jet skies.  Pwc owner stated they got victim into his boat, called 911 and went back to the light house yacht club.  Pwc owner stated he did not see anything. 
On 10/10/14 i mailed the indiana boat operators boat accident report forms to operator2 and operator1 as well as a citation for failure to operate a watercraft with prudent operation to operator2


BARDID: IN-2014-0050
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Crooked Lake
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 was operating a white 1995 Yamaha WVT 700 personal watercraft on Crooked Lake.  She was operating it at a high rate of speed towards the sandbar in the first basin where there were many boats anchored.  Operator1 stated she realized she was too close to the white 2006 Correct Craft Air 210.  She stated she tried to slow down but realized it did not have brakes.  She then let off of the throttle and tried to turn but realized that did not work either.  She stated she then pulled the kill switch out of the ignition hoping that would stop the personal watercraft but it did not.  Operator1 stated that subject was a passenger on her boat and just before they collided into the Correct Craft they both leaned to the right causing the port side of the personal watercraft to collide with the starboard side of the Correct Craft near the steering column.  

Operator1 stated she had minor pain and bruising to the inside part of her thigh on her right leg.  She refused medical attention multiple times.  I interviewed Operator1 and she also wrote out a voluntary statement.  Upon talking to her I noticed an odor of an alcoholic beverage.  Operator1 stated she had consumed a couple of drinks from her friend’s “fruity” alcoholic beverage after the accident.  She agreed to take a portable breath test and she tested positive for an alcoholic beverage at 0.058% BAC.  I could not locate any witnesses to confirm or contradict her statement about when she had consumed the alcoholic beverage.

	 I spoke with Occupant and she stated she had an abrasion to her lower left leg and was not sure if it was broken or not.  She refused medical attention multiple times and stated that she was going to be transported to a hospital in Fort Wayne by a friend for insurance reasons.  She also stated her elbow was bruised on her left arm.  Occupant stated that Operator1 was operating the personal watercraft too fast as she approached the sandbar and could not get it stopped in time to avoid the collision with the other boat.  Occupant stated they leaned to the right just before the collision and the port side of the personal watercraft collided into the starboard side of the boat.  Occupant was not sure if her leg got between the two boats or not.  I called her a few days after the accident to check on her injuries and was unable to make contact with her but I left a message.  On 09-02-14 she called Steuben County Dispatch and left a message for me.  I called her back and she stated she was diagnosed with abrasions but had a large hematoma on her calf of her left leg and needed to see an ortho for a follow up appointment.

	 I spoke with the owner of the Yamaha personal watercraft, at the scene.  He provided the information for his boat and stated the two females had permission to use his boat.  He stated his boat was old and already had some damage on it and that he could not determine the old damage from the new.  There was new damage to the port side of the personal watercraft.

	 Cpl. was at the scene and spoke with the owner of the Correct Craft.  Owner stated his boat was anchored at the sandbar and stated he did not actually see the accident but seen his boat rocking back and forth after the personal watercraft hit it.  There was damage to the outside of the boat on the starboard side along with damage on the inside of the boat around the steering column and dashboard.
	 
	 Operator1 was cited for Imprudent Operation of a Motorboat, a class C infraction.
	 Photographs were taken at the scene.


BARDID: IN-2014-0051
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cedar Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Subjects were fishing in a 1954 wooden 16' boat when the boat began to take on water at the stern.  A couple of waves have come over the back and the boat started taking on water rapidly.  They both put on pfd's and waved to a nearby pwc for assistance.  Their boat sank, with only the bow sticking out of the water.  The pwc operator took them to the nearest shore where they asked for assistance.  Cedar lake police department and fire department responded.  The fire department launched their boat and put marker buoys around the submerged boat.  I used our dnr patrol boat to pull the submerged boat to the public launch and it was placed on a trailer.  The boat's wooden hull was severly deteriorated, and i found multiple spots on the hull where water was coming out.  The boat is considered a total loss.  Both subjects were ok, and did not have any injuries to report.


BARDID: IN-2014-0052
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Crooked Lake
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude: operator1 was operating a white 2006 yamaha wave runner personal watercraft in a southeast direction on crooked lake when she collided into the port side of a white 2009 harris v200 boat that was being driven by Operator2.  She stated that she was not looking ahead of her and that she actually had her head turned over her right shoulder and was looking out towards the lake.  She stated she may have been trying to talk to her passenger.  She stated she was going about 20 mph and did not see the other boat until just right before she collided into it.  V1 passenger on the personal watercraft was transported to cameron hospital by a personal vehicle and was suspected of having a concussion.		  

	 i spoke with operator2 and she stated she was operating her harris boat northbound along the shoreline of crooked lake county park.  She stated she was approximately 500 feet away from the shoreline.  She stated she was going approximately 10 mph because she was pulling a tube with two kids on it.  She also stated her husband and a baby were in the boat with her.  Operator2 stated she seen the personal watercraft coming towards them well in advance.  She stated it kept coming at them so she started honking the horn and did not receive a response.  She stated she started screaming at them and still did not receive a response.  Operator2 stated she started turning the boat to the right towards shore and then the personal watercraft collided into the rear port side of their boat.  Operator2 stated multiple times that the girls on the personal watercraft never saw them and the operator was looking behind her instead of in front of her. 
	 photographs of both boats were taken at the scene.  The personal watercraft was mainly damaged on the port side bow.  The boat was mainly damaged on the rear port side.
	 Operator1 is 15 years old and does not have a valid driver’s license.  She has never completed an approved boater education course and she does not have an identification card.  Operator1 was issued citations for (1)operating a motorboat without a valid driver’s license and (2) imprudent operation of a motorboat, both class c infractions.
	Owner was issued a warning for permitting a boating violation/to wit:  non-licensed operator.


BARDID: IN-2014-0053
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-09-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Birdseye
County: Orange
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1805 Orange County dispatch received information that a boat was on fire on the water at Patoka Reservoir. I responded to the scene and gathered information. The lone occupant of the boat had safely exited the boat and been given a ride to the Painter Creek boat ramp. Medical personnel checked Operator for injuries and found that he had suffered very minor burns to his right ear, right side of his face and neck, and right hand. Operator signed a release of treatment form at the scene and required no medical treatment from EMS.
Operator stated that he was attempting to fill a denatured alcohol cooking stove in the cabin area of the boat. Operator stated the device expelled the denatured alcohol and ignited causing the interior of the cabin portion of the boat to ignite. Operator used an onboard portable fire extinguisher on the flames but was unsuccessful in putting out the fire. Operator then navigated the boat a short distance to the nearest shore and jumped from the boat. Operator stated the boat was being consumed by fire. Fire department personnel arrived on scene via boat and used additional fire extinguishers and managed to knock down the flames. 
The units on scene attempted to tow the damaged boat back to the boat ramp. While towing the boat, the fire reignited causing the boat to sink near the no ski buoys close to Painter Creek boat ramp. The water depth at this location is approximately 25 feet.


BARDID: IN-2014-0054
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cedar Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 28, 2014, operator was operating a 2014 Suntracker 20ft Pontoon Boat when she collided with a private pier on Cedar Lake.

Operator was operating her pontoon northbound near the shoreline along the northwest side of the Cedar Lake when she hit a private pier. The pier was approximately 100 feet from shore out into the water. 

The neighbor came out of her home after hearing a loud noise on the water and witnessed Operator backing away from the pier she had just ran into. Neighbor contacted Cedar Lake Police Department and the police were able to make contact with Operator near the Sandbar Grill Pier across the lake from where the accident occurred. (See Google Earth Maps). Operator stated to Cedar Lake Officer she left the scene of the accident to avoid confrontation with neighbor.

Cedar Lake Police Department conducted field sobriety testing on Operator and took her into custody for BWI refusal and also cited her not failure to display navigation lights after legal sunset. 

During an interview with Operator, she stated she was traveling north on the lake at a speed of approximately 20 miles per hour when she collided with the pier causing damage to the pier and the vessel she was operating. 

Photographs were taken of the damaged vessel and damaged pier on September 28, 2014.


BARDID: IN-2014-0056
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2014-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cataract Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cloverdale
County: Putnam
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  
operator was operating a jon-boat on cataract lake when it capsized and sank due to rough water conditions. 

On saturday, june 14, 2014 at or about 4:30 pm., while patrolling at lieber state recreation area in putnam county, i was stopped by a pedestrian who stated that a boat sunk on the lake earlier in the day.  The pedestrian advised that no one was hurt and the owner of the boat was camping at campsite #46.  
I went to campsite #46 and was met by operator, who stated he was the owner of the boat that sank.  Operator explained that he and the two listed witnesses were on the water in his seven foot jon-boat earlier in the day.  Operator described the water to be rough and choppy and felt that his boat was too small under those conditions.  He explained that water starting coming over the bow of the boat and he and the passengers attempted to bail the water out, but were not able to do so successfully.  He stated that the boat sank and the occupants of a  nearby boat saw what had occurred and helped them to shore.
Operator listed several items which also sank with the boat and they are as follows:
 -5 hp outboard motor
 -3 fishing poles
 -1 anchor with rope 
 -1 hummingbird fish finder
 
On july 17, 2014, officer and i attempted to locate the jon-boat with  sonar.  I dove on an item but it was a concrete block.
On july 21, 2014, officers and myself attempted to locate the jon-boat again with sonar.  We were unsuccessful in locating the boat.
On august 11, 2014, i organized a sonar/dive detail to attempt to locate the missing jon-boat.  I used sonar equipment to locate several objects similar in shape and length as the jon-boat.  Divers dove on the items but were unsuccessful in finding the jon-boat.


BARDID: IN-2014-0057
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
During this conversation operator1 admitted to driving the personal watercraft in question and admitted to getting close to the pontoon boat. However, operator1 stated that he was going to hit it but caught it with his hands before he did. Operator1 stated that he was the only operator of that boat that came near the pontoon boat that was damaged and that the other people that operated the personal watercraft never operated near the pontoon boat. When i told him that two witnesses watched him collide with the pontoon boat he would not admit that he hit it. He stated that he thought it was just someone trying to collect money. I asked him why he did not report the accident and he stated that he did not know that he did any damage. He admitted that other people at the scene that day tried talking to them but he said he was not sure what they wanted


BARDID: IN-2014-0058
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2014-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hamilton Lake
NearestCityorTown: Hamilton
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  operator was operating his 1994 correct craft boat on hamilton lake and was pulling a wakeboarder.  victim was doing flips on the wakeboard and then let go of the rope.  When operator pulled up to him victim told him that he thought he had a broken leg.


BARDID: IN-2015-0002
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-04-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Porter
County: Porter
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 launched his 12 foot, green and black, ascend kayak from porter beach into the waters of lake michigan at approximately 2:15pm.  He was accompanied by his 17 year old son operator2 who was in a 12 foot, blue and black ascend kayak they both were wearing properly sized and donned life jackets.  They had paddled north across the wind and waves.  The wind was from the west at approximately 10mph.  
 
After approximately 30 minutes, they estimated that they were 0.5 miles offshore.  At that time, operator1 noticed that his kayak had an amount of water in it above and beyond the norm.  He decided to turn shoreward to head back to shore.  After completing his turn, a wave hit his stern and he felt his lower body from his legs up to his waist now in contact with water.  Shortly thereafter, another wave came over the stern which completely filled his kayak with water and effectively taking it from underneath him.  This action forced him out of the kayak.  He attempted to reboard his kayak by grabbing the combing of the cockpit and pushing down to lift himself atop it.  Operator1 advised that this action proved fruitless, as the pushing action only pushed the kayak further below the surface of the water due to it being swamped.  His kayak then submerged completely out of reach.
 
Operator1 indicated to his son to paddle to shore while he held onto his son's kayak.  Operator2 paddled to shore at which point several bystanders observed the situation and swam out to assist in the final approach to the beach.  These bystanders carried operator1, now limp from hypothermic conditions, to the indiana dunes state park pavilion parking lot where porter fire, porter pd, and local ems personnel ultimately provided medical treatment.  Operator1 was warmed in the ambulance and then transported to porter regional hospital with his son accompanying him.
 
The green kayak that operator1 was onboard was never recovered.  It is believed to be sunk or drifting east suspended somewhere in the water column.
 
Upon follow up at the hospital, operator1 was still undergoing warming procedures.  Operator2 did not suffer any injuries or hypothermia.  Operator1 advised that the bystanders really helped as at the moment they swam out to help, he guessed he had only another 5 minutes of life left in him.  
  
Operator1 advised that they had bought the kayaks about 2 years ago at bass pro.  They both had almost a dozen trips out on them over the last 2 years.  Today was their first trip this year.  They did not have any formal training or instruction.  He feels that there was somehow water entering the kayak abnormally.  He could not advise if it possibly had a crack or if maybe he took on too many waves.  His setup consisted of a sit-in kayak with a wide cockpit opening.  He did not have on any skirting to deflect water from entering the kayak.  Only the raised combing would be deflective of any deck wash.  After discussions, he believed the stern wave action might have caused the final swamping. 
 
On a followup phone call to wife, she advised that operator1 was released from the hospital with no further complications.  She stated that they all had further discussions regarding how the kayak could take on water.  She advised they were concerned that possibly a loose scupper plug located on the stern of the kayak could have allowed water in as well.  They routinely unscrewed them to drain the kayaks while stored upside down, and were not completely confident that they were screwed back in all the way.
 it was estimated that the loss of the kayak and paddle would be approximately $700.00.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0003
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lemon
NearestCityorTown: Unionville
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
State trooper briefed me on what had happened, stating that the victims' boat was swamped because of the wake of another boat and that there were three people in the boat when it occurred, including victim. 
 
I located a passenger in the boat that was swamped. Passenger1 was sitting down in the yard near all the emergency personnel. Passenger1 appeared to be very shaken up and was crying and shaking when i began talking to him. He described to me what had happened. He stated that he, his father in-law (victim), and a neighbor (passenger2) had come to the lake for the first time this year and were going fishing. He stated that they were in passenger2's boat. Passenger1 stated that he tried to talk victim out of going fishing that day because he had been having some health problems, stating that they had to physically help victim even get into the boat. He stated that victim was on oxygen, had copd, and has had a lot of heart issues. 
 
I asked passenger1 to walk me through the incident. He pointed towards the north side of lake lemon and stated that they were moving east bound across the lake, parrallel to the shore. He stated they were approximately 40 yards from the shore when a blue boat that looked like a dredging boat operated past them in the same direction and in between their boat and the shore. Passenger1 stated that the wake created from the blue boat was large enough that once it reached their boat, it poured over the front of the boat where victim was sitting. 
 
Passenger1 was sitting in the middle of the boat and Passenger2 was operating the tiller drive boat from the back seat. He stated that when the wake poured over the front of the boat, it flooded and all three passengers fell off the left side of the boat and into the water. Passenger1 said that all three of them had life jackets and that they were sitting on them as cushions. When they fell into the water, passenger1 said he was able to keep an eye on victim the entire time and that he did not physically go under water. He stated that all three were immediately able to grab their life jackets and hold onto them. Passenger1 said that he noticed victim was having trouble holding onto the life jacket, but was keeping his head above water. Passenger1 began trying to hold victim up, while holding onto the boat at the same time. He stated victim began to say he could not breathe and that he needed his inhaler. Passenger1 was trying to reach victim's inhaler, which he thought was in his front pocket. He stated he was unable to reach it because his feet were stuck in some of the lines from the boat. 
 
Passenger1 stated that victim just stopped talking and his head dropped back. After that he said a boat showed up and grabbed victim out of the water. He stated that after that another boat showed up and helped him and passenger2 out of the water. I asked passenger1 how fast the boat he was on and how fast he thought the dredging boat was going. He stated that the jon boat that he was in was moving at a "very slow idle." he then stated that the dredging boat was not going much faster, but was probably going a "little more than idle." while we were talking i noticed a boat matching the description of the blue boat in question moving across the same portion of the lake where the incident happened. It was now moving west bound. I asked passenger1 if that was the boat and he stated yes. 
 
I noticed the boat to be a crane boat used to work on boat docks, owned by the lake lemon marina on north shore drive. I then spoke to Passenger2. I asked passenger2 to describe what had happened. He pointed at the same area that passenger1 pointed out and stated he was operating the boat as passenger1 described. Passenger2 stated that he thought he was approximately 80 yards from shore when the other boat passed in between his boat and the shore. I asked passenger2 if he could point at something that is about the same distance away from us as their boat was from shore. He p


BARDID: IN-2015-0005
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I, indiana conservation officer (ico), responded to a sinking boat on monroe reservoir on monday, may 18, 2015, at approximately 1506 hours.  Ico dispatch received a call of a sinking boat on lake lemon around 1506 hours from a subject who advised that their boat had capsized but they had made it safe to shore.    At approximately 1528, i was able to make contact with subject who advised that they are in butcher holler on monroe reservoir.  Subject attempted to explain where they were on monroe reservoir.  
 
At approximately 1612 hours, i was able to locate subject and operator on monroe reservoir.  Their location was the first cove past salt creek estates on the crooked creek side of monroe reservoir.  Their boat (in3966dt) was capsized in the water with the stern submerged and the bow out of the water.  Ico and i assisted in gathering subject and operator's items from the water and placed their belongings on our boat.  I made contact with another person who agreed to assist operator with his capsized vessel.  With subject, operator, and their belongings onboard my patrol boat, we made way back to cutright, where i dropped them and their stuff off at their vehicle.
 
Operator was not sure what caused the boat to sink.  Operator's initial idea is that the live well potentially flooded the boat.  Operator stated that they had been on the water for several hours and nothing caused any concern.  Operator explained that they had been sitting still fishing and all of a sudden the boat capsized.
 
Another subject thoughts that the seals on the transom where the cables go through the transom are not completely sealed and were leaking water through the hull.  He advised it is readily apparent that the seals were not water tight.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0006
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Barbee Chain
NearestCityorTown: Warsaw
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On may 22, 2015 at approximately 1830 hours i, indiana conservation officer, was notified by kosciusko county dispatch center of a boat accident with property damage only. 
 
I arrived on scene at and spoke with a male subject, who advised that he was attempting to dock his new boat, a red 2015 bennington pontoon with indiana temporary registration b227494, when he struck another boat, a blue 2003 triton runabout and the shore station it was resting on. Operator1 advised there were no injuries.
 
I then spoke with another male subject, who advised he was the owner of the triton runabout and the shore station. Operator2 advised that the port bow, trolling motor, and the shore station all sustained significant damage and would need to be replaced or repaired.
 
I took several photographs documenting the damage to both watercraft. No citations were issued.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0009
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Prairie Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Muncie
County: Delaware
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR TOWED FOUR PERSONS ON GREAT BIG MABLE TUBE BEHIND HER BOAT. OPERATOR SWUNG PERSONS ON TUBE TO RIGHT ACROSS TWO WAVES POSSIBLY CREATED BY HER OWN BOAT.  TUBE STRUCK WAVES CAUSING SUBJECTS TO BE THROWN FROM TUBE.  TWO PERSONS FELL OFF TUBE.  TWO PERSONS STAYED ON THE TUBE AND COLLIDED WITH EACH OTHER.  Tuber1 BROKE LEFT COLLAR BONE AND WILL REQUIRE SURGERY.  ALL PERSONS ON TUBE WERE WEARING LIFE JACKETS.  NO OTHER PERSONS SUSTAINED INJURIES.  OPERATOR HAD TWO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.  OPERATOR HAD GLASSY EYES BUT NO OTHER SIGNS OF IMPAIRMENT WERE OBSERVED.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0010
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude: i responded to a boat accident on geist reservoir that involved two (2) boats.  One person was seriously injured.   on may 17th, 2015, at approximately 1711 hours, i, indiana conservation officer, was notified by ico central dispatch of boat accident with person injury on geist reservoir.  I responded to the geist reservoir marina and launched the boat.     I arrived at the scene at 1740 hours.  When i got to the area of the accident the victim had been transported to land and was being treated by members of the fishers fire department and indianapolis fire department.   I met with fishers police lieutenant, who had arrived several minutes before i did.  He explained that he had located the boats involved in the accident and told them to drop anchors where he located them.  He further explained that when he arrived at the scene he had found the victim lying on her back on the floor of her boat.     The victim was verbally identified by her husband.  Lt advised that victim had a laceration on her left hand and her head.  He stated that he smelled the odor of alcoholic beverages on victim' breath and that she indicated that she had consumed some alcoholic beverages earlier in the day.  He said that he transported victim to land.  Lt later provided a supplemental report (attachment # 2).     I located victim' husband, identified with an indiana driver's license.  Victim’s husband was able to confirm the information on his wife.   Ico advised that he was arriving at the scene by land and i requested that he go to the hospital with victim.  I asked ico to gather information on victim' condition and injuries, obtain a blood draw from her and interview victim’s husband.  He later told me that she was transported to st. Vincent's hospital.  Ico also provided a supplement.   He later told me that operator2 tested 0.003% bac on his pbt.  I towed vessel # 2, a red and white 1999 sea doo runabout bearing indiana registration # in 5902 du (attachment # 6), to the ramp.   Vessel # 1 had damage to the starboard side.  The captain's chair and the steering wheel were missing and the steering console was severely damaged.  Vessel # 2 had damage to the bow and underside of it.     It appeared that vessel # 2 struck vessel # 1 from behind on the starboard side and passed across vessel # 1 to the forward port side.  A field interview conducted at the boat ramp at the marina with operator2 indicated that he had struck vessel # 1 with the bow of vessel # 2.  He was not sure if vessel # 2 passed over vessel # 1.  He stated that he was travelling south or toward the dam.  He also told me that vessel # 1 was facing in a similar direction.  He was unsure if vessel # 1 was underway or not.  He stated that if it was moving, it was moving at a slow speed.  He also told me that vessel # 1 was in front of him and to his left.  While speaking with operator2 i did not detect any indicators of intoxication.  He told me that he had consumed one (1) beer earlier in the day.     Ico contacted the marion county prosecutor's office and received a search warrant to draw blood from victim at the hospital.  He then faxed a copy of the warrant to ico at the hospital to be executed (attachment # 7).   He told me that operator2 tested 0.000% bac at 2148 hours (attachment # 8).     It appeared that vessel # 2 struck vessel # 1 from behind on the starboard side and passed across vessel # 1 to the forward port side.  A field interview conducted at the boat ramp at the marina with operator2 indicated that he had struck vessel # 1 with the bow of vessel # 2.  He was not sure if vessel # 2 passed over vessel # 1.  He stated that he was travelling south or toward the dam.  He also told me that vessel # 1 was facing in a similar direction.  He was unsure if vessel # 1 was underway or not.  He stated that if it was moving, it was moving at a slow speed.  He also told me that vessel # 1 was in front of him and to his left.  While speaking with operator2 i did not detect an


BARDID: IN-2015-0011
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 24th at approximately 16:43, I received a call of a boating accident on the first basin of Lake James between a PWC (personal watercraft) and a pontoon boat. I was advised the parties involved would be at the Potawatomi Inn boat rental docks. I responded from the Pokagon State Park office and arrived at 16:48.

On my arrival, I found a maroon and white pontoon boat(IN1901BH) involved in the accident docked near the shoreline of the north rental dock. The operator of the PWC(Operator1) was tending to her 12 year old daughter who was experiencing pain to her right upper arm and her right upper leg. I radioed to Steuben County Dispatch to send an ambulance to the location at 16:50 for Victim. 

Victim was crying and stated her right arm and right leg hurt. She said she had no other pain in any other areas. There was no obvious indication of a fracture, and she had a 4' laceration to the back of her right upper arm that was bleeding very little. We kept Victim still and covered her with towels to keep her warm until EMS arrived.

I spoke to the operator of the PWC, Operator1, who stated they had just left the sandbar headed west towards Lone Tree Point. Her daughter Victim, and their small dog were on the PWC. The dog was between Operator1 and Victim as Operator1 operated the PWC. Operator1 stated that she was turned and assisting to secure the dog to insure it did not fall from the vessel. When she looked back in front of the PWC, she saw the pontoon boat in front of her and turned left to avoid a collision with the pontoon boat. She was unable to avoid a collision and the starboard pontoon of the boat struck the starboard side of the PWC midway back the PWC. Operator1 advised she was traveling 20-25 mph prior to the collision. They were thrown from the PWC which capsized, remaining inverted, floating in the water. The operator of the pontoon boat then pulled them onto his boat, called 911 and headed for Pokagon.

I spoke to the operator of the pontoon boat. He stated that he was eastbound at approximately 25 mph about 150 yards off the north shore. He saw a PWC approaching him from the west, traveling west-northwest into the path of his vessel. He stated that he slowed his pontoon and began to turn to the starboard side to avoid the collision. He stated the operator was looking behind her and looked up just before the collision. The PWC turned sharply in front of his pontoon to the port side and his starboard pontoon struck the PWC on the starboard side. He then pulled the occupants of the PWC into his boat, called 911 and headed into the docks at Pokagon State Park.

The pontoon boat(IN1901BH) had damage to the starboard bow. The rail on the corner was damaged and there was blue colored transfer from the collision to that area, consistent to the color on the PWC. There was damage to the starboard pontoon. the front of the pontoon was crushed in approximately 6" and the bracket on the pontoon which fastened the pontoon to the deck was bent out of shape. The operator stated he also lost his prescription eyeglasses into the lake as a result of the collision.

The PWC(IN3506BW) was up righted and towed to the north side of the Potawatomi Inn beach by an unknown boater. The PWC had cracked damage to the blue fiberglass hull below the rub rail just forward of midway on the starboard side. There was no other apparent damage to the PWC. 

Alcoholic beverages were not consumed by either operator, and was not a factor in the accident.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0015
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Michigan City
County: LaPorte
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel was approaching shore near mt. Baldy along the shoreline of lake michigan when it became swamped with water. Five subjects were in the boat and all made it to shore with no injuries. U.s.c.g. responded to the scene along with michigan city fire dept. 
 
Details of investigation:
subject was approaching shore with the boat and attempting to drop subjects off on the beach. As he approached shore he entered shallow water. The boat turned sideways and when he was able to straighten it back out (facing shore) a wave came over the transom of the boat and it began to fill with water. The occupants of the boat began to bail out water, however, other waves just kept filling the boat with additional water. The subjects were all able to exit the boat and wait on shore for a ride to get their vehicle. 
 
Later the operator was able to return to the boat and bail out the water. The boat was now "beached" on shore out of the water facing north. Arrangements were being made to remove the boat from the shore and return it to trail creek marina in michigan city indiana. 
 
Alcohol and drugs were not a factor in this incident. Operator error was a contributing factor. The operator was approaching shore with the transom of the boat facing the waves instead of the bow of the boat. The waves were 2-4 foot and too high for the transom of the boat to keep the water out.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0016
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kankakee River
NearestCityorTown: Schneider
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On friday, june 5, 2015 at approximately 1500 hours, two people launched owner's boat on the kankakee river at the boat ramp along stateline rd. They proceeded up river to the first bayou and the outboard motor stalled. They tried to restart motor but could not. The boat floated down river and struck the stateline bridge parallel with the bow facing north. The kankakee river level was high and the boat was pinned against the stateline bridge. Owner and subject leaned upstream in the boat which caused the boat to take on water. The boat capsized and rolled under the bridge. Subject made it up onto the bridge. Owner went under water but was able to grab onto the bridge and hold on. Subject attempted to pull owner up onto the bridge but was unable to. Owner held onto the bridge and was able to move across the bridge to the shoreline using just his arms while his legs were still in the river. Subject last observed the boat floating upside down across the stateline in illinois. Owner contacted illinois conservation police and advised them of what happened. Neither owner or subject were wearing lifejackets at the time of the accident.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0017
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Noblesville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/6/2015 at approximately 14:35 hours I, ICO, was notified by ICO Dispatch of a boat accident involving multiple boats on Morse Reservoir in the area of the marina "Dock D." I arrived on scene just moments after I received the call. Upon my arrival, I observed a white Cobalt motor boat (IN9224BK) floating in between "C dock" and "D dock" and several people gathered around on the dock. I began to inquire as to if everyone was okay and what had happened. Everyone on the dock told me they were fine and did not require medical attention.
 
Three individuals approached me and told me that they were witnesses to the crash and I provided them with statement forms, which they all agreed to fill out. Witness1 provided a statement that said "saw white Cobalt boat backing out, throttle increased, hit dock, hit Mercury motor on pontoon, turned hard right and launched on top of dock and pontoon boat." Witness2 provided a statement that said "White Cobalt was trying to turn around between 2 docks driver gave the boat too much throttle during the turn and the boat hit a boat on the west side dock and then drove up onto the dock on the east side in between 2 boats causing damage to both boats and the dock." Witness3 provided a statement that said "Walking up the pier toward the marina, saw a white boat accelerate and hit 2 boats that were tied up in there slips, the landed with the nose of the boat on the pier. After telling the driver to turn off the boat, I help get 4 passengers off the boat. Then waited for C.O. to arrive." I collected the statement forms from these individuals and they were free to leave.
 
I identified the operator and owner of the Cobalt. I asked Operator1 what had happened and he told me that it was his fault and the throttle on his boat had stuck. I asked if he had experienced any problems like this before and he told me no. He told me that he was trying to turn to go forward after backing out of a dock space, his boat had struck a Sylvan pontoon's motor (IN2639DV) to his left and then he made a hard right turn. He said the boat still had too much forward momentum, struck another pontoon boat (IN9688DN) and ended up resting on top of the dock to his right. I also found damage to another pontoon (IN7409DT) adjacent to the dock where the Cobalt landed. I asked Operator1 if he had been consuming any alcoholic beverages throughout the day and he told me that he had drank a beer around noon with lunch. I asked him if he would be willing to complete a few tests so that I could check his sobriety level and he said yes. I read the Pre-Test questions from my department issued form. I performed the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test and Operator1 passed this test by not displaying any clues. I offered him a PBT, which he took, and the result was negative for the presence of alcohol. I explained to Operator1 that he needed to fill out a form called "Report of Indiana Operator's Boat Accident" and he did so.
 
Operator1 and I reconvened with the rest of his group and I obtained their information. I took photographs of the scene, unoccupied damaged boats, and the damaged dock. Operator1 and his passengers were free to leave. I made contact with marina staff and notified them of the damage to their dock. The staff told me they would make contact with the owners of the unoccupied boats. I provided the staff with information cards on how to obtain a copy of the crash report once it was completed. 
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0019
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: W fork white river
NearestCityorTown: Yorktown
County: Deleware
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/11/15 at 1409 hrs, the delaware county sheriff's department received a 911 call of an injured person at priest ford bridge.  Once units arrived, they learned that victim was injured while canoeing on the white river.  Victim was transported to ball memorial hospital by salem township ems.
 
At 1500 hrs, i arrived at ball memorial hospital and spoke with operator and victim.  I learned that operator and victim where part of a girl scout group that rented canoes from shelton canoe shuttle inc and canoed down the white river.  
 
Operator stated that she was in the rear of the canoe while victim was in the front.  As they were traveling down the river, they came upon a tree that had fallen and was blocking the river.  The tree had fallen from the right shore and part of the tree had been cut to allow passage.  She stated that there was another tree that had partially fallen from the left bank as well and was overhanging into the water.  As they approached the trees, the passage was narrow and the water speed increased.  Upon reaching the trees, victim was struck in the fore head on the overhanging tree from the left  after striking the tree, the canoe capsized throwing both occupants into the water.  Operator stated that victim appeared to be fine and they were able to re-enter the canoe to continue the trip.  
 
Another leader changed positions with operator and canoed with victim.  As they continued their trip, they came upon more overhanging branches.  As they approached the branches, victim panicked and the canoe capsized throwing victim and the counselor into water where they could not touch the bottom.  One of the other canoers, grabbed victim and began to help her.  Operator then enter the water and took a personal flotation device to victim.  Operator was able to get victim fitted with the pfd and help her to shore.  Once they got to shore, operator sat with victim for about 20 minutes n an attempt to calm her down.  As they were sitting, victim began to calm down.  Operator then noticed that victim's eyes became glazed over, she couldn't answer questions, and she blacked out.  One of the other counselors called 911 and asked them to have someone meet them at the take out to assess victim.  
 
They were able to get victim back into a canoe and continued their trip.  As they came upon priest ford bridge, they observed individuals on the shore and realized that ems would be able to access them from that location.  They decided to stop and called 911 for assistance.  Victim was transported to ball memorial by salem twp ems.  
 
Neither victim nor operator were wearing a pfd until after the canoe capsized the second time.  Operator stated that she does know how to swim.  Operator stated that victim struck the tree at approx 1330 hrs.
Ico arrived at shelton canoe shuttle and spoke to the owner.  Officer obtained the information from the canoe along with the business' insurance information.
 
At 2147 hrs, i spoke with victim's mother via telephone.  She informed me that victim sustained a concussion.
Units at the scene:
Delaware county sheriff's dept.
Yorktown pd
Salem twp ems/fire
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0020
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hamilton Lake
NearestCityorTown: Hamilton
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  victim was being pulled in a tube on hamilton lake by operator in a 1997 harris flotedeck boat, registration oh 0542 cx.  Operator stopped the boat and while victim was attempting to get back in the boat she received a laceration to her lower left leg.  She was transported to cameron hospital by ambulance and received stitches for her injury.    

Details of investigation/incident:  on 06-14-15 at approximately 1:46 pm steuben county communications received a call of a boat accident on hamilton lake.  Communications advised a female was struck by the propeller of the boat and the boat and victim were at 140 ln 150d hamilton lake.
  
I arrived at the scene at approximately 2:20 pm and spoke with hamilton marshall and operator, who advised that he was the driver of the boat.  Operator told me that there were eleven people in the boat and six of them were wearing life jackets.  Operator stated they were tubing in muskrat bay on hamilton lake.  He stated he stopped the boat and put it in neutral to switch tubers.  He stated victim went to get into the boat and the water was choppy.  He then stated she hit her leg on the propeller.  Operator stated he thought the throttle was in neutral but thought the throttle was not working properly because he has put it in neutral before and the propeller was still spinning.  He stated basic first aid and a tourniquet were applied by him and his wife at the scene.  He then drove to the dock at the residence at 140 ln 150d where victim was then transported by squad 5 to cameron hospital.  Operator stated there was no involvement of alcohol and/or drugs.  
 
Other units at the scene were hamilton police department, hamilton fire department, and steuben county ems-squad 5.
 
I then went to cameron hospital.  Victim was treated for an approximate 3" laceration to her lower left leg.  Cpl. deem was there and had already spoken with victim and subject.  Subject1 stated that victim told him that she was at the back of the boat on the port side when she was done tubing.  She then realized the ladder was broken and went to the starboard side to climb in the boat and as she was doing this she felt the cut on her leg as she was going by the motor.  Subject1 stated that subject2, who is victim's former stepmom, told him that there were two people on one tube and when they fell off they got separated.  She told him that she thought operator went around to get the other person as victim was climbing up in the boat.  
 
I asked operator if he was sure the propeller was in motion and if he was sure that it cut victim.  He stated to me that he thought so.  I asked him if the scag could have cut her and he said he did not think so.  Victim only had one laceration on her left leg and straight line scratches before and after the laceration.  This is not consistent with an injury from a propeller that is in motion because there are usually multiple lacerations on the body part due to the propeller spinning.  Operator stated the water was choppy.  In this case, the laceration would be consistent with the boat moving up and down and a piece of metal on the motor or a blade on the propeller making contact with her leg as she swam by and causing the laceration.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0021
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Cicero
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/28/2015 at approximately 15:37 pm, operator was operating a pontoon style vessel. Observer was on board as an observer. Tuber1 and tuber2 were occupants being towed on a tube behind the pontoon. It was calm waters and overcast. Tuber2 and tuber1 were tossed from the tube and resurfaced. They were able to tread water while waiting for the vessel to return to pick them up. Tuber2 and tuber1 were not wearing pfd's on the tube. It was reported that the pontoon return within 15 yards and both tuber1 and tuber2 began to swim toward the tube. 
 
Tuber1 made it to the tube and pulled himself up on it. Tuber2 submerged before making it to the tube. Both observer and tuber1 reentered the water without pfd's attempting to locate tuber2. When i arrived on scene, tuber1 and observer were in the water holding onto orange type 2 pfds and operator was operating the pontoon.  I instructed operator five times to put the throttle into neutral so that tuber1 and observer could board. Tuber1 and observer boarded the pontoon and cicero pd officer took control of the pontoon. 
 
Operator was given sfst's at the ramp. Operator failed hgn and palm pat tests.  Operator's pbt result was .065%.   Operator was taken for a blood draw which was delivered to the indiana state department of toxicology lab for drug and alcohol screening. There were a sufficient number of pfd's and a type 4 pfd on board the pontoon; however, they were not utilized.  
 
Tuber2's body was located in approximately 11 feet of water by noblesville fire department divers.  An autopsy of tuber2's body indicated the cause of death was asphyxia due to drowning.  Bwi charges are being filed with the hamilton county prosecutor's office due to the toxicology report indicating the presence of thc (4.3 ng/ml) accompanied by the presence of ethanol alcohol (0.03 g/%) in operator's blood.  Other charges being filed on operator include possession of marijuana and refusal to submit to a chemical test.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0022
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: White River
NearestCityorTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/17/15, i was contacted in reference to a boat accident that occurred on the white river in broad ripple. 
Details of investigation/incident:
On 5/17/15, at approximately 1353 hrs, i, indiana conservation officer was contacted reference to a boat accident that occurred on the white river in broad ripple.  
I contacted impd officer to get the particulars.  He advised that it was not serious, but one person is going to the hospital with back pains.  He advised he would take a report and forward to me.
 
I received the report and made contact with subjects. The subjects thought they were heading north on the white river in broad ripple, but were actually headed south.  The boat did not see the dam and went over the steps of the low head dam south of the boat ramp at a speed of approximately 20 mph.  The boat was later deemed a total loss by farm bureau, but one passenger, victim was transported to st. Vincent hospital from the scene with complaints of back pain. It was later discovered that victim suffered a fractured pelvic bone.
 
They were able to load the boat back on the trailer at a ramp down river located at the broad ripple arts center.
A hard copy of operator report has been explained.
Attachments:
-impd report
Current disposition:
Report will be forwarded to district 6 for approval.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0023
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saint Joseph River
NearestCityorTown: Osceola
County: Saint Joseph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday, june 28, 2015 at approximately 1645 hours, saint joseph county police received a call of a boat crash at ash rd and the saint joseph river. 1 female was injured. Saint joseph county police responded, documented the scene, and spoke with the witnesses. A female was transported for a sprained arm to saint joseph regional medical center. 
 
A personal watercraft was traveling downstream on the saint joseph river near ash road. A bass boat was traveling in the same direction and attempted to overtake the pwc. The pwc turned suddenly and was struck by the bass boat. victim was thrown from the bass boat and suffered a sprained arm.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0024
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Michigan City
County: LaPorte
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday 6/28/15 i was advised by laporte county sheriffs dept. Of a boat accident that had taken place on lake michigan in the area of the washington park beach in michigan city.  The additional information provided to me was that there were no injuries and the involved parties were standing by at the beach.
 
 upon my arrival i found two personal watercraft with three males standing near them speaking with u.s. coast guard personnel.  As i spoke with the parties involved i discovered the two operators involved in the accident were father and son.  At the time of the accident the father (operator2) was operating the personal watercraft that he owned.  His son (operator1) was operating a personal watercraft owned by a family friend. They explained to me that they are neighbors.
 
 i examined both personal watercrafts and found that the blue yamaha (v1)  had extensive damage to the hull of the vessel with most being in the midship area of the starboard side.  The damage to the vessel was of a crushing nature to the fiberglass.  The yellow seadoo personal watercraft (v2) had only scuff marks to the bow of the vessel and mostly on the rub rail.  When asked both operators and owners advised that neither vessel appeared to be taking on water after the accident and were operational.
 
I found no witnesses to the accident other than the two operators.  So after speaking with both separately to their accounts of the accident the details leading up to and the accident are as follows.  Vessel 1 operated by operator1 was traveling west parallel with the shoreline and in his words pretty fast, with v2 operated by operator2 just behind and keeping pace to the north or starboard side of v1.  V1 then sated that turned to the right or north and began to stop and v2 stated that when he realized v1 had turned in front of him and was stopping he to began to slow down rapidly and turned to the left in an attempt to avoid the collision.  V2 then collided with v1 in a 't' bone fashion and the operator of v2 was thrown from the watercraft into the water.  V1 operator remained on the watercraft throughout the collision. This account of the accident is consistent with both of the operator's individual accounts as well as the damage to both vessels.
 
 by the accounts of the operators when v2 slowed down it limited his steerage by the sheer nature of the jet propelled watercraft whether or not by not slowing down would have avoided the accident is unknown.
 
It should be noted at the time of the accident both operators were wearing u.s. coast guard approved floatation devices.  I found no odor of alcohol and did not observe any characteristics by either operator of either drug or alcohol involvement.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0025
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Freeman
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: White
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 2, 2015 at approximately 1430 hours i, ico, was notified by ico dispatch of a boat accident involving injuries on lake freeman in white county. Upon my arrival white county fire was assisting a female to transport her to the nearest hospital due to her injuries. I then spoke with the driver of the boat for his statement on the accident. Operator stated that he was pulling his grandchildren on a tube. It was stated that as he was driving the boat, he turned around to look at the children. Operator stated he believed he had only looked back for a few seconds when his wife yelled his name and then he ran into a dock throwing him and the two other passengers forward. The dock owner was not home at the time of the accident. No other people were transported to the hospital for injuries.  
 
Ico and i went to iu hospital in monticello to follow up with victim and her injuries. Upon our arrival she had not been seen by the doctor so her injuries had not been determined. I will follow up with her in a few days. Victim stated that as operator was pulling the children on the tube he looked up and away for a few seconds to check on them. Victim had hollered for operator to notify him of the dock as they closed in. She stated once the boat hit the dock she was thrown forward and hit her head on the front door of the pontoon boat. Victim stated she does not remember anything that happened after that.
 
I called operator on tuesday july 7th, 2015 to follow up on victim's injuries. Operator stated she sustained several broken bones and other internal injuries. No other action will be taken at this time.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0026
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Freeman
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: Carroll
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-5-15, while on patrol on lake freeman, officer responded to a boat accident in front of the sportsman restaurant.  The dispatch was one pwc was involved and the victim is still in the water.
 
When we arrived, i jumped off our patrol boat onto the dock.  The victim was now on a pontoon boat that had pulled into a slip at the sportsman restaurant.  The female victim was attempting to stand up and was very disoriented.  I assisted the monticello fire department in carrying the female up the hill to an awaiting ambulance.  The female was transported to a lafayette hospital due to her possible head injury.
 
 
I talked with operator.  He told me that he was driving the pwc at approximately 50-55 mph going southbound on the lake.  He stated that they hit a large wave which caused the passenger, victim, to slam into him and they both went forward.  When they both went forward it caused him to grab the throttle of the pwc which in turn caused them to hit a second large wave.  The second wave caused the pwc to lean to the right throwing victim off the machine.  Operator stated that he heard a loud thud and thought it was victim's head hitting the side of the pwc.  As operator turned around he observed victim floating face down in the water.  He jumped into the water and turned her over so her face would be out of the water.  That is when a pontoon boat came to the scene and they loaded her onto the pontoon.
 
I gathered operator and victim's information from operator.  
 
Later in the day, i talked with operator and he stated that victim has a severe concussion and is going to be kept in the hospital for observation on 7-5-15.  There was no visible damage to the pwc.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0027
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  operator1 was operating his motorboat on lake james when his motor quit running.  He then attempted to start it again and the boat caught on fire.  He was able to get the fire out and then had his boat towed to the corner landing.    

Details of investigation/incident:  on 07-09-15 i received a call from steuben county dispatch advising me of a boat fire.  Dispatch advised the boat was being towed to the corner landing and i was to meet the subject there.
 
When i arrived at the corner landing i spoke with operator1.  Operator1 stated he was the owner of the boat and was also the operator of the boat.  Operator1 stated they were on lake james fishing and he started the boat up to switch fishing locations.  He advised he was operating the boat around lone tree point and the motor quit.  Operator1 stated he tried to restart the boat and it was making a whining noise.  He then noticed smoke coming from the area of the engine and when he opened the engine compartment flames came out.  He then used an empty cooler to get water and put the fire out.  He stated he had a fire extinguisher and tried to use it but could not get it to work.  He tried it at the corner landing and it did work.  Operator1 stated that it was just him and his wife on the boat and neither of them were injured.  The boat was a white 2003 20 ft. Glastron xs205 inboard/outboard motorboat.
 
Operator1 stated he had turned the exhaust fan on before he started the engine.  The two large hoses coming off of the engine were melted.  I took photographs of the boat and the engine.  There was no involvement of alcohol and/or drugs.  Personal flotation devices were on board but not being worn.  Operator1 and wife stated they were insured by farm bureau insurance.  The approximate damage estimated to this vessel is $4000.00.
 
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0029
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shaffer
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: White
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of july 20th, 2015 at around 8:51 p.m. three juvenile males were riding on a personal watercraft (pwc) on lake shafer near the norway dam, in front of the dnr boat lifts on turbine court.   behind operator was subject1 and seated on the back of the pwc was subject2.  Operator and subject2 both advised that they were heading south on lake shafer when they began making a left hand turn (east) as they neared the cable barrier that restricts boat traffic from operating near norway dam.  
 
Operator advised that as he was turning he hit a large wave caused by another vessel.  At that time operator advised that he lost control on the pwc and all three passengers were thrown from the craft and into the water.  Subject2 and operator advised that they were unharmed after the fall.  They were both on the downstream (south) side of the pwc.  Both advised that subject1 was on the upstream side of the pwc and that he was face down and motionless.  Subject2 and operator then swam to subject1 and turned him face up.  They advised that subject1 then started coughing up water.  Subject2 and operator advised that they tried to load subject1 back onto the pwc, but that subject1 was confused and combative so they instead swam him to shore along with the pwc.  Subject2 and operator then dragged subject1 from the water onto the nipsco property right at the dnr boat lifts.
 
Operator advised that he then got back onto the pwc to go get his father and call for help while subject2 stayed with subject1. Operator then made contact with his father operator at their residence.  
 
Subject1 was treated and transported by the monticello fire department to iu white memorial.  Subject1 was treated in the emergency room for a possible concussion.  He had a large hematoma on the right side of his forehead and he sustained a dislocated thumb on his left hand.  Subject1 was treated and released to his parents custody.
 
No charges were filed as a result of this incident.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0030
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-20 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tippecanoe
NearestCityorTown: Leesburg
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
an indiana conservation officer (ico) responded to lake tippecanoe.  Subject advised that on june 28th, 2015 he discovered that his boat had been damaged.  Subject advised that he then began his own investigation and discovered who damaged it.  Subject advised that he had been in contact with v1 and were both working on getting the boat fixed.  Subject advised that v1 admitted that his wife was driving the boat on the evening of june 19th, 2015 and were attempting to turn around in the channel when she mistakenly went forward on the throttle instead of in reverse.  V1 was on the front of their boat and to keep their boat from hitting subject' boat he stuck his foot out which did all the damage.    Subject advised that an estimate from the tippecanoe boat company was $7,000.00 damage.
(july 31st, 2015 at 2016 hours)
 
I spoke with v1 at their residence and their story was consistent with what subject told me in reference to the events on the evening of the incident.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0031
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Gary
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 0600 on june 27, 2015,  the operator of the 21 foot ranger 520vx and passenger left east chicago marina soon after being entered into a fishing tournament.  The team headed east toward the us steel - gary works breakwall to locate fish.  
 
As the team continued to fish, the north winds  increased up 25 kts as well as the waves building 3 to 6ft with an occasional 8 ft, according to the weather report and confirmed by operator.
 
At approximately 0730, the operator placed the bow of his vessel toward the breakwall in attempt to catch fish along the wall.  
 
The waves began to crash over the stern of the vessel and fill the back of the boat with water.  The two bilge pumps began pumping  out the water, according to operator, until they were no longer able to keep up with the amount of water continuing to come over the stern.
 
The motor would not start due to occurring water damage. The trolling motor was not powerful enough to keep them from hitting the break wall.
 
Damage to the side and bow of the vessel was caused by the rocks around the break wall allowing more water in and then to ultimately capsize the vessel.  
 
The passenger was able to jump onto the wall while  the operator (operator) was thrown into the water when the boat capsized.
 
The passenger helped the operator onto the wall where they walked into us steel for help when noticed by workers in the area. 
 
U.s. coast guard responded by land and us steel ems and fire also responded to the area.
Corporal and myself, officer responded soon after to gather facts and photographs of the accident.
 
Alcohol was not a factor in the accident. 
Life jackets were worn by both subjects. 
No injuries were sustained from the accident. 
The vessel was capsized and all of its belongs were submerged and scattered along the breakwall in the water near us steel.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0032
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Lake
NearestCityorTown: Birdseye
County: Orange
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7-4-15 I, ICO were conducting boat patrol on Patoka Lake. At approximately 1650 hours we received information from ICO Dispatch advising of a houseboat that was sinking in the area of the point next to the Beach. Upon arrival, the houseboat was almost completely submerged, and the owner, was on another houseboat that was there. Owner confirmed that everybody was accounted for. 
 
I boarded the other houseboat to make sure there were no injuries and to determine what happened. Owner stated that they had the boat at Patoka Marina to get fuel and that they encountered a small fire from the main power wiring to the motor. The rubber coating of the wiring was melting and smoking. After that they decided to tie Owner's houseboat to the left side of the houseboat and tow it to the area of the beach to watch the fireworks. While on the way across the lake, Owner stated that they noticed that the boat was listing to the side. They thought that it may have been caused by all of the kid's that were on the same side of the boat. All but two people got onto towed boat.
 
Owner stated that a short time later the boat started to list hard to the left side. Towed boat subject boarded Owner's boat to determine the problem. Towed boat subject stated that the pontoons were filling with water and that when he turned the pumps on, they could not keep up with the amount of water coming in. Owner and subject2 gathered all of the cell phones and purses and some of the suitcases that were on board the boat and got onto Towed boat subject's boat. They stated that shortly after that the boat had sunk. Owner stated that from the time the boat started to list hard to the time it had sank was a matter of a couple minutes.
 
When asked what she thought caused the problems, Owner stated that the boat was purchased within the last year. Towed boat subject had repaired the pontoons with fiberglass patches and sold the boat to Owner. there were a lot of large waves caused by the amount of boat traffic and he believes one of the patches may have failed. Owner stated that they had put the boat on the water in the early summer and that they kept it docked at Patoka Marina. She went on to say that they have used the boat 5 or 6 times since it was on the water without any problems. 
 
By the time interviews had concluded, Owner's boat had been pushed by waves to the bank were it settled with most of the boat submerged. I advised Owner that she would have to make arrangements with her insurance company to find a salvage crew that would be able to remove the boat from the water. I gave Owner my name and the phone number to ICO District 7 and further advised that once she had made arrangements to have the boat removed to contact me so that the cause of the accident could be determined. A few weeks later, I heard that the boat had been removed and was destroyed once it was out of the water.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0034
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Fishers
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/14/2015 at approximately 20:42 hours i, ico, was dispatched to geist reservoir on a report of a personal injury boating accident.  Ico dispatch received notification of the accident from fishers police and fire departments.  Ico dispatch told me that a man had been run over by a boat while in the water and was going in and out of consciousness.  I responded to geist marina at approximately 21:17 hours where i met with officers of the fishers police department.  
 
They told me that the victiM had already been transported by ambulance to methodist hospital.  I asked what the extent of victim's injuries were and they told me that he had severe lacerations to his left upper arm.  They also told me that the operator of the boat had gone to the hospital to accompany victim.  I asked if they had performed any field sobriety tests and they told me that they had, adding that operator had passed all tests.  The officers also told me that victim and another passenger on the boat had been drinking.   I asked ico to respond to methodist and make contact with victim and operator.
 
On scene at geist marina i was able to make contact with the other passenger on the boat.  Occupant1 told me that he and victim had gone out on the boat at approximately 18:00 hours and traveled to geist marina to pick up the girls.   Occupant1 told me victim had operated most of the way to the marina and occupant1 had operated for just a short time.  I asked occupant1 if he had been drinking any alcoholic beverages during the events of the evening and he told me yes he had drank one miller lite beer.  I asked occupant1 if he knew this was illegal due to him only being twenty years of age and he told me yes.  I administered a pbt to occupant1 and the result was positive for alcohol in the amount of 0.017 grams per 210 liters of breath.
 
I asked occupant1 to explain to me the events that led up to the accident causing injury to victim.  Occupant1 told me that once the girls had gotten on board the boat at the marina, operator became the sole operator.  He told me that victim had been drinking miller lite and jager liquor on board the boat.  He told me victim began skiing and was wearing a life jacket.  Occupant1 said that victim decided he was going to ski one more time and they would go home for the night.  He said victim began skiing near the olio road bridge and they were headed south.  Occupant1 said victim made it close to the fall creek road bridge before he fell.  Occupant1 told me that he began to try to fix a seat cushion at the bow of the boat where the anchor was stored while operator operated the boat toward victim by turning right in an arc shaped motion.  Occupant1 said that operator stopped short of victim by approximately 30 to 40 feet and victim began swimming to the stern of the boat.  Occupant1 said that the next thing he realized was the girls screaming and as he turned around to face the stern he could see victim from mid-torso up for just a brief moment before victim disappeared into the water.  Occupant1 told me the next thing he knew victim was forced from the rear of the boat to the front of the boat via underneath the boat.  I asked occupant1 to further explain this and he told me it almost seemed like the boat had backed over victim which had caused him to “shoot out in front of the boat.”
 
Occupant1 told me that when he saw victim in the water in front of the boat he immediately recognized that victim was covered in blood.  Occupant1 told me he jumped in the water from the bow of the boat without a life jacket on and swam to victim.  He told me that he swam victim back to the rear of the boat and held him there while operator began applying a towel to the bleeding from victim's arm.  Occupant1 told me that he began yelling and whistling while two others began waving their arms and yelling for help.  Occupant1 told me that a nearby fishing boat came to their aid and helped get victim back on board.  He said the fishing bo


BARDID: IN-2015-0036
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: Michigan City
County: LaPorte
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday, july 26th 2015, i was notified of a boat accident with a minor injury that had occurred at approximately 1200 hours near pier 17 at washington park marina on lake michigan.
 
I arrived on scene and spoke with the boat operator and he told me he was operating a 2003 27 foot sea ray westbound in the marina when he attended to a distraction and left the boat in gear. While he was attending to the distraction, the boat began to drift north, striking an overhanging anchor at the bow of a docked 1989 28 foot sea ray. As the two boats collided, Operator1 attempted to push them apart, causing a minor injury to his hand.
 
The collision caused the anchor mount to bend and mounting screws to shear off. As Operator1’s boat continued westbound, the overhanging anchor broke his windshield, damaged his windshield frame, and broke a bimini top frame.
 
I then spoke to the owner of the docked boat and he told me thought he had around $1,200 in damage to his boat. V1 appeared to have about $2,000 in damage. The evidence at the scene was consistent with operator1s version of events and alcohol is not suspected to be a factor.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0037
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:13:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that they  had launched the boat at garr hill boat ramp and proceeded approximately fifteen minutes north on the lake where two people got on the tube and operator proceeded to pull them.  There was no one else on the boat observing, nor was there a mirror to assisted operator.  Operator stated they fell off the tube and he (operator) went back to retrieve them.  Operator stated he went around them and put the boat in neutral to see how close he was.  Operator stated he then went to turn the ignition off, realized it was in reverse, but it was too late, victim had got struck by the prop.  Operator stated he then called 911 after he got victim into the boat and then proceeded to the fairfield boat marina where ico met them and i went to as well.  After interviewing all the parties involved, i advised operator i would mail him a citation for towing a skier without an observer.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0039
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Mt. Vernon
County: Posey
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Posey dispatch received a call thru white county dispatch that subjects were believed to be on the water around j t myers dam in indiana and needed rescue because their boat was sinking. Phone service was very limited and the calls that were made to and from dispatch centers were lost during conversation with both parties.
 
the victims were standing on a small ledge on the north side of gate 10 near the water's edge. Victims location was 12-15 feet below the where rescuers were in a position to communicate with the victims.   
 
    rescuers located a ring buoy with a rope attached to it. They were able to lift both victims to a safe location. 
 
    the victims were on a bow fishing trip, they had launched their boat downstream of the j t myers dam and were coming around the kentucky side of wabash island to fish the north shoreline of wabash island. 
 
    Operator had powered down the outboard motor, and had moved to the front of the boat to use the trolling motor for their fishing activities. The trolling motor was a wireless remote control model which is operated by a device worn around the neck. Operator stated all the lights on the remote control came on but the motor would not work. Once operator saw his boat was being pulled closer to the down steam side of the dam, he attempted to start the outboard motor to maneuver the boat to a safe location. 
 
    operator stated when he turned the key to start the outboard motor, warning indicators activated, alarms sounded, and the motor would not crank over or start. Operator had occupant put on an inflatable pfd (one that is worn around the waist area, then part is placed over the head for floatation). Operator stated he did not have the chance to put on a pfd because he was attempting to hold the boat to keep it from being pulled under and away by the force of the circulating water currents. 
 
    after a short period of time the boat was taking on water and starting to sink.  Operator told occupant to get to the front of the boat where both victims were able to jump from the boat to a small ledge on the dam structure.
 
    occupant stated he had her cell phone and was able to send and receive some call but a lot of calls were dropped due to the poor cell phone service area. She was able to provide information about their location near gate 10 at the dam.
 
    information was also gathered from both victims so that a boat accident report could be completed. A standard boat operator's report was sent to occupant e-mail for operator to complete and return to me. 
 
    i made contact with united states coast guard in louisville ky and advised them of the situation. I advised that both victims were rescued and safe, that the boat and contents were lost in the hydraulics of the downstream side of the dam, and for boaters to be on the lookout for debris floating downstream from this incident. 
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0040
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I, indiana conservation officer (ico), was dispatched at approximately 1552 hours to fairfax boat ramp in reference to a female that was injured on a boat.  I arrived on scene at approximately 1607 hours along with emergency medical services (ems) personnel.  I spoke with the owner and operator of the vessel, operator. Operator explained that he and his family were out boating in the area of fairfax and came across rough water. 
 
Operator stated that they hit large wave that sent the front of the vessel airborne.  He further stated that his wife, (victim), was seated in the front of the boat and also went airborne. Wife came back down on the boat and injured her right arm and back.  Operator stated that they called ems to check her out because of the injuries she sustained.
 
Perry clear creek fire department and ems transported her to iu bloomington hospital for further treatment.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0041
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Albion
County: Noble
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 6, 2015 the noble co sheriff's dept dispatch received a 911 call of a boat on fire on bear lake. The boat was determined to be unoccuppied and currently sitting stationary tied to a pie. The fire department was dispatched and the fire was quickly extinguished. As a result of the fire the boat sustained significant damage. The owner was not present so the boat was loaded onto a trailer of another resident residing on the lake and removed from the water and parked in the boat owners driveway. The boat owner was eventually contacted by telephone and informed of the situation involving his boat and the current location the boat was trailered and parked.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0042
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Cicero
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was sitting on pwc facing backwards spotting for his sister who was being towed on a tube.  The pwc hit a large wake and he was thrown off the machine.  He sustained a broken left femur.  The accident occurred in open water with no other boat involved.  It appears the victim landed on the back of the pwc and also was entangled in the tow rope.  He was wearing a pfd at the time of the accident.  Alcohol is not suspected to have been a factor in the accident.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0043
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  operator was operating his motorboat on lake james when he was operating around the south side of eli's point and ran over a swimmer in the lake, on the lakeside of the flags marking the shallow area of the point.   The swimmer had cuts to his foot and leg.

The operator said that he never knew he hit someone and had never seen her in the water.  Operator voluntarily took a portable breath test and he tested negative for an alcoholic beverage and the result of the test was 0.000% bac.  
 
Operator stated it was a normal busy sunday and the water was very choppy.  
 
Victim stated she was out swimming for exercise.  She stated she was swimming 10 to 15 feet outside the flags.  She said she was wearing a neon green hat and a two piece swimsuit.  She stated the boat came from a northwest direction.  She stated she seen it and then it was there.  Victim stated she tried to swim back towards the cattails but the boat went over her.  She stated she hit her head and the propeller cut her left foot.  She stated that when the boat went over her she knew her left foot was hurt so she started yelling for help.  She stated a witness swam out to her and grabbed her and then witnesses helped load her onto the rear platform of their boat.  She stated she went to the marina where the ems arrived.  Victim stated the water was a little choppy.  She stated she was not under the influence of any alcohol and/or drugs.  She was not wearing a personal flotation device.  Victim described herself as an intermediate swimmer and stated that she swims in that area often.  She stated when she was swimming towards the cattails the boat went over her at a perpendicular angle.  Victim was being treated for left foot open fractures.  I photographed the hat and part of the swimsuit.


BARDID: IN-2015-0044
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Lake
NearestCityorTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday august 1, 2015 at approximately 18:30 hours i, indiana conservation officer, and ico were contacted by franklin county dispatch in reference to a boat that had capsized on brookville lake just south of kent's harbor. They advised that no individuals were injured and the boat owner was still on the boat. 
 
We got onto our fully marked patrol boat and started toward the capsized boat's direction. While en route we were contacted again by franklin county and advised the boat owner was safely off the boat by another boater. Once on scene, i observed the boat capsized, with the underside now floating above the water. The boat owner was on another boat with other boaters that were safely rescued. 
 
The boat was later identified was a 2000 moomba outback with hin # umem2629b000. 
The other individuals on the boat that had capsized were taken back to bonwell ramp where the truck and trailer was parked. Operator1 stated they were operating their boat northbound, towards kent's harbor to fuel up. They were unable to fuel up due to kent's harbor being closed for the evening, so started southbound towards bonwell ramp. They were operating at a slower speed, when waves came over the side of the boat. Operator1 stated their boat had been sitting low to the water level, and waves started to swamp the boat. The waves entered the engine compartment, causing the engine to flood. Operator1 attempted to re-start the engine but was unable to do so. He stated the waves continued to swamp the boat, until the boat took on too much water and capsized; normal for a boat that swamps. 
 
All passengers, at that point wearing a life jacket, were able to be rescued by other boaters close by. Ico cpl. arrived on scene to offer assistance with recovery of the boat.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0045
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I went to Clear Lake Marina and photographed the damage to the boat.  There was damage to the bow decking rail on the port side, part of the decking rail was broken away.  There was a large crease in the bottom of the port side pontoon that measured 79” from the beginning of the crease to the stern end of the pontoon.  The rear of the pontoon was torn and the welded end cap of the sectioned pontoon was ripped off from the bottom and inside of the pontoon to the top of the pontoon as it was still attached only to the outside portion near the top.  There was fresh propeller damage, and any internal damage to the outboard motor from submersion was not evident until tested by a mechanic at a later time.  The repair staff of Clear Lake Marina preliminarily estimated the damage to total approximately $5000 without considering possible damage to the outboard motor.

    Clear Lake Marina personnel provided a photo electronically sent to them from Dry Dock Marina.  This photo depicts the pontoon boat on the water with the rear of the pontoon boat partially submerged.

Subjects were heading from the second basin of Lake James towards the Potawatomi Inn docks when they rounded a point and struck an underwater wall just off of the point.  They then headed towards the shoreline near Bledsoe's Beach and were towed part of the way by another boat to that location.  I showed her three aerial photos and she indicated that Lone Tree Point was where they had struck the underwater wall.

    I contacted ICO Cpl. who was on boating patrol on Lake James with ICO.  I requested that they check the area where the accident happened.  They later stated that they could see fresh damage to an underwater wall approximately 20-25 feet from the shoreline at Lone Tree Point.  ICO photographed the marks on the underwater wall which were consistent with the wall being struck that day.

I advised her of the findings and cited her for operating within 200 feet the shoreline as it was evident that she was operating over 5 miles per hour approximately 25 feet from the shoreline.  I gave her the court information and my contact information.  

  
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0048
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Webster
NearestCityorTown: North Webster
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude: 
On 9-5-15 I, Indiana Conservation Officer, was called to a boat accident on Lake Webster. By the time I had arrived on scene EMS had already taken the victim. Victim succumbed to his injuries on Monday 9-7-15.

When I arrived on scene Kosciusko County Deputy advised the accident involved two Personal Water Crafts (PWCs) that collided with each other. Deputy took me to where the other driver and PWCs had been brought to shore. 
 
The second driver was identified as Operator2 and he was the owner of both the PWCs. Operator2 advised Operator1 had very little experience on a PWC and today was the first time he had ever operated one. Operator2 said they were driving across the lake almost side by side before the accident happened. 
 
Operator1 was about 50 feet in front and to the left of Operator2. Operator2 advised they were driving about 20-30 MPH when all the sudden he saw Operator1 make a right hand turn into his line of travel. Operator2 said he had very little time to react so he turned to the left and gave it some gas trying to turn sharper. 
 
The bow of Operator2' PWCs struck Operator1 on the right side of his chest and knocked him from the PWC. Operator2 advised it took him a while before being able to flag down a passing boat for help. Some passing boaters loaded Operator1 onto their boat and transported Operator2 and the PWCs to shore near EMS W14 LN. Once on shore they called 911. Operator1 was complaining of chest pain and hip pain. 
 
Operator2 advised they were both wearing their Personal Floatation Devices at the time of the accident. Operator2 also advised no alcohol had been consumed. Operator2 tested .000 on my PBT and the EMS crew stated they didn't smell any alcohol on Operator1's person. I asked Operator2 if anyone saw the accident happened, and he advised if they did, nobody came to help them. The boat he managed to get for help from said they didn't see they accident happen either. I asked some people that were fishing from shore when I arrived if they saw the accident and none of them saw it either. 

I briefly inspected the PWCs to assess their damage while they were on the water. I could see some minor damage done to both PWCs, Operator2' had damage to the right side of the bow and Operator1 had damage on his right gunwale and on the right side of the seat. I advised Operator2 to take the PWCs to the boat ramp and load them on his trailers so I could inspect the damage more thoroughly. Once the PWCs were on the trailers I did not see any other obvious damage done. Operator2' PWC bow made contact with the right side gunwale, towards the beginning of the foot well. The angle and force of the impact lifted the bow of Operator2' PWC sending it across the seat making it possible for it to strike Operator1 in the chest. Operator2' statement of how the accident occurred is supported by the damage done to the PWCs. 

Approximately 2330 hours I received an update that Operator1 had made it out of surgery and was listed as critical. Operator1 had a large amount of internal bleeding but they were able to get it stopped. 

Monday September 7th 
I called the hospital to get a status update on Operator1 and the nurse advised he had a stroke. She advised he had to have surgery again and was still listed as critical.

Approximately 2030 hours I received a call from the Allen County Coroner advising Operator1 had passed away. The coroner asked if I needed to have an autopsy done. I advised him under the circumstances I didn't need to have an autopsy. 

Wednesday September 9th
I went to Operator2 residence to take more photographs of the PWC with better lightning. While at the residence, Operator2 mentioned after playing the incident over and over in his head he remembers it happening a little different than what he told me on the 5th. Operator2 stated like before Operator1 was slightly in front of him and off to the left but he now remember that Operator1 was operating his PWC in tight c


BARDID: IN-2015-0049
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Birdseye
County: Dubois
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/6/15, i, indiana conservation officer was dispatched to the hoosier hills marina in reference to a boat accident. The victim and her son who was the boat operator had been transported to jasper memorial hospital prior to my arrival. They said she possibly had an injury to her collar bone. I spoke to the owner of the pwc identified and he said his daughter was a passenger on the pwc and was acting as the spotter. The victim was being towed on a tube. Subject told me that the tube was bouncing and the victim came off the tube and flipped over forwards one time before striking the water. I then went to the hospital and spoke to the operator who told me he did not see her fall off because he was operating the pwc. I asked him how fast he thought he was going at the time of the accident and he said approximately 25 mph. Victim complained of pain in the area of her left shoulder and neck. All three subjects involved were wearing their pfd's.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0050
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Liberty
County: Union
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On september 6th, 2015 at approximately 1158 hours, this indiana conservation officer received a radio call about a boat accident at kent's harbor marina in union co.  At approximately 1212 hours, st. Clair ems out of union co. Arrived on scene.  At approximately 1226 hours, this ico arrived on scene and the male victim was being loaded into the ambulance and was being transported to mccollough-hyde memorial hospital in oxford.  At approximately 1312 hours st. Clair ems arrived at mccollough-hyde memorial hospital.  

This ico looked and took pictures of all three boats involved.Subject struck two other unattended boats that were being stored on boat lifts at dock f-19 and f-20 at kent's harbor marina.

the starboard side front windshield of v1 was shattered and glass pieces were laying all over the dash and floor of the boat.  I then immediately noticed blood on the dash and the floor of the boat.  I then noticed a large, approximately two foot long puncture through the hull on the starboard side near the stern.

On dock f-19 a 2002 sundeck boat was being stored on boat lift.  The only visible mark on the boat was located on the outdrive on the motor.  It didn't look to be damaged, but it was struck and showed a visible scuff mark that removed algae growth on the outdrive.

On dock f-20 a 2015 malibu wakesetter boat was being stored on a boat lift.  The only visible marks on the boat was located on the stern,starboard corner of the swim platform. It showed a few visible, scratches in the gel coat and also i witnessed a few pieces of glass on the swim platform from v1 windshield.

At approximately 1345 hours, this ico interviewed the injured boat operator.

Operator advised he was operating the boat out of the marina and he advised he had sweat running in his eyes and he went to wipe the sweat away and he heard his wife that was setting in the passenger seat yell.  When he looked up he hit the  outdrive of the unattended boat that was being stored on the boat lift at dock f-19 and then the swim platform of the unattended boat that was being stored on the boat lift at dock f-20.  Operator had his right hand placed on the top of the windshield above the steering wheel.  When operator boat struck the swim platform of the docked boat, it struck operator right hand that was placed on the top of the windshield and shattered the glass in the windshield.  Operator right hand was deeply lacerated between his thumb and forefinger.

No alcohol or drugs was smelled or detected on operator person.

 Operator advised that after he left mccollough-hyde memorial hospital he was transported to good samaritan hospital in cincinnati to the hand specialist.  He advised he had an two hour surgery on his right hand in which they installed pins to his broken thumb and repaired a tendon.  He advised the surgeon advised he will have a 12 week recovery and should be back to normal without any problems.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0051
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wawasee
NearestCityorTown: Syracuse
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
It is believed that operator was intoxicated and operating the motorboat when it struck pier 52.  Evidence suggests the watercraft was cruising at a high rate of speed upon impact with the pier.  There were no injuries and there were no witnesses to the accident.  It is unknown if operator using any personal flotation devices or if any were on board at the time of the accident.  Operator stated that he operated the boat into the middle of the lake and left it in neutral and running.  Operator stated the boat slipped into forward gear and contacted the pier while he slept below deck.  Operator stated the impact with the pier woke him up and he noticed the damaged pier.  Operator stated he left the scene of the accident.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0053
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tippecanoe
NearestCityorTown: Leeseburg
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator2 and v2 occupant were drifting in the 15ft fishing boat at approximately 0200 hours on lake tippecanoe when operator2 heard a boat that was rapidly approaching. When operator2 looked up he could see the hull of the supra plowing through the water heading right for them. He tried to get the attention of the boats operator but was unsuccessful. The supra struck the fishing boat knocking operator2 out of his boat and the propeller struck his leg. The supra's bow come crashing down after impacting the fishing, trapping v2 occupant between the hull of the supra and the deck of the fishing boat. V2 occupant was pushed under water with the boats for about 45 second before the supra backed off the fishing boat. Operator2 called to the supra for help and operator1 and v1 occupant eventually loaded him on board. Once on board operator2 applied a tourniquet to his leg to lessen the bleeding and had v1 occupant call 911. Operator2 and v2 occupant were transported to shore where they were met by ems personnel.  Operator2 was airlifted and v2 occupant was transported by ambulance to parkview hospital in fort wayne. Operator2 remained in the hospital for several days due to surgeries on his leg. V2 occupant was released later that day. 
 
During my investigation i found both boats to have had the required navigation lights illuminated at the time of the accident and no pfds were used during the accident. Operator1 (supra operator) was turned in his captain's seat facing to the left and his passenger was facing to the rear of the boat. I believe the accident was caused due to operator1 not having a proper lookout and having a bac of .15%
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0055
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2015-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityorTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Ventilation
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On august 15th at approximately 17:50 steuben county emergency personnel responded to a boat fire near the pokagon state park main beach on lake james between the second and third basins.  There were no occupants on the boat and the operator had jumped overboard was picked up by a nearby pontoon boat.

    the operator of the boat had just fueled the boat at northwest landing which is located directly west of pokagon's main beach.  Northwest landing staff fueled the boat while the motor was turned off and the engine compartment ventilation blowers were switched on and operating.  Operator paid for the fuel and idled northeast out past the buoys. 

    in the area near the north end of pokagon's main beach, and while still operating at idle speed, operator heard a loud boom and observed that the back storage compartment covers had blown blew open and there were flames coming from that area.   Operator dove off the front of the boat and was picked up by a nearby pontoon.   

    the boat drifted near the swimming area as angola fire department arrived.  Afd waded out and pulled the boat into shore where they first watered and then utilized foam agents to extinguish the fire.  Prior to extinguishing the fire, the boat as fully engulfed from bow to stern.  Bills professional towing was called and removed the boat from the lake, storing it at the shop location on 200w & us20 in angola.

    ico capt. and i inspected the boat at a later time while it was being stored at bills professional towing in angola in order to attempt to find a possible ignition point and fuel source.  The boat had such extensive damage due to the fire that any speculative ignition point was not evident.

    the area burnt and charred near the engine compartment was consistently approximately 18" from the bottom of the hull in the bilge.  There was very little actual charring below this line, and the port side of the stern was more effected by the fire than the starboard side.  It appeared that the entire port side of the watercraft was damaged more extensively by fire than the starboard side.  The fuel cell(tank) was intact and was not found to be compromised by the fire.  The fuel tank was  approximately 65% full of gasoline and it did not appear to have water mixed with the fuel.  The output  fuel lines were intact from the fuel tank and uncompromised until they reached an area close to the engine inside the engine compartment.
 


BARDID: IN-2015-0056
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wawasee
NearestCityorTown: Syracuse
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Officer reported that he observed subject operating the 1989 supra exceeding the regulated idle speed restrictions, in addition to the boat possibly being overloaded due to virtually no freeboard.  

Officer motioned to the boat operator to slow down and in doing so the overloaded boat came to abrupt stop, causing the overloaded boat to take on water over the bow.  The boat operator then attempted to accelerate which forced more water into the boat, throwing one occupant overboard, and completely swamping the boat.  The boat then capsized and sank.  All occupants fell out of the boat and were submersed in the water.


BARDID: IN-2015-1000
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-09-13 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: private pond
NearestCityorTown: Clinton
County: Vermillion
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a 94-year old man passed away after the boat he and his brother were fishing on capsized, which caused both of them to be ejected.  They were not wearing life jackets.  No other information.

http://wthitv.com/2015/09/14/body-of-fisherman-94-pulled-from-vermillion-county-lake/


BARDID: IN-2015-1001
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Joseph River
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While a vessel was anchored, a 3-year old boy fell off the back of the pontoon boat.  He was not wearing a life jacket at the time.  It took authorities 50 minutes to locate the body. The victim was pronounced dead at the hospital.


BARDID: IN-2015-2000
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2015-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Maxinkuckee
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a victim was being towed behind a boat in a tube.  The operator lost sight of the tube when a wave came over the bow and ran over the tuber.  The victim was struck by the propeller.


BARDID: IN-2016-0001
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Adams Lake
NearestCityorTown: Wolcottville
County: LaGrange
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016, AT APPROXIMATELY 6:08 P.M., INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1 AND I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #2, RECEIVED NOTIFICATION FROM DNR CENTRAL DISPATCH OF A PWC ACCIDENT INVOLVING PERSONAL INJURY AT ADAM'S LAKE IN LAGRANGE COUNTY.  INDIANA STATE POLICE TROOPER #1 RESPONDED TO THE ACCIDENT. I COULD HEAR VIA RADIO TRAFFIC THAT TROOPER #1 WAS WAVED DOWN BY A VEHICLE ON HER WAY TO ADAM'S LAKE, WHICH HAPPENED TO BE THE FAMILY WHO WAS TRANSPORTING SUBJECT1 TO PARKVIEW LAGRANGE HOSPITAL. SHE REPORTED THAT SHE WOULD BE FOLLOWING THE FAMILY TO THE HOSPITAL. ANOTHER TROOPER CONTINUED TO ADAM'S LAKE TO MAKE CONTACT WITH ANY WITNESSES AT THE SCENE. THE TROOPER SPOKE WITH OPERATOR1, WHO WAS THE OTHER OPERATOR INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT, AND HAD HIM COMPLETE A VOLUNTARY STATEMENT FORM.

    WHEN OFFICER #1 AND I ARRIVED AT ADAM'S LAKE, I WAS APPROACHED BY OPERATOR1 WHO INFORMED ME THAT HE WAS INVOLVED IN THE PWC ACCIDENT. I ASKED OPERATOR1 TO GIVE ME A FULL ACCOUNT OF THE EVENTS THAT OCCURRED EARLIER THAT EVENING. HE TOLD ME THAT SUBJECT1 AND HE HAD GONE OUT ON THE LAKE AROUND 5 PM FOR A QUICK RIDE SINCE THE WEATHER WAS NICE, AND IT WAS THE FIRST DAY THEY HAD PUT THEIR JET SKIS ON THE LAKE. HE CLAIMED THAT THEY WERE ONLY OUT FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES, AND THAT THE ACCIDENT HAD OCCURRED ON THEIR WAY INTO THE SHORE. ACCORDING TO OPERATOR1, HE WAS HEADING INTO SHORE (SITTING DOWN) AND MADE A SWEEPING TURN TOWARDS HIS DOCK AND BACK OUT INTO THE LAKE, WHILE SUBJECT1 (STANDING UP) HAD CROSSED BEHIND HIM AND MADE A RIGHT HAND LOOPING TURN OUT TOWARDS THE LAKE AND THEN BACK TOWARDS THE SHORE. OPERATOR1 THEN CLAIMED THAT IT WAS AT THIS POINT THAT THE LEFT REAR CORNERS OF BOTH PWC'S HAD MADE CONTACT, THOUGH HE CLAIMED IT WAS NOT A HARD HIT BY ANY MEANS. OPERATOR1 SAID THAT AFTER THEY MADE CONTACT HE CIRCLED BACK AROUND AND NOTICED SUBJECT1 WAS IN THE WATER. HE ASKED IF SUBJECT1 WAS ALRIGHT TO WHICH SUBJECT1 RESPONDED THAT HIS CHEST AND SHOULDER WAS HURTING. OPERATOR1 THEN SAID HE HELPED SUBJECT1 ONTO THE BACK OF HIS PWC AND TOOK HIM AND CARRIED HIM INTO SHORE.

    OPERATOR1 AFFIRMED THAT THEY WERE BOTH WEARING PFD'S AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT, AND THAT HE HAD BEEN OPERATING PWC'S FOR APPROXIMATELY 2 YEARS. HE ALSO CLAIMED THAT HE HAD TAKEN A BOATING COURSE APPROXIMATELY 20 YEARS PRIOR.  OPERATOR1 WAS COOPERATIVE THE ENTIRE TIME I WAS SPEAKING WITH HIM, AND FREELY PROVIDED REGISTRATION, DRIVER'S LICENSE, AND SHOWED ME HIS PWC ALL WITHOUT ME HAVING TO ASK. OPERATOR1 SHOWED REMORSE IN HIS STATEMENTS, AND WAS VISIBLY SHAKEN IN HIS BODY LANGUAGE (NERVOUSNESS WAS READILY APPARENT, AS WAS THE FACT THAT HE KEPT INQUIRING ON THE STATUS OF SUBJECT1). 

    AFTER SPEAKING WITH OPERATOR1, OFFICER #1 AND I LOOKED OVER SUBJECT1'S PWC FOR ANY DAMAGE. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE IMMEDIATELY VISIBLE ON THE PWC. WE DID NOTE THAT THE PWC WAS NOT REGISTERED, AND THE HIN CAME BACK NOT ON FILE. 

   WHILE WE WERE PREPARING TO LEAVE THE RESIDENCE, SUBJECT1'S FAMILY ARRIVED. I SPOKE WITH SUBJECT1'S MOTHER WHO CLAIMED THAT SHE HAD WITNESSED THE ACCIDENT, AND SHOWED ME WHERE SHE WAS SITTING. SHE MENTIONED THAT WHILE WATCHING SUBJECT1 AND OPERATOR1, SHE HAD MENTIONED THAT THEY WERE GOING TO HIT EACH OTHER. SHE TOLD ME THAT SUBJECT1 HAD BEEN COMING INTO SHORE WHEN OPERATOR1 COLLIDED WITH HIM, THROWING SUBJECT1 OFF THE JET SKI AND INTO THE WATER. SUBJECT1'S MOTHER THEN CLAIMED THAT OPERATOR1 RAN OVER SUBJECT1 WHILE HE WAS IN THE WATER, THUS CAUSING THE INJURIES. SUBJECT1'S MOTHER DID VERIFY THAT BOTH INDIVIDUALS WERE WEARING A LIFE JACKET, AND SUBJECT1 HAD BEEN OPERATING JET SKIS FOR APPROXIMATELY 4 YEARS.  SUBJECT1'S MOTHER TOLD ME THAT SUBJECT1 WAS CURRENTLY BEING TRANSPORTED TO PARKVIEW REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER DUE TO A PUNCTURED LUNG.

   OFFICER #1 AND I LEFT THE RESIDENCE AND PROCEEDED TO PARKVIEW REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER IN FORT WAYNE. I ARRIVED AT THE SAME TIME AS THE FAMILY, AND SPOKE WITH SUBJECT1 WHILE HIS FAMILY WAS PRESENT. SUBJECT1 CLAIMED THAT HE WAS HEADED TOWARDS THE SHORE AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND OPERATOR1 DROVE A CIRCLE AROUND HIM GOING 30-35 MPH, AND ON THE SECOND LAP AROUND COLLIDED WITH HIM. HE SAID THAT HE WAS SEATED ON THE JET SKI AND OPERATOR1'S PWC CAME UP OVER THE TOP OF HIS, KNOCKING HIM OFF AND INTO THE WATER. IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT SUBJECT1'S MOTHER WAS CONSTANTLY CORRECTING SUBJECT1'S RECOUNTING OF EVENTS. SUBJECT1 REAFFIRMED THAT BOTH INDIVIDUALS WERE WEARING LIFE JACKETS, AND THAT HE HAD BEEN OPERATING PWC'S FOR 4-5 YEARS. SUBJECT1 ALSO STATED THAT HE HAD NEVER RECEIVED ANY FORMAL INSTRUCTION ON THE OPERATION OF PWC'S. I INFORMED SUBJECT1 THAT I WOULD TYPICALLY ISSUE A CITATION FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER THE PWC, HOWEVER DUE TO HIS BAD LUCK OF BEING INJURED I WAS GOING TO CUT HIM A BREAK AND SEND HIM A WARNING IN THE MAIL. 

    SINCE THE THREE STORIES WERE ALL DIFFERENT, I DECIDED TO REASSESS THE DAMAGE TO THE PWC'S THE NEXT MORNING WITH OFFICER PRICE. WE WENT TO THE RESIDENCE AND LOOKED OVER OPERATOR1'S PWC FOR DAMAGE. WE FOUND A COUPLE OF SCRAPES ON THE VERY BOTTOM AT THE LEFT REAR CORNER (PICTURED).  WE THEN LOOKED AT SUBJECT1'S PWC AND LOCATED A FRESH SCRATCH TO THE CLEAR COAT AND SOME FRESH RUB MARKS, BOTH ON THE RIGHT REAR CORNER (PICTURED).

    GIVEN THE DOCUMENTED DAMAGE, I DECIDED TO RE-INTERVIEW SUBJECT1 AT THE HOSPITAL. HE RESTATED THE SAME STORY HE HAD TOLD ME THE NIGHT BEFORE. WHEN I INFORMED HIM THAT THE DAMAGE WAS CONFLICTING WITH HIS STORY, HE CHANGED HIS STORY AND SAID THAT OPERATOR1 WAS NOT DOING CIRCLES AROUND HIM, BUT WAS COMING TOWARDS HIM AND TURNED AT THE LAST MINUTE AS IF HE WAS TRYING TO SPRAY HIM. HE ALSO REAFFIRMED THAT HE WAS SEATED ON THE JET SKI. HIS MOTHER STARTED TO GIVE ANOTHER STORY ABOUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED, BUT WHEN QUESTIONED IF SHE PHYSICALLY SAW THE CRASH TAKE PLACE SHE CHANGED HER STORY AND ADMITTED SHE HAD NOT. SHE DID CLAIM SHE HEARD THE ACCIDENT THOUGH.

    SINCE I HAD RECEIVED ANOTHER STORY FROM SUBJECT1 THAN WHAT I WAS PREVIOUSLY TOLD, I LOOKED AT THE EVIDENCE FROM THE DAMAGE TO THE PWC'S AND WEIGHED THE PROBABILITY OF THE STORIES. ALL THE EVIDENCE SUPPORTED OPERATOR1'S ACCOUNT OF THE EVENTS, ALTHOUGH THERE WERE A FEW UNANSWERED QUESTIONS THAT I HAD LEFT FOR HIM.

    I MET WITH OPERATOR1 AT HIS RESIDENCE, AND ONCE AGAIN ASKED HIM TO RECOUNT THE EVENTS THAT TOOK PLACE THE DAY BEFORE. HE GAVE ME THE SAME STORY BUT WENT INTO MORE DETAIL THIS TIME, STATING THAT SUBJECT1 WAS STANDING ON THE BACK OF HIS JET SKI IN POPULAR FASHION TO JUMP WAKES. HE STATED THAT SUBJECT1 HAD A SMALLER PWC WHICH WAS EASIER TO JUMP ON, AND HIS WAS LARGER WHICH MADE DECENT WAKES BEHIND IT. AS THEY WERE COMING ACROSS THE LAKE SUBJECT1 WAS JUMPING WAKES BEHIND HIM. AS THE APPROACHED THE SHORE OPERATOR1 TURNED BACK TOWARDS THE LAKE AS HE HAD CLAIMED THE NIGHT BEFORE. WHILE MAKING THE TURN HE WAS COMING VERY CLOSE TO SUBJECT1, SO HE TURNED AND THROTTLED TO GET OUT OF THE WAY FASTER. WHEN HE DID THIS THE PWC ROLLED TO THE SIDE, AND OPERATOR1'S PWC HIT SUBJECT1 IN THE UPPER SIDE OF HIS BODY, AND SCRAPED ACROSS HIS ARM AND BACK. SINCE SUBJECT1 WAS STANDING UP ON HIS PWC, THE REAR WOULD SIT LOWER IN THE WATER THUS MAKING THE INJURY POSSIBLE. 

    AFTER HEARING STORIES FROM BOTH INDIVIDUALS, I HAVE DECIDED THAT OPERATOR1'S STORY IS THE MOST ACCURATE TELLING OF EVENTS, SINCE IT WAS CORROBORATED BY THE EVIDENCE AND DID NOT CHANGE.


BARDID: IN-2016-0002
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-02-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Newburgh
County: Warrick
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Overloading
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
ON FEBRUARY 20, 2016 AT 1451 HOURS I HEARD WARRICK COUNTY DISPATCH, DISPATCH A DEPUTY TO THE NEWBURGH DAM AREA.  THEY HAD A CALL IN FROM A SUBJECT WALKING IN THE AREA BETWEEN THE NEWBURGH OVERLOOK AND THE NEWBURGH BOAT RAMP.  THE CALLER ADVISED THEY HAD OBSERVED TWO SUBJECTS CLINGING TO A LOG AND HOLLERING FOR HELP IN THE OHIO RIVER JUST DOWNSTREAM OF THE NEWBURGH DAM.

OFFICER#1 AND MYSELF RESPONDED TO NEWBURGH BOAT RAMP.  UPON ARRIVING BOTH VICTIMS HAD BEEN RESCUED AND HAD BEEN TRANSPORTED TO DEACONESS GATEWAY HOSPITAL IN NEWBURGH BY MEDIC 6 UNIT.

I INTERVIEWED BOTH VICTIMS (SUBJECT#1, SUBJECT#2) AT DEACONESS GATEWAY EMERGENCY ROOM.  BOTH SUBJECTS WERE BEING TREATED FOR HYPOTHERMIA.  SUBJECT#2 SEEMED TO BE DOING FINE IN THE EMERGENCY ROOM AND WAS ABLE TO GIVE ME A VERBAL STATEMENT.  SUBJECT#1'S BODY TEMPERATURE WAS AT 90 DEGREES AND WAS ONLY ABLE TO TALK FOR A SHORT TIME.  SUBJECT#2 ADVISED THAT SUBJECT#1 AND HIM HAD BEEN FISHING OUT OF A 16 FOOT FLAT BOTTOM BOAT WITH A 9.9 EVENRUDE MOTOR ON THE BACK OF IT.  THEY HAD ANCHORED APPROXIMATELY 25 TO 30 YARDS OFF THE LONG WALL THAT EXTENDED DOWN STREAM OF THE NEWBURGH DAM.  ALSO APPROXIMATELY 40 YARDS UPSTREAM OF THE END OF THE LONG WALL. SUBJECT#1 ADVISED THAT THEY HAD ANCHORED OFF THE BOW OF THE BOAT.  WHEN THEY ATTEMPTED TO LIFT THE ANCHOR, THAT IT HAD GOTTEN STUCK ON THE BOTTOM OF THE RIVER.  HE ADVISED HE CONTINUED TO PULL ON THE ROPE AND IT PULLED THE FRONT OF THE BOAT DOWN INTO THE WATER INTO THE CURRENT.  IT TOOK ON WATER VERY QUICKLY AND SWAMPED THE BOAT TOSSING SUBJECT#2 AND SUBJECT#1 INTO THE RIVER.  SUBJECT#2 ADVISED HE WAS WEARING A WET SUIT AND A LIFE JACKET.  HE ADVISED HIS BROTHER SUBJECT#1 DID NOT HAVE EITHER ON.  SUBJECT#1 ATTEMPTED TO SWIM TO THE LADDER AT THE DOWNSTREAM END OF NEWBURGH DAMS LONG WALL.  BUT THE CURRENT SWEPT HIM PAST THE LADDER DOWNSTREAM.  SUBJECT#2 CAUGHT UP WITH HIM IN THE WATER AND GAVE HIM A LIFEJACKET TO PUT ON.  AT THAT TIME SUBJECT#1 WAS SO COLD HE WAS NOT ABLE TO PUT THE LIFE JACKET ALL THE WAY ON.  HE INSTEAD HUNG ONTO THE LIFEJACKET WITH ONE HAND AND GRABBED A FLOATING LOG WITH THE OTHER.  THEY ADVISED THEY FLOATED DOWNSTREAM THAT WAY FOR APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES UNTIL THEY WERE RESCUED BY SUBJECTS ON A TOW BOAT.  THEY HAD NO IDEA WHO HAD RESCUED THEM.  SUBJECT#2 ADVISED THAT NEWBURGH FIRE DEPARTMENT BOAT THEN ARRIVED AND TRANSPORTED THEM TO THE AMBULANCE AT NEWBURGH RAMP. 

I INTERVIEWED SUBJECT#1 THE NEXT DAY BY TELEPHONE.  SUBJECT#1 ADVISED ME THE SAME STORY AS HIS BROTHER EXCEPT THAT WHEN THEY WERE TRYING TO GET THE STUCK ANCHOR UP OFF THE BOTTOM OF THE RIVER, THAT HE HAD MOTORED FORWARD TO TRY TO BREAK IT LOOSE.  THAT WAS WHEN THE BOW HAD WENT DOWN INTO THE CURRENT AND SWAMPED THE BOAT.

OFFICERS#2 AND #1 RETRIEVED THE BOAT/MOTOR FROM THE OHIO RIVER ON THE SAME DAY AS THE ACCIDENT.  THE BOAT WAS A 12' SEARS JON BOAT WITH A 9.9 EVENRUDE ON IT INSTEAD OF A 16' JON BOAT. THERE WAS NO VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE BOAT OR MOTOR.  THE BOAT WAS TOWED BY HAMRICKS TOWING TO THEIR YARD.  

ON FEBRUARY 23, 2016 I INTERVIEWED (BY TELEPHONE) GOOD SAMARITAN#1 A PILOT OF THE ARTHUR J. CARSON TOW BOAT. THE TOW IS OWNED BY INGRAM BARGE COMPANY.   GOOD SAMARITAN#1 ADVISED ME THAT HIS TOW WAS JUST DOWNSTREAM OF THE NEWBURGH LOCK AND DAM ON THE DAY OF THE ACCIDENT.  HE ADVISED THAT NEWBURGH DAM PERSONAL HAD RADIOED HIM THAT TWO PEOPLE WERE IN THE WATER NEEDING HELP.  HE ADVISED THAT HE SENT TWO OF HIS WORKERS OUT WITH A SKIFF (BOAT) AND THEY RESCUED BOTH SUBJECTS OUT OF THE WATER.  HE ADVISED THAT HIS WORKERS WRAPPED BOTH SUBJECTS IN BLANKETS TOOK THEM TO THE VIVIAN B TOW BOAT THAT WAS NEAR BY.   NEWBURGH FIRE DEPARTMENT BOAT THEN RELAYED THEM TO NEWBURGH RAMP TO THE AMBULANCE.


BARDID: IN-2016-0003
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-02-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:32:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Turtle Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Merom
County: Sullivan
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator #2 advised he and his passengers were fishing on turtle creek reservoir on february 28, 2016. Operator2 advised the water was calm in the cove they were fishing and they decided to head back to the boat ramp. When they entered the main body of the lake he advised the waves were extremely dangerous and eventually his vessel began taking on water. He stated a second wave hit their boat causing it to capsize throwing all occupants from the vessel. Operator2 advised himself and two of his passengers were able to reboard the capsized vessel and the fourth passenger was unable to be located.         

Operator #1 and his passenger observed Operator2 and his passengers sitting on top of their vessel waving for help. He advised he approached the capsized boat and began extracting the victims from the water. During the rescue Operator1's vessel struck the top of the capsized boat several times due to the waves. Operator1 and his passenger were able to remove three of the victims the fourth was still missing. He advised they went straight for a sheltered bank to avoid capsizing and encountered very shallow water conditions causing the boat and outboard to strike the bottom until they were able to reach the bank. 

    the fourth passenger of the vessel was recovered from the lake three days later. The capsized vessel occupants were not wearing life jackets with the exception of the twelve year old boy. The victim to drowning was a non-swimmer not wearing a lifejacket. Alcohol or drugs are not believed to be a contributing factor.


BARDID: IN-2016-0004
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:45:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityorTown: Clarksville
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause3: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Two people were anchored preparing to fish. Subject shifted his weight and the boat rolled over capsizing and displacing subject2 and subject into the water. Subject2 and subject were wearing p.f.d.s. and subject2 was able to swim to the bank of the river. Subject was located floating face down floating down river. Subject was pronounced deceased at the scene by clark county coroners office, and subject2 was transported to clark memorial hospital for mild hypothermia and then released.  THe boat had been anchored by the stern.


BARDID: IN-2016-0005
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/24/16 at approximately 2143 hours, this ico received a phone call from ico central dispatch advising of a capsized boat on brookville reservoir.  They advised the boat capsized in wolf creek and doesn't know if there are any victims in the water.

At approximately 2230 hours, icos arrived in wolf creek on brookville reservoir.  Upon searching the wolf creek cove we observed what we believed were submerged lights under the water near the southwest shore.  We maneuvered the two patrol boats toward the lights and observed a submerged boat.  We searched the area for victims and was unable to locate anyone.  We ran the boat registration number ky8753gg through ico central dispatch.  We received a telephone number and called the residence with no answer.  We then contacted the police dept. And had a police officer stop by the residence to attempt to make contact.  The police dept. Made contact with subject’s wife and she advised subject should be staying at a camper in a private campground.

At approximately 0100 hours, this icos made contact with subject at the spring lake private campground.  Subject was uninjured and advised he had been out fishing for several hours on brookville reservoir and was leaving the wolf creek area with his boat lights on to return to his vehicle that was parked at garr hill boat ramp.  

He advised he was idling east out of the wolf creek at approximately 30 minutes before dark, roughly following the south shoreline of the cove approximately 100 yards from the main channel when he ran up on a submerged tree stump.  He stated that when he reversed the boat to get of the stump, he heard a "pop" and the boat completely filled up with water and quickly sank.  Subject advised he grabbed his pfd and swam a short distance to shore.  He stated when he arrived at the shore he yelled to a nearby boater for help.  He advised the boater rescued him and gave him a ride back to the garr hill boat tramp to retrieve his vehicle and boat trailer.

Subject advised he didn't report the accident due to the fact he didn't think anyone would find his boat in the dark and didn't want anyone to worry.  I advised subject that the swamped boat still had the lights working under the water and was observed by a night time boater.   I also advised him that several officers have been looking for him since the accident wasn't reported and we didn't know the status of his condition. 

Subject advised the boat will be removed by salvage specialist.


BARDID: IN-2016-0006
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-04-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
I investigated a boat crash involving two rental pwc's.  Neither operator was injured.

Details of investigation/incident:

I, indiana conservation officer cpl. was notified by dispatch on april 26, 2016 of a pwc crash on monroe reservoir.  Dispatched advised neither operator was injured and both pwc's and operators would be standing by at lake monroe boat rental.

When i arrived at the boat rental i was advised by supervisor for the rental, that two males, identified as operator1 and operator2 had rented two pwc's for two hours that afternoon.  He advised they brought the two pwc's back to the rental and told him that they had crashed.  I observed significant damage to both pwc's.  

I first spoke with operator1.  He advised both of them were traveling southbound on the lake, approaching the narrows.  He said he was operating right behind operator2.  He said he was close enough to feel the spray coming from operator2's pwc.  He said as they approached the narrows, he looked up and saw that operator2 had stopped his pwc.  Operator1 said he let off the throttle, attempted to maneuver the pwc to avoid collision, but was unable to do so.  Operator1's pwc struck the port side of operator2's pwc.  Operator1 said operator2 had managed to jump off his pwc before he struck it.

I then spoke with operator2.  His version of the events was just as operator1's.  He said he was in front, and was unsure how far back operator1 was.  Operator2 said he stopped his pwc to turn around and find operator1.  He stated as soon as he turned around he saw operator1 was going to collide with him and he jumped off the starboard side of the pwc.

I examined both pwc's.  The one operator1 was operating had damage to the starboard rub rail and hull.  The pwc operator2 was operating had damage to port side seat, rub rail, handlebar, rearview mirror and cowling.  Photographs were taken of both pwc's.

Both operators were given a indiana's operator's boat crash report to complete.


BARDID: IN-2016-0007
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake & Forest Club
NearestCityorTown: Greenwood
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
RECONSTRUCTION OF BOAT COLLISION WITH DOCK

LAKE AND FOREST CLUB LAKE

MAY 13, 2016

BOAT INVOLVED:  2005 HONDA AQUATRAX R-12X PWC

CASE NUMBER:  xxxxxxxx

INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER (ICO) #1

THIS RECONSTRUCTION IS OF A SINGLE BOAT COLLISION WITH A DOCK THAT OCCURRED DURING THE EVENING OF FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2016 ON THE LAKE AND FOREST CLUB LAKE.  THIS IS A PRIVATE LAKE LOCATED IN BROWNSTOWN, INDIANA.  A 10 FOOT HONDA AQUATRAX R-12X PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (PWC) COLLIDED WITH A DOCK ON THE SOUTH SHORELINE CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY TO TWO SUBJECTS AND PROPERTY DAMAGE TO THE PWC AND DOCK.  THERE WERE TWO OCCUPANTS ON THE PWC, BOTH OF WHICH WERE EJECTED.  THE MALE OPERATOR OF THE PWC SUSTAINED A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY ALONG WITH FACIAL FRACTURES, A BROKEN HIP AND ARM, AS WELL AS FRACTURED VERTEBRAE.  THE FEMALE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A FRACTURED PELVIS AND SEVERE LACERATIONS.  

THE COLLISION OCCURRED AT APPROXIMATELY 20:00 HOURS.  ICO #2 AND I WERE CONTACTED SHORTLY AFTER THE COLLISION BY ICO #3 AND ASKED TO COME TO THE SCENE.  BOTH ICO #2 AND I ARE BASIC BOAT ACCIDENT INVESTIGATORS FOR OUR DEPARTMENT.  ICO #2 ARRIVED ON SCENE AT APPROXIMATELY 22:14 HOURS AND I ARRIVED AT 22:36 HOURS.  BOTH OCCUPANTS OF THE PWC HAD ALREADY BEEN TRANSPORTED TO HOSPITALS AND WITNESS STATEMENTS HAD BEEN TAKEN BY ICO #4 AND ICO #5.  ICO #4 HAD SECURED THE SCENE UNTIL ICO #2  AND I ARRIVED.  

WE OBSERVED THE PWC, A 2005 HONDA AQUATRAX R-12, SITTING UPRIGHT AND HAD BEEN PULLED ONTO SHORE.  THE MAJORITY OF THE PWC WAS OUT OF THE WATER.  THERE WAS VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE STARBOARD SIDE OF THE PWC AND TO THE HULL.  WE DETERMINED THAT DUE TO THE MAJORITY OF THE VESSEL BEING OUT OF THE WATER AND THE LACK OF PRESENT RESOURCES, WE COULD TAKE APPROPRIATE PHOTOGRAPHS AND MEASUREMENTS OF THE VESSEL WHERE IT CURRENTLY SAT.  

WE ALSO OBSERVED THE DOCK THAT THE PWC COLLIDED WITH.  MEASUREMENTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS WERE TAKEN OF THE DOCK.

TO ASSESS THE DAMAGE, THE VESSEL WAS SPLIT INTO FOUR QUADRANTS, WITH EACH PIECE OF DAMAGE ASSIGNED A QUADRANT LETTER AND NUMBER.  AFTER EACH PIECE OF DAMAGE WAS IDENTIFIED, NUMBERED, AND MARKED, IT WAS THEN PHOTOGRAPHED.  THE DAMAGE WAS THEN MEASURED USING THE BASE LINE OFFSET MEASURING TECHNIQUE TAUGHT BY THE NATIONAL BOATING ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION AND ANALYSIS COURSE.  THIS MEASURING TECHNIQUE UTILIZES THREE REFERENCE POINTS – XRP, YRL, AND ZRP, IN ORDER TO GET ACCURATE MEASUREMENTS.  SKETCH 1 IDENTIFIES HOW THESE MEASUREMENTS ARE TAKEN.  DOCUMENT 1 PROVIDES A LIST OF MEASUREMENTS OF THE DAMAGE OBSERVED ON THE PWC.  THE DAMAGE WAS THEN SKETCHED (SKETCHES 2-4).  THEY ARE DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

SKETCH 2 – TOP VIEW OF PWC

SKETCH 3 – BOTTOM VIEW OF PWC

SKETCH 4 – STARBOARD VIEW OF PWC

THE DOCK WAS ALSO SKETCHED (SKETCH 5).

DISCUSSION OF DAMAGE:

ALL RELEVANT DAMAGE TO THE VESSEL WAS FOUND AT THE STEERING AREA AND STARBOARD SIDE.  THE MAJORITY OF DAMAGE WAS LOCATED ON THE HULL.  

STEERING AREA:  THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE BLACK PLASTIC NEXT TO THE SPEEDOMETER ON THE STARBOARD SIDE.  THERE WAS A SMALL STORAGE COMPARTMENT THAT IS BETWEEN THE HANDLE BARS AND FRONT OF THE SEAT.  THE LID HAD BEEN BROKEN OFF OF THE COMPARTMENT.  WE WERE UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BLACK PLASTIC LID.

STARBOARD RUB RAIL:  ON THE STARBOARD SIDE, TOWARDS THE STERN-SIDE OF THE HALFWAY POINT, THERE WAS COMPRESSION DAMAGE THAT HAD CAUSED CHIPPING AND SPIDER-WEBBING IN THE FIBERGLASS GEL COAT.  

STARBOARD HULL:  THE MAJORITY OF THE DAMAGE WAS LOCATED HERE.  THERE WERE SEVERAL GOUGES/SCRATCHES IN THE GEL COAT ALONG THE HARD LINES OF THE HULL AT THE BOW.  THERE WERE SEVERAL MORE GOUGES/CHIPPING OF THE GEL COAT DOWN THE STARBOARD HULL TOWARDS THE STERN. THERE WAS COMPRESSION DAMAGE AND STRIATIONS JUST BELOW THE BOW EYE THAT PROCEEDED DOWN THE HULL.  THERE WAS A LARGE AREA OF SCUFFING TOWARDS THE BOW THAT PROCEEDED DOWN THE STARBOARD SIDE TOWARDS THE STERN.  ALL OF THE LINES IN THE STRIATIONS AND SCUFFING INDICATED THERE WAS NOT MUCH CHANGE IN DIRECTION.

DOCK:  ON THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE DOCK, THE PLASTIC EDGING AT THE CORNER HAD BEEN PARTIALLY TORN OFF OF THE DOCK.  THE UPPER METAL EDGING WAS WAVY AND MISSING PAINT BETWEEN THE LADDER AND CORNER.  THE NORTHERN LADDER POST WAS BENT SLIGHTLY INWARDS.  IT APPEARED THE UPPER EDGE OF THE NORTHERN HAND RAIL HAD BEEN PUSHED OUTWARDS, EXPOSING WHERE THE SET SCREW HAD ONCE BEEN.  THERE WAS A SMALL AMOUNT OF BLOOD STILL PRESENT ON THE NORTHERN HAND RAIL, AS WELL AS SCREWS ON THE UPPER EDGE OF THE DOCK BETWEEN THE LADDER AND CORNER.  WE WERE ADVISED THAT THE DOCK HAD ALREADY BEEN WASHED CLEAN BY THE OWNER BEFORE WE ARRIVED DUE TO THE LARGE AMOUNT OF BLOOD.  IT APPEARED THAT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE DOCK WAS SITTING LOWER IN THE WATER THAN THE OTHER FOUR CORNERS OF THE DOCK.

RECONSTRUCTION ANALYSIS:

THE PWC WAS TRAVELING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED IN AN EAST, NORTHEAST DIRECTION.  ACCORDING TO WITNESS STATEMENTS, THE OPERATOR OF THE PWC LET OFF OF THE THROTTLE JUST BEFORE THE COLLISION WITH THE DOCK.  THIS WOULD PROVIDE THE PWC WITH NO STEERING - AS IT IS JET POWERED AND WOULD NEED PROPULSION TO POWER THROUGH A TURN.  IT IS LIKELY THAT THE OPERATOR ATTEMPTED TO STEER AWAY FROM THE DOCK, BUT WITHOUT THROTTLING, A QUICK MANEUVER WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE.  PHYSICAL EVIDENCE ON BOTH THE PWC AND DOCK INDICATE THAT VESSEL STRUCK THE DOCK JUST BELOW THE BOW EYE, SLIGHTLY ON THE STARBOARD SIDE AND THEN TRAVELED UP AND OVER THE CORNER OF THE DOCK.  AT SOME POINT IN THE COLLISION THE PWC ALSO MADE CONTACT WITH THE METAL LADDER NEAR THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE DOCK.  BOTH SUBJECTS WERE EJECTED AND SERIOUSLY INJURED AS A RESULT OF THE COLLISION.


BARDID: IN-2016-0010
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cedar Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday may 29, 2016, the operator was floating near the north end of cedar lake when was hit by a unknown operator on a personal watercraft (pwc).  

Initally, he thought the contact to his vessel was made from his son, who was on a personal watercraft, operating near him at the time of the accident.  

Within a few minutes it was determined that his son did not strike the vessel and the operator of the other pwc had left the area - hit and run.  

The son of the operator, was unable to locate the pwc that was involved in the accident


BARDID: IN-2016-0011
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Monroe
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
DRIVER 1 WAS OPERATING VESSEL-1 IN THE AREA OF MONROE DAM.  VICTIM 1 WAS SEATED IN A SEAT ON THE BOW OF VESSEL-1, D-1 HIT A WAVE CAUSING VICTIM 1 TO CAME OFF HER SEAT AND COME BACK DOWN HARD ON HER BOTTOM, HURTING HER BACK.  SHE WAS TRANSPORTED BY D-1 TO PAYNETOWN BOAT RAMP AND WAS THEN TRANSPORTED TO BLOOMINGTON HOSPITAL BY IU HEALTH AMBULANCE SERVICE WITH BACK PAIN.


BARDID: IN-2016-0012
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Waveland
NearestCityorTown: Waveland
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I, CONSERVATION OFFICER #1, WAS PATROLLING LAKE WAVELAND WHEN THERE WAS AN INCIDENT INVOLVING A PERSON FALLING FROM A BOAT NEAR THE BOAT RAMP AND BEING INJURED BY THE BOAT'S PROPELLER.
. 
INVOLVED PERSON(S):
VICTIM1 (VICTIM/PASSENGER)
OPERATOR1 (BOAT OPERATOR)
WITNESS1 (SON/WITNESS)
     ON SUNDAY, MAY 29, 2016, I WAS ON ROUTINE BOAT PATROL ON LAKE WAVELAND NORTH OF THE BEACH AT THE EAST BANK CHECKING FISHERMEN IN A BOAT.  AT APPROXIMATELY 10:10AM I WAS DISPATCHED BY MONTGOMERY COUNTY CENTRAL DISPATCH TO THE LAKE'S BOAT RAMP IN REGARDS TO A BOAT INCIDENT INVOLVING A PERSON GETTING INJURED FROM A BOAT PROPELLER.  I IMMEDIATELY AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE WENT TO THE BOAT RAMP AREA BY BOAT.  UPON ARRIVING AT THE BOAT RAMP I WAS TOLD THE INJURED PERSON HAD BEEN TAKEN TO THE BAIT SHOP LOCATED ABOVE THE BOAT RAMP ON THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE BOAT RAMP PARKING LOT.  OUTSIDE THE BAIT SHOP THE PARK MANAGER, SHOUTED TO ME AND MOTIONED FOR ME TO COME TO HER WHERE SHE WAS WITH THE INJURED BOATING VICTIM.  THERE I FOUND A VICTIM1 SITTING AT A PICNIC TABLE SITUATED BETWEEN THE BAIT SHOP BUILDING AND WOOD SHED.  VICTIM1 WAS SOBBING ALMOST UNCONTROLLABLY AND SHE WAS RESTING HER RIGHT HAND ON A BATH TOWEL ON THE PICNIC TABLE.  THE PARK MANAGER TOLD ME THAT HER BOYFRIEND, OPERATOR1, WAS AT THE RAMP TAKING THE BOAT OFF THE LAKE.  THE PARK MANAGER STATED OPERATOR1 HAD COME TO THE BAIT SHOP SHOUTING FOR SOMEONE TO CALL 911 BECAUSE HIS GIRLFRIEND WAS SERIOUSLY INJURED BY A BOAT PROPELLER.  THE PARK MANAGER STATED OPERATOR1 COMMENTED THAT HE HAD HIT THE METAL PIPE IN THE WATER THAT WAS NOT MARKED.  A MALE EMPLOYEE AT THE BAIT SHOP CALLED 911.  I LOOKED AT THE INJURED HAND AND I SAW WHAT APPEARED TO BE A CUT ACROSS THE HAND JUST BELOW THE FOUR FINGERS. WHAT APPEARED TO BE ANOTHER CUT WAS ACROSS THE FLESHY PART OF THE HAND JUST BELOW THE THUMB AND ANOTHER CUT ACROSS THE LOWER FLESHY PART OF THE HAND ABOVE THE WRIST.  IT APPEARED THE PINKY FINGER WAS CUT ALMOST OFF BELOW THAT FINGER KNUCKLE.  THERE APPEARED TO BE MINIMAL BLEEDING.  I RADIOED MONTGOMERY COUNTY CENTRAL DISPATCH TO HAVE FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEDIC SENT TO THE LAKE BAIT SHOP.
     IN THE MEANTIME OPERATOR1 HAD BROUGHT THE BOAT OUT OF THE WATER AND PARKED IT IN FRONT OF THE BAIT SHOP THAT HE, VICTIM1, AND HIS TWO SONS WERE RIDING IN.  THE BOAT IS A 14FT RED AND WHITE ALUMINUM HULL FISHER WATERCRAFT WITH A 25HP MERCURY OUTBOARD TILLER DRIVE MOTOR.  THERE ARE THREE PEDESTAL SEATS MOUNTED IN THE BOAT.  TWO FACTORY SEATS AND ONE SEAT THAT APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN ADDED BY THE OWNER AFTER PURCHASING THE BOAT.  THE ONE FACTORY SEAT IS MOUNTED ON THE FLOOR DECK NEAR THE REAR OF THE BOAT AND THE SECOND FACTORY SEAT IS MOUNTED ON THE RAISED DECK PLATFORM AT THE BOW OF THE BOAT.  BOTH PEDESTAL SEATS ARE APPROXIMATELY 2FT. TALL.  THE NON-FACTORY PEDESTAL SEAT IS MOUNTED ON THE FLOOR DECK APPROXIMATELY 3FT IN FRONT OF THE FIRST FACTORY SEAT.  THE OPERATOR FOR THIS BOAT SITS AT A USUAL POSITION IN FRONT OF THE MOTOR ON A RAISED DECK OR BENCH.  THE BOAT APPEARS TO BE USED FOR PLEASURE AND FISHING.  THERE IS THE NORMAL FISHING EQUIPMENT INSIDE THE BOAT WHICH IS FISHING RODS AND REELS, MINNOW BUCKET, AND TROLLING MOTOR, ALSO ONE COOLER, SOME ROPE, AND THE REQUIRED PERSONAL FLOATATION DEVICES (PFD).  THE BOAT APPEARS TO BE A CLEAN AND SOUND WATERCRAFT.
    RIDING IN THE BOAT AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT WERE OPERATOR1 THE OPERATOR, HIS TWO SONS WITNESS1 (13YR OLD) AND WITNESS2 (6YR OLD), AND VICTIM1 HIS FIANCÉE. I SPOKE WITH WITNESS1 AS TO WHAT HAPPENED AND WHERE EVERYONE WAS SEATED AT IN THE BOAT AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT.  WITNESS1 STATES THEY LEFT THE COURTESY DOCK AT THE RAMP HEADING OUT TO THE MAIN PORTION OF THE LAKE.  HIS DAD, OPERATOR1, WAS OPERATING THE BOAT SITTING IN FRONT OF THE MOTOR.  HE WAS SITTING IN THE PEDESTAL SEAT NEAR THE REAR OF THE BOAT IN FRONT OF HIS DAD.  HIS BROTHER, WITNESS2, WAS SITTING IN THE SEAT IN FRONT OF HIM AND VICTIM1 WAS SITTING IN THE PEDESTAL SEAT ON THE RAISED FLOOR DECKING AT THE BOW (FRONT). THEY WERE GOING FAST WHEN THERE WAS A HARD JOLT.  WITNESS1 STATES THE BOAT LEANED SLIGHTLY TO THE LEFT.  HE SAID THAT IS WHEN VICTIM1 WAS THROWN FROM HER SEAT AND SHE FELL INTO THE WATER ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE BOAT. THEN THE BACK OF THE BOAT SWUNG ROUND TOWARDS VICTIM1.  WITNESS1 STATES OPERATOR1 AND VICTIM1 WERE NOT WEARING THEIR PFDS, BUT HE AND WITNESS2 WERE WEARING THEIR PFD.  WITNESS1 SAID HIS DAD JUMPED IN THE LAKE TO HELP VICTIM1 OUT OF THE WATER AND BACK IN THE BOAT.  ONCE BACK TO THE RAMP HIS DAD RAN UP TO THE BAIT SHOP TO GET HELP FOR VICTIM1.
     SPOKE WITH OPERATOR1 AND HE STATED RIGHT AWAY THAT HE HIT THE PIPE THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE MARKED OUT FROM THE RAMP AND DOCKS.  OPERATOR1 STATED THAT BOATS WERE HITTING A METAL PIPE LAST SUMMER AND NO ONE MARKED IT THEN AND IT STILL WAS NOT MARKED.  OPERATOR1 STATED HE WAS OPERATING THE BOAT HEADING OUT FROM THE RAMP AREA WITH HIS TWO BOYS AND VICTIM1.  VICTIM1 WAS SITTING ON THE PEDESTAL SEAT AT THE BOW OF THE BOAT.  HE STATES HE HAD THE BOAT UP ON PLANE WHEN HE STRUCK A METAL PIPE THAT WAS NOT MARKED AND HIDDEN JUST BELOW THE SURFACE OF THE WATER.  WHEN THE BOAT HIT THE PIPE IT THREW VICTIM1 OUT OF HER SEAT AND INTO THE WATER ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE BOAT.  THE BOAT ROCKED A BIT AND THEN PIVOTED WITH THE REAR OF THE BOAT SWINGING AROUND TO ITS LEFT BRINGING THE MOTOR AROUND TO VICTIM1 WHERE THE PROPELLER CAUGHT HER HAND.  OPERATOR1 JUMPED INTO THE WATER TO HELP HER AND HE WAS ABLE TO GET HER BACK IN THE BOAT WHERE HE TOOK HER BACK TO THE RAMP.  HE STATED ONLY THE TWO BOYS WERE WEARING THEIR PFD.  I ASKED IF HE WAS USING THE LANYARD BY HAVING IT ATTACHED TO HIM AND TO THE MOTOR'S KILL SWITCH.  OPERATOR1 STATED HE WAS WEARING IT AND SHOWED ME THAT IT WAS REATTACHED TO THE KILL SWITCH.  I EXAMINED THE LANYARD CLOSER AND THE LANYARD WAS WET AS THOUGH IT MAY HAVE STILL BEEN ATTACHED TO OPERATOR1 WHEN HE JUMPED INTO THE WATER.  I ASKED OPERATOR1 IF HE HIT THE PIPE WITH THE BOAT OR WITH THE BOAT MOTOR.  OPERATOR1 SAYS HE HIT THE PIPE WITH THE MOTOR.  I EXAMINED THE PROPELLER AND DID NOT SEE ANY DAMAGE TO THE PROPELLER AS FAR AS EXTREME BENT FINS OR UNUSUALLY LARGE DENTS, GOUGES OR MISSING METAL FROM THE PROPELLER AS NORMALLY SEEN WHEN AN ALUMINUM PROPELLER STRIKES A HARD OBJECT GOING AT THE SPEED AS OPERATOR1 HAD DESCRIBED.  THE SKEG IS STILL INTACT ON THE LOWER UNIT OF THE MOTOR WITH NORMAL SCRATCHED AND MARKS ON IT.  OPERATOR1 DID POINT OUT WHERE HE BELIEVED THE LOWER UNIT OF THE MOTOR HAD BEEN SEPARATED FROM THE MOTOR.  THERE IS AN APPROXIMATED ½ INCH GAP BETWEEN THE LOWER UNIT AND THE BOAT MOTOR.  AT FIRST WE WERE NOT ABLE TO RAISE THE MOTOR UP AND LOCK IT TO A RAISE POSITION. OPERATOR1 POINTED OUT WHAT APPEARED TO BE A MISSING BOLT HEAD BEING THE REASON THE MOTOR COULD NOT BE LOCKED IN A RAISED POSITION.  LATER I WAS ABLE TO GET THE MOTOR LOCKED IN A RAISED POSITION, BUT BY NOT BEING FAMILIAR WITH THIS PARTICULAR MOTOR AND BOAT I'M NOT SURE IF THE BOLT HEAD IN QUESTION IS ACTUALLY MISSING OR HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH LOCKING THE MOTOR IN A RAISED POSITION OR IF THE GAP BETWEEN THE LOWER UNIT AND MOTOR IS NORMAL OR NOT. I DID NOT DETECT ANY SIGNS OR ODORS OF ALCOHOL WITH OPERATOR1 OR ANY INDICATIONS OF OPERATOR1 BEING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ANY TYPE OF SUBSTANCE.  NO SIGNS OF ALCOHOL WERE SEEN INSIDE THE BOAT.
     IT IS KNOWN THAT A PIPE IS IN THE LAKE JUST OFF TO THE SOUTHWEST AT THE END OF THE BOAT DOCKS.  DURING THE SUMMER OF 2015 SOME BOATS HAD STRUCK THE PIPE WITH THEIR MOTORS.  THIS OFFICER AS WELL AS PARK STAFF SEARCHED TO FIND THE PIPE, BUT WERE UNABLE TO FIND IT.  IN THE FALL OF OCTOBER 2015 THE LAKE WAS LOWERED EIGHTEEN (18) INCHES FOR FISH MANAGEMENT PURPOSES. I SPOKE WITH LAKE WAVELAND PARK SUPERINTENDENT THE PARK MANAGER #1 WHO STATED WHEN THE LAKE WAS LOWERED LAST OCTOBER THE METAL PIPE BECAME EXPOSED AND THE PARK MANAGER HAD PARK STAFF ATTACH A BUOY TO THE PIPE TO MARK ITS LOCATION FOR BOATERS TO SEE WHEN THE WAT


BARDID: IN-2016-0013
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:56:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
YOUNG GIRL WAS TUBING AND ATTEMPTED TO REBOARD THE BOAT.  SHE SLIPPED ON THE LADDER AND CUT HER FOOT ON THE PROPELLER OF THE BOAT.

INVOLVED PERSONS:

VICTIM1 - VICTIM
OPERATOR1 - BOAT OPERATOR
WITNESS1 - WITNESS

DETAILS OF INVESTIGATION/INCIDENT:

I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1, WAS CONTACTED BY CENTRAL DISPATCH CONCERNING A JUVENILE WHO HAD BEEN CUT BY THE PROP OF A BOAT.  THE INCIDENT OCCURRED AT APPROXIMATELY 1:00 PM ON MAY 29, 2016.  ICO'S #2 AND #3 WERE ON PATROL ON MONROE RESERVOIR AND RESPONDED TO THE SCENE.  BY THE TIME THEY ARRIVED, THE VICTIM HAD BEEN TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE FROM THE HARDIN RIDGE BOAT RAMP.  THEY WERE ABLE TO MAKE CONTACT WITH THE BOAT OPERATOR.  HE WAS IDENTIFIED AS OPERATOR1 AND WAS OPERATING A CROWNLINE RUNABOUT BOAT.  OPERATOR1 ADVISED THEY HAD BEEN TUBING ON THE WATER AND THE VICTIM, VICTIM1 AND HER FRIEND WITNESS1 FELL OF THE TUBE AND HE CIRCLED AROUND TO PICK THEM UP.  THE GIRLS DECIDED TO REBOARD THE BOAT RATHER THAN CONTINUE TUBING.  OPERATOR1 STATED HE PUT THE BOAT IN NEUTRAL AND THE GIRLS SWAM TO HIS BOAT.  WHILE VICTIM1 WAS ATTEMPTING TO REBOARD THE BOAT, SHE SLIPPED ON THE LADDER AND FELL AGAINST THE PROPELLER, CAUSING A LARGE CUT TO VICTIM1'S RIGHT FOOT.  HE IMMEDIATELY TRANSPORTED HER TO SHORE AND CALLED 911.

I RESPONDED TO IU HEALTH HOSPITAL IN BLOOMINGTON WHERE I MET WITH VICTIM1 AND WITNESS1.  WITNESS1'S PARENTS ARRIVED SHORTLY AFTER.  BOTH VICTIM1 AND WITNESS1 HAD THE SAME RECOLLECTION OF THE ACCIDENT AS OPERATOR1.  I OBSERVED A SINGLE CUT IN VICTIM1 RIGHT FOOT.  THIS INJURY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE EVENTS THAT WERE DESCRIBED TO ME.  I PHOTOGRAPHED VICTIM1'S INJURY.

I WAITED AT THE HOSPITAL UNTIL VICTIM1'S FATHER ARRIVED.  WHILE AT THE HOSPITAL, OPERATOR1 ALSO ARRIVED.  I SPOKE WITH HIM AND PHOTOGRAPHED THE BOAT.

ATTACHMENTS:

PHOTOGRAPHS OF VICTIM1’S FOOT AND OPERATOR1'S BOAT

DISPOSITION:

A STATE BOAT CRASH REPORT WAS COMPLETED.


BARDID: IN-2016-0014
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shaffer
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: White
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1, RESPONDED TO THE BOAT RAMP AT HONEY CREEK ON LAKE SHAFER IN REFERENCE TO A WOMAN WITH BACK INJURIES SUSTAINED WHILE BOATING ON 6/30/2015. I RECEIVED A CALL AT 12:38 PM FROM WHITE COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT. I ARRIVED AT HONEY CREEK AND MET WITH THE BOAT AND EMS ON SCENE AT 12:45 PM. THE BOAT THAT WAS INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT WAS A RED 2014 ALUMACRAFT FISHING BOAT (REGISTRATION: INxxxxxx).
I FIRST SPOKE WITH OPERATOR1, THE OPERATOR OF THE BOAT. I ASKED OPERATOR1 TO DESCRIBE TO ME THE EVENTS THAT HAD TAKEN PLACE LEADING UP TO THE ACCIDENT. OPERATOR1 SAID THAT HE WAS OPERATING THE BOAT NEAR THE INDIANA BEACH AREA. OPERATOR1 THEN SAID THAT THE WATER WAS VERY ROUGH AND HE WAS TRAVELLING AT ABOUT 15 MPH.  OPERATOR1 THEN SAID THAT THEY HIT A LARGE WAVE. OPERATOR1 CLAIMED THAT SUBJECT1, THE INJURED SUBJECT, WAS SITTING ON THE PORT SIDE OF THE BOAT. SUBJECT1 WAS SITTING ON THE ROD BOX NEAR THE STERN OF THE BOAT.  OPERATOR1 STATED THAT WHEN THEY HIT THE WAVE SUBJECT1 WAS THROWN INTO THE AIR AND LANDED BACK ON HER BUTTOCKS. THIS IS WHEN OPERATOR1 STATED THAT SHE HAD SUFFERED THE INJURY. 
I WAS UNABLE TO SPEAK WITH SUBJECT1 DUE TO THE FACT THAT SHE WAS BEING PLACED ON A STRETCHER TO BE TRANSPORTED TO THE WHITE COUNTY HOSPITAL. 
I WAS ABLE TO SPEAK WITH SUBJECT1 ON 6/2/2016 OVER THE PHONE TO VERIFY EVENTS AND LEARN THE FULL EXTENT OF HER INJURIES. SUBJECT1 CONFIRMED THE EVENTS. SUBJECT1 EXPLAINED TO ME OVER THE PHONE THAT SHE HAD SUFFERED FROM 2 COMPRESSION FRACTURES AND HAD SURGERY ON 5/31/2016.


BARDID: IN-2016-0015
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:
subject put a boat he purchased on brookville reservoir where it took on water and sunk.	

Details of investigation/ incident:
	on monday may 30, 2016 at around 18:03 i, indiana conservation officer was working the brookville reservoir property in franklin county, in when i received a call reference a capsized boat at garr hill boat ramp.

	when i arrived i was confronted by the owner of the boat who identified himself.  Owner informed this officer that he had just purchased the boat and was test driving it when he observed water in the bottom of the boat.  He added that the amount of water was more than the bilge pump could keep up with.  

	he tried to operate the boat to shore and within a few feet the boat finally submerged and sunk with only the bow visible.  He then tied the boat off to shore and another boat came by to assist where they transported him back to the ramp.

	i gathered his information and then operated our divisions boat to the area and photographed the boat.

	i returned a phone call to Owner at a later time and he informed this officer that the boat was only worth $250 and that he had no insurance on it.  He further stated that the boat had suffered a crack in the hull towards the front that he was unaware of and that is why it was taking on water.


BARDID: IN-2016-0017
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON JUNE 12, 2016 AT OR ABOUT 1345 HOURS I CONSERVATION OFFICER #1 AND ICO #2 WERE DISPATCHED TO LAKE MONROE MARINA FOR AN INJURED INDIVIDUAL.  WE ARRIVED ON SCENE AT OR ABOUT 1355 HOURS.  UPON ARRIVAL I SPOKE WITH THE THREE OCCUPANTS OF THE WATERCRAFT DOCKED AT THE MARINA.   I SPOKE WITH THE OPERATOR OF THE WATERCRAFT OPERATOR1.  OPERATOR1 ADVISED AT APPROXIMATELY 1300 HOURS A LARGE WHITE WITH YELLOW PAINTED CABIN CRUISER BOAT PULLING TWO TUBES DROVE PAST THEM AND THEIR BOAT AND MADE A LARGE WAKE.  OPERATOR1 ADVISED HE THEN RAISED HIS MIDDLE FINGER AT THE OTHER BOAT OPERATOR WHO THEN DROVE PAST THE BOAT OPERATOR1 WAS OPERATING A SECOND TIME.  DURING THIS PASS THE WAKE THE WATERCRAFT PRODUCED LIFTED ALL THREE INDIVIDUALS IN THE WATERCRAFT OFF OF THEIR SEATS.  WHEN THIS HAPPENED PASSENGER1 LANDED ON HER BOAT SEAT AND INJURED HER BACK.  OPERATOR1 ADVISED THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED NEAR THE IDLE ZONE OF ALLEN'S CREEK ON MONROE RESERVOIR.  OPERATOR1 THEN DROVE TO LAKE MONROE MARINA AND CALLED INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICERS CENTRAL DISPATCH.  AN AMBULANCE ARRIVED AND TRANSPORTED PASSENGER1 TO IU BLOOMINGTON HOSPITAL FOR HER INJURIES.  NO LIFE PRESERVERS WERE WORN AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT.  NO FURTHER INFORMATION WAS OBTAINED ON THE SUSPECT BOAT.  OPERATOR1 WAS ISSUED A CITATION FOR DRIVING A MOTORBOAT WITHOUT A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE.  HE WAS ALSO ISSUED A WARNING FOR FAILING TO HAVE A TYPE IV PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE ON BOARD.  NO DAMAGE OCCURRED TO THE WATERCRAFT.


BARDID: IN-2016-0018
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wabash River
NearestCityorTown: Terre Haute
County: Vigo
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
    on june 14, 2016 at or about 2315, i was contacted at my home while off duty. A terre haute city pd officer advised that a boat had over turned on the wabash river in terre haute, about one quarter mile south of the fairbanks parke public boat ramp earlier that evening. 

The uninjured occupants swam to the west side of the river and were picked up by a local thpd officer and returned to their vehicle; while their over turned boat was left on the bank of the river. 

I contacted operator to obtain more information and confirm there were no injuries, the boat wasn't a navigational hazard requiring immediate attention and advised him i would contact him when i came back on duty.

      on june 16, 2016 operator contacted me requesting permission to tow his boat and i advised him to do so and he was successful in removing the vessel. On june 17, 2016 while checking fisherman at wabashiki f/w area i coincidentally made contact with operator, who was fishing. I obtained a statement from operator as well as more information for my investigation .

operator stated there was no damage to his boat other than possibly the 25 horsepower suzuki, two stroke engine that he was letting dry out. This is a list of other items lost and their approximate value. Operator had no insurance on the boat.
   1. 4000 watt generator-$800.00
   2. 20 arrows-$400
   3. Oneida osprey bow-$1000.00
   4. Parker bow-$300.00
   5. Bow-$300
   6. Bow-$300
   7.  Bow-$150
   8. Bow$350
   9. 4 batteries$375
   10. Life jackets-(6) $50
   11. Fire extinguisher-$80
   12. Lock box with a lot of random things $200.  the boat capsized due to improper loading.


BARDID: IN-2016-0019
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Burns Ditch
NearestCityorTown: Portage
County: Porter
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 19, 2016, near doyne's marina, along the burns ditch waterway (tributary of lake michigan) two vessels were trying to pass each other in a narrow channel.  

The michigan vessel, operated by operator1,  was returning upstream to the boat ramp at doyne's marina while to indiana vessel, operated by operator2, was heading downstream to lake michigan.  

Operator1's vessel was in neutral while waiting for operator2's vessel to pass him.  Operator2's vessel was moving at idle speed when passing operator1's vessel when it made contact  with the other vessel with its outer hull portside metal cleat. 

The damage from the cleat or possibly other parts of operator2's vessel is a an approximate 12" scratch that also cuts into the fiberglass in a few areas, a gouge about 3" in length, and a scratch/gouge combination higher on the vessel near the windshield. 

All of the damage was above the waterline on the portside of the vessel.

On operator2's vessel no damage was found.

Information between operators was exchanged at the scene and i, officer, was contacted by operator1 requesting a report be completed.

Owner of the michigan vessel is contacting his insurance for further information on how to proceed with the claim.

I contacted Operator2 and he advised he had already paid the repair shop to fix Operator1's vessel.


BARDID: IN-2016-0021
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Freeman
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: Carroll
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
ON 6/25/2016 AT APPROXIMATELY 5:30 PM, I ICO #1 AND ICO #2 RECEIVED A CALL FROM CARROLL COUNTY DISPATCH OF A BOATING ACCIDENT THAT HAD OCCURRED IN THE AREA OF WHITE OAKS ON LAKE FREEMAN.
	MYSELF AND ICO #2 RESPONDED TO THE ACCIDENT BY BOAT AND ARRIVED ON SCENE SHORTLY AFTER EMS PERSONNEL ARRIVED ON SCENE. AS WE ARRIVED ON SCENE, EMS WAS TENDING TO A FEMALE SUBJECT, LATER IDENTIFIED AS VICTIM1. TWO OTHER SUBJECTS, LATER IDENTIFIED AS OPERATOR1 AND PASSENGER1 WERE ATTEMPTING TO DOCK THEIR BOAT. 
	I APPROACHED OPERATOR1 AND ASKED IF HE HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN THE INCIDENT. OPERATOR1 STATED THAT HE WAS DRIVING THE BOAT (INxxxxxx) AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. I ASKED OPERATOR1 IF HE COULD EXPLAIN WHAT HAD HAPPENED DURING THE INCIDENT. OPERATOR1 STATED THAT THEY WERE TUBING AND MAKING A TURN AT APPROXIMATELY 20-25 MPH WHEN THE TUBE HIT A LARGE WAKE IN THE WATER. WHEN THE TUBE CROSSED OVER THE WAKE IT PUT A LOT OF PRESSURE ON THE TOW LINE AND DISCONNECTED IT FROM THE TUBE. AFTER THE TUBE DISCONNECTED FROM THE TOW LINE IT PROCEEDED TO FLOW TOWARDS THE BANK, STRIKING A NEARBY BOAT DOCK.
	AT THIS POINT, I SPOKE WITH PASSENGER2 WHO WAS PRESENT AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT. PASSENGER2 STATED HE WAS A LITTLE SHOOK UP FROM THE ACCIDENT AND DID NOT QUITE KNOW ALL THE DETAILS. WHEN I ASKED HIM TO EXPLAIN WHAT HE KNOWS ABOUT IT, HE STATED THEY HAD BEEN TUBING, THE TUBE HIT A WAVE AND BROKE LOOSE FROM THE BOAT AND HIT A BOAT DOCK. I THEN ASKED PASSENGER2 IF ANYONE HAD BEEN CONSUMING ALCOHOL PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT. PASSENGER2 STATED THAT HE BELIEVED SOME OF THE BOAT OCCUPANTS HAD BEEN DRINKING EARLIER IN THE DAY.
	I THEN SPOKE WITH PASSENGER1 ABOUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED. PASSENGER1 STATED THAT THEY WERE ALL HAVING A GOOD TIME TUBING AND THAT THEY WERE MAKING A TURN WHEN THE TUBE HIT A LARGE WAVE IN THE WATER. PASSENGER1 STATE SHE THOUGHT THE ROPE HAD BROKEN CAUSING THE TUBE TO HIT THE BOAT DOCK. PASSENGER1 DID NOT BELIEVE THE BOAT WAS TRAVELING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED.
	AT THIS POINT, VICTIM1 WAS TRANSPORTED TO IU HEALTH WHITE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOR POSSIBLE BACK INJURIES, WHERE SHE WAS THEN TRANSPORTED BY HELICOPTER TO ST. VINCENT HOSPITAL IN INDIANAPOLIS. NORA, VICTIM1'S MOTHER WENT WITH VICTIM1 IN THE AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL.
	AFTER VICTIM1 WAS TRANSPORTED FROM THE SCENE, I ASKED OPERATOR1 IF HE HAD ANY ALCOHOL TO DRINK THAT DAY. OPERATOR1 STATED THAT HE PROBABLY ONLY HAD TWO OR THREE DRINKS. I THEN ASKED OPERATOR1 IF HE WOULD TAKE A PBT FOR ME, OPERATOR1 STATED THAT HE WOULD. WHILE TRYING TO OBTAIN A PBT SAMPLE, OPERATOR1 GAVE AN INSUFFICIENT SAMPLE 3 TIMES.
	AT THIS POINT, I ADVISED OPERATOR1 THAT WE WERE GOING TO DO SOME FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS INSTEAD. I WALKED OPERATOR1 UP TO THE NEARBY PARKING LOT WHERE IT WAS CLEARED OFF AND LEVEL. I THEN STARTED STANDARD FIELD SOBRIETY TESTING AT APPROXIMATELY 5:56 PM.
	THE FIRST TEST I ADMINISTERED TO OPERATOR1 WAS THE HORIZONTAL GAZE NYSTAGMUS TEST. I ASKED OPERATOR1 TO REMOVE HIS SUNGLASSES AND OBSERVED HIS EYES WERE BLOOD SHOT AND GLAZED OVER. I THEN ASKED OPERATOR1 IF HE HAD ANY CONTACTS IN OR ANY HISTORY OF EYE PROBLEMS. OPERATOR1 STATED HE DID NOT HAVE CONTACTS IN OR HAVE HISTORY OF EYE PROBLEMS. OPERATOR1 DISPLAYED VERY APPARENT NYSTAGMUS IN BOTH EYES ON LACK OF SMOOTH PURSUIT, DISTINCT NYSTAGMUS AT MAXIMUM DEVIATION, AND ONSET OF NYSTAGMUS PRIOR TO 45 DEGREES. OPERATOR1 DISPLAYED ALL 6 CLUES IN THE HGN TEST.
	I THEN ADMINISTERED THE ONE LEG STAND TEST. I READ OPERATOR1 THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE TEST AND CONFIRMED HE UNDERSTOOD THE TEST. OPERATOR1 THEN STARTED THE ONE LEG STAND. AS HE PERFORMED THE TEST, OPERATOR1 HAD VERY POOR BALANCE, SWAYING FROM SIDE TO SIDE, HE PLACED HIS FOOT DOWN 5 TIMES DURING THE TEST, AND USED HIS ARMS TO BALANCE.
	AFTER THE ONE LEG STAND I ASKED OPERATOR1 TO COMPLETE THE WALK AND TURN. AS I READ THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE TEST AND PUT OPERATOR1 IN THE CORRECT POSITION, HE LOST BALANCE AND TRIED TO START WHILE I WAS STILL GIVING THE INSTRUCTIONS. DURING THE WALK AND TURN TEST, OPERATOR1 STOPPED SEVERAL TIMES TO STEADY HIMSELF, MISSED TOUCHING HEAL TO TOE ON ALMOST EVERY STEP, USED HIS ARMS TO BALANCE, MADE AN IMPROPER TURN, AND TOOK THE WRONG NUMBER OF STEPS AS HE WAS NOT COUNTING AFTER BEING INSTRUCTED TO DO SO. 
	AT THIS POINT IN TIME, I READ OPERATOR1 THE IMPLIED CONSENT AND CONFIRMED HE UNDERSTOOD WHAT I HAD JUST READ TO HIM. OPERATOR1 THEN ADVISED HE WOULD CONSENT TO A CHEMICAL TEST. ICO #2 THEN CONTACTED CARROLL COUNTY DISPATCH TO HAVE AN OFFICER TRANSPORT OPERATOR1 TO THE JAIL FOR A CHEMICAL TEST. DEPUTY #1 ARRIVED ON SCENE AND TRANSPORTED OPERATOR1 TO THE JAIL. DEPUTY #1 THEN ADMINISTERED THE CERTIFIED CHEMICAL TEST. OPERATOR1'S RESULTS ON THE CHEMICAL TEST REGISTERED AS A 0.172% BAC.	
	OPERATOR1 WAS BOOKED INTO THE CARROLL COUNTY JAIL ON CHARGES OF BOATING WHILE INTOXICATED CAUSING INJURY, BOATING WHILE INTOXICATED WITH A BAC 0.08% OR HIGHER, DANGEROUS OPERATION OF A MOTORBOAT, AND WAS ISSUED A CITATION FOR AN IDLE SPEED VIOLATION NEAR SHORELINE.


BARDID: IN-2016-0022
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: White River
NearestCityorTown: Freedom
County: Owen
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 25, 2016, at or about 1600 hours, ico dispatch contacted me about a boat accident that was earlier reported to the greene county sheriff's department. 

Owner reported at about 0700 – 0800 hours he was traveling up stream on the white river, approximately 5 miles north of the eel river junction. Owner said he had one other occupant. 

     owner said he stopped to anchor his boat and mentioned it was in a large river bend. Owner said he deployed his anchor and reached over to get his fishing pole. Owner said the anchor rope was secured to the stern. 

Owner said as the rope was coiling out, the anchor set and caused the stern to be pulled underwater. Owner said the boat was immediately swamped and sunk. Owner said occupant and himself were both wearing personal flotation devices. Owner indicated occupant was able to swim himself to the shore. Owner said he was unable to get to the shore because of the strong current and he estimated  floating approximately 2 miles downstream, before getting out of the river. Owner said he located occupant and they walked towards an area that appeared to be a boat ramp. From the information provided it was likely they were at the farmers ferry. Owner said and unidentified individual gave them a ride back to their vehicle. 

     owner identified his boat as a 14 foot aluminum jon boat with a 9.9 horsepower mercury outboard motor. Ico dispatch provided a return for the boat identifying it as a 1972 desoto boat with current registration in0539tn. Owner also indicated the boat wasn't insured. The boat wasn't recovered and he estimated the loss being $3000.


BARDID: IN-2016-0023
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cataract Lake
NearestCityorTown: Cloverdale
County: Putnam
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 26, 2016, at or about 1250 hours, ico dispatch notified me of a boat crash at the lieber state recreation area main boat ramp on cataract lake in putnam county. Corporal and i were patrolling on the water and responded to the scene. 

     the two boats involved were already removed from the water. Operator1 said he was operating his 1989 pontoon boat and attempting to approach the dock at the ramp. Operator1 said he recently purchased the boat and noticed some issues with the throttle. 

Operator1 said he was attempting to slow down and put the throttle into reverse as he neared the dock. Operator1 said the boat immediately accelerated forward as he was attempting reverse. Operator1 said he collided into the dock and caused a secondary collision into another boat which was on a trailer. 

The collision also caused a large winch on the dock to become detached and it sank in the water. The winch and cable is used to stabilize the main dock in position. Lieber state recreation area staff was notified of the damage to the dock. 

Operator1 said the collision caused the other boat to turn on its side and it took on water. 

I inspected operator1's boat and photographed the impact damage on the bow. I inspected the mechanical throttle which appeared to be functional. I explained to operator1 to take the boat to a service center to inspect the throttle and linkage thoroughly before taking back on the water. Operator1 had insurance through progressive on his boat. 

     i identified the owner of the other boat. Owner2 reported he had loaded his boat on the trailer and was in the process of pulling it out of the water. Owner2 was in his truck when the pontoon collided into the dock and his boat. Owner2 said the impact caused his boat to turn up and take on water. Owner2 said several items inside his boat went into the water, and he lost his iphone 5s and a $200 vaporizer smoking device. Owner2 also indicated his 2013 yamaha 9.9 horsepower outboard motor was submerged in the water. The impact also shifted his boat off his trailer damaging his bumper poles. There was visible damage Owner2s to the port side of his boat.  

     corporal obtained a written statement.  Witness believed operator1 was trying to slow down and thinking it was in reverse.


BARDID: IN-2016-0025
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Noblesville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/2/2016 at approximately 15:25 hours i, ico, was notified by morse marina personnel and then ico dispatch of a sinking boat on morse reservoir south of carrigan road bridge in noblesville, indiana.  

I made contact at the boat ramp with the owner and operator of the boat, who was identified.  The boat was a gold 1977 taylor ss jet boat bearing indiana registration in5570du and hin# ty815080277.  

Operator told me that including himself there were six people total on board the boat and all six were accounted for.  A witness told me he had observed the boat sinking and came to the aid of operator and his passengers.  Witness told me he transported some of the belongings and operator back to the marina.  I collected witness's information and released him from the scene.

Operator told me he had hired thomas docks to help retrieve the boat, who was already present at the marina.  I told operator i needed all passengers' information before we went to the scene.

Officer and i transported operator walls out to the scene where the boat had sank.  Operator told me that he had been operating the boat on the lake for over two hours and had been pulling a tube for about an hour without any issues.  H

e said at one particular moment shortly before the boat sank he thought he had felt something different with the boat's motor and then occupant1 had told him she noticed a lot of water coming into the back of the boat.  Operator said he decreased the throttle and the boat began to take on water over the stern and sink.  Operator said it only took about two or three minutes for the boat to submerge.  I asked operator if there were enough uscg approved life jackets on board the boat for everyone and he told me there was.  He added that several people already had life jackets on when the boat began to sink.  I asked operator if he had a fire extinguisher on board and he said he did and it was a type abc.  I asked operator if he had remembered hitting anything and he said no he was sure he had not.  I took photographs of the scene.

Thomas docks was able to recover the boat from the lake bottom.  They towed the boat back to the marina without incident.  I gave operator an informational card and explained to him how to obtain a copy of the boat accident report for insurance purposes.  Operator and his family left the scene.

All events occurred in hamilton county, indiana.


BARDID: IN-2016-0027
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: M orse Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Noblesville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator was drifting with two boys (age 4 and 8) on board when he realized he was almost on shore.  He started the motor, but was too late, and broke his propeller/lower unit on the rocks.  

At the same time, two large wakes of passing boats further grounded the boat and it began to list to the starboard side and take on water.  The operator was able to lift the boys up onto an adjacent seawall.  They were both wearing life jackets and were uninjured.  

The homeowner  came out to help them, and was able to tow the boat to his lift and drain the water out of it. The boat sustained significant damage to the fiberglass hull on the starboard side, including a large hole through the decking behind the driver's position. The boat involved is owned by the operator's mother-in-law.  

The operator took a boat safety course in ohio and had been boating occasionally for the past 20 years with about 50 hours of experience.  Operator inattention was the cause of the accident.


BARDID: IN-2016-0028
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville
NearestCityorTown: Liberty
County: Union
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
on saturday june 25, 2016 at around 2100 i, indiana conservation officer was working on brookville reservoir in franklin county, in when i received a dispatch of a boat accident at the fairfield boat ramp in union county.


BARDID: IN-2016-0029
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Raccoon Lake
NearestCityorTown: Rockville
County: Parke
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
PRELUDE:
      VICTIM1 WAS INJURED IN A BOATING ACCIDENT AND AIRLIFTED TO RILEY HOSPITAL.
INVOLVED PERSONS:
VICTIM1: VICTIM
OPERATOR1: DRIVER

DETAILS OF THE INCIDENT/INVESTIGATION:
ON JUNE 26, 2016 AT OR ABOUT 2:45 P.M. I WAS ON BOAT PATROL ON RACCOON LAKE IN PARKE COUNTY, INDIANA. I RECEIVED A CALL FROM CENTRAL DISPATCH OF A BOATING ACCIDENT INJURING A JUVENILE MALE.  THE BOAT AND INJURED VICTIM HAD RETURNED TO THE RACCOON LAKE BOAT RENTAL FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE. 
WHEN I ARRIVED AT THE RACCOON LAKE BOAT RENTAL PARKE COUNTY DEPUTIES #1 AND #2 ALONG WITH FIRST RESPONDERS WERE ON TREATING THE INJURED JUVENILE, WHO WAS IDENTIFIED AS VICTIM1.  I SPOKE WITH THE DRIVER OF THE BOAT, WHO IDENTIFIED HERSELF AS OPERATOR1.  OPERATOR1 STATED THAT SHE WAS DRIVING THE BOAT WHILE VICTIM1 WAS RIDING A CIRCULAR INNER TUBE.  VICTIM1 WAS RIDING IN THE SEATED POSITION WITH HIS LEGS FORWARD.  WHEN VICTIM1 FELL OFF THE INNER TUBE, HIS RIGHT LEG BECAME ENTANGLED IN THE TOWROPE, WHICH CAUSED A DEEP LACERATION BELOW HIS RIGHT KNEE.
VICTIM1 WAS AIRLIFTED IN A LIFELINE HELICOPTER TO RILEY CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL.  HIS PARENTS WITNESSED THE ACCIDENT, AND WERE GIVEN DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO THE HOSPITAL.  NO CITATIONS WERE ISSUED.
          I SWEAR AND AFFIRM UNDER I.C. 35-44-2-1 THE PENALTY OF PERJURY, THAT THE FOREGOING INFORMATION AND THE REPRESENTATIONS MADE HEREIN ARE TRUE AND ACCURATE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF.


INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1

CURRENT DISPOSITION:  
CASE WAS FORWARDED TO DISTRICT FIVE HEADQUARTERS


BARDID: IN-2016-0030
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:13:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityorTown: East Chicago
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On july 23, 2016, i, officer, responded to a fatal boat accident that had occurred on lake michgan near the east chicago marina.

The subsequent investigation indicates that a 1992 42' fountain lightning vessel, operated by the owner, had collided with the steel breakwall at arcelor mittal steelmill between the hours of approximately 10pm and 11pm on friday july 22, 2016.

As a result of the collision, two victims died at the scene.  Operator survived and was found walking inside the steel mill on july 23, 2016.  Operator was transported from the mill via ambulance to st. Catherine's hospital in east chicago for treatment and released.


BARDID: IN-2016-0031
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Fishers
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
The details of the accident are as follows based upon the operator, witnesses from each boat involved in the accident, and witness not involved who observed the accident. 

In vessel 1 (2012 correct craft) four subjects were in the bow of the boat, and the remaining 7 occupants were in the stern. Vessel 1 estimated speed is 25-30 mph with obstructed view from occupants in the bow. The music was up load and occupants were singing and operator admits to be distracted and under the influence of alcoholic beverages. 

Vessel 1 is westbound from olio road into the sunset. Vessel 1 turned south around the island toward the entrance of cocktail cove ( cambridge cove).  Operator of vessel 1 reports never seeing vessel 2 until impact. Vessel 1 passenger reports yelling to watch out at last minute, but impact was unavoidable. Impact occurs. 

Vessel 2 operator reports being just in gear, barely idling outside of the idle zone buoys at cambrige cove (cocktail cove) when he observed vessel 1 round the island at a fast pace. Vessel 2 operator reports standing up and yelling hey, hey and impact occurred. Vessel 2 operator reports never being able to see the operator of vessel 1 prior to impact. Vessel 2 operator did observe several occupants in the stern of vessel 1. 

The specifics of the boat accident will be spelled out in the boat accident reconstruction findings attached. However, as the investigator and based upon my experience and training, vessel 1 operator failed to keep a proper lookout due to several factors on board. Alcohol and audio/visual distractions contributed to the failure to keep a proper lookout, resulting in a collision. Vessel 1 bow impacted vessel 2 port side just behind the passenger seat. Vessel 1 ramped over vessel 2. Vessel 1 stabilizer fin, prop and rudder making contact with vessel 2 cutting through port side gunwale, making contact with vessel 2 engine and exiting through gunwale of vessel 2 starboard side. 

Vessel 1 sustained damage to the bottom of the hull, drive shaft, propeller, and rudder. Vessel 2 sustained devastating damage to windshield, fiberglass construction both port and starboard sides and upper engine. 

Vessel 2 passenger suffered cuts and bruising with fiberglass and glass punctures. 

A complete boat accident reconstruction was performed by ico. That report is pending, while ico is deployed the western states to fight wildland fires. 

Both vessels 1 and 2 had sufficient pfd's for their occupants.


BARDID: IN-2016-0032
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was being operated eastbound and just come down from plain. Vessel 1 was occupied by operator 1 and witness 1 and was collided on the right, starboard, side by vessel 2. 

Vessel 2 was being operated by operator 2, and heading northbound. Vessel 2 collided with the front, bow, side of their boat into the right, starboard, side of vessel 1. 

Operator 2 stated he looked into the rearview mirror just prior to the collision, and did not observe vessel 1 prior to the collision.


BARDID: IN-2016-0033
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Tippecanoe
NearestCityorTown: Leesburg
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR WAS PULLING VICTIM ON A TUBE ON LAKE TIPPECNAOE WHEN THE ACCIDNT OCCURED. VICTIM WAS THROWN FROM THE TUBE AND HAD A HARD IMPACT WITH THE WATER. VICTIM RE-INJURED A PREVIOUS SKULL FRACTURE. VICTIM WAS AIRLIFTED TO PARKVIEW REGIONAL IN FORT WAYNE FOR SURGERY. OPERATOR ADVISED THEY WERE ONLY OPERATING ABOUT 15-20 MPH. 

MORE WITNESS INFORMTAION ON SECOND BOAT ACCIDENT FORM.


BARDID: IN-2016-0034
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: McCordsville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR STATED THAT AT APPROXIMATELY 2045 HOURS HE WAS TOWING TUBER1 AND TUBER2 ON TUBES BEHIND HIS 2015 YAMAHA SX240 (INDIANA REGISTRATION INxxxxxx).  OPERATOR CLAIMED THAT WHILE EXECUTING A TURN IN THE MAIN BODY OF THE RESERVOIR THE TWO TUBES JUMPED THE WAKE AND COLLIDED.  TUBER1 AND TUBER2 HAD NO VISIBLE INJURIES BUT AFTER TUBER1 AND TUBER2 RE-BOARDED THE BOAT. OPERATOR AND HIS PASSENGERS BECAME INCREASINGLY CONCERNED ABOUT TUBER1’S CONDITION.  OPERATOR STATED THAT HE HAD NOTICED CHANGES IN TUBER1’S ATTITUDE AND BEHAVIOR AND 911 WAS CALLED WHEN TUBER1 HAD DIFFICULTY EXITING THE BOAT ONCE BACK AT THE DOCK.  OPERATOR’S WATERCRAFT, REGISTRATION, AND PFD'S WERE INSPECTED AND NO VIOLATIONS WERE FOUND.  TUBER1 WAS TRANSPORTED TO IU SAXONY HOSPITAL WHERE SHE RECEIVED TREATMENT FOR INTERNAL INJURIES.


BARDID: IN-2016-0035
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wawasee
NearestCityorTown: Syracuse
County: Kosciusko
WaterConditions: Very rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-6-16 I, Indiana Conservation Officer #1, received a report of a boat accident that happened on Lake Wawasee. As a result of the accident Victim1 was transported to Parkview Regional in Fort Wayne for treatment. 

Operator1 (Operator)
Involved Persons: 
Owner (Vehicle Owner)
Passenger#2 (Passenger)
Passenger#1 (Passenger)
Passenger#4 (Passenger)
Passenger#3 (Passenger)
Good Samaritan1 (Operator)
Occupant1 (Passenger)
Towed Owner#1 (Vehicle Owner)
Victim1 (Victim)
Occupant2 (Passenger)
Witness1 (Witness)
Syracuse PD Officer #2 

Details of Investigation/Incident:
On 8-6-16 at approximately 1720 hours I, Indiana Conservation Officer #1, received a report of a boating accident that occurred on Lake Wawasee with personal injury. When I arrived at the scene with the three boats involved I was informed nobody needed any emergency medical attention. I instructed all the boats to go to the public boat launch due to the choppy water conditions. The pontoon (operated by Good Samaritan1) was pulling the fishing boat (owned by Towed Owner#1). 

The Wake Setter (operated by Operator1) was the first to arrive to the public boat ramp. Once the Wake Setter was secured at the pier I asked Operator1 to come with me to answer some questions. Upon interviewing Operator1 I could smell the odor of alcohol on his breath and he admitted to drinking. I had Operator1 perform several field sobriety tests of which he passed the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus and the Hand Coordination. Operator1 failed the Finger to Nose and the Palm Pat standardized field sobriety tests. Operator1 took my PBT and tested to have a BAC of .064%. During my interview with Operator1 advised muskrats had destroyed the wiring to his wake wedge and he was unable to bring his bow down while operating. Operator1 said he thinks he was going under 10 MPH. He didn't see the pontoon or the fishing boat before striking them. Operator1 said all four of his passengers were sitting in the back of the boat and “that probably wasn't a good idea since he knew he couldn't bring his bow down.” He advised they got on the lake about 1400 hours and they had been on the sandbar almost the entire time. The accident had happened when they were leaving the sandbar. 

Passenger#1 Interview
Passenger#1 advised at the time of the accident here was in the back of the Wake Setter and looking backwards. He said while out on the sandbar he had drank one beer. I had him take the PBT since he is under the age of 21 and he tested .00. He said he didn't know how fast they were going but didn't think it was very fast. Passenger#1 said he didn't see either boat before they collided. 

Passenger#2 Interview
Passenger#2 advised he was sitting behind the driver and was facing backwards at the time of the accident. He stated their bow was up in the air so he couldn't see the boat or hear anything before they struck the pontoon. Passenger#2 advised they got on the lake about 1400 hours and had spent the majority of the time on the sandbar due to the boat not operating properly.

Passenger#3 Interview
Passenger#3 stated he was sitting in the back of the boat on the passenger's side when the accident happened. He stated they were all looking at the wake and talking about it so nobody saw the other two boats. Passenger#3 said he didn't know what happened until after the come off Towed Owner#1’s boat. Once Passenger#3 saw Victim1 and Towed Owner#1 in the water he jumped in to help them. He helped Victim1 get onto Good Samaritan1's pontoon. While interviewing Passenger#3 I could smell the odor of marijuana. Passenger#3 denied the use of marijuana or any other drugs. 

Passenger#4 Interview 
Passenger#4 stated he was also in the back of the boat looking backwards at the time of the accident and didn't see what happened. He advised they had been on the sandbar and the accident happened when they were leaving. He said he had been drinking on the boat. Since he is under the age of 21 I had him to take Officer #2's PBT and he tested .00. While interviewing Passenger#4 both Officer #2 and I could smell the odor of marijuana. 

I advised Operator1, Passenger#1, Passenger#2, Passenger#3, and Passenger#4 I could smell marijuana coming from their person and from the boat and I asked for consent to search their boat. Operator1 consented to the search of the boat and stated "we don't have any marijuana on the boat." I asked them to sit on the pier with Officer #2 while I searched the boat. During the search I located large amounts of unopened liquor and beer, a large amount of empty alcohol containers and I didn't locate any marijuana. 

Good Samaritan1 Interview
Good Samaritan1 advised he and his wife were towing Towed Owner#1's due to Towed Owner#1 having some mechanical difficulties. Good Samaritan1 stated he saw the Wake Setter headed towards his pontoon but was unable to maneuver out of the way due to towing Towed Owner#1. Since he couldn't avoid the collision he sounded his horn in attempts to get the attention of Operator1. Good Samaritan1 was towing with line attached to his rear starboard cleat so Towed Owner#1's boat was offset to the right of his pontoon. They were driving at a slow speed due to the choppy lake conditions. Good Samaritan1 gave me the name (Witness1) and number of an individual who stopped to check on them and who saw the accident happen. 

Occupant1 Interview
Occupant1 was a passenger on Good Samaritan1's boat and she advised she tried to get Operator1's attention when she noticed he didn't see their boat. 

Occupant2 Interview
Occupant2 was now on Good Samaritan1's boat due to Towed Owner#1's boat starting to take on water after the accident. Occupant2 stated she couldn't see the boat coming due to the pontoon obstructing their view. She advised she was sitting on the driver's side of the boat and was nearly struck by Operator1's boat. She stated the only injury she had was some cuts from when the windshield shattered but didn't need medical attention.  

Towed Owner#1 Interview
Towed Owner#1 advised his boat was having some mechanical issues and Good Samaritan1 offered to tow him back to the boat ramp. They were slowly going across the lake due to the rough wave conditions. Towed Owner#1 was riding on the bow of his boat when the accident happened. He stated he didn't see Operator1's boat coming until it hit Good Samaritan1's boat. He saw the boat coming towards him so he jumped off his boat to avoid being struck. Towed Owner#1 advised he wasn't injured but he was sore from jumping overboard. He advised he didn't need any medical attention.        

Victim1 Interview
Victim1 advised he was sitting in the passenger's seat right behind the windshield when the accident happened. Victim1 stated he saw the bottom of Operator1's boat coming right for him but he was unable to move in time to avoid being struck by the boat. Victim1 said the next thing he remembers is being in the water. Victim1 was complaining of shoulder and knee pain and wanted to go to the hospital to be checked out. Victim1 refused emergency medical treatment and stated Towed Owner#1 was going to drive him to Parkview Whitley. 

I told Towed Owner#1 I would inspect the damages done to his boat at a later time so he could leave and take Victim1 to the hospital. I photographed the damage done to Good Samaritan1's boat and he advised he docked it at Main Channel Marina. I advised Operator1 I needed to have his boat taken out of the water so I could see the damage done to hull. Operator1 advised he didn't have a trailer close but he stored his boat at Main Channel Marina. Officer #2 made arrangements with Main Chann


BARDID: IN-2016-0036
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salamonie Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Andrews
County: Huntington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
ON 8/7/16 AT 1823 HRS, ICO DISPATCH DISPATCHED A BOATING ACCIDENT ON SALAMONIE RESERVOIR AND THE VICTIM WAS AT THE LOST BRIDGE WEST RAMP.  AT 1855 HRS, I ARRIVED AND SPOKE WITH HUNTINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPUTY #1.  DEPUTY #1 INFORMED ME THAT THE VICTIM DECLINED TO BE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL VIA AMBULANCE AND WAS TRANSPORTED VIA PERSONAL VEHICLE.  HE ALSO INFORMED ME THAT THE OTHER INVOLVED INDIVIDUALS WERE IN THE PROCESS OF LOADING THE BOAT.  

I SPOKE WITH THE OCCUPANTS AFTER THEY PULLED OFF THE RAMP INTO PARKING LOT.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT THERE WERE FIVE PEOPLE ON THE BOAT WHILE VICTIM AND TUBER1 WERE BEING PULLED ON A TUBE.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT VICTIM AND TUBER1 FELL OFF THE TUBE AND HE TURNED AROUND TO PICK THEM UP.  HE STATED THAT VICTIM WAS GOING TO GET BACK ON THE TUBE BUT THE BOAT DRIFTED CLOSER TO THEM THAN THE TUBE.  VICTIM THEN TRIED TO BOARD THE BOAT USING THE FOLD DOWN LADDER ON THE RIGHT REAR.

OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT HE THOUGHT VICTIM WAS GOING TO BOARD THE TUBE AND LEFT THE BOAT IN GEAR.  WHEN HE REALIZED HE WAS GOING TO BOARD THE BOAT, OPERATOR#1 ATTEMPTED TO PUT THE BOAT IN NEUTRAL AND WAS UNABLE TO DO SO PRIOR TO VICTIM BEING STRUCK BY THE PROP.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT HE WAS HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE GEAR SHIFT STICKING.

I ALSO SPOKE WITH TUBER1 WHILE SPEAKING WITH OPERATOR#1 AND HE AGREED WITH OPERATOR#1'S STATEMENT.  HE ALSO REITERATED THAT OPERATOR#1 HAD BEEN HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE BOAT ALL DAY.

AFTER GATHERING INFORMATION AT THE SCENE, I ARRIVED AT PARKVIEW HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL AND SPOKE WITH VICTIM.  VICTIM STATED THAT HE AND TUBER1 FELL OFF THE TUBE AND OPERATOR#1 TURNED AROUND TO PICK THEM UP.  HE STATED THAT EITHER THE BOAT DRIFTED TOWARDS HIM OR HE DRIFTED TOWARDS THE BOAT.  HE THEN HEARD HIS AUNT YELL TO LET HIM KNOW THAT THE BOAT WAS DRIFTING CLOSE.  VICTIM STATED HE TURNED AROUND AND SAW THE BOAT.  HE WAS GOING TO PUSH OFF WITH HIS ARMS AND DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH ROOM TO DO SO.  HE THEN BROUGHT HIS FEET UP, TRIED TO KICK AWAY, AND WAS STRUCK BY THE PROP.  HE SUSTAINED LACERATIONS TO HIS LOWER LEFT LEG.

I ALSO SPOKE WITH HIS AUNT.  SHE STATED THAT SHE SAW THE BOAT DRIFTING TOWARDS VICTIM WHO HAD HIS BACK TO THE BOAT AND YELLED AT HIM.  VICTIM TURNED AROUND, KICKED WITH HIS LEGS, AND WAS STRUCK BY THE PROP.  HIS AUNT ALSO STATED THAT OPERATOR#1 HAD BEEN HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE BOAT THAT DAY.  HE WAS HAVING DIFFICULTY GETTING THE BOAT IN NEUTRAL AND KEEPING IT THERE.  SHE SAID SHE THINKS OPERATOR#1 THOUGHT IT WAS IN NEUTRAL AND SHE THINKS IT WAS ACTUALLY IN REVERSE. 

TUBER1 AND VICTIM WERE BOTH WEARING PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES. 

OPERATOR#1 WAS PROVIDED AN INDIANA BOAT OPERATOR'S REPORT FORM.

RESPONDING AGENCIES:

PARKVIEW HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL
MT. ETNA FIRE
ANDREWS POLICE
HUNTINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPT


BARDID: IN-2016-0037
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hudson Lake
NearestCityorTown: New Carlisle
County: LaPorte
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On sunday 8/7/16 at approximately 7:00 a.m. i was notified of a drowning on hudson lake in laporte county.  Conservation officer was en route as well as myself. When i arrived at the scene i discovered the location was south of 8164 lakeshore dr. And was informed it was approx. 100 ft.., from shore.  Looking into the lake i observed a small boat with the anchor deployed with no one in the boat.  Later i found that the boat had an indiana boat registration number of in 2059 df and was owned by the victim.  There were also members of the new carlisle police and fire dept. And e.m.s. service, along with members of the laporte co. Sheriff dept.  I also observed two boats and a red kayak in the vicinity of the unmanned boat. While gathering information the person who occupied the red kayak  motioned that he had visually observed the victim under the water.  After the indication that the victim had been discovered members of the laporte county scuba team went to the location and retrieved the victims body at 8:07 a.m.  

     when the victim was brought into shore i observed that he was wearing a light color t-shirt and white underwear.  I did not observe any obvious injuries on the victim.  The victim was placed into a body bag and the coroner was contacted.  Officer who was one of the scuba divers informed the victim was located in approximately eight ft. Of water in almost a standing position.  I also determined that when the boat was initially discovered the anchor was not deployed and that the first people to contact the boat deployed the anchor, so it would not drift away from the scene.

     i.c.o. had arrived at the scene prior to my arrival.  Officer told me that he had obtained a written statement from the witness and was in possession of the victim's wallet, which contained his identification.  Officer gave me the victim's operator's license, wallet and a tan baseball cap.  Officer also gave me the written statement he had obtained from the witness.

     Witness statement reads as follows, " i seen a man fishing on his boat, he was sitting he slid off the side of boat.  I went and yelled for my son-in-law to tell him a man was in lake drowning.  (My son in law) grabbed life jacket, when we got out to pier i could see his head above water i heard man gasping for air and then he went under.  (My son in law) called 911."

    
     the deputy coroner told me that she did not believe there would be a full autopsy performed on the victim, only a toxicology test.  I asked that she inform when toxicology results were complete or if they decided to do a full autopsy, so that i may attend.

     examination of the boat i discovered there was an orange personal floatation device in the bow (front) under a small bench seat. Towards the back of the boat there was fishing tackle box and a small cooler.  There was one fishing pole laying along the port (left) side. 

     there was no evidence that  drugs or alcohol were a contributing factor.


BARDID: IN-2016-0038
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:07:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Eagle Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Responded to water call out at eagle creek reservoir in reference to a missing paddle boarder.  After a multiple day search, the victim was located deceased.

On 8/12/16 at approximately 2107 hrs, i, indiana conservation officer responded to the area of the 56th street causeway at eagle creek reservoir for a possible missing paddle boarder.  

Upon arrival, i was met by ico and multiple personnel from indianapolis fire department (ifd), pike township fire department (ptfd) and indianapolis metropolitan police department (impd).  I was informed that a subject had went out on his paddleboard from this location at approximately 1630 hrs., and that he had failed to return.  His spouse came to the location to attempt to locate him.  That is when she noticed his paddleboard floating nearby next to shore.  She then called 911 and units responded.  The paddleboard, a red fathom model with the life jacket strapped to it was removed from the area and secured.

I was able to complete an interview of someone who may be the possible victims daughter.  She advised they last had contact with him at approximately 1615 hrs. And he was expected to return home prior to 1930 hrs.  When he had not returned home by 2033 hrs., and text messages were not being returned, they became worried and came to the area in attempt to locate victim.  That is when they located the board and called 911.

Family member1 advised that victim did not have any existing medical issues and was a strong swimmer.  She advised that he occasionally consumed alcohol, but not to excess.  She also advised that he has never not returned home on time.  

Initially, boats from ptfd and ifd were completing a water surface search and personnel from all departments were also completing a shore based search of the area.  After approximately 2 hours of searching, it was determined to suspend the search for the night due to the poor visibility from the night time conditions.  Indiana conservation officers would resume the search the following morning at 0700 hrs.  It was arranged to bring multiple boats, sonar units and divers to search the area.  

At 0700 hrs., on 8/13/16, ico units resumed the search of the area where the paddleboard was located and was the most common area for victim to frequent.  A search of the area was conducted utilizing multiple boats (3) and sonar units (3) focusing on the area where the vessel was located.  While searching unsuccessfully, we expanded the search area due to no last seen point.  

At approximately 1600 hrs., divers deployed to check a possible target located on sonar that was determined to be a tree stump.  After searching all day, it was deemed to suspend the search at approximately 1900 hrs. With the plan to resume the following morning at 0700 hrs.  It was also decided, that members of ptfd would arrive prior to the search resuming to complete a surface and shore search of the area.

On the morning of 8/14/16, at approximately 0620 hrs, i was contacted by lt. and advised that victim was possibly located by ptfd.  Upon arrival on scene, i was met by ptfd fire commander.  He advised that he located what appears to be the back of a human head and shoulders floating in the water approximately 30 yards from shore and within 100 yards of where the paddleboard was located.  

At approximately 0715 hrs, the marion county coroner's office arrived on scene and advised to remove the body from the water.  Ico units utilizing a boat then removed the victim and placed him in a body bag.  It was then decided to take the body across the reservoir to the dandy trail boat ramp to relay the body to the coroner's office due to family arriving on scene. The deputy coroner then obtained photos of victim and was able to get a positive id from family members.  The body was then transported to the coroner's office.

On 8/15/16 at 0800 hrs., i attended the autopsy at the marion county coroner's office.  Upon beginning, i was notified that the body was not properly refrigerated since the previous day.  Due to this, the pathologist advised that due to decomposition of the organs, a contributing cause of death was not going to be able to be determined.  The pathologist was able to determine that the cause of death was asphyxia due to drowning.


BARDID: IN-2016-0039
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Fishers
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
ON JULY 30,2016, I, CONSERVATION OFFICER #1, RECEIVED A CALL FROM ICO CENTRAL DISPATCH ABOUT A BOAT CRASH THAT OCCURRED ON GEIST RESERVOIR INVOLVING INJURY TO ONE PERSON.  THE INJURED PARTY, LATER IDENTIFIED A VICTIM1, WAS BEING TRANSPORTED TO THE GEIST MARINA BY A BOAT.  
	
	I RESPONDED TO THE MARINA WHERE THE PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (PWC) INVOLVED IN THE CRASH WAS BEING DRIVER UP BY A GOOD SAMARITAN, #1.  THE VICTIM AND WAS BEING DRIVEN UP ON A RENTAL BOAT BY ANOTHER GOOD SAMARITAN, #2.  FISHERS FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL BEGAN TO TREAT VICTIM1 FOR HER INJURIES. WHILE I SPOKE TO THE PASSENGER ON THE PWC, PASSENGER#1.

	PASSENGER#1 TOLD ME THAT HE WAS RIDING ON THE BACK OF THE PWC WITH HIS AUNT, VICTIM1, OPERATING.  THEY WERE GOING VERY FAST WHEN THEY SAW A LARGE WAVE COMING AT THEM.  PASSENGER#1 TOLD ME THAT HIS AUNT TRIED TO SLOW DOWN, BUT WHEN THEY HIT THE WAVE IT EJECTED THEM BOTH OFF THE PWC.  PASSENGER#1 TOLD ME HIS AUNT WAS HURT BADLY AND ALL HE COULD DO WAS CLIMB UP ON THE PWC AND FLAG DOWN HELP.

	PASSENGER#1 WAS TRANSPORTED ST. VINCENT'S HOSPITAL.  I RESPONDED TO THE HOSPITAL, AND SPOKE TO VICTIM1.  VICTIM1 TOLD ME THE SAME THING AS PASSENGER#1.  SHE EXPLAIN THAT SHE SLOWED FOR THE WAVE, TRIED TO AVOID IT, BUT WAS UNABLE TO AVOID HITTING THE WAVE.  WHEN THEY HIT THE WAVE BOTH WERE THROWN FROM THE PWC AND HIT HER LEG ON THE HANDLEBAR.  DOCTORS CONFIRMED THAT VICTIM1 HAD BROKEN HER RIGHT FEMUR.


BARDID: IN-2016-0040
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
ON SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2016, AT APPROXIMATELY 1830 HOURS, A BLUE YAMAHA JET SKI, INxxxxxx, OPERATED BY OPERATOR#1 COLLIDED INTO THE PORT BOW QUARTER OF A GREEN YAMAHA JET SKI, INxxxxxx, BEING OPERATED BY OPERATOR#2. OPERATOR#1 AND OCCUPANT#1, THE PASSENGER ON THE GREEN YAMAHA WERE UNINJURED BUT OPERATOR#2 RECEIVED A LACERATED LEFT EAR AND A BROKEN LEFT FOREARM FROM THE COLLISION. BOTH JET SKIS WERE RENTED FROM LAKE MONROE BOAT RENTALS. OPERATOR#2 AND PASSENGER#1 WERE TRANSPORTED BY A PASSING BOAT TO THE PAYNETOWN BOAT RAMP WHERE I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1, BLOOMINGTON FIRE UNITS AND IU HEALTH EMS UNITS WERE WAITING. 

I TOOK A STATEMENT FROM ALL THREE SUBJECTS AND NOTIFIED LAKE MONROE BOAT RENTALS TO RETRIEVE THE JET SKIS FROM THE WATER. I TOOK ALL THREE SUBJECTS CONTACT INFORMATION. OPERATOR#2 WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A DRIVER'S LICENSE AND ADVISED IT WAS IN A FRIEND'S VEHICLE AT THE RENTAL PARKING LOT.  I DOCUMENTED THE DAMAGE TO THE GREEN YAMAHA AND OPERATOR#2 WAS TRANSPORTED TO IU HEALTH BLOOMINGTON.

I INTERVIEWED THE REST OF THE GROUP THAT RENTED THE JET SKIS AND THEY CONFIRMED THE DETAILS OF THE ACCIDENT. I WAS UNABLE TO FIND A DRIVER'S LICENSE FOR OPERATOR#2 BUT DID FIND A CREDIT CARD IN HIS NAME. I WAS INFORMED BY THE GROUP THAT OPERATOR#2 DID NOT HAVE A US OR INTERNATIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE. I SPOKE TO THE MANAGER'S AT LAKE MONROE BOAT RENTALS AND THEY ADVISED THAT OPERATOR#2 HAD NOT SIGNED THE LIABILITY RELEASE AND WAS NOT SUPPOSED TO BE OPERATING THE JET SKI.

I HAD DISPATCH DOUBLE CHECK FOR A LICENSE RETURN FOR OPERATOR#2 AND NONE WAS FOUND. I CITED OPERATOR#2 FOR OPERATING WITHOUT EVER HAVING POSSESSED A LICENSE, A CLASS C MISDEMEANOR, AND FORWARDED THE REPORT TO THE MONROE COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE.


BARDID: IN-2016-0042
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
ON 8/27/16 I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1 WAS ON BOAT PATROL AT MONROE RESERVOIR IN THE AREA OF ALLENS CREEK WHEN I WAS FLAGGED DOWN BY A BOAT AND ADVISED THEY HAD A PERSON ON BOARD THAT HAD DISLOCATED HIS SHOULDER. I NOTIFIED ICO DISPATCH OF THE SITUATION AND TOLD THEM TO HAVE AN AMBULANCE AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPOND TO THE RENTAL DOCKS AT FOURWINDS. I THEN FOLLOWED THE SUBJECTS TO THE RENTAL DOCKS. UPON OUR ARRIVAL WE WERE MET BY EMS PERSONNEL AND THEY TOOK THE INJURED SUBJECT, IDENTIFIED AS VICTIM1, TO THE AMBULANCE. I SPOKE WITH THE BOAT OPERATOR, OPERATOR#1, AND ASKED HIM WHAT HAD OCCURRED. HE ADVISED THEY WERE TUBING IN THE AREA SOUTH OF MOORES CREEK WHEN VICTIM1 WAS THROWN OFF OF THE TUBE AND DISLOCATED HIS SHOULDER. THEY PICKED HIM UP AND THEN HEADED BACK TOWARD FOURWINDS WHERE THEY SAW ME AND FLAGGED ME DOWN. AFTER OBTAINING OPERATOR#1'S INFORMATION I WENT AND OBTAINED VICTIM1'S INFORMATION. VICTIM1 WAS THEN TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO BLOOMINGTON HOSPITAL.
   NO CHARGES WERE FILED AS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT.


BARDID: IN-2016-0044
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:21:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Snow Lake
NearestCityorTown: Fremont
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
PRELUDE:  ON 09-05-16 AT APPROXIMATELY 2:21 PM VICTIM1 WAS SURF BOARDING BEHIND A MOTORBOAT ON SNOW LAKE WHEN HIS LEFT LEG BENT IN A 90 DEGREE ANGLE AND HE FELL OFF OF THE BOARD.  HE WAS TREATED FOR A BROKEN FEMUR.       

INVOLVED PERSONS:  OPERATOR#1 (OPERATOR), VICTIM1 (VICTIM), OFFICER #1 (OFFICER)   

DETAILS OF INVESTIGATION/INCIDENT:  ON 09-05-16 AT APPROXIMATELY 2:21 PM STEUBEN COUNTY DISPATCH RECEIVED A CALL OF A POSSIBLE BOATING ACCIDENT ON SNOW LAKE AT 340 LN 650BB SNOW LAKE.  DISPATCH WAS ADVISED THAT THE INJURED PERSON WAS AT THEIR BOAT DOCK AND THEY BELIEVED THAT HE HAD DISLOCATED HIS KNEE.  
     WHEN I ARRIVED I SPOKE WITH OPERATOR#1, WHO WAS OPERATING THE BOAT.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT HIS SON AND HIS FRIENDS WERE UP FROM COLLEGE AND THEY WERE SURF BOARDING.  OPERATOR#1 ALSO STATED THAT HIS WIFE AND DAUGHTER WERE ALSO WITH THEM.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT VICTIM1 HAD NEVER DONE IT BEFORE AND WANTED TO TRY IT.  HE STATED VICTIM1 TRIED SEVERAL TIMES AND KEPT FALLING DOWN.  HE STATED VICTIM1 THEN WAS ABLE TO STAND ON THE BOARD FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN FELL OFF AND STARTED SCREAMING IN PAIN.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THEY PICKED HIM UP INTO THE BOAT AND TRANSPORTED HIM TO SHORE TO MEET AN AMBULANCE.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THE INCIDENT OCCURRED APPROXIMATELY 200 YARDS OUT FROM 340 LN 650BB.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THERE WAS NO FAILURE OF EQUIPMENT AND NO INVOLVEMENT OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS.  OPERATOR#1 STATED THAT VICTIM1 WAS WEARING A PFD BUT NOBODY ELSE WAS WEARING ONE.  OPERATOR#1 WAS OPERATING AN ORANGE 2007 CORRECT CRAFT NAUTIQUE 210 WITH REGISTRATION IN xxxx xx.  VICTIM1 WAS TRANSPORTED TO CAMERON HOSPITAL IN ANGOLA BY STEUBEN COUNTY EMS SQUAD 5.  PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE SCENE WERE TAKEN BY ME.
     FREMONT FIRE DEPARTMENT, STEUBEN COUNTY EMS, STEUBEN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, AND FREMONT POLICE DEPARTMENT WERE ALSO ON SCENE. 
     I THEN WENT TO CAMERON HOSPITAL AND SPOKE WITH VICTIM1.  VICTIM1 STATED TO ME THAT HE WAS SURF BOARDING BEHIND THE BOAT.  HE STATED THAT THIS WAS HIS FIRST TIME DOING THIS.  HE STATED HE TRIED IT A FEW TIMES AND KEPT FALLING.  HE STATED HE DID IT AGAIN AND WAS ABLE TO STAND UP FOR ABOUT 3 SECONDS AND THAT IS WHEN HE WATCHED HIS LEFT LEG BEND AT A 90 DEGREE ANGLE AND HE THEN FELL OFF OF THE BOARD AND INTO THE WATER.  HE STATED THE BOAT WAS GOING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH.  VICTIM1 STATED THAT HE HAD SURGERY EARLIER THIS SUMMER FOR A BONE CYST IN HIS FEMUR RIGHT ABOVE HIS LEFT KNEE.  HE WAS NOT SURE IF THIS HAD ANYTHING TO DO WITH HIS INJURY OR NOT.  AT THE TIME THAT I WAS AT THE HOSPITAL THERE WAS NOT AN OFFICIAL DIAGNOSIS YET.  
     ON 09-09-16 AT APPROXIMATELY 12:00 PM I SPOKE WITH VICTIM1 ON THE TELEPHONE.  VICTIM1 STATED THAT HE BROKE HIS FEMUR IN HIS LEFT LEG AND HAD SURGERY ON IT THIS PAST WEDNESDAY(09-07-16).  HE STATED HE WAS IN A HOSPITAL IN INDIANAPOLIS AND MIGHT GET RELEASED TODAY.  I ASKED VICTIM1 IF THE PRIOR SURGERY WITH THE CYST HAD ANYTHING TO DO WITH THE RECENT FEMUR BREAK AND HE SAID THE DOCTOR SAID NO.




MOTIVE: N/A




MODUS OPERANDI (M/O):  N/A




ADDITIONAL LEADS: N/A




ATTACHMENTS:  (1) PHOTOGRAPHS  




CURRENT DISPOSITION:  CLOSED.  SENT TO CPL. DEEM FOR APPROVAL ON 09-09-16.


BARDID: IN-2016-0045
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Salamonie Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Andrews
County: Huntington
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
ON 9/19/2016 AT APPROXIMATELY 4:49 PM I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #1, WAS CONTACTED BY ICO DISPATCH IN REFERENCE TO A BOATING INCIDENT THAT HAD JUST OCCURRED IN HUNTINGTON COUNTY, INDIANA AT THE MAIN BEACH AREA OF SALAMONIE RESERVOIR.  I ARRIVED AT APPROXIMATELY 5:35 PM, AND UPON ARRIVAL I OBSERVED OFFICER #2 TAKING WITNESS STATEMENTS FROM THE PARTIES INVOLVED.  I SPOKE WITH OFFICER #2 WHO ADVISED THAT THE WITNESS STATEMENTS ADVISED THAT BOAT1 WAS OPERATED BY SUBJECT#1 WHO HAD A PASSENGER WITH HIM, SUBJECT#2.  SUBJECT#2 ADVISED THAT WHILE RIDING THE JET SKIS SUBJECT#1 MADE A RIGHT HAND TURN, AND UPON DOING SO THE KILL SWITCH, WHICH WAS HOOKED INTO SUBJECT#1 'S PFD, PULLED OUT CAUSING THE MACHINE TO SHUT DOWN.  BOAT 2, WHICH WAS BEING OPERATED BY SUBJECT#3, THEN COLLIDED WITH BOAT 1.  UPON COLLISION, BOAT 1 STRUCK SUBJECT#1'S SIDE AND WENT OVER BOAT 2.  WITNESS STATEMENTS ADVISED THAT SUBJECT#1 COMPLAINED THAT HIS RIGHT SIDE RIB SECTION WAS HURTING AND THAT IS WHEN EMERGENCY PERSONNEL WAS CONTACTED.
SUBJECT#1 WAS TRANSFERRED TO PARKVIEW HUNTINGTON PRIOR TO MY ARRIVAL TO THE SCENE.  WHILE I WAS AT THE SCENE OFFICER #3 MET WITH SUBJECT#1.  SUBJECT#1 IS SUFFERING FROM A 10TH RIB FRACTURE ON HIS RIGHT SIDE. (OFFICER #3'S REPORT IS ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT)
WHILE SPEAKING WITH SUBJECT#2 I OBSERVED HIS FINGERS TO BE SLIGHTLY SWOLLEN.  I ASKED SUBJECT#2 IF HE WAS INJURED IN THE INCIDENT.  SUBJECT#1 ADVISED THAT HE BELIEVES HE BROKE HIS PINKY, RING, AND MIDDLE FINGERS ON HIS RIGHT HAND.  SUBJECT#2 ALSO HAD A VISIBLE ABRASION ON HIS RIGHT ANKLE, WHEN ASKED ABOUT HIS INJURIES SUBJECT#2 ADVISED THAT HE REFUSED MEDICAL TREATMENT.
I SPOKE WITH SUBJECT#3, OPERATOR OF BOAT 2, ABOUT THE INCIDENT.  SUBJECT#3 ADVISED THAT THEY WERE TRAVELING IN A FAIRLY STRAIGHT LINE AND THAT SUBJECT#1 HAD TURNED IN FRONT OF HIM AND HIS MACHINE STOPPED TOO FAST FOR SUBJECT#3 TO MANEUVER OUT OF THE WAY.  SUBJECT#3 ADVISED THAT HE AND HIS PASSENGER, SUBJECT#4, WERE BOTH NOT INJURED IN THE INCIDENT.
I THEN WENT AND LOCATED THE JET SKIS, WHICH WERE POSITIONED ON THE BEACH.  I IDENTIFIED BOTH OF THE JET SKIS TO BE MULTICOLORED 1995 YAMAHA WAVE-VENTURES.  SUBJECT#3 WAS OPERATING THE ONE WITH AN INDIANA REGISTRATION OF INxxxxxx AND SUBJECT#1 WAS OPERATING THE ONE WITH AND INDIANA REGISTRATION OF INxxxxxx.  BOTH JET SKIS ARE OWNED AND REGISTERED TO OWNER#1.  WHILE LOOKING AT THE JET SKIS I ASKED OWNER#1 IF THERE WAS ANY DAMAGE TO THE JET SKIS.  OWNER#1 ADVISED THAT THERE WAS NO SERIOUS DAMAGE TO EITHER OF THE JET SKIS.  I DID HOWEVER OBSERVE PAINT TRANSFER FROM THE HULL OF BOAT 2 APPEARING TO BE FROM THE GUNWALE OF THE STARBOARD SIDE OF BOAT 1. 

SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT FROM INDANA CONSERVATION OFFICER #3.

ON 9/19/16, AT APPROXIMATELY 16:50, I WAS NOTIFIED OF A PWC ACCIDENT AT THE SALAMONIE RESERVOIR BEACH AREA IN HUNTINGTON COUNTY.  CONSERVATION OFFICER #1 RESPONDED TO THE SCENE TO INVESTIGATE WHILE I WENT TO PARKVIEW HOSPITAL IN HUNTINGTON TO WAIT FOR A SUBJECT WHO WAS BEING TRANSPORTED VIA AMBULANCE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.  
I INTERVIEWED THE ONLY SUBJECT WHO RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT (SUBJECT#1) AND THE RESULTS OF MY INVESTIGATION ARE AS FOLLOWS.
ON 9/19/16, SUBJECT#1 WAS OPERATING A WAVE RUNNER RECENTLY PURCHASED BY HIS MOTHER'S FIANCÉ (OWNER#1) ON SALAMONIE RESERVOIR.  SUBJECT#1 HAD A PASSENGER ON THE WATERCRAFT HE WAS OPERATING NAMED SUBJECT#2.   ADDITIONALLY, ANOTHER PWC OWNED BY OWNER#1 WAS BEING OPERATED BY SUBJECT#3 IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO SUBJECT#1.  SUBJECT#3 WAS RIDING TO THE REAR STARBOARD SIDE OF SUBJECT#1.   
SUBJECT#1 STATED THAT AS HE WAS OPERATING HIS VESSEL, AT SOME POINT THE SAFETY LANYARD THAT WAS CONNECTED TO HIS LIFE JACKET BECAME UNHOOKED CAUSING THE WATERCRAFT TO STALL.  WHEN THE PWC STALLED, THE NOSE DRIFTED TOWARD THE STARBOARD SIDE AND WAS STRUCK BY THE 2ND PWC BEING OPERATED BY SUBJECT#3.  
SUBJECT#1 STATED THAT THE NOSE OF SUBJECT#3 VESSEL STRUCK HIM SOMEWHERE IN THE RIB AREA ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF HIS BODY, THROWING HIM AND HIS PASSENGER (SUBJECT#2) INTO THE WATER AND OVERTURNING THEIR VESSEL.  SUBJECT#3 AND HIS PASSENGER ALONG WITH SUBJECT#2 ALL REFUSED MEDICAL TREATMENT AT THE SCENE. 
I MET SUBJECT#1  AS HE ARRIVED AT THE HOSPITAL ER ENTRANCE AND INTERVIEWED HIM ONCE HE WAS ADMITTED TO A ROOM.  I ASKED SUBJECT#1  IF HE HAD ANY ALCOHOL TO DRINK AND HE RESPONDED NO.  HE ADVISED HE WOULD TAKE A PORTABLE BREATH TEST BUT I HAD NO REASON TO BELIEVE ALCOHOL WAS INVOLVED.  THERE WAS NO ODOR OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BEING EMITTED FROM SUBJECT#1.  SUBJECT#1'S SPEECH SEEMED A BIT SLOW, HOWEVER THE EMT ADVISED ME THAT HE WAS GIVEN QUITE A BIT OF PAIN MEDICATION EN ROUTE TO THE HOSPITAL WHICH MAY CAUSE HIM TO BE A BIT OUT OF IT.  OFFICER #1 INFORMED ME THAT TWO OTHERS INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT AT THE SCENE TOOK BREATH TESTS AND BOTH BLEW .000%.  IT IS MY DETERMINATION THAT ALCOHOL DID NOT PLAY A ROLE IN THIS INCIDENT.  PROBABLE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS APPEAR TO BE RIDER INEXPERIENCE AND FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY.  
ALL PARTIES INVOLVED WERE WEARING USCG APPROVED PFD'S.  THE USE LIKELY PLAYED A ROLE IN LIMITING THE INJURIES SUSTAINED BY SUBJECT#1 AS HE WAS STRUCK DIRECTLY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF HIS BODY.  SUBJECT#1 COMPLAINED OF SORENESS EXTENDING FROM HIS HIP AREA TO HIS SHOULDER ALL ALONG THE RIGHT SIDE OF HIS BODY.  HE COMPLAINED OF PAIN RADIATING AROUND INTO HIS BACK AS WELL FROM THE RIGHT SIDE.   SUBJECT#1 HAS FULL RANGE OF MOTION AND NO SPINAL OR HEAD INJURIES ARE SUSPECTED.  AS OF 2000, I AM WAITING ON RESULTS OF A CT SCAN TO DETERMINE THE EXTENT OF INJURIES SUSTAINED.  
I DETERMINED THAT SUBJECT#1 DID NOT HAVE A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE AND WAS OPERATING THE PWC ILLEGALLY.  I EXPLAINED TO SUBJECT#1 THAT OFFICER #1 WILL BE ISSUING HIM A CITATION FOR OPERATING A PWC WITHOUT A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE.  SUBJECT#1 CLAIMED HE WAS NOT AWARE THAT A DRIVER'S LICENSE WAS REQUIRED TO OPERATE THE WATERCRAFT.  I PROVIDED HIM WITH A BOATING REGULATION GUIDE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE AND ANSWERED A NUMBER OF QUESTIONS REGARDING WATERCRAFT OPERATION REGULATIONS FOR HIM.


BARDID: IN-2016-0046
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dogwood Lake
NearestCityorTown: Montgomery
County: Daviess
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and witness were fishing on dogwood lake, glendale fwa. The boat became lodged on a stump. They were unable to dislodge the boat. The boat began to take on water, both operator and witness swam back to shore near the campground. The next day a search of the area and lake failed to locate the boat.  I searched the area where the boat sank. I am unable to locate the boat or any personal times.


BARDID: IN-2016-0048
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Walnut Creek
NearestCityorTown: Fillmore
County: Putnam
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 AT, OR ABOUT 2112 HOURS, PUTNAM COUNTY SHERIFF'S DISPATCH RECEIVED A 911 CALL IN REFERENCE TO A KAYAKER THAT HAD FLIPPED HIS KAYAK AND NOT BEEN HEARD FROM FOR OVER 30 MINUTES.  PUTNAM COUNTY CONTACTED ICO DISPATCH FOR ASSISTANCE.  LAW ENFORCEMENT AND FIRE PERSONNEL ARRIVED AT APPROXIMATELY 2138 HOURS.  THE CALLER, IDENTIFIED AS WITNESS#1 TOLD FIRST RESPONDERS THAT HE AND VICTIM#1, THE MISSING PERSON, HAD BEEN KAYAKING ON THE BIG WALNUT CREEK WHEN THEY FLIPPED THEIR KAYAKS.  WITNESS#1 STATED THAT HE WAS ABLE TO GET HIS KAYAK TO SHORE AND FLIPPED BACK OVER.  WHILE WITNESS#1 WAS EMPTYING THE WATER FROM HIS KAYAK HE COULD HEAR VICTIM#1 YELLING, BUT COULD NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT HE WAS SAYING.  WITNESS#1 STATED THAT HE WAS ABLE TO GET BACK IN HIS KAYAK AND CONTINUE DOWN THE CREEK TO THEIR PLANNED TAKE OUT LOCATION, BUT NEVER LOCATED VICTIM#1.  WITNESS#1 FILLED OUT A VOLUNTARY STATEMENT AND WAS ALSO ABLE TO SHOW RESCUE PERSONNEL WHERE HE HAD LAST SEEN VICTIM#1.  
          INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICERS, PUTNAM COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT, AND LOCAL FIRE AND RESCUE PERSONNEL SEARCHED FOR VICTIM#1 UNTIL APPROXIMATELY 0200 HOURS ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2016, BUT WERE UNABLE TO LOCATE HIM.  INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICERS RESUMED THE SEARCH LATER THAT MORNING.  VICTIM#1’S KAYAK, DRY BOX, AND FLIP FLOPS WERE LOCATED ALONG THE CREEK, BUT VICTIM#1 REMAINED MISSING.  INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICERS CONTINUED TO SEARCH THE CREEK THE FOLLOWING THREE DAYS, BUT WERE STILL UNABLE TO LOCATE VICTIM#1.
          ON SEPTEMBER 22, 2016, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER CORPORAL#1 AND I WERE SEARCHING THE CREEK BY KAYAK.  AT APPROXIMATELY 1050 HOURS, CORPORAL#1 LOCATED VICTIM#1’S BODY IN A LOG JAM APPROXIMATELY THREE QUARTERS OF A MILE DOWNSTREAM FROM WHERE HE WAS LAST SEEN.  WE WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE BODY FROM THE CREEK WITH ASSISTANCE FROM GREENCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND THE PUTNAM COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE.  THE BODY WAS THEN TRANSPORTED TO TERRE HAUTE REGIONAL HOSPITAL FOR AN AUTOPSY.  
AN AUTOPSY WAS PERFORMED ON SEPTEMBER 23, 2016.  THE PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF THE AUTOPSY SHOWED THAT THE CAUSE OF THE DEATH WAS CONSISTENT WITH DROWNING AND THE MANNER OF DEATH WAS RULED AS ACCIDENTAL.


BARDID: IN-2016-1000
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Raccoon Lake
NearestCityorTown: Rockville
County: Parke
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person strikes propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Details of Investigation/Incident:
     On Monday, May 30, 2016, at or about 1615 hours, victim was struck by the spinning propeller of his pontoon boat. 
     victim had been swimming near his pontoon boat and believed the boat's engine had been shut off. He was in the water when he pushed off of the boat and was struck in the right knee by the propeller. He was brought by family to the Raccoon Lake Boat Rental dock. According to Raccoon State Recreation Security Officer, the victim's family stated they were going to drive him to the Hendricks County Hospital in Danville.
    He stated that he noticed no signs of alcohol on the pontoon boat nor did he detect or believe the victim or family had been using any alcohol at that time. The officer does nto believe the vessel was anchored at the time of incident.


BARDID: IN-2017-0001
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: White River
NearestCityorTown: Seymour
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Dam/lock
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I, indiana conservation officer (ico), was dispatched to a boat going over the rockford dam in jackson county indiana, on february 19, 2017 about 14:08.

I arrived on scene dawned my lifejacket grabbed my throw bag from my commission, and ran toward the stranded boat. There were several local officers on scene upon arrival, several local deputies and isp had pulled the boat toward the bank and began the rescue.

When the two subjects were rescued from the boat by the jackson county sheriff's dept. And turned over to ems, i gathered the boat information, and information from the officers on scene. The two subjects was transported to schneck medical center, by jackson county ems.

I went to schneck medical center to interview the two subjects. Upon interviewing operator he explained that he had turned away from the dam with the bow of the boat pointing away and continued fishing. Operator explained he knew he was getting too close to the dam so he turned the trolling motor speed from 1 to 3. 

After the boat continued toward the dam operator explained that he instructed his wife to start the gas motor. He explained things happened so fast that she could not start the motor in time to recover the boat from going over the dam.

Operator said he had charged the batteries the night before, and didn't know why the trolling motor had lost power. Operator and occupant were not wearing a pfd at the time the boat went over the dam. They put their pfd's on after the boat had went over the dam. The boat was equipped with a fire extinguisher, and a throw able pfd.

I interviewed occupant in a separate hospital room, and she verified the same story that operator had explained. Both were treated and released for mild hypothermia.


BARDID: IN-2017-0002
State: IN
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sullivan Lake
NearestCityorTown: Sullivan
County: Sullivan
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On february 19, 2017, at or about 1526 hours,the sullivan county sheriff's department dispatched me to a boat accident on sullivan lake. At the time it was unknown how many occupants were in the water. I arrived at the main ramp and noticed a bass boat approaching, carrying several individuals. The witness of the bass boat was identified, and he had rescued all the occupants. Subject1, a 12 year old boy with autism, was still panicking. Subject1 was the only person wearing a personal flotation device. Sullivan county ambulance team treated subject1 for hypothermia. 

     i had witness explain what he witnessed. Witness said he was fishing in a cove and noticed a boat swamped in the main channel. Witness said all the occupants were in the water and he immediately responded. Witness was able to pull the four victims safely into his boat. 

     i interviewed operator who reported he was operating the boat. Operator said he was accelerating in the main channel, heading towards the main ramp. Operator said the boat started to take water and he decelerated. Operator said water continued to enter over the bow of the boat. The boat eventually became inoperable and swamped. Operator believed they were in the water for approximately two minutes before being rescued. Operator said there was enough lifejackets inside the boat, but weren't accessible. Operator said he had two passengers riding near the bow of the boat. 

     the boat and possessions were retrieved by a boater and towed to the main ramp. I inspected the 14 foot jon boat and only noticed two type iii personal flotation devices. Subject1 was wearing a pfd. The boat was an older make and i couldn't find a carrying capacity plate. The boat was powered with a 4 horsepower tohatsu outboard. Based on the evidence i determined the cause of the accident was due to an overloaded boat. 

     i spoke to operator again about only finding two lifejackets and he was insistent there was a third lifejacket inside the boat.


BARDID: IN-2017-0003
State: IN
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-02-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fish Lake
NearestCityorTown: LaGrange
County: LaGrange
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
 details of investigation/incident:
    on february 26, 2017 at approximately 6:50 pm i, indiana conservation officer, was contacted by lagrange county sheriff department in regards to two subjects in the water on fish lake. 

     when i arrived to the scene lagrange county sheriff deputies, lagrange county fire department and parkview ems were already on scene. I was advised by deputy that the two subjects had been pulled from the water by a good samaritan later. Witness had returned to his residence to get warm. The two victims that were pulled from the water were later identified. They were flown to parkview regional medical center in fort wayne by samaritan helicopter. 

     i was able to make contact with witness at approximately 7:45 pm 2/26/2017. Witness stated he was getting ready to leave his residence when he heard someone yelling for help from the direction of the lake. Witness got into his kayak and paddled to the main body of water where he witness two subjects in the water. At this point he was able to get operator to grab onto his kayak. While operator grabbed the kayak he was also still holding onto occupant. Witness was able to paddle both subjects towards shore until they were able to touch the bottom of the lake. At this point witness jumped out of his kayak and assisted both operator and occupant to dry land and started administering first aid for hypothermia until first responders arrived shortly after.    
      
    on february 28, 2017 at approximately 3:30pm i made contact with operator. Operator explained to me that on the evening of the incident he and his girlfriend decided to take a canoe out on the lake for an evening paddle. They left from the occupant residence, paddled to the main body of water and was going to turn around when occupant leaned too far to one side causing the canoe to capsize. As a result of the capsized canoe both operator and occupant were now in the 46° f water. Operator was able to grab a loose personal flotation device more commonly known as a life jacket. Operator stated there were two life jackets in the canoe at the time of the incident but was unable to retrieve the second one in time. As operator held onto the life jacket he was able to acquire he also held on to occupant keeping her afloat. During this time both operator and occupant started yelling for help. At this point witness paddled out and assisted them to shore. 

    also on february 28, 2017 at approximately 4:00 pm i made contact with occupant at her residence. When occupant explained what happened to me on the night of 2/26/2017 her story matched what operator had stated. Both individuals admitted to having consumed alcoholic beverages in the amount on one glass of wine each.


