# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: MD-2019-0106
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:22:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wicomico River-Main Stem
NearestCityorTown: Salisbury
County: Wicomico
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3,2019 at approximately 0924 p.m. hours Cpl. and I, Off. with the Maryland Natural Resources Police were patrolling the Wicomico River in the area of the Port of Salisbury. While monitoring the radio we heard Wicomico Central alert Salisbury Fire and Ems for a boating accident.  Upon arrival, I made contact with unknown individuals in a white in color pleasure vessel, who advised that they observed a vessel hit the dock and were attempting to locate two unknown males that were ejected from the vessel. 

Cpl and I began searching the area using a grid pattern. I also observed a vessel bearing Maryland registration MD 3459 CT with heavy bow to starboard side damage in the boat dock. I could also smell a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from the vessel. While conducting the search, we observed a male subject board the suspect vessel. Upon making contact with the subject, he identified himself and advised he was the owner and operator of the vessel.  

I was also able to verify Operator's identity by his driver’s license. Operator advised he and his friends were headed back to the Port of Salisbury when his vessel ran out of fuel. Operator advised he was able to get a ride and retrieve fuel for his vessel. Operator advised when he was able to get underway, it was dark and he had very little experience operating a vessel. Operator advised he did not see the dock until it was too late.  Operator advised he was going approximately 10-15 knots and had 6 individuals on board including himself. Operator advised three individuals were ejected from the vessel and one had been recovered. 

Operator advised two were still missing. Operator advised the other individuals were all accounted for.  While speaking with Operator, I could smell the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath and person. I also observed Operator eyes to be glassy and bloodshot. At 2154 Operator board NRP vessel 875 and was detained. Operator was handcuffed in the front and equipped with a PFD. While securing Operator with a PFD, I could still smell the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath and person. Operator was transferred to another dock where custody of Operator was transferred to Wicomico County Sheriff's Deputy, to await the arrival of Sgt..  Cpl. and I continued searching down river using surface scan and side scan in a grid pattern with negative results. At 2321 we made contact with Fire Department Command, who advised their dive team had recovered both subjects at N 38 20.411 - W 75 39.976. I took custody of both subjects and assisted with transporting to the Upper Ferry. Upon arrival, both subjects where placed into a post mortem bag and secured inside an Allen Fire Department ambulance. 

An inventory of the vessel was completed and found to have all required Coast Guard equipment and 8 PFD's on board. At 0308 the investigation on the vessel was completed. At 0322 the vessel was secured at the Port of Salisbury  On Saturday, August 3rd, 2019 at around 2200hrs,  I, Ofc.,  was requested to assist with a boat accident that had occurred in Wicomico County.  Upon arrival, Salisbury Fire Company and Cpl., Ofc. and Cpl. were attempting to locate to missing male subjects in the water.  The two subjects were eventually located and recovered.  At this point, I transported the operator of the vessel to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) for a mandatory blood test.  We arrived at PRMC and I read him The Advise of Rights Form.  He also read over the form and signed his name giving consent for the test.  

Initial reports, according to witnesses, stated that the operator of the vessel was operating the 20ft Bayliner vessel (MD 3459 CT).  While operating at night, he did not see an unlit pier in the water.  Operator attempted evasive actions; however, the vessel collided with a wooden pier.  The pier is privately owned by the community, Village Down River.  The three subjects in the rear of the vessel were ejected from the vessel.  One was recovered from the water, but they could not locate the other two.  Two were sitting in the front of the boat and sustained non-life threatening injuries and were transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center for Treatment. 

The operator stated that he consumed approximately 3 beers from 1630 hours to the time of the incident.  Multiple alcoholic beverage containers were located on the vessel.  Sgt. put Operator through Standardized Field Sobriety Testing.  Once completed, Operator was transported to PRMC by OFC and had a Blood Test completed by the nursing staff.


BARDID: MD-2019-0107
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 205 Somerset St/Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, August 04, 2019 at approximately 1444 hours, I (Cpl.  of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) was dispatched to slip at White Marlin Marina, located at 205 Somerset Street, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland in reference to a property damage boat accident.

    Upon my arrival, I met with the owner of the sportfishing vessel "SUSHI".  Subject advised that his vessel had been docked in its slip and was struck in the bow by a rental pontoon boat from OC Bayside Boat Rentals, which was located at the next marina over.  He advised that the operator of the vessel had been argumentative and had not stayed on the scene, but had provided contact information to him.  He advised that the operator was en route back to the marina at that time.  

    Subject showed me the damage and provided me with a photograph he'd taken.  I observed the damage to be to the bow of the vessel.  The construction of the hull was fiberglass over wood.  I could see that the damage had caused the fiberglass cloth to be completely removed from the point of impact and the wood was exposed.  I further observed gouging in the wood.  It was clear that the integrity of the vessel's hull at that point had been compromised and would allow water into the wood.  Subject further stated that he was the designer and builder of the vessel "SUSHI" and that the damage would require extensive repair.  He detailed that the boat would have to be hauled out, placed in a special building, the site of the damage would have to be excavated and cleaned, and then properly repaired and painted.  He estimated that the total cost could be as much as $15,000.00.  I collected the necessary information from Subject regarding his vessel and awaited the operator of the striking vessel's arrival.

    Upon his arrival at the marina, I met with the operator of the striking vessel.  Operator1 stated that he had rented a pontoon boat from OC Bayside rentals and was trying to get the boat back after the rain started.  He stated that he'd been in a hurry and had pulled into the wrong marina, and had attempted to turn around and exit the marina, striking the vessel "SUSHI."  He stated, "I did not hit it that hard, he's just looking for a payday."  Operator1 was argumentative and arrogant.  He also stated, "my attorney will take care of all of this."  

    I then went to OC Bayside and met with an employee at that location who had witnessed the accident.  Witness stated that Operator1 had come "flying into" the wrong marina in the rain and had tried to turn around very quickly to exit.  He advised that, when Operator1 did so, he struck the "SUSHI" with the port side rail of the pontoon boat.  He stated that he struck the vessel, "pretty hard."  I asked him if I could see the pontoon boat and he said I could.  I observed it to be a 2001 Sun Tracker 24 foot pontoon boat bearing Maryland registration 9613LA.  I was able to observe significant damage to the port side rail, slightly abaft the beam of the vessel.  I observed there to be a dent in the railing that had caused a rivet to pop,  I also observed plywood and fiberglass fragments on the railing below the damage as well as wedged under a piece of structural diamond plate aluminum.  Based on these observations it was clear to me that the striking vessel was operating forward propulsion at the time of impact.

    Due to my technical difficulties, I was unable to issue a citation on the scene.  Operator1 will be issued a Maryland Natural Resources Citation for Unsafe Speed for Conditions and it will be mailed to him via certified mail.  

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


BARDID: MD-2019-0109
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:11:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/24/2019 at 1911 hours, I, Cpl. with the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was on marine patrol of Deep Creek Lake and made aware of a boat accident involving two personal watercraft (PWC). The vessel accident occurred on the main body of Deep Creek Lake south of the Glendale bridge, adjacent to the Holy Cross development. The two vessels involved were part of a group of seven PWCs rented from the Aquatic Center. Officer and I activated our emergency equipment and were quickly on scene of the accident. At our arrival, both operators from the two involved PWCs were uninjured. The striking vessel was still operational at that time. The victim PWC was partially submerged in the lake, with a gaping hole in the starboard side of the vessel and un-operational. Officer secured the sinking PWC to his vessel with a line while DNR Communications contacted the Aquatic Center for their assistance to retrieve their vessel and remove it from the lake. I escorted the remaining six PWCs back to the Aquatic Center where they could be evaluated and information gathered.

     After the group arrived at the Aquatic Center and returned the remaining PWCs, I had them all take another self-examination for any injuries since the adrenaline of the accident had begun to wear off. All parties involved insisted they were unharmed and refused any medical evaluation. Only one additional rider in the rental group witnessed the accident, as she was talking to Operator2 at the time it occurred. 

Operator1, Operator2 and Witness sat at a nearby picnic table and described the accident to me. Operator2 advised her PWC was slowly circling to the left as she was twisted facing backwards to talk to Witness on her nearby PWC. 

Operator2 heard a loud noise and turned forward again on her PWC to see Operator1 bearing down on the starboard side of her PWC at a high rate of speed. Operator2 advised she froze and didn't have enough time to move out of the way and Operator1 advised that he panicked and released the throttle several boat lengths away but the PWC continued to travel in the same direction at a significant speed. 

Operator1 hit the forward starboard side hull of Operator2's PWC and immediately put a hole in the hole approximately 18 inches in diameter. Operator2 was thrown from her PWC but uninjured. Operator1 sustained significant damage to the bow of his PWC along with a significant crack in the hull from bow to stern, also thrown from his PWC by the impact. 

Operator2's PWC immediately began taking on water, bobbing with it's stern in the air at my arrival. Operator1 advised he was going much faster than six knots within 100 feet of Operator2's vessel and that he was inexperienced with operating a PWC, as this was his first ride. Operator2 advised she was also inexperienced with operating a PWC and had less than 10 hours operating experience.

     Operator2's PWC was towed by the Aquatic Center staff to the Deep Creek Lake State Park boat ramp where it was later removed by the company. Operator1's vessel was escorted by the officer back to the Aquatic Center where it was trailered from the lake for further inspection of damages. Once Operator1's vessel was removed from the lake, you could see the extent of the hull damage below the waterline from the stress cracks. Both PWCs were declared totaled by the Aquatic Center with replacement costs totaling $11298.00. Witness ultimately purchased the PWC bearing MD registration MD 1891 LB from the Aquatic Center.

    Operator1 was charged with Operating a PWC > 6knots within 100' of a vessel (MR 08.18.02.05L)

    All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0110
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Isle of Wight Harbor/Rt 90 Bri
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 30, 2019 at 1800 hours I, Officer responded to Atlantic General Hospital located at 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, MD for a vessel accident after the fact.  Upon arrival I made contact with the operator of the vessel. Operator Stated the following.

    Operator stated that on August 30, 2019 at approximately 1630 hours he was operating a 2019 Kawasaki STX 15F jet ski in the Isle of Wight Bay.  Operator stated that he was traveling north on the jet ski toward the route 90 bridge.  Operator stated that there was moderate boat traffic in the area, but stated the conditions were very choppy.  Operator stated that he was traveling at approximately 55-60 MPH when he turned the jet ski in a westerly direction.  Operator stated that as he turned the jet ski, he entered a trough of a swell.  Operator stated he was parallel to the crest of the swell.  Operator stated that the crest of the swell caused the jet ski to begin to roll, which caused him to be ejected off the jet ski.  Operator stated that as he was being ejected from the jet ski he hit his chin causing an injury to his mouth.  Operator stated that once he was in the water he was in the path the jet ski as it was being pushed by the wind, current and swells toward him.  Operator stated that due to the conditions the jet ski struck him in the head.  Operator stated that he never lost conscious from either time he was struck in the head.  Operator stated he was able to remount the jet ski and returned back to Bayside Boat Rental located at 5307 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland.  Operator stated that once back on shore he realized he had a laceration in his mouth and had a headache so he sought medical attention.  Operator transported himself to Atlantic General Hospital.  Operator stated also stated that there was no damage to the jet ski he was operating or any other vessel or property.

    Operator did receive several stiches in the inside of his mouth and diagnosed with a concussion.  These injuries were non life threatening, and Operator was released from the Hospital. 

    Operator stated that he has been operating jet skis since he was a child and had well over 500 hours of experience.  Operator stated that he was wearing his life jacket at the time of the incident.  Operator stated that when he was ejected from the jet ski, the engine kill switch engaged and worked properly.  Operator stated that he did check the weather forecast prior to his voyage

    On August 31, 2019 at 1130 hours I was able to make contact with on of the owners of Bayside Boat Rental.  The owner confirmed that the jet ski Operator was operating was not damaged, and there was not any damage to any other vessel or property.  The Owner provided my the information of the jet ski that Operator was operating.  The jet ski was a 2019 Kawasaki STX 15F Maryland registration MD9280LB.

    In conclusion the combination of speed and the rough conditions was a contributing factor to this accident.  Also, Operator having numerous hours of jet ski operation may have been overconfident in his ability to maintain control of the jet ski in the conditions and speed at which he was traveling.  Since the only injury was to Operator and no other damage was done, I will not be levying any charges against Operator.  Further I am noting that Operator was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of this accident.


BARDID: MD-2019-0111
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 31, 2019, at approximately 2225 hours, I, Corporal, was dispatched to respond to Garrett Regional Medical Center in reference to a subject being treated for an injury caused while boating.  I arrived at the hospital emergency room at approximately 2300 hours, and made contact with the victim.  Victim acknowledged that he had been injured while on a boat, and that he was able to speak with me.

     Victim stated that he had been staying with friends in the area of Paradise Ridge, when an unidentified man with an unidentified personal watercraft stated to the group that anyone may operate the personal watercraft if they wish.  Victim stated that at approximately 1730 hours, he got onto the personal watercraft, donned a personal flotation device, and left the area of Four Hoop Pole, toward the southern main body of Deep Creek Lake.  Once out in the open area of the lake, Victim stated that he was traveling North at approximately 40 miles per hour in a straight line, when he suddenly encountered a large wake.  As Victim struck the wake, he was thrown forward on his vessel, causing him to strike the handle bar area with his ribs.  Victim stated he felt that the wind had been knocked out of him, and he took a minute to catch his breath before boarding the vessel once again.  Victim returned straight back to the dock he had left earlier, and tied the vessel up.  Victim stated that his young daughter was on the shore as he arrived, so he didn't say anything about being injured.  Victim stated that he didn't say anything to the man who let him operate the vessel, and could not describe him or the vessel when asked.
  
     Victim bore a strong odor of alcohol on his person as he spoke to me, and his eyes were found to be rather bloodshot. When questioned, Victim stated that he had consumed two beers prior to the incident on the lake, but that he had consumed a lot of alcohol after the injury in an attempt to numb the pain.  Victim's wife eventually convinced him to go the hospital, and transported him via personal vehicle.  Victim stated that hospital staff had x-rayed him prior to my arrival, but had not returned with the results as of yet. Victim stated that he had completed a Boater Safety course several years ago, and had quite a bit of experience operating traditional vessels in his life, but very little experience on a personal watercraft.  Victim stated that he was the sole occupant of the vessel at the time of the incident, and that there were no witnesses he was aware of.

     Victim was issued one written warning for a violation of the Inland Navigation Rules of the Road (Fail to operate at a safe speed).

     All these events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0112
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River Dam 5/River Bend
NearestCityorTown: Clear Springs
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2019 at approximately 1527 hours; I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded with Officer to a boating accident on the Potomac River above Dam Number 5 at Four Locks.  When I arrived on scene the boat that was struck was docked at the River Bend on the West Virginia bank of the Potomac River.  A few individuals waved us down and I asked if everyone was alright and if medical attention was needed and everyone said no medical attention was needed.  An individual pointed down river and said the boat that hit his was sinking and trying to get back to the Four Locks boat ramp.  I rode down river to find that vessel being towed to the ramp by another citizen's boat.  There was an individual on the vessel being towed that was using a bucket to throw water out of the vessel.  When the vessel arrived at the boat ramp the vessel sank to the bottom, but was then recovered by a truck wench and pulled onto the ramp. 

I interviewed both operators of the vessels and witnesses of the accident at this time. 

The first individual, operator1 is the individual who was operating the vessel (white 1977 Tidecraft, UK, MD 5575AB, HIN: TDC08703M77F1) that struck the second vessel. Operator1 stated that he was working on his boat when it took off out of nowhere and struck another vessel.  But after my investigation I found that Operator1 was coming down river at a high rate of speed and failed to avoid collision with the second vessel.  Operator1's vessel struck the back left side of the second vessel.  Operator1's vessel resulted in two major holes in the front right side of the vessel.  Operator1 had a scratch on the top right side of his head and was examined by EMS.  Operator1 then continued down river without stopping or speaking to anyone on the second vessel.  Operator1 was found to be operating under the influence of alcohol and charged appropriately by Officer.

The second individual was operating the vessel (blue 2016 Tracker Marine, 18 DLX Party Barge, MD 3372CS, HIN: BUJ10617I516) that was struck from behind.  Operator2 was going back to dock his vessel and take it off the river when he saw Operator1's vessel coming straight at him.  Operator2 was not able to move his vessel before being struck in the back left side by Operator1.  Operator2, and the others on board, were not injured.  Operator2 was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.


All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0113
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Anchor Marina
NearestCityorTown: North East
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/14/2019 at approximately 1345 hrs., I OFC received a call from DNR communications in reference to a property damage only boating accident that occurred on Saturday 8/10/2019.

    I made contact with the complainant by phone. He said that his vessel was docked overnight on a floating dock at Anchor Marina in North East, MD. While he and his wife were sleeping on their 33' Donzi ZX, another vessel (bass boat) struck their vessel in the bow around 5:00am on Saturday 8/10/19 waking them up. 

Subject said that he made contact with the operator of the other/striking vessel, which has a Delaware registration DL 1607W,  The operator of the other vessel was not cooperative and refused to give his insurance information. 

     Due to the victim living out of state and the operator of the striking being recently identified, there is not enough information available at this time to complete a full boat accident report. It will be completed once the necessary information is gathered from both parties and a supplement will be added.. This investigation is on going. All events occurred in Cecil County, MD.

Operator2 stated that he had just launched his vessel. He was operating his vessel in North East Harbor by his trolling motor which is located in the bow. The outboard on the stern was not running at the time of the incident. He said that he was maneuvering his vessel with the trolling motor and did back into the vessel docked at the floating pier. He said his outboard motor did strike the bow of the Donzi. He does not believe that his motor did any damage to the other vessel. Operator2 did give his name to the victim but no other information. Operator2 did send me the his personal and vessel information on 08/28/19 as requested.

It has been determined that Operator2 did back into the bow of vessel striking it with the outboard motor. As a result Operator2 is being cited with a rules of the road violation. Rule 5 -Look out.  Operator2 did fail to maintain a proper look out. A warning was issued for not giving all the information at the time of the boat accident. All events occurred in Cecil County.


BARDID: MD-2019-0114
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:27:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake/Stump Point
NearestCityorTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/26/2019 at approximately 1511 hrs, I, Officer with Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from another Natural Resources Police officer about a boat accident, property damage only, with a rental boat from Bill's Marine service located on 20721 Garrett Highway, Oakland, Maryland 21550.

    When I arrived on scene,I reviewed the copy of the rental agreement, and spoke with owner of Bill's Marine Service, who informed me that the boat was being towed from Stump point back to the dock and would be pulled up on a trailer to view the damages. The family who had rented the boat was still at the docks. 

    I approached the family and spoke with Operator, who I later identified through his Driver's License. Operator had signed the rental agreement and told me that he was the operator of the boat at the time of the accident. I asked him and his family if anyone was hurt, to which they replied and said no. There were six people on board at the time of the accident. I then asked to speak with everyone on-board the boat and to get their information for my report.

Operator informed me that they were coming back from the dam heading back towards Bill's traveling between 20-25 knots when they heard and felt a bang and the boat shut off. I asked if they saw the danger buoy's to which they replied they saw them but they were to the right of the boat and they thought that only the area around the buoy's was dangerous. 

Stump point is clearly marked with five danger buoy's, blocking a section of the lake that has shallow water and numerous stumps. In order to safely navigate through that section the Operator's should have had the danger buoys on the left of their boat instead of the right. 

Operator was grandfathered into the boater safety requirement due to his age and he told me that he had driven a boat a long time ago, but it had been a while. Operator and his family stated that they had a hard time seeing the buoys. The weather was a little cloudy and the wind was traveling from South South East at approximately 12 mph, which would have created a head wind for the Operators. Visibility was clear for up to 10 miles. 

Operator and his family had rented a 2018 Crownline 18 SS speed boat Maryland registration MD 1717 LB with a Mercury Crusier inboard engine serial number 2A581250. When the boat arrived at the docks and was pulled up on the trailer the whole lower unit was sheared off from the back of the boat. There were also scratches along the bottom hull of the boat. 

Pictures were taken and are attached to this report. 

There are two separate estimates for repairs. 
Retail value is estimated at $8,238.07 including parts and labor.
Cost value is estimated at $5,516.00 including parts and labor. 

Copies of both estimates are attached to this report. 

I then issued Operator a Citation for Negilent Operation. Which he then tried to tell me that he was not the operator, after he had told me twice earlier that he was. He then said again that he was and received the citation. 

All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland. 

When contacted on 08/27/2019 to complete the boat accident form, Operator refused to speak with me and told me that he thought that if he stepped up and said he was operating he could protect his kids. I asked again if he was the operator, which he would not give me a clear answer. He stated that someone was driving the boat and that he felt it was sly on my part to give him a citation, after he was already having to pay to fix the damage. He also informed me how disgusted he was with me and how I handled the situation, then refused to talk with me anymore, and told me to speak to his lawyer and hung up the phone.


BARDID: MD-2019-0115
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River/National Harbor
NearestCityorTown: Oxon Hill
County: Prince Georges
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
n August 24, 2019 at approximately 2225 hours I, Ofc was notified by the Department of Natural Resources Police of a vessel taking on water in the area of the National Harbor. When I arrived on scene I observed a 34' white in color Formula that appeared to have run aground with 5 people on board. I made contact with the people on board and was advised that nobody was injured and that they all are wearing life jackets. I attempted to pull my patrol vessel alongside the sinking vessel but was unable to do so due to the water depth of 1.8 feet of water.

Prince Georges County EMS arrived on scene and were able to come along side the vessel and safely transfer all 5 people on board back to the dock. When I arrived back to the dock United States Coast Guard was on scene as well. I then made contact with ( Vessel Operator/Owner) and (CO-Owner). 

Operator advised me that he was heading back to the dock, following the channel correctly and all of a sudden the motors on his vessel cutout. At that time he began to drift towards shallow water and heard a cracking sound as if his vessel had hit a rock or submerged object. One of the passengers on board noticed that the lower level of the vessel was filling up with water. Operator advised he opened up the hatch to the engine compartment and it had about one foot of water inside of it.

Operator attempted to have vessel removed via commercial assistance; however, his insurance company did not have a contract with a towing company. US. Coast Guard advised that the vessel can be left overnight if it was anchored and the proper navigations lights where turned on. Operator advised he put the anchor out and the navigation lights were left on.

I spoke with Operator, and co-owner at approximately 1110 hours on August 25, 2019 and they advised that they were making efforts to get the vessel removed in a timely fashion.

All events occurred in Prince Georges County Md.


BARDID: MD-2019-0116
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/31/2019 around 1030 hours, I, Cpl. with the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was made aware of an injured person at Garrett Regional Medical Center that had been involved in a boat accident. I arrived at Garrett Regional Medical Center shortly after the call was dispatched and met with the family involved in the single vessel accident on Deep Creek Lake. 

Victim was in a head collar lying immobile on the hospital bed and had no memory of the accident or being on the vessel that morning. Victim's father was the operator of the vessel and the only occupant aside from the victim. Operator advised that he and Victim had just picked up their rental vessel from Bill's Marine in the main body of the lake for their one day rental (their personal vessel was in the repair shop). 

Operator was seated in the operator's position and his son Victim was seated in the forward center seat of the bow, facing the stern and Operator. Operator said he has over 100 hours of operating experience and is overly cautious when operating near the bridge spans or in areas of congested traffic. Operator said he had operated the vessel at minimum wake under the far eastern span of the 219 bridge, heading north towards McHenry cove and their home. 

As Operator passed under the 219 bridge, he picked up the vessel speed to approximately 10 knots. Operator said at the moment he began to throttle up, he noticed a Wakesetter boat heading south underneath the center span of the 219 bridge with what appeared to be a full ballast, as it was throwing a three foot tall wake. Operator said he didn't have the space to maneuver away from the large wake or the speed to turn 90 degrees into the wake to avoid being rocked. Operator attempted to turn as far to port as he could, but only succeeded in meeting the wake at an angle, causing the vessel to rock violently from side to side.

     Operator was thrown from the operator seat onto the passenger chair and floor, while his son Victim was thrown side to side in the bow, striking multiple surfaces until the vessel stopped rocking. Operator immediately noticed the injury to Victim's head and the blood spatter and quickly operated back to their home in McHenry for transport to Garrett Regional Medical Center. Operator said that Victim was looking back towards the stern and there wasn't time to warn him to hang on or prepare himself for the large wake.

 Operator also said the Wakesetter boat did not stop and he doesn't believe they were aware of the damage their large wake had caused. Operator said that if he had been operating at a faster speed he may have been able to turn sharply enough to 90 degrees to cross the wake more gently, but did not have time. 

    I was contacted later by the family via cell phone and told that Victim had suffered a head abrasion requiring stitches, a concussion and several compression fractures in his vertebrae. I made the arrangements for Bill's Marine to retrieve their vessel so the family wouldn't need to leave the hospital, Bill's Marine advised the vessel was operational with no mechanical problems or physical defects.

    No charges were filed against the vessel operator.

     All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0117
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patuxent River/N of Broomes Is
NearestCityorTown: Solomons
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1
MD 6911 CH
2000, 18’7” May-Craft 18 Center Console, Fiberglass Hull, Outboard Motor (Evinrude 115 horsepower)

Vessel #2
MD 1358 B
1993, 26’ C-Hawk 26 Center Console, Fiberglass Hull, Outboard Motor (Evinrude 225 horsepower) 

On August 17, 2019 at approximately 10:40 am I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a report of a vessel collision on the Patuxent River. Upon my arrival, Solomons Fire and Rescue Squad had one individual, later identified as the owner/operator of vessel 1 loaded into an ambulance. I proceeded to gather Operator1’s information from the ambulance crew. Once my information gathering was completed Operator1 was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital for treatment of a laceration to his right knee. Operator1 stated that his vessel was being transported to his residence.

Next I spoke to the owner/operator of Vessel #2. He advised that he had 4 other persons aboard the vessel at the time of the accident. 

I received written statements from all three of the adults aboard Vessel #2 (see attached). Photos were taken of Vessel #2 at the Solomons Boat Ramp, while it was on a trailer, also attached to this report. The vessel was being transported to McCreay’s Boat Yard located at 23420 South Patuxent Beach Road California, MD 20619.

Sergeant of the Maryland Natural Resources Police met Operator1 at the hospital to get his statement regarding the accident. I then cleared Solomons Boat ramp and proceeded to take photos of Vessel #1 which are attached to this report.

All parties involved have given the same sequence of events.

Vessel #2 was coming around Red Day Marker 6a keeping it to the starboard side of the vessel, headed in a north-west direction. Vessel #1 was headed from the Thomas Johnson Bridge towards Red Day Marker 6a in a south-east direction in the channel. Vessel #2 noticed that Vessel #1 started to turn toward the port side and head directly towards them. In an effort to try and avoid a collision Vessel #2 attempted to turn further to the starboard side, however Vessel #1 kept turning towards Vessel #2. The collision happened when Vessel #1’s port bow side struck the port side of Vessel #2. Causing the operator of Vessel #1 to be ejected from Vessel #1. 

Vessel #2 sustained a hole in the front half of the port side. Vessel #1’s anchor was inside of Vessel #2 after the collision. Solomons Fire/Rescue was able to recover the operator of Vessel #1 out of the water, the operator sustain a laceration to his right knee and was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital. Vessel #2 had 5 persons aboard, first aid was administered by EMS after the vessel was transported to the Solomon’s Island Public Boat Ramp (no serious injuries reported). Vessel #1 was transported by an unknown party to the owner/operator’s residence.


Based off the statements gathered from all those involved Vessel #1 was in violation of the United State Coast Guard’s Navigation Rules and Regulations:

Rule #5 “Look-out”- Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.
Rule #6 “Safe Speed”- Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
Rule #8 “Action to Avoid Collision”- (e) If necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess the situation, a vessel shall slacken her speed or take all way off by stopping or reversing her means of propulsion.
Rule #15 “Crossing Situation”- When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.

On August 22, 2019 Operator1 the owner/operator of Vessel #1 was charged with 2 counts of Maryland COMAR 08.18.01.04(A) Failure to Obey Navigation Rules. One for violating Rule #8 “Action to Avoid Collision” and Rule #15 “Crossing Situation”. He was issued written warnings for Rule #5 “Look-Out” and Rule #6 “Safe Speed”. A written statement was gathered before being charged and is attached to the report.

All events occurred in Calvert County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0118
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River/15914 Camp Merry
NearestCityorTown: St. George's Island
County: Saint Mary's
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 31, 2019 at approximately 1:41 p.m., I (Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) received a call from NRP Dispatch in regards to a swimmer being struck by a Personnel Water Craft (PWC) in the Potomac River, in the area of Camp Merryelande, St. George’s Island, Maryland.

At Approximately 2:06 p.m., I arrived on scene at Camp Merryelande. Officers from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff Department, a boat crew from USCG Station St. Inigoes, and Valley Lee EMS were already on scene. After speaking to the officers from the Sheriff’s Department and several witnesses, it was determined that the operator of the PWC was traveling at a high rate of speed past the Camp Merryelande pier, heading towards the shore, when he turned the PWC off, losing all maneuverability of the PWC. The wake from the PWC then caught up to the PWC, pushing the PWC faster into shore, striking the swimmer in the upper back area. The injured swimmer didn’t have any visual injuries, but was complaining about having upper back and neck problems. 

Operator was issued the following citations:

 COMAR, Negligent operation of a vessel, Prepay $320, 1st/500; 2nd/1000 and/or 1 year

 COMAR, Did Operate PWC Over 6 Knots w/In 100 ft of (Shore, Structure, People in Water), Prepay $85, 1st/500; 2nd/1000 and/or 1 year

 

All events occurred in St. Mary’s County, Maryland

 

Case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2019-0119
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Stoney Creek/near Black Rocks
NearestCityorTown: Pasadena
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, August 31, 2019, at approximately 6:20 PM, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to Baltimore Washington Medical Center in Glen Burnie, MD for a boating accident involving a single Yamaha PWC and a passenger that was thrown from the PWC. Upon my arrival, Cpl. \ and I met with the injured passenger, Victim and her mother.

We began to interview Victim, as she described, she was in slight pain on the right side of her body and had trouble taking deep breaths. She had a neck brace on as a precaution. She explained that her boyfriend, Operator, was the operator of the vessel. At the time of this interview, Operator was not at the hospital, but he was on his way to meet with us. Victim further explained that they were on the Yamaha PWC on Stoney Creek near Black Rocks. A large vessel caught them off-guard by creating a very large wake while they were up on plane going approximately 20 mph toward the Stoney Creek draw bridge. When I asked how the water and traffic conditions were, Victim explained that it was pretty choppy from boat traffic, but at the time there was only the one vessel that created the wake that was near them. Victim stated she was thrown from the PWC right before Operator was thrown off. Victim said she hit the water hard and felt like she "blacked out" momentarily. Victim was unsure of the time of the accident but believed it was somewhere around 5:30 PM. At the time of the interview, a nurse was taking vitals and asking general questions about the accident. Victim was unable give us any description of the PWC that she was on. In the meantime, Cpl.  and I waited for Operator to arrive to meet with him to ask questions and further our investigation.

At 7:37 PM, Cpl. and I met with Operator and his mother. We asked him some general questions about the accident and asked him to complete a voluntary statement, which he complied. The mother of operator is the owner of the vessel, and it is a 2008 Yamaha 11'6" Gray PWC bearing Maryland registration 8635 BZ. I asked Operator if he had a boater safety education card, which he presented to me. He explained he had his certification since he was 12 and has spent well over 500 hours on the water operating various types of vessels. Operator explained that they were in the area of Black Rocks on Stoney Creek and headed toward the Stoney Creek draw bridge when a large white vessel came from behind them and to the right. He said they were on plane, but not going fast and were caught off-guard by the large wake that caused the accident. He said that both him and Victim were thrown off the PWC and they both were able to get back on after a couple minutes. He believed that the accident occurred around 5:30 PM, but was unsure. Operator said he did not suffer any injuries and they returned to Pat's Pier located near Black Rocks. where boaters generally launch their PWC's. The approximate location is Latitude: 39.1696 and Longitude: -76.5153.  At the time of the accident winds were approximately Northeast at 10-15 kts.

At 7:50 PM, I contacted Victim's mother, for an update on her injury status. At that time, they had removed the neck brace and had completed a sonogram on the right side of Victim's abdomen where she was complaining of pain. She stated she would follow-up later Saturday evening to keep me updated.

On Sunday, September 1st, 2019, at 9:40 AM, I contacted subject for an update on Victim's injuries, and she stated they were released from the hospital around 12:00 AM this morning. She explained they held her to make sure she did not have any internal bleeding and to complete a secondary sonogram. The results came back good, and she said the only thing in question was her ribs where she was still having pain. She said there's a possibility that she may have a broken rib, but the doctor was unable to find any fractures. She stated she would contact me with any updates if Victim's status changes.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2019-0120
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/01/19 at approximately 1715 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to a boating accident that occurred at the Deep Creek Marina fuel docks. I arrived to the main rental location and made contact with the service manager who showed me the damage on both rental pontoons (MD0592LB and MD0603LB). A gentleman named Operator1 was the operator of vessel MD0603LB. Operator1 had struck the engine cowling of MD0592LB while trying to pull into the fuel docks. He also struck the dock causing damage to the pontoon's splash guard.

During this incident, the operator of MD0592LB was sitting in his rental pontoon fueling up before returning to the rental dock. He witnessed the damage happen to his rental pontoon and provided a voluntary written witness statement. The wind was also a contributing factor to the accident for Operator1. I observed the wind in the area before arriving and Operator1 told me this was a contributing factor for him. Damage estimates were taken at the marina, this accumulated to $2250.00. This included a repainted engine cowling for MD0592LB and repaired splash guard for MD0603LB. Subject and Operator1 had settled on an agreement for the damage vessels by signing a document. Operator1 told me had struck the fuel dock and the engine cowling of the pontoon of MD0592LB. Photographs of MD0592LB engine cowling were taken by the rental employees as per procedure, before MD0592LB left the marina. I observed the "before picture" of the cowling with no damage. I photographed the damaged of both pontoons. No violations.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0121
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Camp Tockwogh/Still Pond
NearestCityorTown: Worton
County: Kent
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 1, 2019 at approximately 6:15pm, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police assigned to Kent County, received a call regarding a boating accident personal injury (PI) that occurred at Camp Tockwogh in Worton, MD. I called the reporting party who did not answer the phone and was no longer available at the camp office to speak. I left a message as well as emailed the waterfront director, to set up a time to obtain the details of the accident. He responded via email and advised he would contact Subject and set up a meeting for the morning of September 2, 2019.

On September 2, 2019 at approximately 9:00am, I arrived at Camp Tockwogh to meet with Subject as well as the vessel operator.  Operator explained that he was operating camp owned vessel MD 5230 CS with four (4) other individuals on board heading west on the Chesapeake Bay out front of the camp waterfront area. Operator described the water as choppy, but said the wind was light and the weather was otherwise clear with only light boat traffic. Operator explained that an unexpected wave/wake came up and as the vessel went over the wake, he slowed the vessel throttle and passenger hit her forehead on the side of the vessel. Operator stated Victim was sitting port side at the bow facing the stern of the vessel. Operator brought Victim back to shore at the camp where Subject provided basic first aid. Subject stated Victim sustained a quarter inch wide by inch long cut on the right side of her forehead above her right eyebrow and complained of a minor headache, but was alert and apparently normal otherwise. Camp staff transported her to the Urgent Care Center in Middletown, DE and believed she would need stitches. The injury was non-incapacitating.

Operator stated that all individuals were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident and no one else was injured. No damage was done to the vessel and all occupants remained in the vessel during the incident.

All events occurred in Kent County.

Cleared without further incident; case can be closed.


BARDID: MD-2019-0122
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chestnut Hill Cove/426-430 Car
NearestCityorTown: Curtis Bay
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3rd, 2019, I, Officer First Class of Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call reference a boating accident on Nabbs Creek. I responded via patrol vessel to the water access area of 426 Carvel Beach Road Chestnut Hill Cove, MD.  Upon arrival, I observed a white 23-foot cabin vessel on top of a residential pier and three subjects standing next to the vessel on the pier.

I made initial contact with all individuals and made sure all parties that were originally on the vessel were all accounted for and checked for injuries of anyone involved. All subjects stated they were uninjured and did not need medical treatment, and no one was missing.

I inquired with all parties as to who was operating the vessel. A male subject stated he was operating the vessel when he struck the pier and the vessel became lodged on the pier unable to move.  Operator stated he was returning from a fishing trip with his wife and friend when he rounded Stoney Creek and proceeded on Nabbs Creek and increased speed. Operator stated he did not see the pier and crashed into it. Operator stated he was going approximately 10 knots but based on my training, knowledge, and experience, I believe he was going must faster. Operator also stated the pier was unlit which was an incorrect statement. The pier has over 20 lighted lamps from land to the end of the pier and is visible in the lighting conditions of the evening. I inquired with Operator if he had been drinking or doing any drugs tonight which he stated he did not drink or take recreational drugs. I asked Operator if he would submit to Standard Field Sobriety testing to which he agreed.

Operator was able to pass all Standard Field Sobriety Testing which were given to him.


Operator was asked how much boating experience he had to which he stated over 40 years. Operator stated at one point he held a Captain’s License but was unable to maintain it due to health issues.

Based on my investigation and the speed that Operator was traveling up Nabbs Creek, he was operating the vessel negligently. Operator endangered the lives of his passengers by traveling too quickly at night based on his experience and comfort with the waterways he was traveling and also failed to maintain a proper lookout while operating a vessel. Operator was issued two citations for;
 

Operator created significant damage to the homeowner’s pier as well as his vessel. Written statements were obtained from all individuals on board the vessel.


The dock appeared to have at least $5,000 worth of damage, and the vessel had at least the same amount if not more based on my training, knowledge, and experience.

Pictures are attached of the damage and incident.

 

All of the above events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0123
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake/Meadow Mountia
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/07/2019 at 1715 hours I received a radio dispatch from DNR Communications of a boat accident that occurred on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, Maryland.   The accident involved property damage with no personal injuries reported.  The vessel was a rental from Lake Life Boat Rentals (Deep Creek Marina) and the renters were now returning the damaged vessel. 

     I responded and arrived at Lake Life Boat Rentals at 1731 hours.  I made contact with the rental staff and the renter/operator of the vessel.  I identified the operator. There had been one other passenger on board the vessel at the time of the accident. The rental staff escorted me to the rental vessel so that I could see the damage.  I observed a Sea Ray vessel, black in color, bearing Maryland registration MD 1841 LB.  It was a 19' ski boat with an aluminum tube tower, black in color.  The white stern light attachment was in the center and atop the tower.  There was damage indicating impact to the front of the light attachment.  The tower itself was broken in half at the light attachment.  An additional aluminum brace had broken completely off.  There was a crack in the aluminum tower where it attached to the vessel's port side.  I photographed the vessel and the observed damage.  
      Once back on shore I spoke to Operator and Subject1 about the incident, separately.  I spoke to Operator first.  Operator stated once again that he was the operator on board the vessel at the time of the accident.  He stated that he asked the rental staff how to get to Carmel Cove (Meadow Mountain Cove).  No one had mentioned that he was not to go under the bridge.  He stated that there were no signs that stated that the vessel would not fit under the bridge.  Operator stated that he observed the minimum wake buoy prior to the bridge.  He was operating in idle gear and going very slow.  He saw other vessels in the cove on the other side of the bridge.   Operator advised that while going under the bridge, the light attachment on the top of the tower struck the bridge.  There was a loud noise and part of the tower fell down into their rental boat.  
     I interviewed Subject1 second.  Subject1 stated that he was seated on the left side of the boat beside the operator seat.  Subject1 statement was similar to Operator's statement.  Subject1 made the comment to me that they (Operator and Subject1),upon seeing the bridge, said to each other "Man that is a low bridge."  Subject1 stated that the vessel was going real slow.  He heard a loud crack.  A part of the vessels tower came down into the vessel and he realized that they had hit the bridge with the tower.  
     Operator picked up his other passengers at the rental house and spent the day on the lake.  He returned at the end of his daily rental.  The tower was tied together with the electrical wire attached to the white stern light at the top of the tower.  Both stated the accident occurred soon after picking the vessel up at Lake Life Rentals.  Both stated around 1030 hours.  
     Deep Creek Marina provided an estimate of the damage to Operator.  It totaled $7,446.28.  This estimate includes parts, labor, taxes, and freight.  A copy of the estimate is attached.  Photographs of the vessel are attached. 
     Subject1 admitted to me that the accident was his fault and responsibility.  I issued DNR citation for Failure to Maintain a Proper Lookout (Rules of the Road #6).  During their interviews both individuals on board the vessel seemed surprised when they hit the bridge, indicating that they were not observing how close the vessel was getting to the bridge.  I also issued Subject1 one warning for Negligent Operation of a Vessel.


BARDID: MD-2019-0124
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 9733 Healthway Dr, Berlin
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 31, 2019 I Corporal was informed of a boat accident that had occurred and the subject was at Atlantic General Hospital.  Due to the busy water ways in Ocean City Corporal went to Atlantic General Hospital to get all the required information for the boat accident from the subject. Corporal sent me the notes she took and explained the situation to me. 

According to the victim she was the passenger on the PWC registration DL 3 AC, the PWC was coming out of a creek(she is not sure of the name of the creek) when a boat passing by caused a wake, and threw her off the left side of the PWC.  The PWC was traveling West out of one of the canals when a wake caused her to hit the water.  She informed Corporal that her right shoulder popped out of socket, but she popped it back in place while on the scene where she was thrown off the PWC. Victim decided to go to Atlantic General Hospital to be sure everything was fine. Victim advised Corporal that she was fine, there are no major injuries and that the PWC had no damage either. This was a single vessel accident with no serious injuries, I request that this case be closed  because the victim appears to be fine, and that there are no other circumstances involved that require investigating.


BARDID: MD-2019-0125
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Eastern Bay/Romancoke Pier
NearestCityorTown: Stevesville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 15, 2019 at 3:37PM I, Officer First Class, was dispatched to the Romancoke area of Eastern Bay for a boating accident. I arrived on the scene at 3:52PM and made contact with the operator and lone occupant of the boat.  

        Operator stated that he was operating his boat (2015 Judge Yacht/36’/MD4558CF/HIN-VBE36115D515) and cruising at 50-55 MPH when the steering suddenly went hard starboard, throwing Operator out of his seat at the wheel into a bench seat and aluminum footrest bar beneath the seat, causing the foot rest bar to bend. Operator stated that he was in a lot of pain and believed he had broken several ribs. Operator was then loaded onto the fire rescue boat on scene and transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center.

        Operator was met at the hospital by Officer First Class. Operator told OFC ] that he attempted to correct the steering but the wheel would not turn back to port. He was able to reach the throttle and brought the boat down to neutral. Operator suffered two hip fractures and 6 rib fractures in the accident and is likely to be transferred to another hospital. The nurse believes the transfer will be to Shock Trauma in Baltimore but was not sure.

        OFC also spoke to the wife of the victim. She stated that approximately one month ago the boat had experienced steering issues and they had someone come out and look at it but could not recall who that person was or if the boat had been worked on.

        The boat was not damaged in the accident and was taken back by Operator’s son in law who had taken a small vessel out to aid Operator after the accident.

        All events occurred in Queen Anne’s County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0126
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wicomico River/Websters Cover
NearestCityorTown: Mt Vernon
County: Somerset
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Around 9:40 p.m. on September 1, 2019, I (Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) was on patrol in Wicomico County, Maryland when I received a call from dispatch of a possible boat accident that occurred on the Wicomico River. The vessel was currently located at Webster's Cove in Somerset County, Maryland at the boat ramp while the operator and a victim were being transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center. Officer, also of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, arrived on scene of Webster’s Cove Marina to assess the situation while myself and Lt. responded to the hospital.

    At 9:45 p.m., they arrived on scene to a vessel displaying a Maryland registration number of 4763DB on a 25 foot Sea Hawk vessel that was already loaded on a trailer at the ramp. They later explained to me that the only vessel occupant still at the boat ramp told officers that the operator and vessel owner was operating the vessel at the time of the incident. 

Both Operator and Subject were attempting to turn down the brightness of the GPS display while the vessel was traveling about 20 miles per hour. Subject said he looked up and saw a red channel marker. They tried to turn the boat but were unable to avoid the collision and the vessels starboard side struck the red #24 day marker. He told officers that victim was previously seated in the rear of the vessel in a folding chair but after the accident he looked back and saw her on the floor with blood coming from her head. He called 911 while the vessel continued towards Webster’s Cove where it was met by EMS.

    I arrived at PRMC and met with the vessel operator and his wife. Operator explained that he was operating the boat when the GPS was going in and out of service. He was trying to get it turned back on when he looked up and saw a red channel marker in front of his boat. He tried to turn to avoid the collision but struck the day marker with the starboard bow area of the vessel. He noticed his wife, Victim, on the deck of the vessel and bleeding from a two inch laceration to her head. They then took the boat into the harbor and met with EMS and soon transported to PRMC for further treatment.

    I detected a light odor of alcoholic beverages coming from Operator’ person through our interactions. I asked him to submit to a battery of Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and he agreed. The test was performed outside the hospital on a smooth well lit surface. Operator did not perform the testing to my satisfaction and was placed under arrest for operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol at 10:29 p.m. Operator agreed to take the intoximeter test at 10:37 p.m. and was transported to the Maryland State Police barracks in Salisbury. At 11:13 p.m. Operator gave a breath sample of .04 grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. At 11:41 p.m. Operator was transported back to PRMC where he met with his wife who was released from the hospital minutes later. Operator received one citation related to the boat accident and was released.


BARDID: MD-2019-0127
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patuxent River/Mouth/Broomes I
NearestCityorTown: Lusby
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, September 1, 2019, I (Cpl.) was on duty patrolling Calvert County.  At approximately 8:49 PM I was dispatched to the Patuxent River in the area of Point Patience for a boating accident.  I responded to the Solomon's Duty Station.  Cpl. met me there and together we responded by boat to the area of the accident.  When we arrived in the area we could not locate any vessels in distress.  I called and spoke with (the original caller).  He informed me that they were afraid the vessel was taking on water and took the boat back to the launch at the Navy Recreational Center.

    At approximately 9:00 PM Cpl.  and I made contact with Operator2, and Subject1 at the boat launch.  At the same time as my arrival, victim was being transported by ambulance to Calvert Health Medical Center for evaluation.  Operator2 told me that his wife was struck by the other vessel on her left shoulder.  A shoulder that had already undergone surgery in the past and had pins installed. She was sitting in the passenger seat located on the port side about mid ship. Operator2 showed me his 1994, white, 20' Trophy by Bayliner (Hull ID. USCD31FFE494. MD Registration 3570 E).  There was extensive damage to the port side starting near the stern and continuing up to mid ship just in front of the passenger seat (see attached pictures). When I asked what happened, Operator2 responded that he and his family were on board traveling from the Calvert side of the Patuxent River to the Saint Mary's side when a vessel coming from his left struck them.  Operator2 said that he spoke with the operator of the other vessel. Operator2 told the other operator that his wife might be hurt.  He also said that he was headed back to dock and the striking vessel was to follow.

     I asked Operator2 and Subject1 for a description of the striking vessel.  They described the vessel as a formula "go-fast" boat, white with a red stripe.  They were unsure of the length or possible age of the vessel.  When asked for a description of the operator and passenger(s), Operator2 and Subject1 said there was two people on the other vessel.  There was an older white male operating the boat. He had gray longer hair.  The operator was wearing light colored clothing.  The passenger was an older  white female. I relayed this description to Sgt. who contacted United State Coast Guard, Calvert, and Saint Mary's dispatches to request the sheriff Departments and Maryland State Police to be on the lookout for the striking vessel and occupants.


    From the ramp, Cpl. and I went to the Public Boat Ramp and Fishing pier located under the Thomas Johnson Bridge.  I spoke with fishermen that had been there for the past two hours.  No one saw the accident.  I did find some fishermen that saw a White vessel that was about 25 feet long with dark colored stripes on the side (could be dark red or blue stripes) pass under the Thomas Johnson Bridge and travel up river just before the time of the accident.  They also noted that they could see the bow lights but could not see a white light being displayed. The vessel that went up river never came back past the pier.

    From the fishing pier, we met Sgt. at the Duty Station and went to the Tiki Bar Restaurant dock to interview patrons in case the striking vessel had been there.  We spoke with a group of patrons that  helped a couple untie from the dock just after sunset. The patrons told me that there was a 27' fountain boat, white with red stripes tied to the dock earlier.  Just before dark, a middle age white male with glasses and a middle age white female with long hair pulled back returned to the fountain boat to leave.  The patrons watched as the woman got onto the boat, breaking the Plexiglas window on the port side.  The patrons also noticed that when the male turned on the navigation lights that the red and green bow lights and a white stern light that only illuminated 180 degrees behind the vessel turned on. There was no 360 degree white light displayed or a second light that illuminated 180 degrees in front of the vessel.

    Cpl. asked if the patrons had seen this couple before.  They said "no" but in conversation did learn some things about the man.  Cpl. went to the address and found a vessel on a boat lift matching the description given by the Tiki Bar patrons with front end damage.

    On Monday, September 2, 2019 at approximately 6:00 PM I was able to meet with Operator1 and his wife at their house.  I obtained a written statement from Operator1 of his account for the events from the night before (see attachments).  According to Operator1, His wife and he left dock between 9:00 PM and 9:30 PM to head from Solomon's back home.  Operator1 was operating his wife's 1991 white with red striped 27' Fountain (Hull ID FGQ7S025K091, Florida registration 0179NX) on plane (between 25 to 30 mph) passing under the Thomas Johnson Bridge.  While passing under the bridge, he saw a vessel in his path.  The other vessel was traveling from Operator1 right to his left.  Within 3 to 5 seconds he collided with the other vessel.

    After the collision, Operator1 agreed to follow the other vessel back to dock. He turned his vessel around and followed what he believed was the other vessel back to the Public Boat Ramp under the Thomas Johnson Bridge.  He got to the ramp, tied up and began talking with the other vessel.  It was at that time that he realized he was with the wrong boat.  Not knowing where the other vessel went,  Operator1 untied and went home.  I asked why Operator1 did not call "911" or Natural Resources Police to report the accident.  He said "in hind sight I should have,  I don't handle stress well and was so shaken up about the whole ordeal".

This case open awaiting trial.  Operator1 has been charged with following;
NR 8-732.2 Did operate a vessel in a reckless or dangerous manor
NR 8-724- Did fail to render assistance and give information after a boating accident
MR 08.18.01.04 Did fail to maintain proper lookout
MR 08.18.01.04 Did fail to maintain safe speeds
MR 08.18.01.04 Did fail to take action to avoid collision 

The accident and initial investigation occurred in Calvert County.


BARDID: MD-2019-0128
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Stoney Creek-Main Stem
NearestCityorTown: Pasadena
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 10th, 2019, at approximately 2230 hours, I, Officer First Class of The Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call about a late reported boat accident that occurred on Stoney Creek. The call came from the emergency room nurse at Baltimore Washington Medical Center(BWMC).

I responded to BWMC and met with the patient and operator. Victim stated he was operating his PWC on upper Stoney Creek and encountered a wake from another vessel and struck the wake at a weird angle. Once Victim struck the wake, he was thrown from the PWC. Victim was able to re-board his PWC and returned home. Victim stated he didn't strike any other vessel, and no damage was caused to his vessel. Victim then responded to the hospital later in the evening to seek medical attention. Victim stated he was suffering from a possible neck and back injury and was still awaiting treatment at BWMC.

At this point, this case should be considered closed. 

All of the above events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0129
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rogue's Harbor Rd
NearestCityorTown: North East
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/15/19 at 1348 hours, I, Cpl. responded to Union Hospital in Elkton Maryland for report of an injured female from a boat fire.  Once at the hospital, I met up with victim, Victim, who had 2nd degree burns to her lower left leg and foot.  Victim was brought to the hospital by family member, who was also on the boat with her. 
     Victim stated that she was on her boat, 19 Four Winns bowrider.  Kids were all sitting in the bow.  Operator was operating (right front), and Victim was is the left front passenger seat. Victim stated that Operator had fueled the boat up at a gas station while they were trailering it to Rogues Harbor, Elk Neck State Park, on the Elk river.  They launched the boat around 1330 hours, and were just slowly moving away from the dock when all of the sudden they heard a large boom.  Victim said she was seated in the left passenger seat with her feet on the floor when she heard the large boom.  She said she instantly felt a burning sensation on her left foot and lower leg.  She saw that her skin was blistered so she got up and put her leg into the river to cool it off.  Operator shut the boat off instantly and checked on everyone.  He flagged another boater down who towed the back to the dock.  They were only 100 yards from boat ramp when the explosion happen.  There was no sign of fire after the explosion.  Victim stated phone service was bad so she had subject take her to the hospital.  Operator trailered the boat and took it home.
     Operator stated that he turned the blower on before he started the boat and thought everything was ok.   He stated that they just got the boat earlier in the summer and have had a lot of mechanical work done to it.
     Victim was released from Union Hospital later the same day.  Union advised her to see John Hopkins Burn Center, and she went the next day. 
     I inspected the 19' Four Winns.  There was a strong odor of gasoline present.  All required safety gear was present.  Carrying Capacity was 8 person or 1160 lbs, and with the six small kids on board, they were under that weight limit.  Upon inspecting the bilge area, there was a lot of fuel present, showing that their might be a possible fuel leak.  The hatch to the bilge area, which was in the center of the floor between the operator and left passenger seat where Victim was seated, had burn marks in the carpet, showing where the fire came up from.
     Operator stated that he was going to drop the boat off to a boat mechanic this weekend.  He will get me an estimate of damage once he hears back from the mechanic.  All events occurred in Cecil County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0131
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-10-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:33:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patapsco River, MD
NearestCityorTown: Baltimore
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 11, 2019 at approximately 1930 hrs, I, Corporal, and Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police heard the tugboat "Lynne Moran" hail the United States Coast Guard (USCG) on Marine VHF Channel 16 to report that a vessel had collided into them on the Patapsco River. I relayed this information to DNR Dispatch and we responded to the Patapsco River by patrol boat. Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer responded by patrol vessel from Anne Arundel County and arrived on scene prior to us. Officer made the recovery of two subjects who fell from the striking vessel and had climbed onto Brewerton Shipping Channel green buoy #15. This buoy is in the Patapsco River within Anne Arundel County . Officer narrative detailing his involvement is included in this report. On scene, I observed a center console recreational vessel adrift with severe crushing damage done to its bow. There were no occupants on board at the time. It displayed Maryland registration MD 5039 CG. Shortly after I first observed the vessel, it rolled over and capsized, then floated with the bottom of the hull facing upwards.

It was determined that the only occupants that were on this recreational vessel were the two subjects Officer retrieved from Buoy #15. Operator1 told me they were following another vessel from Sparrows Point to Stoney Creek and they collided with Brewerton Shipping Channel buoy #15. Both Operator1 and V1 occupant were thrown overboard and the vessel continued traveling unmanned and collided with the tugboat "Lynne Moran". I asked Operator1 if the buoy #15 that he and V1 occupant were found on was the same buoy that the vessel struck, he responded "yes". Both Operator1 and V1 occupant sustained no injuries from the accident and they refused medical treatment from EMS.

Operator1 contacted Tow Boat U.S.. to salvage his vessel.

My investigation concludes that operator inattention, improper lookout, and excessive speed are the contributing factors in this reportable boat accident. Operator1's vessel suffered disabling damage and based on my knowledge and experience I believe the vessel to be a total loss. A damage cost amount is unknown at the time of this report. There were no personal injuries. 

I was told that Operator1's vessel struck the port side bow of the "Lynne Moran" and caused no damage to the tugboat. There were only superficial marks left on the tugboat's steel hull made by the fiberglass hull of the striking vessel (See attached photos).

Subject witnessed both boats alter course to the West closely outside of the channel. Witness saw the lead boat take a diagonal course and pass behind the "Lynne Moran", followed by the second boat. Both boats were described as "traveling at a high rate of speed". After passing behind the "Lynne Moran", the lead boat made a "wide right turn and struck us on the port bow". Captain Witness then hailed USCG on marine VHF channel 16 and proceeded to search for victims. He said the damaged pleasure boat's motor was still running after the collision and was making clockwise turns. After Captain Witness and crew searched the impact area, they came alongside the boat and a crew member was able to shut-off the boat's outboard motor. They noticed that the boat was unmanned, no one was onboard. The second pleasure boat told Captain Witness and crew that 2 occupants were onboard that striking boat and that the boat had just hit a buoy before striking the "Lynne Moran". Captain Witness and crew searched the impact area first and then went across the Brewerton Channel to search the eastern buoys. They found the 2 occupants on Buoy #15 and then notified a Fire Department Boat that they had located them. They stood by until the persons were retrieved off of the buoy by NRP Officer.


BARDID: MD-2019-0132
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-24 00:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wicomico River-Main Stem-Winga
NearestCityorTown: Whitehaven
County: Somerset
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, September 24, 2019, at approximately 4:10 p.m., I, Ofc. observed a green Ford f-150 pickup parked at the Whitehaven Ferry Beach, Whitehaven Ferry Rd., Somerset County.  I stopped to check if the occupant(s) of the pickup were fishing in the beach area.  After finding no one along the bank in the area of the beach, I looked north on the river towards day marker 28 on the Wicomico River and observed a small vessel that appeared to be adrift.  Utilizing my binoculars, I further observed that the vessel appeared to be anchored with no one on board.  I proceeded to a nearby dock  and again observed the vessel and could not see anyone on board and also observed that the vessel appeared to be partially submerged.   

At 4:30 p.m., I notified DNR dispatch and had them run a records check of the F-150 pickup parked at Whitehaven Ferry Beach.  I contacted Ofc. so that she could meet me to go check on the vessel.  I also contacted Sgt. to advise him of the situation to this point.  At approximately 5:00 p.m., Ofc. and I got underway on NRP875 from the Wicomico Yacht Club.  We arrived at the partially submerged vessel (GPS location N 38 16.135 W 075 46.585) at approximately 5:06 p.m. and observed that no one was on board.  

We advised DNR dispatch that the vessel was a Maryland registered vessel (6406 V). We checked the immediate area surrounding the vessel but did not observe anyone in the water.  We proceeded to the Whitehaven Ferry to ask the operator if he had noticed the vehicle or vessel today.  The operator stated that he thought he saw two subjects go out on the vessel between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. today, but could provide no further information.  As we proceeded back to the submerged vessel, we observed something floating in the river approximately 20 yards from shore and approximately 150 - 200 yards from the vessel.  We arrived at the floating object and found that it was a body (GPS location N 38 16.037 W 75 46.753).  We contacted dispatch and advised that we had located a body and asked for assistance from other outside agencies.  The body was brought aboard NRP875 and transported back to the Wicomico Yacht Club.  We arrived at the Wicomico Yacht Club at approximately 7:25 p.m. and the body was turned over to the Allen Fire Department at approximately 7:35 p.m.  We returned and conducted a further search of the river and bank areas for a possible second subject that was thought to be on board the vessel.  We secured our search at approximately 12:35 a.m. by direction of our Duty Officer, Lt.. This all occurred in Somerset County.

 On September 26, 2019 Cpl. were conducting a boat patrol surface search in reference to the boating accident on September 24, 2019. At approximately 0950 hours I was contacted by Natural 1 and advised to respond just north of the Mt Vernon Harbor on the Wicomico side of the river in reference to recovering the second victim.  Upon arrival I observed a male subject floating face down in the water (GPS Location N38.15.517 W075.49.756 ). On the arrival of Sgt. and Ofc. subject was photographed and removed from the water and secured on vessel 875 at 10:03 AM. Once the subject was secured I was able to identify him.
All events did occur in Wicomico County, Maryland.  

Both victims had been drinking; the operator had a BAC of .06


BARDID: MD-2019-0133
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 8236 Bayside Drive
NearestCityorTown: Pasadena
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/28/2019 at 11:26 am, a full rescue assignment was dispatched to the area of the Chesapeake Bay East of Bodkin Point for an overturned vessel with six people in the water. Once responding, units were advised of a Good Samaritan rescuing all six subjects with no injuries and everyone accounted for. The six persons on-board were transported to Rockhall in Kent County. NRP Officer was requested to respond to their locations to conduct interviews and obtain identification. 

I (Officer) responded to the location of the overturned vessel. It was located still capsized. Tow Boat US arrived shortly afterwards and began contact with the owner, in order to arrange the recovery. The vessel was up-righted and towed to Atlantic Marina for temporary storage. I escorted the vessel to the marina and took several photos that have been attached to the report. Sufficient PFD's located on the vessel. The Type IV was located floating next to the vessel. The fire extinguisher was properly stored and charged. 

While I was on the scene of the overturned vessel, I would observe the following;

Surf- two to three foot wave height, occasional four foot height
Wind - SSW 9-11 knots with gusts 13-19
Air Temp- 74.8 degrees
Water Temp-73.5 Degrees
Water Depth- 22 feet
On Scene (NRP 850)GPS coordinates- N39 06.456  W076 21.237
Weather info obtained from Bouy Data #44063

Due to the owner/operator damaging his cellphone, I was unable to interview him regarding the incident. I obtained his email from LTD Portal and sent him an email. 
 
On September 29, 2019, Subject1 contacted me regarding the accident. The following pertinent information was obtained;

- Vessel was purchased used for $5000 including the trailer
- The outboard motor was purchased for $2200.
- The motor was a 1996 Johnson 112 HP 2 stroke
- Only insurance on the vessel was for liability through Progressive
- Subject1 received a week long sailing training course and obtained his Boating Safety Certificate. Safety Certificate downloaded in attachments.
- He would estimate his experience with boating to being equivalent to 110 hours.
- The trip was to Hart-Miller Island for two days of camping with friends.
- He searched weather.gov during the week leading up to departure.
- He reports the Marine Zone Forecast called for one foot waves and chance of showers.
- He departed from Tucker Street in Annapolis with four people on board including himself.
- He then traveled to Hemingway's Restaurant and picked up two more friends, giving a total number of POB's being six.
- He then traveled from Hemingway's Restaurant North towards Hart-Miller Island. He has done this trip several times in past.
- The trip was approximately 13-14 miles.
- Float plan was verbalized to his girlfriends parents prior to departure.
- He estimated his speed as being 13-14 MPH, having looked at his GPS several times.
- Weight was distributed what he believed accordingly inside the vessel.
-  After about 7 miles in the trip, the boat dropped speed to 5 mph and then picked back up.
- Passengers observed water coming up through front floor area and appeared bilge to be overwhelmed.
- He then put the bow down and more water was coming in and attempts were made to bail water with a jug and the POB's shift weight in the boat. The motor then stopped.
- A wave then came over the bow and the boat capsized from starboard size, throwing everyone overboard.
- A Good Samaritan vessel was approximately 200 yards away and observed the vessel capsize. It responded over and picked up everyone. 
- There were no reported injuries.
- Most of all the camping equipment was lost and everyone who had phones were damaged.
- One POB was wearing a PFD. The remainder were stored in storage compartments. The Type IV was found floating next to the vessel. 
- He advised that he believed the vessel was overloaded which caused the issue.

I compiled the body weights of all the occupants according to MVA records. The total human weight was approximately 1000 lbs. (Capacity plate is 1900lbs) I am unable to determine the weight of the gear on-board the vessel due to most of it being lost. Based on the capacity plate, it was not overloaded by persons and had an additional 900 lbs to spare for gear etc. It appears that maybe the distribution of weight was not placed accordingly within the boat. Additionally, the owner/operator estimated speed was 13-14 mph, which probably did not put the vessel properly on plane, and did not allow the bilge pump ports to ride above the water line and filling the boat with water.


No further information to report. Case closed


BARDID: MD-2019-0134
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: West & Rhode Rivers/West River
NearestCityorTown: Harwood
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 3, 2019, at approximately 10:55 am, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for a person in the water located near 4727 Bayfields Rd., Harwood, Anne Arundel County, Maryland. I subsequently responded by land while Cpl. responded by water in a marked NRP patrol boat.

     I arrived at the scene, at about 11:05 am, behind the Anne Arundel County Fire Department (AACOFD). A U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary team was also at the scene. Upon walking down to the West River, I noticed a 2003 Sea Fox 172CC bearing current Maryland registration 6221DB resting up against the rock jetty located at 4727 Bayfields Rd. I saw an individual, laying in the bottom of the vessel. Subject’s head was next to the vessel’s engine mount, his body was in the vessel’s transom area, and his legs were in the air. There was also a dog in the vessel that appeared to be uninjured. The U.S. Coast Guard Aux. team was able to tow the vessel and Subject to the pier at 4727 Bayfields Rd. After securing the Sea Fox to the pier, AACOFD boarded the vessel and started treating Subject. AACOFD asked Subject if he was able to climb on to the pier and he stated that he could not. AACOFD members were able to get Subject onto the pier and escort him to the ambulance. Subject walked to the ambulance while being held by members of the AACOFD.


     While AACOFD was conducting their assessment in the ambulance, I boarded the Sea Fox to investigate the damage done to the vessel. Due to the vessel having the “T” top almost ripped out of the floor of the Sea Fox and the wood splinters on the vessel the damage is conducive to hitting the pier. While aboard the Sea Fox I noticed a large glass bottle of vodka that was cracked and about 3/4 the empty. I further noticed there was a cooler on board with an unopened raspberry flavored “White Claw” and a few bottles of unopened Coca-Cola soda bottles. I subsequently took pictures and ensured there was nothing of value on the vessel that could be stolen after NRP units left the scene. I would later learn that the damage to the vessel was estimated to be $50.00.
 

     I was notified by Cpl. that the pier located at 4727 Bayfields Rd. had been damaged from an apparent impact from the Sea Fox. Based on the damage observed it appears that the Sea Fox struck the pier with either the “T” top near the seatback or with the bow; Cpl. advised that he would gather the homeowner’s information and take pictures of the damage so I could return to the ambulance. The pier owner advised that the damage to the pier was estimated to be $300.00.

     While in the ambulance, Subject was advised that he could not take his dog with him to the hospital and that Anne Arundel County Animal Control was going to take possession of the dog.  At approximately 11:43 am, Anne Arundel County Animal Control arrived at the scene and took Subject’s dog to their facility for safekeeping. During this time Subject wavered on what he wanted to do with the dog in regards to releasing the dog to Animal Control. Animal Control was given Subject’s and (Subject’s wife) contact information.

     As I spoke to Subject in the ambulance, he appeared to be disoriented. He did not recall any of the incidents/accidents that led him lying in the bottom of his boat or what led to his boat resting up against the rock jetty. When asked about the accident he stated that he had fallen into the water and treaded water for 2 hours until a Good Samaritan helped him in his vessel. AACOFD advised me that he had called his wife. I asked Subject about his conversation with his wife. Subject stated, “I talked to her at noon.” The time that I asked him the question was at 11:35 am. I asked Subject about alcohol and if he had been drinking. Subject initially advised that he had drank 3-4 gallons of vodka that day and had a bottle of Coca-Cola. As he continued to talk, he changed how much alcohol he had consumed from nothing at all to 3 to 4 gallons. When talking with Subject I was unable to smell any odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath. At about 11:50 AM, Subject was transported by EMS to the Anne Arundel Medical Center.

 

     After arriving at Anne Arundel Medical Center at about 12:30 pm, Sgt. and I questioned Subject about the events leading up to the accident. Subject stated that he placed his boat in the water at about 4:30 am. He could not recall the name of the boat ramp that he used. Subject advised that he set out to crab on the Rhode River, Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Subject stated that at some point he fell into the water and was treading water for about 2 hours when a Good Samaritan came and assisted him in his vessel. Subject stated that after he was assisted in his vessel he did not remember operating his vessel or crashing into any pier.

     After speaking with Subject, I saw that he had slightly glassy and moderately bloodshot eyes with large pupils. He also spoke with a moderate slur. I suspected that he had been operating his vessel while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled dangerous substance at the time of his boat accident. At 12:44 pm I read Subject an NRP 482 Advice of Rights Form pursuant to my suspicions. Since Subject was admitted to the hospital and no intoximeter breath test equipment was available, he was offered a blood test. At about 12:50 pm he advised that he would submit to the test but then declined to submit to the test. Subject was provided with a copy of the NRP 482 Advice of Rights Form. It should be noted that Subject was never placed under arrest or detained by the NRP.

 

     After refusing the test, Wife asked her husband if he had taken his medications in the morning. Subject told her that he had taken the medicine. I then asked Wife if she could provide me with the names of the medications. Wife stated that she was unsure of any of the medication names due to Subject’s psychologist changing the six (6) medications that he was taking. She was also unsure of the warnings listed on the medication bottles.

     I told Subject and Wife that no citations were going to be issued at the time. I explained that we would call them in the future if any citations were going to be issued.

 

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0135
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tangier Sound-Smith Island
NearestCityorTown: Ewell
County: Somerset
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/20/2019 I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service from DNR Communications regarding a boat accident (property damage only) occurred on 10/12/19 in the area of Smith Island, MD. I made contact with vessel operator/owner. Operator stated the following about his vessel: black  and white in color, 27ft 2011 Chaparral 270 Signature, and bearing MD 2449DB. Operator advised that he believes his vessel sustained more than $2,000 worth of damages.  Operator stated the following about the damage: bent prop, multiple gouges underneath the vessel, and paint scratched on the bow and stern. 


  Operator stated that he and his wife were heading to Ewell, MD for the day. Operator stated the following about weather and sea conditions at the time of the accident:  visibility clear, calm water conditions, wind less than 6 knots, cruising at 15 knots, and 12ft water depth.  Prior to entering to the channel near Swan Island, Chesapeake Bay side, Operator said the vessel struck a submerged object and was not visible. Operator backed off the throttle, checked the area to locate the object that the vessel struck, but did not locate anything. Operator tried to continue his course, but felt the vessel vibrate when he applied the throttle. Operator believed that his propeller was damaged and returned back to Solomons Island.

 The cost estimate to repair the damage according to Washburn's Boat Yard was between $3,950 and $4,464.48

 Quoted estimate and photos are attached to the report.

 All events occurred in Somerset, MD.


BARDID: MD-2019-0136
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Herring Bay/Rockhold Creek
NearestCityorTown: Deale
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 24, 2019, at approximately 8:30 AM, Officer and I, Officer First Class, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service in reference to a boating accident that occurred in Herring Bay near Rockhold Creek, Deale, Anne Arundel County, Maryland. DNR Communications advised that it was a major property damage collision with minor injuries.

     After arriving on scene we met with the owner of the striking vessel.  Operator1 was operating his 2002 SeaPro 202 bearing current Maryland registration 8842BM. Operator1 advised that he was heading East out of Rockhold Creek traveling approximately 28 knots to go out to the Chesapeake Bay to go fishing when he collided with another vessel that he did not see. This other vessel would later be identified as a 1993 Williams Marine, bearing current Maryland registration 7709D. Ofc.  asked Operator1 if he had any injuries. Operator1 stated that he only had a minor scratch above his right eye but did not require any medical attention.

     We then approached the vessel and its owner. Ofc. asked Operator2 if he had any injuries. Operator2 stated that the collision caused him to be tossed into the side of the vessel and his left elbow was sore, but, refused any medical treatment. We asked Operator2 about the cause of the accident. Operator2, a commercial waterman, stated that he was harvesting crabs from his trotline, heading in a northwest direction at about 3 knots, when his vessel was struck the side of the SeaPro. Operator1 advised that he did not see the SeaPro until after the accident occurred due to his monitoring the trotline. Operator2 stated that after the accident he had noticed the SeaPro approximately 400 yards away and Operator1 came back up to his vessel and said: “What have I done?”  Operator2 subsequently contacted DNR Communications and reported the accident.

     After speaking to both Operator1 and Operator2, it was clear that Operator1 was the operator responsible for causing the accident. Even though Operator2' vessel struck the side of Operator1's boat, Operator2 was the stand-on vessel as his vessel had reduced maneuverability due to be engaged in a commercial fishing activity. USCG Navigational Rule 18(a)(iii) states that a power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of a vessel engaged in fishing. 

     We then gathered information and took pictures of both vessels. The SeaPro had sustained major damage to the starboard side of the vessel. There was a starboard side hull puncture, approximately 6 feet from the bow, that penetrated through the interior of the gunwale. Operator1 estimated the damage done to the vessel at approximately $2,000. The vessel had sustained separation of the rub rail on the bow, separation of the console from the floor (where the steering wheel was located), and major damage to the wooden canopy. Three of the four canopy support beams broke upon impact with the SeaPro. Operator2 also stated that there may be further fracturing and damage that was caused as well. Operator2 estimated the damage done to the vessel to be approximately $5,000. Operator2 also stated that no damage was done to any of his gear associated with the commercial activity.

     Because Operator1 was determined as the operator responsible for the accident he was charged with negligent operation of a vessel, and 3 counts of failure to obey USCG navigational rules of the road; Rule 5- improper lookout, Rule 6- unsafe speed for conditions, and Rule 8- Fail to take action to avoid a collision.

      On October 25, 2019, I contacted Operator2 to inquire about his injuries. Operator2 stated that he had gone to Anne Arundel Medical Center for his elbow. While at the hospital, Operator2 underwent tests for a head concussion and an x-ray for a broken elbow. Both tests resulted in negative findings. 

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

 

This case is closed


BARDID: MD-2019-0137
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-10-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fort Armstead Park
NearestCityorTown: Baltimore City
County: Baltimore City
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/19/2019 at approximately 1651 hours, Baltimore City Dispatch received a call in reference to a boat accident in the area of Fort Armistead. I, Officer First Class, was notified at 1652 hours and stated that I would be enroute with an extended arrival time. I arrived on scene to the area of Fort Armistead on board NRP vessel 879 at 1729 hours. I spoke with the operator of a Baltimore City Fire vessel that stated that the operator of the vessel was on land and being checked out by medic 9 He would be transported to Baltimore Shock Trauma via ambulance. Sgt. was on scene and witnessed the victim being assessed by paramedics.

At this time, the vessel owned was still in the water and up against the rock jetty. I tied the vessel to my police vessel and towed the vessel back to the boat ramp at Fort. Armistead. The vessel appeared to have numerous scratches and dents in the hull- I was unable to tell how many dents were from this accident. The vessel had some water in it, but it was not swamped and still floated freely. At this time, I was able to read the vessel registration - Maryland 2036V-Expiration date of Dec. 31, 2020.

When I arrived to the boat ramp at Fort Armistead, I met with Sgt. who advised that the operator of the vessel, who was being checked out by paramedics, was the same individual who owned the vessel. 

Operator was assessed by paramedics and determined to be suffering from hypothermia and many scratches and bruises. Operator was transported to Shock Trauma-Baltimore City for his injuries.

At the boat ramp, an individual approached me and stated that he was the roommate of Operator and would be taking the vessel home. The individual had the same listed address as Operator. Subject retrieved the vessel and motor from the boat ramp and loaded it onto his vehicle and drove home.

At 1759 hours, all NRP units, and Baltimore City units cleared the scene.

I was enroute to Shock Trauma to interview the operator of the vessel.

At 1925 hours, I was on scene and interviewed Operator. I conducted a Voluntary Statement/Advisement of Rights (NRP-425). I attached the 425 to the attachment section of this report. I read Operator his rights. Operator consented to giving a statement and signed confirming his consent. 

According to Operator, He had arrived at Ft. Armistead at approximately 0800 hrs to fish with Subject. Subject stated he didn't want to go out on the vessel because it was having motor issues. Operator went out solo to fish. He stated that he immediately became tangled in fishers' lines and had to shut off the motor to untangle the lines. Operator tried to turn the motor back on but it would not start. He stated he paddled out towards the center of the Patapsco River to continue to work on getting the motor to start. Operator said he was too tired to continue paddling and working on the motor. He hit the rock jetty and fell backwards into the vessel. Operator said he was stuck in the vessel and unable to get up. He also said that he was wearing his life jacket and used a Throwable  to keep his head above water. Operator stated that after an unspecified amount of time, he realized the water was shallow and he was able to touch bottom. He climbed the rock jetty and fell onto the land above it. he stated that after a short amount of time, several middle eastern-looking men rescued him by land and called 911. 
End of vountary statement.

Operator stated multiple times that he had collapsed, or laid down for short amounts of time. He couldn't remember how long he was down for. at the end of the voluntary statement, I asked Operator what time he left Ft. Armistead by boat, and what time it was while I was talking to him. He stated that He left Fort. Armistead at approximately 0800. He also stated that, while he was in the hospital it was around noon. I told him that it was in fact closer to 2100 hrs. He said maybe he had laid down for longer than he had thought.

Operator stated that he had suffered from a heart attack and a stroke several years prior and that his medical past was not the cause of the boat accident.
The doctor at Shock Trauma stated that Operator was being treated for hypothermia and minor scratches and bruises. The doctor stated that Operator would be released from the hospital the same night.

At this time, the investigation is closed.
All events occurred in Baltimore City, MD,


BARDID: MD-2019-0138
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Elk River/7 Park Drive Chesape
NearestCityorTown: Chesapeake City
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 11//1/19 at 1635 hours, I, Cpl. received a complaint about a subject in the water from a capsized boat.  Good Samaritan had picked the victim up and took him to 7 Park Drive in Chesapeake City Md.  EMS was on scene and the victim was giving EMS personnel a hard time.  MSP and myself were enroute.
     I arrived on scene and Subject was already in the ambulance.  He was highly intoxicated and very uncooperative.  Subject said he was in his Jon boat on Elk river off of Hollywood beach when a wave swamped his boat with water causing it to fill up with water.  Subject said he was trying to swim to shore when a good Samaritan picked him up and took him to Park Dr.
     Cpl. located Subject's G3 jon boat at 1732 hours.  It was still floating with some water in it.  A rope was wrapped all around its prop.  Subject's vessel was taken to Rogues Harbor and put on a trailer and put into our storage lot for safe keeping.
     MSP and I spoke to witnesses and no one had witnessed Subject driving his boat.  No one noticed him till he was swimming in the water.
     Subject was very cold so he was being transported to Union Hospital for Hyperthermia by Chesapeake City Ambulance 292.  I followed the Ambulance there due to Subject being uncooperative.  Once at Union Hospital, EMS ambulance staff notified me that Subject had stated several times that he wants to die, and wants to kill himself.  I notified Union Staff and they had me fill out an Emergency Petition.  Subject had to be sedated due to him being combative to hospital staff.  Subject is homeless with no phone.  He stated that he lives at the Elkton Homeless shelter on 501 Maryland Ave.  No charges to be filed.  All events occurred in Cecil County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2019-0140
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mattawoman Creek
NearestCityorTown: Marbury
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 5th, 2019 at approximately 7:37 pm, I, Officer, along with OFC of Maryland Natural Resource Police received a call from dispatch for a capsized vessel with two victims in the water at Mattawoman Creek.

 I arrived on-scene at Smallwood State Park boat ramp at 7:54 pm, Charles County Fire and EMS had already removed both victims from the water. I observed both victims in the ambulance undergoing medical evaluation. The victims were both transported to University of Maryland Charles Regional Hospital by ambulance for non-incapacitating head and neck injuries.

 Ofc and I went underway on Charles County Fire Boat to secure the vessel involved in the accident. The involved vessel was a 20 foot Aluminum Polar Kraft Jon Boat bearing Maryland registration 4191 DA. I observed the vessel in a capsized position at red day marker # 6 roughly 200 yards from the Smallwood State Park boat ramp. OFC and I secured the Polar Kraft Jon Boat to a floating dock at the boat ramp in order to prevent the vessel from becoming a navigation hazard.

 After securing the vessel, OFC and I went to University of Maryland Charles Regional Hospital to interview Operator and Occupant. I spoke and received statements from the owner/operator, Operator and the passenger, Occupant. I also received a written statement from Operator.

 Based the statements from both Operator and Occupant, the sequence of events are as follows: Operator stated they launched out of Slavins Boat Ramp. Operator and Occupant stated they were bow fishing for snakehead when they decided that they wanted to leave Mattawoman Creek and fish on the Virginia side of the Potomac River. According to Operator, they were traveling in a westerly direction at about 10-12 Knots with their spotlights on. Operator stated that he normally does not travel underway with the spotlight on; however, there was no vessel traffic, so he thought it would be okay. Occupant confirmed they were underway with the spotlight on; however, he was not looking ahead while Operator was driving.

 Operator stated he struck the unlit red marker and both subjects were thrown from the vessel. Operator and Occupant were able to get back to the vessel and hold on while Operator retrieved his cell phone from his pocket and called 911. Both subjects stated they were in the water for approximately 15 minutes before Charles County Fire arrived.  

I did not detect any signs of impairment from Operator nor Occupant. After determining that both Operator’s and Occupant’s statements were in agreement, I cleared from University of Maryland Charles Regional Hospital at approximately 11:04 pm.

On November 6th, 2019 at 2:53pm subjects went to Smallwood State Park to retrieve their vessel.

A witness statement along with pictures of injuries and the damaged vessel are attached to this report. All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland.

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2019-0141
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: 7328 Kent Pt Road
NearestCityorTown: Stevensville
County: Queen Anne
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 7, 2019 at approximately 3:18pm, I (MD Natural Resources Police) responded to a call in the area of 7328 Kent Point Road Stevensville, MD for the report of a vessel that drove into the rock jetty along the shoreline. I responded by vessel to the location and observed a large white vessel displaying the name "Paradise" on the stern and MD registration 7401CH. The vessel is a 2003 SeaRay. While observing the vessel it was still running, had two fishing poles off the stern with lines in the water, and no person's on board.  Witnesses stated that while cutting grass at the incident location, they observed the vessel approach from about 200-300 yards from shore. They stated that the vessel did not slow down and proceeded to run directly into the rock wall. Once the vessel came to a stop and they could not see anyone on board, they contacted 911 and Subject1 proceeded to get onto the vessel to see if anyone was on board. Subject1 stated that once he was on the vessel he observed that one engine throttle was in neutral and the second was fully forward. He proceeded to put both engines in neutral to prevent the vessel from pushing further into the rock wall. I obtained pictures which are attached to this report and maintained visual of the vessel while a surface search was conducted by other units to include Fire Department, Coast Guard and other NRP units. All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, MD. 

According to Victim’s family, Operator has been a recreational boater and fishermen for approximately 15-20 years. They were unsure if Operator possessed a boater safety card, but knew that he updates his fishing license every year.  When asked if he takes anyone with him on the vessel Victim’s family both confirmed that Operator often goes on the vessel by himself.  They stated that they had been on the boat with Operator 3 to 5 times throughout the years, but overall he is almost always by himself on the vessel.  According to Subject2, Operator had been taking the boat out recently in order to get a few more fishing trips in before he would have to winterize the vessel.  

During this particular fishing trip he had been contacting Subject2 through text messages and telling her about the Rockfish he caught and filleted to eat "sashimi style."  He struck Victim’s family as being happy and in a good mood while on the boat on 11/7/2019.  They knew that he had been consuming alcohol along with the Rockfish.  As far and Victim’s family knew Operator would not take the boat further than 30 minutes from the harbor during most trips.  

When asked about Operator's background and activity leading up to this trip they stated that Operator had worked construction for most of his life, but had recently moved into contracting work.  He specifically works with gutter installation.  According to Subject2, Operator had been living life within his normal routine and had not been acting abnormal recently.  She mentioned that as he gets older his memory was starting to fade but overall Operator was healthy and was showing no sudden changes in routine or activity.  Victim’s family both reported that Operator has been happy and has not shown any signs of depression or experienced any extreme changes in mood.   Both women knew Operator to drink at home and were aware that he would often drink on the boat.  They were unsure if he would consume more alcohol on the vessel while staying on it compared to the amount he consumed at home.  Victim’s family did not have the impression that Operator had a problem with alcohol consumption and repeated that he did not use drugs.  Overall Operator had not changed his routine, was not experiencing any work or personal issues, and was stable emotionally.  As stated in a previous report Operator was not on any medications or diagnosed with any medical conditions. 

While on the phone with Victim’s family a radio transmission was broadcast at 2:30 pm stating a citizen had located a package in the Chesapeake Bay, south of Plum Point and reported the sighting to the USCG.  Subject4 provided coordinates of N 38 34.97 W -76 25.71.  Area 4 field units began response from Breezy Point Marina, Area 2 units responded from Tilghman Island, and Calvert County Fire and Rescue Solomon's Boat 3 responded from Solomons Island, MD.  While en route to the Breezy Point Marina I was made aware by Sgt. that Coast Guard had released subject5 from the scene but while speaking to Sgt. stated that the package was approximately 0.25 NNE from red marker 78A in the Chesapeake Bay.  

At 5:05 pm the package was located by Solomon's Fire Boat 3 at N 38°36’34 W 076°25’37.3.  Recovery was made and the package was transported back to Breezy Point Marina, MD.  At that time a Medical Examiner was requested to respond to scene.  Once the package was brought to shore a preliminary identification was made using recent photos that Operator's daughter had sent to me.  Operator was officially pronounced deceased at 5:10 pm by EMT and Fire Chief. I then proceeded to take initial photos of Operator and made contact with FI with OCME to relay the basic information of the case.  

There was minimal bruising found on Operator's neck and back of his ankles.  No trauma was found that indicated a struggle or foul play.  Rigor mortis had begun to set in at that time. A medical examiner's report number of 19-13282 was assigned to Operator.


BARDID: MD-2019-0142
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-11-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 850 Baltimore Yacht Club Rd
NearestCityorTown: Essex
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 1, 2019 at approximately 1155 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a call for a vessel fire that happened earlier in the morning at Sue Creek Marina.

Upon arrival, vessel hull (PA Registration # PA492DU) that was burned to the water line was in water at floating pier by the boat lift. Pier was burned as well as 2 poles supporting the floating pier. Window of neighboring boat is warped.

 I made contact with the owner of the boat that had been on fire. After talking with him, he explained to me that he had received a call earlier that morning by the owner of the marina and was informed that his boat was on fire.

There was also damage to a neighboring vessel (MD Registration # MD5436AP). The window on the vessel appeared to be warped and melted.

Pictures of both vessels will be attached to this report.

All events occurred in Baltimore County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2019-0143
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2019-11-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Back Creek/255 Lore Rd Dock F
NearestCityorTown: Solomons
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, November 25, 2019 I (Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) while on boat patrol on NRP874 responded to a call for a vessel on fire docked at Beacon Marina on Back Creek in Solomons.

I arrived on scene at approximately 8:20 AM to see that Calvert County Fire Department was in the process of extinguishing the fire. The vessel was tied in the last slip on pier F and the upper structure was gutted by fire.The vessel name “Sarah’s Dolphin” run through the United States Coast Guard Port State Information Exchange database showed a Hull Identification number of TRJGC2460383. When this Hull Identification Number was searched through Compass it came back to a 1983 Trojan, 32 feet in length and white in color, Maryland registration 8496 C. 

The Beacon Marina Dockmaster reported the fire at approximately 8:02 AM and stated that as he came out of his office he noticed a smell of something burning which directed his attention to the vessel on pier F in slip that was spewing smoke. As he approached the vessel he noticed flames building up towards the stern of the vessel. In moments the entire upper structure of the vessel was in flames. The Dockmaster stated that when he approached the vessel as it was on fire it was still hooked up to shore power. Information provided by the Dockmaster shows that the vessel is insured through Allstate.

Anne Arundel County Fire Marshal arrived on scene at approximately 11:00 AM and after preliminary investigation determined the likely cause of the fire to be an electrical overload caused by too many devices being plugged in.

Subject arrived on scene at approximately 1:20 PM and confirmed his vessel insurance information and stated that his insurance company would be taking a look at the boat within a week. He stated he would take the necessary steps to have the vessel moved from the marina to prevent it from becoming a hazard by sinking or leaking any fuels. 

All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.On Monday, December 9, 2019 I, (Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) made contact with Subject in  regard to the damage amount and current location of his vessel. He stated that per his Allstate Insurance Surveyor the total damage cost was $18,000. The vessel was towed on November 25, 2019 to Solomons Yachting Center by who is demolishing the vessel for Subject. 

I also made contact with Deputy of the Anne Arundel County Fire Marshal Division who provided a report number of 04-19-021 and confirmed his initial finding that the fire was caused by a accidental electrical shortage. 

All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2019-0144
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-12-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:17:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pleasure Island
NearestCityorTown: Middle River
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/31/19 at approximately 0900 hours Corporal, and I Officer met with Operator in reference to a boating accident that happened earlier that morning. Operator was underway on his vessel heading to Pleasure Island to go duck hunting. Operator left the boat ramp at Rocky Point marina and was headed southwest through the back channel when he struck a flashing green channel marker. 

Operator stated he and another subject were traveling out to a blind site to duck hunt. Corporal and I met with Operator at his residence. Operator advised that he called NRP dispatch after he had struck the channel marker. 

Operator advised that there was fog earlier that morning and that the "no wake" buoy did not have reflective tape around it, when Operator saw the buoy he steered to avoid and hit green channel marker #9. Operator stated that there were no injuries to himself or the other subject on board with him, Operator also said there was no damage to the channel marker itself. Operator advised that he had all his PFD's on board the vessel but they were not being used at the time of the accident. 

Operator stated that on impact the subject that was on the boat with him along with decoys were thrown overboard, Operator stated the subject and the decoys were both recovered immediately after the impact had occurred. After impact nearby hunters heard the impact and came to Operator for assistance, Operator was towed in by other hunters and put the boat on the trailer and towed in back to his residence. Operator stated the estimated value of the damages was approximately $12,000. All occurred in Baltimore County.


BARDID: MD-2019-0145
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-09-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rileys Lock Rd.
NearestCityorTown: Poolesville
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/21/2019 I Officer of the Natural Resources Police was on a maritime Security Zone detail aboard patrol vessel NRP-890 at Riley's Lock with a Secret Service agent and a Coast Guard Officer. While on patrol I noticed a helicopter in the air and a fire rescue boat in the area just east of the American flag at Trump's National Golf Club. I radioed into dispatch to contact Montgomery County Police to see if they knew what was happening. Dispatch informed me that a 66 year old woman was kayaking and had "caught a strainer." She was briefly unconscious but had regained consciousness. Dispatch told me that they were initially going to medvac the patient but not would be transporting her priority 1 to Shady Grove hospital. I was not able to make contact with any First Responders on scene.

 
Several days later I contacted Montgomery County dispatch to receive more information on the boating accident. The dispatcher did not have a name or DOB for the victim. The dispatcher gave me the complainant number. I attempted to call the number and it was disconnected. The dispatcher gave me the contact information of the Fire Station that was on scene that day. I then called Fire Station 30 and they advised me that a 66 year old woman in a 10 foot blue and white Kayak caught a strainer and had partially drowned. 

The kayak floated away. She was underwater for 1-2 minutes and was unresponsive when she came up. An unknown individual performed CPR on her and she became responsive and alert. Park Police Eagle 2 was flown in for possible evac but was waved off. Fire Station 30 gave me the information of the medic that transported her as they did not have her name, DOB, or other information. I emailed the medic and he informed me he spoke with his captain and would not be able to give out that information due to patient confidentiality. He gave me the website to request medical records. The website requires a patient consent form and the patient's information including name and DOB. I was not able to obtain that information so I could not submit a request.

My supervisor, Sgt., submitted a request for the incident report. He was sent a report that confirmed the information we already possessed, but it did not include victim information. NRP Records also attempted to obtain the incident report with the same results.


BARDID: MD-2019-0146
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2019-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:51:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River
NearestCityorTown: Bryans Rd
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday August 18, 2019 at approximately 1830 hrs, I, Cpl., responded to Charles County in reference to a missing person from a vessel. The missing person, Victim, had been boating with several family members on the Potomac River near Gunnston Cove. Victim and his family were towing an inflatable raft/tube at the time of the incident. 

Witness accounts state that sister of victim and mother of victim were being towed on the tube and fell off at some point (approx. 1740 hrs). The missing subject jumped into the water to assist them back onto the raft and he began to struggle in the water. While he was struggling, he began to panic and grab or hold onto the 2 women in an attempt to stay afloat. Both women began to panic and screamed for help. The operator of the vessel, Operator, entered the water to assist all 3 subjects. When Operator entered the water, the victim began to pull him under water as well. Operator was able to assist the women but the victim was unable to stay afloat. All individuals on-board lost sight of the victim and they began to scream for help.

 Charles County 911 was notified and local Emergency Personnel responded to the location.  The Maryland Natural Resources Police, United States Coast Guard, and Maryland State Police Aviation began to deploy assets to the scene. The Search and Rescue operation lasted until approximately 2100 hrs and the victim was not located. Search efforts will resume on August 19, 2019 at approximately 0700 hrs. Additional supplements to follow. All events occurred in Charles County, MD.

Multiple assets and agencies were deployed for the search effort including NRP field units, NRP Dive Team, Coast Guard Vessel and Aviation, NRP Aviation, Trooper 7 Aviation, Charles County Fire Boats, and Charles County Dive Team.  Search efforts continued throughout the day until sunset that evening (7:56 PM).  At that time NRP and USCG cleared from the search effort while Charles County continued to search.  I spoke directly to the family members on scene informing them that Natural 1 would be flying the morning of August 20, 2019 and NRP field units would be out at the same time continuing surface search efforts via vessel. 

On August 20, 2019 I was monitoring the search efforts via radio.  At approximately 9:25 AM I heard Sgt. on Natural 1 confirm that they had located Victim in the area of Potomac Heights, MD (N 38 36.777 W 077 07.958) approximately 2-4 miles away from where the family believed Victim entered the water.  At that time I instructed the Communication Center to contact The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore and have a Forensic Investigator respond.  I then contacted the Area 4 field units who were on scene, and instructed them to take pictures of Victim and the surrounding area before he was recovered.   Recovery was made at 10:45 AM by Fire Boat 7 out of Potomac Heights and Fire Boat 20 out of Indian Head.  Victim was pronounced deceased at 10:50 AM by EMT with Naval District Washington Station 20 Indian Head.  He was then transported to the same address in Bryans Road MD to be examined by the FI.

Examiner performed a preliminary examination of Victim and did not find any obvious trauma or injury that would suggest foul play. The condition of Victim's body appeared consistent with someone who had drowned.  He exhibited blue/green skin, swollen facial features, and the skin on his hands and feet had begun to loosen.  According to Victim's family he has no history of alcohol consumption, drug use, or medical issues.  While Examiner finished her examination the family of Victim arrived to the Bryan's Road address via their personal vessel (likely that they followed the fire boats in).


BARDID: MD-2020-0001
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-02-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Back Creek
NearestCityorTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Improper repair
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On February 22, 2020, I responded to Stella's Stern and Keel Marina, located at 604 State St. Annapolis, MD 21403, in reference to a boat fire reported to our Communications Center by Anne Arundel Fire. Once I arrived, I met with the victim Owner 1. He advised me that around midnight he opened his bedroom door because he heard something, smelled something or was going to get a beer when he saw fire. 

He immediately grabbed a fire extinguisher from his bedroom to knock down the flames. Owner 1 went out on the outside deck of the vessel and said the fire re-flared. He then grabbed another fire extinguisher he had on deck and tried to use it on the fire, but this fire extinguisher only partially worked and could not control the fire. Owner 1 then grabbed the hose that was on the ground, but it was frozen from the cold and would not work. 

Owner 1 then banged on his neighbor's boat to call 911. At this point, the boat was engulfed in flames.  Owner 1's vessel is a 1977 43 ft. Hatteras TC documentation # D0697871 HULL ID # HATAE4490377. I asked Owner 1 what he thought may have caused the fire, and he advised that he had a heater in the engine room that he had cut the plug end off and spliced to an extension cord, and he thought it might have arced and started the fire.  

I then spoke to Neighbor 1, the owner and occupant of the vessel Moonbow a 1985 HENRI WAUQUIEZ 38FT FIBERGLASS, SAIL Documentation # D0697871 HULL ID # LHA381440185. Neighbor 1 is the person that Owner 1 asked to call 911. Neighbor 1 advised me that around 1200 am, he woke up to his neighbor Owner 1 banging on his boat and yelling for help. He got out of the front hatch and saw Owner 1’s boat engulfed in flames. Neighbor 1 grabbed his dog and his phone and called 911. Neighbor 1 started the fire department arrived within minutes and started to put the fire out. Neighbor 1's vessel was melted or charred on the starboard side lines for the sails damaged radar unit damaged and other damage as a result of the heat and fire from Owner 1's vessel. Additional damage would be reassessed later in the day time. Neighbor 1 also advised me that the vessel docked on the left side of Owner 1's vessel that was damaged as well from the fire was taken care of by Neighbor 2. Neighbor 2's vessel is "Les Foiles," Eastport MD, a1979 Silverton Yachts Fiberglass Boat 34 ft. MD registration  MD 0113 C HIN # STN02153M791.  I took pictures at the scene, and Neighbor 1 emailed me photos of the boat on fire when the fire department was en route. Pictures are attached to this report. 

 Annapolis Fire Marshal's Office was on the scene before my arrival he advised he would be back again when it was daylight to investigate more. Neighbor 1 and Owner 1 were put up for the night in a local hotel by the Red Cross. I called another officer later on in the morning and asked him to contact the Fire Marshal and follow up with this investigation. 

On 02/22/2020, I responded to Stella's Stern and Keel, located at 604 State Street, Annapolis, MD 21403 to follow up on the incident. I spoke with the marina owner. I advised him that his dock appeared to have been damaged as a result of the fire. The damage consisted of charring and a small portion being removed to extinguish the fire. I told him to contact me when he received an estimate from his insurance company for the damage. I spoke with Neighbor 1, the owner of vessel "Moonbow." I told him to contact me when he received an estimate of the damage. I spoke with Neighbor 2, the owner of the vessel, MD 0113 C. I sent him an email with a list of questions related to a boat accident report. I met with the Annapolis City Fire Marshal's Office. He advised he was photographing the scene today but will be waiting for the vessel owner's insurance company to remove the vessel from the water to complete his investigation. 

I spoke with Owner 1. He told me he has not yet received an estimate of the damage for his vessel, however his insurance company told him the vessel was a complete loss and it is insured up to $69,500.
I spoke with Neighbor 1. He told me Geico, Owner 1's insurance company, will be conducting an investigation of the cause of the fire on March 24 at 0900. Neighbor 1 did however receive anth estimate from Diversified Marine and The Rigging Company. The damage estimate ranged between $180,000-$200,000.

I spoke with Neighbor 2. He has not yet had the vessel looked at by a professional. He is waiting for an investigation to be completed by Owner 1's insurance company as to a cause of the fire. Neighbo2 2 estimates the damages to the vessel to be approximately $10,000.

I spoke with Marine Owner. He told me he received an estimate for the damages to his dock from BoatUS. The damages were estimated to be $8,550.

I spoke with the Annapolis Fire Marshal's Office. He told me he had not yet determined a cause of the fire but will be inspecting the vessel on March 24th with Geico.
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.

On Saturday, 22 February 2020 at 00:14, the Annapolis Fire & Explosive Unit responded with units to 604 State St., Annapolis, MD, 21403 in Anne Arundel County for a boat fire.  We conducted an origin and cause investigation.  Units arrived on scene to find a fully involved 43' 1977 Hatteras vessel on fire with the occupant out.  At this time the fire is still under investigation, but it is believed that the origin was the engine room and the cause may have been an electric heater that was repaired by occupant of the vessel.  Still ruled undetermined at this time.


BARDID: MD-2020-0002
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: South Locust Point Marine Term
NearestCityorTown: Baltimore City
County: Baltimore City
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On March 12, 2020 at approximately 1200 hrs, I, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) was notified about a two vessel accident that occurred on this day at approximately 0845 hrs in the vicinity of the South Locust Point Marine Terminal, Middle Branch - Patapsco River. I was told that the accident involved a work boat and a row boat and the person on the row boat was injured. 

On March 12, 2020 at 1203 hrs I called Subject1 and he told me that a MPA work boat and row boat collided near the South Locust Point Marine Terminal. Subject1 told me that the work boat crew pulled the single occupant of the row boat from the water and returned him to the Baltimore Rowing Center. Subject1 said that the rower may have a rib injury. Maryland Transportation Authority Police (MTAP) Officer made an initial report (see attached) and Subject1 provided me with a copy of this report for my investigation. From this MTAP report I learned that the operator of the work boat was Operator1 and the operator of the row boat was Operator2. Subject1 told me that Operator1 was undergoing drug and alcohol testing after the accident per MPA policy. Subject1 provided my phone number to Operator1 for him to contact me.

On March 12, 2020 at 1227 hrs I called Operator2 to get his account of the accident. He told me he was rowing his 24 feet in length Maas rowing shell on the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River. He was rowing near the vicinity of the South Locust Point Marine Terminal when he heard a voice yelling and then saw a work boat heading in his direction on a collision course. The vessels collided and Operator2 was thrown into the water. Operator2 told me the only damage to his vessel was a broken oar, which he valued at $900. He did not require immediate medical attention, but he scheduled to see his Doctor that same day in order to evaluate possible injury to his ribs. Operator2 was to follow-up with me after the extent of his injury was known.

On March 13, 2020 at 1135 hrs I called Operator2 and he informed me that X-rays were taken and he may have torn ligaments/tendons in his ribs. His Doctor advised him to not row his boat for 6 weeks and he has a bandage wrapped around the area of injury. I contacted NRP Cpl. and had him meet Operator2 at his residence to have Operator2 complete a written NRP Witness/Victim Statement form (NRP-425A) (see attached).

On March 13, 2020 at 1230 hrs I met with MPA work boat operator Operator1 at the Dundalk Marine Terminal. I took photos of the work boat, bearing registration MD 0025 DA, that was involved in the accident (see attached), I inspected the boat, and Operator1 completed a NRP Voluntary Statement/Advisement of Rights form (NRP-425) (see attached). Operator1 provided me with a copy of his Maryland DNR Certificate of Boating Safety Education and the MPA Vessel Log Book for March 12, 2020 (see attached). Operator1 told me that the results of his post-accident breathalyzer test administer by his employer were .000 BAC and he was still awaiting the drug test results. 

Per our conversation and his written statement, Operator1' account of the accident was as follows:

On March 12 at 7:30 AM Operator1 conducted the Vessel Log equipment check list prior to leaving the pier at Dundalk Marine Terminal. Then the vessel got underway en route to the South Locust Point Marine Terminal where they were to complete maintenance work. Operator1 was in the operator's position in the bridge of the vessel and 2 crew members were in the cabin below the bridge. Operator1 said upon approach to South Locust Point Marine Terminal he heard crew member yell "stop" and then "yelled at the guy in kayak". 

Operator1 put the boat in neutral and the "guy (Operator2) hit front side of our boat". This was clarified to me to be the port (left) side just below the bow (front) of the work boat. Operator1 told me that he never saw the row boat at any time prior to the point of collision. The collision location was explained to me to be "about 500 to 600 feet off of Berth 10 South Locust Point. Operator1 said at the time of the collision his boat was traveling "about 1300 to 1400 RPM, 7 to 8 knots per hour", and Operator1 was looking towards the Cruise Ship Terminal where they were to complete the maintenance work. Operator1 told me that he was not distracted at the time by cell phone or other activity. After the collision, Operator1 then turned his boat around to help Operator2 out of the water. The crew members retrieved the row boat and Operator2 and Operator1 proceeded to return Operator2 to the Baltimore Rowing Center. 

Per our conversation and his written statement, Operator2's account of the accident was as follows:

On March 12 at 8:30 AM Operator2 launched his rowing shell (row boat) from the Baltimore Rowing Club (Center). He proceeded to row down river on the Middle Branch-Patapsco River with the intent to row to Baltimore Inner Harbor. He was wearing a bright fluorescent yellow jacket (see attached photo). In the vicinity of South Locust Point Marine Terminal, Operator2 heard a voice yelling "Hey get out of the way-move!". Operator2 looked "directly ahead into the rising sun and about 100 feet ahead was the flat-bowed MPA tug [work boat] aimed right at me, and me at him, clearly a collision course, me at 6 MPH and the tug [work boat] with foaming bow wave at 7-9 MPH". 

Operator2 said he immediately started to turn his boat after which the work boat made no apparent change in its course or speed and no warning horn sounded at any time. The work boat collided with the row boat on the row boat's port side, broke the port side oar, and rolled the row boat causing Operator2 to fall into the water. Operator2 said after the collision the work boat "continued with out slowing or turning". 

Operator2 explained, "I began to wave and shouted "Hey come back and help me", which I repeated 3 times". Operator2 said he witnessed one of the work boat crew members climb the work boat's bridge ladder and yell at the captain (Operator1) to stop the boat. Operator2 said the work boat was 150-200 feet away from him before it turned around to rescue him. 

Operator2 remembers looking at his watch while he was in the water and the time was 8:48 AM. Upon returning, the crew members of the work boat lowered a ladder and Operator2 climbed onboard. The work boat returned Operator2 and his boat to the Baltimore Rowing Center. Operator2 described a "popping feeling and sound from my right lower rib cage when inhaling". Operator2 believes that his oar's impact with the work boat caused the injury. Operator2 did not require immediate medical attention but he saw his physician the same day. Operator2 received an X-Ray and his physician's diagnosis of injury was dislocated rib cartilage on his right side 7th rib ventral joint, an injury called costochondral separation. Operator2 was told to not lift heavy objects or row his boat for several months.

Conclusion of Investigation

Based on the facts of my investigation I conclude that both vessels could have taken action to avoid this collision, but the work boat operated by Operator1 failed to follow United States Coast Guard Inland Navigation Rules for power-driven vessels which is the main contributing factor that led to this collision. Specifically, Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) §83.05  Look-out (Rule 5)- "Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision." Furthermore, CFR §83.18  Responsibilities between vessels (Rule 18) states, "(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of: (ii) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver." Operator1' work boat was a power-driven vessel that was underway p


BARDID: MD-2020-0005
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: West and Rhode Rivers/Rhode Ri
NearestCityorTown: Edgewater
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/08/20 at approximately 1:00 P.M., I, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from DNR Communications in regards to three people jumping off of a boat in the Rhode River, near day marker "6" outside of Cadle Creek. 

DNR advised that it was reported that the people were screaming for help. I subsequently responded from the West River as I was already on boat patrol. Upon arriving on scene, I observed 2 individuals clinging to each side of red day marker "6." 

I maneuvered patrol vessel 144 alongside day marker "6" and immediately threw out a life-saving ring so they could grab it but neither would let go of the day marker. I instructed occupant to grab onto the starboard side of the patrol vessel and assisted him to the stern of the patrol vessel. Once Occupant reached the stern of the patrol vessel, I pulled him onto the patrol vessel. I then maneuvered patrol vessel 144 back to red day marker "6" where I instructed Occupant2 to grab onto the starboard side of the patrol vessel and I assisted him to the stern of the patrol vessel. I then instructed Occupant2 to put his feet onto the starboard outboard engine and I tilted the engine up to assist him onto the patrol vessel. I then confirmed with both Occupant and Occupant2 that all individuals were accounted for, to which they responded "yes." 

They stated that the other individual who was onboard the vessel swam to shore and was safe on a nearby dock.  I operated my patrol vessel over to the dock. All three individuals were examined by EMS personnel that arrived at the scene. 

Occupant was then transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center with complaints of head soreness and dizziness. I then observed a white, approximately 17' vessel, up on the rocks of a nearby homeowner's waterfront property. 

The vessel would be later fully identified as a 17' Carolina Skiff, white in color, equipped with an 80 horsepower Yamaha outboard engine, bearing MD registration 3129 DB. The Carolina Skiff was resting at an approximate 45 degree angle on the riprap, with the bow sticking up and the stern partially underwater. I then talked to Operator, who was the owner /operator of the Carolina Skiff. Operator stated that he, along with his brother Occupant and their friend Occupant2, departed Holiday Hill Marina, located on Whitemarsh Creek off of the Rhode River, at approximately 12:30 P.M. 

Operator stated that it was his first trip out this year and neither he, nor Occupant and Occupant2 had ever been on the Rhode River before. Operator stated that their goal was to try and find a viable fishing location. Operator stated that they explored different parts of the Rhode River before they decided to head out towards the mouth. It should be noted that Operator was located at the helm (operator's position) while Occupant2 was sitting directly in front of the helm and Occupant was sitting up on the bow of the Carolina Skiff. 

Operator stated that they got almost to the mouth of Cadle Creek when he realized it was going to be too rough out in the bay and decided to turn back. Operator stated that he was travelling approximately 25 knots when he made a sharp, port-side (left-handed) turn. Operator stated that as soon as he made the turn, he, along with Occupant and Occupant2, were ejected from the moving Carolina Skiff. 

Operator stated that when he surfaced, he observed the Carolina Skiff performing a series of left-handed turns towards shore before it ultimately ended up launching onto a nearby homeowner's shoreline riprap. Operator could not accurately determine the speed in which the Carolina Skiff was turning, but stated it was at such a speed that he didn't feel comfortable with the idea of trying to swim back to the boat. 

Operator stated that he was approximately 50-100 yards away from a homeowner's dock, and being that he was a fairly confident swimmer, decided to swim to it. Operator, believing that neither Occupant nor Occupant2, were that good of swimmers,   About the time Operator swam to the dock, the homeowner of the aforementioned dock, was in her house when she heard a series of cries for help. Homeowner stated that she looked out her window and saw the Carolina Skiff spinning in a series of circles and further observed Occupant and Occupant2 clinging to the day marker. Homeowner stated that she ran out onto her dock with life jackets and met with other neighbors who also responded with life jackets. Homeowner stated that she then ran back to her house to grab blankets and by the time she had returned the individuals were already out of the water.

 Homeowner's neighbors both saw the Carolina Skiff spinning in circles and grabbed life jackets to assist the 3 individuals in the water. It should be noted that none of the witnesses I talked to ever saw the 3 individuals in the Carolina Skiff before the accident.       

Operator stated that he had only looked at the temperature before departing the dock; he had never looked at the wind or water conditions. I went aboard the Carolina Skiff and could only find 2 serviceable life jackets; the 3rd life jacket was not serviceable due to the inflatable padding being completely flat and the USCG certification label being completely worn off. I could find no Type IV PFD or a sound producing device. 

It should be noted that Operator stated that he did not check for safety gear prior to leaving the dock and was not wearing a "kill-switch" at the time of the accident. Furthermore, it was discovered that Operator has never obtained a boating safety certificate.  Approximately an hour had elapsed before I completed my investigation. At about 2:50 P.M., the Carolina Skiff slid off of the riprap as the tide came in and the water level rose. 

We were able to tow the Carolina Skiff back to Holiday Hill Marina on Whitemarsh Creek. The only damage sustained to the Carolina Skiff were some minor gouges to the fiberglass on the bottom of the hull. The Carolina Skiff would not start because the battery was ruined due to the water but the outboard engine appeared in serviceable condition with no apparent damage. 

The damage to the fiberglass on the bottom of the hull was estimated to be around $200.00.  Operator was issued 2 citations; 1 PFD short and failing to obtain a boating safety certificate. Operator was also issued 3 warnings for not displaying a current registration sticker, registration not in possession, and equipment violations (no Type IV PFD and no sound producing device). 

Occupant was transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center, where he complained of head soreness, numbness in both legs, neck stiffness, and dizziness. Ofc. Washington, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to the Anne Arundel Medical Center and obtained a written statement from Occupant. Written statements were also obtained from both Operator and Occupant2. It should be noted that the water temperature was between 53-55 degrees Fahrenheit and none of the 3 individuals were wearing life jackets when they fell overboard.  

Overall, the accident resulted in minor property damage to the Carolina Skiff and Occupant sustaining minor injuries. All individuals onboard were accounted for and the Carolina Skiff was towed back to Holiday Hill Marina, where it was put on a trailer.This case is closed.All events occurred in Anne Arundel Co.


BARDID: MD-2020-0006
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 800 Bay Front Avenue
NearestCityorTown: North Beach
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, April 13th, 2020, at approximately 1537 hours, I was dispatched to a call for two men in the water that were holding onto their sinking vessel approximately 200 yards off of the shoreline from 800 Bay Front Avenue in North Beach, MD. 

    Both men were fishing at the time of the incident. They stated the wind and waves picked up causing them to capsize.  The vessel involved was a green 10' rowboat that was given to OPERATOR 1 by a friend. The North Beach Fireboat was performing training exercises in the area and responded immediately when the call came out. We responded to NRP vessel 857, while another officer responded by land. OPERATOR 1 was able to swim to a nearby pier, and OPERATOR 2 was rescued by the fireboat and brought to shore. We were requested to stand down on our response via NRP 857 due to both subjects being rescued. Therefore, we responded by land. They were evaluated by the Anne Arundel County Fire Department and released with no injuries.

    The vessel sank and was not recovered. USCG was contacted and made aware of the situation. Both subjects were wearing life jackets when the vessel capsized. At the time of the incident, there was a thunderstorm coming through with south winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts to 40 mph. The waves were approximately 2 to 3 feet during the storm. The water temperature was approximately 60 degrees.  OPERATOR 1 did not check the weather forecast prior to heading out. The vessel did not have a motor on it. OPERATOR 1 valued the vessel at $400. A watercraft accident report is attached.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2020-0007
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-04-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:47:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chesapeake Bay
NearestCityorTown: Shady Side
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Weather
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 2, 2020 at approximately 1847 hours I, Officer First Class with the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) Criminal Investigations Section, (CIS) was contacted by Sgt. (NRP) in reference to two possible missing people in the Chesapeake Bay in the area of 38.754667 -76.478167. 

The original reporting party called Anne Arundel County 911 at approximately 1628 hours to report two possible adolescents in a yellow canoe with no personal flotation devices (PFD's) in the Chesapeake Bay near Columbia Beach. 

Subject1 also reported that he believed the canoe may be in distress due to the high winds and seas. Anne Arundel Fire Department Engine 411 arrived on scene by land subject1 at 1638 hours at the Columbia Beach Community Pier. Subject1 stated that shortly thereafter, the canoe disappeared into the horizon. According to Anne Arundel County Fire Department computer aided dispatch (CAD) notes, the approximate time they lost sight of the canoe was 1650 hours. The Maryland Natural Resources Police Communications Center was contacted by Anne Arundel County Fire Department Dispatch who reported the incident at 1646 hours. Ofc. (NRP) arrived on scene by vessel at 1709 hours to begin a search. After Ofc. arrived, several other marine and air assets from the United States Coast Guard (USCG), MD State Police, Anne Arundel County Fire Department, and Queen Anne's County Fire Department arrived on scene. Subject1 provided the following witness statement prior to my arrival. The statement was taken by Ofc..

 "NOTICED TWO people / 10 + 14 yr old Kids in a canoe. NO Life preservers on. The canoe coming from Cedar Hurst area going towards the boat ramp. I ran down to the boat ramp to Try to yell out to them but they could not hear me. Came back to the house and called 911. Anne Arundel Fire Dept met me at the Boat ramp. The Firemen were able to see the canoe- at a distance away. “I arrived on scene at approximately 1951 hours. I was informed by on scene NRP patrol units that the United States Coast Guard (USCG) recovered an overturned 20 ft yellow in color "Old Town" canoe with (1) paddle at GPS Coordinates 38.754667 -76.478167. The canoe recovered was a model "Old Town" and yellow in color, matching the description of the canoe reported by Subject1. I was also informed by on scene NRP patrol officers that (2) individuals were confirmed missing from the residence.

 I then interviewed the husband of Operator and the father of Occupant. According to Husband, he lived with Operator and their three children. According to Husband, the family was staying at the home of Operator's mother for the duration of the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

Husband stated the family arrived at the home the night prior on April 1, 2020. According to Husband, he had been on a work telephone call from 1200 hours to 1700 hours. When he was finished with his work call, he texted and called Operator to inquire as to where the family was because "no one was around". 

Husband stated that he then began to straighten the house, and when he saw the family's "au pair" a short time later with (2) of his children, he inquired as to the location of his wife and son. Husband stated that Au pair told him she saw Operator and Occupant on a canoe a while ago pursuing a ball which had floated away. 

Husband stated that after waiting a time longer and not hearing from his wife, he began to worry. It was at that time Husband said he found Operator's black jacket hanging on a hammock in the yard, and inside the jacket was Operator's cell phone. According to Husband, he then began to panic, and drove his vehicle down the driveway in an attempt to find his wife and son. 

Husband said when he got to the end of the driveway he was met by Anne Arundel County Fire Department personnel.  I asked Husband for permission to open his cell phone so I could see where he texted/ called his wife which he allowed. There were two calls from Husband to Operator at 1726 hours and 1814 hours, and a text message from him to her stating "where are you all?" at 1704 hours. I then interviewed the family's "au pair". Au pair stated that she was playing with two of the Husband's children in the yard when she saw Operator and Occupant paddling out into the Chesapeake Bay. 

Au pair said it appeared as though they were chasing a ball which had ended up in the water. She said a few minutes later she looked up and then did not see them any longer. According to Au pair, she walked the shoreline in attempt to regain sight of Operator and Occupant. A short time later Husband began asking as to the whereabouts of Operator and Occupant. I then photographed the area Operator and Occupant were believed to have launched the canoe from. 

There was obvious foot traffic in the sand, and a mark in the sand indicative of a canoe being dragged into the water. There was also a wooden canoe/kayak stand near the water's edge capable of holding (2) canoes/kayaks. The stand only had (1) kayak on it at the time, and it was confirmed that there were normally (2) canoes/kayaks on the stand. 

The water temperature at the time was 51.2 F, winds out of the NW at 26 knots. After photographing the area, I then cleared the scene, as did on-scene NRP and Anne Arundel County Fire units. United States Coast Guard Station Annapolis remained in the area overnight conducting surface searches. 

Subject1 confirmed that he witnessed (2) individuals the previous day onboard a yellow canoe that appeared to be in distress, while not wearing PFD's. According to Subject1, he thought the occupants of the canoe may have been in trouble when he saw the wind push them past the beach ball which they appeared to be chasing. Subject1 stated that he watched the individuals in the canoe drift South in the Chesapeake Bay in the strong winds until he could no longer see them. Subject1 was able to provide a more accurate location for search and rescue assets to continue searching based on the last known position of the canoe and the occupants. 


BARDID: MD-2020-0008
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-03-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 14362 Bay Water Court,Solomons
NearestCityorTown: Lusby
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 29, 2020 at approximately 03:40 p.m, I responded to a complaint of a sailboat that was on fire. The vessel was located at a marina in Mill Creek. Upon my arrival, I observed a white sailboat bearing Maryland registration (MD-7341-CE). I observed thick white smoke above the sail boat and Solomons Fire Boat #3 suppressing the fire with foam. I detected the odor of burned fiberglass. The owner of the vessel, Owner 1 stated that there was smoke coming from the cabin of the sailboat after he started the engine. Owner 1 and Owner 2 used three B1 fire extinguishers in an attempt to put out the fire. A neighbor called 911 after seeing the smoke. Owner 1 also stated that he had just finished replacing the battery to the vessel. He advised that the sailboat did not leave the slip. Solomons Volunteer Fire Department Engine #33 arrived on scene at approximately 03:25 p.m. and successfully put out the fire. I interviewed Owner 2 and was able to obtain a written statement from her. The Fire Marshal determined the cause of the fire to be an electrical short. The vessel remains floating in it's assigned slip. No injuries were reported. No violations. This case is closed. All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0009
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-05-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 301 Burnside Street, Annapolis
NearestCityorTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 03, 2020, at approximately 6:26 PM, Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to the area of Spa Creek, Severn River for a reported boat fire. When we arrived on scene at 6:37 PM we found Annapolis Fire Department out with the vessel. The vessel was white in color 2005 Rinker 34ft bearing Maryland Registration 2320 BU. The fire was extinguished when we arrived at the scene. Annapolis FD confirmed the fire was out and assessed the damage. It was determined the fire started in the vessel's engine compartment, likely a result of an electrical issue. Annapolis Fire Marshall stated that it could have started from the battery charger due to the shore power being the only power running to the vessel. Annapolis Fire Marshall's Office stated they are completing a report as well. Their incident number is 2020-27572. It was confirmed that there was no heaters left on at the time of the fire. Negligence does not appear to be involved with this incident.
    The Fire Marshal and myself spoke with the Owner who was not on the vessel when the fire started. She advised that she was not aware of anything left powered on. At this time no estimate for the damages has been given. An additional report will follow when this information has been provided.
Fire Marshall’s Report: On 5/3/20 at approximately 1824 hours, Annapolis Fire Marshal's Office Fire and Explosive Services Unit (ESU) responded with units from the Annapolis Fire Deparment (AFD), Anne Arundel County Fire Department (AACoFD) and the United States Naval Academy Fire Department (USNA) for a reported boat fire. Upon arrival AFD reported finding an engine compartment fire that was already out. The fire appeared to have been smoldering and smothered out prior to fire department arrival. The fire damages were contained to the engine compartment and some life jackets that were located directly above a vent from the engine. Witnesses advised seeing light smoke coming from the rear of boat. The boat was winterized and plugged into the shoreline. The battery bank was connected to a charger. The origin of the fire is the engine compartment and the cause of the fire is an electrical malfunction. The fire is ruled accidental. The investigation is closed pending any new evidence or information is provided to the Annapolis Fire Marshal's Office.


BARDID: MD-2020-0010
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: C & O Canal/Potomac River-Poin
NearestCityorTown: Point of Rocks
County: Frederick
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 2, 2020 at approximately 1815 hours; I, Cpl. , overheard Maryland State Police receive a call for individuals in the Potomac River from a boating accident. I responded to the Point of Rocks Boat Ramp where Carroll Manor Fire and Rescue and Jefferson Fire Company were on scene (Run Number F20010735). Carroll Manor Fire and Rescue recovered Operator1, Subject1, and Operator2 from the Potomac River with their three kayaks and were brought to the Point of Rocks Boat Ramp at 1944 hours. 

At that point and time, I took possession of the kayaks as Operator1, Subject1, and Operator2 were transported to Frederick Memorial Hospital by Jefferson Ambulance 209 and Frederick County Ambulance 148. Carroll Manor Fire and Rescue advised me that they were in the open water between Heater's Island and the island below it when the rescue squad saved them. I noted the island below Heater's Island would be Nolands Island. I observed the Potomac River was above the "Danger Zone" paint on the boat ramp with various debris floating in the high water. I noted the Potomac River water level was around 14 feet at the time of the accident. I observed one kayak was a blue Coleman Rebel and two kayaks were Pelican Trailblazer 100 kayaks (one orange and one red). I further observed only two paddles were recovered.  I transferred the items to Sgt. and OFC. while I went to the hospital to meet with the victims. 

I arrived at Frederick Memorial Hospital around 2030 hours. I met with Operator1 first. Operator1 was covered in blankets as Frederick Memorial was treating him for hypothermia. Operator1 stated that he and his sons, Subject1 and Operator2, left Lander Boat Ramp and were planning to float the Potomac River to the Rt 15 bridge boat ramp on the Virginia side of the Potomac River. 

Operator1 advised that we was not sure what time the group started their kayak trip. Operator1 explained how his Coleman Rebel kayak hit a log, which had popped up in the river, causing his kayak to flip approximately 3/4 of a mile from the Lander Boat Ramp. 

Operator1 stated the group tried to look for places between islands and the shore on the Maryland side of the river but were unable to locate a spot to exit the Potomac River. Operator1 further stated that Subject1 and Operator2 fell out of their kayaks while trying to find a place to go on shore. Operator1 stated Subject1 placed Operator2 in one of their kayaks. 

Operator1 explained how he instructed Subject1 to call 911, on a cell phone in their dry bag, when Operator1 saw the Rt. 15 Bridge approximately one mile away. Operator1 further explained how the group drifted until they were rescued. Operator1 stated he tried to yell to a person loading their boat at the Virginia boat ramp under Rt. 15 but the person did not seem to notice them. 

Operator1 stated that Operator2 was wearing a personal flotation device but Operator1 and Subject1 were not. Operator1 advised that they lost one paddle and Subject1 lost a cell phone. Operator1' wife, arrived and went with me to check on her sons. I noted that Operator1 was not in a condition to provide me with a written statement.

Subject1 and Operator2 were in the same hospital room being treated for exposure to the cold water. Subject1, the oldest brother, explained the details of the accident. Subject1 stated that the group launched their kayaks at Lander Boat Ramp at approximately 1645-1700 hours and planned to go to the Rt. 15 boat ramp in Virginia. Subject1 stated that 1/3 of the way to the Rt. 15 boat ramp, in Virginia, Operator1 was swept out of his kayak after hitting an object in the water. 

Subject1 stated he and Operator2 got stuck on a tree causing Operator2 to be washed out of his Pelican Trailblazer 100 kayak. Subject1 further stated that he jumped into the water for Operator2 and placed Operator2 in one of their Pelican Trailblazer 100 kayak. Subject1 explained how he called 911 and the group floated down the river waiting for help. Subject1 estimated that he was in the water for approximately 1 hour while Operator1 was in the water for Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes before being rescued. Subject1 provided me with a written statement about the incident. Subject1 stated he lost his iPhone X during the accidents. 

I left my business card with Lisa Adams so she could contact me to recover the kayaks and any other items that were left in the kayaks when they were recovered. 

Sgt. Davis and OFC. Chaney transferred the property to me at 2242 hours at the Echo Lake Area Office. During the boat inventory, one US five dollar bill and two US one dollar bills were located in Subject1' wallet. Sgt. Davis and I counted and verified the currency together. I processed the evidence per Natural Resources Police Evidence Guidelines. 

All events occurred in Frederick County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0011
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/24/2020, I, Cpl. was on marine patrol of Deep Creek  Lake. I was notified by DNR Communications of a boat accident victim that had arrived at Garrett Memorial Hospital in Oakland, Maryland. The victim had been involved in a single vessel personal watercraft (PWC) accident earlier in the evening on Deep Creek Lake in the Dam cove area. 

     I made contact with the individual at the hospital Emergency Room. Victim was able to speak freely with this officer and was awaiting diagnosis of any possible head injury. Victim sustained lacerations to his nose and left eye area, he was showing signs of bruising and swelling in those areas.

     Victim advised he was on his new PWC in the area of the dam cove around 1915 hours on 05/24/2020. There were no other vessels in the area, the water was flat with low wind and restricted visibility (incoming fog). Victim said the PWC was a brand new purchase for their family and he had only operated it a maximum of five times. 

Victim said he had less than a year of boat operating experience but had received his Boater Safety Certification on 05/26/2019. Victim said that he wasn't comfortable with operating the new PWC and that it was much more responsive and fast than their old PWC. 

Victim was in the process of making a sharp left turn in the cove, completing a circle, when he was ejected from the PWC, striking his face on the steering column as he flew off. Victim said he remembered striking his face and then momentarily losing consciousness, awakening when he surfaced on the water in his life jacket. Victim was able to reboard his PWC and drive to his nearby dock, where his family assisted him into the house. The vessel sustained no damage.

     All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0012
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake/20294 Garrett
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/20/2020, I OFC. received a call from Garrett Central for a boat accident on Deep Creek Lake with an injured subject in the water. I responded to the area of on marked patrol vessel NRP 20294 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, MD 21550 881. CPL. was already on scene and the victim was out of the water and laying on a nearby dock. EMS was treating the victim.

While EMS was treating Victim, he stated he was sitting on his PWC when another PWC struck him at speed. Operator2 stated he was driving between 40-50 mph when he struck Victim's PWC.

Both individuals were operating 2019 red and white Yamaha Wave Runners. Victim's PWC was Maryland registration MD 0991LB and Operator2's PWC was Maryland registration MD 0990LB. The impact caused minor damage to the underside of Operator2's PWC. The PWC operated by Victim sustained damage to the port side and steering system rendering the vessel inoperable. Both PWCs are owned by Fun Time Rentals of Deep Creek Lake.

Victim was transported to Garrett Regional Medical Center for his injuries. After speaking with the staff at the hospital, Victim sustained a broken femur and pelvis. Victim was transported to Morgantown, WV to receive further treatment.

Operator2 was issued two citations, negligent operation of a pwc and operating a pwc greater than 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel. Operator2 was also issued one warning for violation of rules of the road.

Further investigation yielded that that Operator2 had an outstanding warrant in Fairfax County, Virginia. Operator2 was taken into custody. Operator2 was brought before the Garrett County Court Commissioner and taken to the Garrett County detention center pending extradition to Virginia. All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0013
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 9365 Goose Bay Lane
NearestCityorTown: Welcome
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Scuppers
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 16th, 2020 at approximately 5:16 pm, I was dispatched to the Port Tobacco River in the area of Goose Bay Marina for a sunken vessel with no occupants on board or in the water. I arrived on scene at approximately 9:10 pm. I spoke with the caller and marina employee. Marina Employee advised me that there was a sunken vessel approximately 50 yards off the edge of Dock. Marina Employee did not witness the incident nor did he have any identifiable information on the vessel or its owners. A. Upon arriving to Dock A, I was advised by marina patrons that the vessel had been moved up river to the area of Forth Point at Red Marker # 4.
We went underway on NRP 110 in route to the sunken vessel located at Fourth Point. Meanwhile, at approximately 10:39 pm, an officer made contact with the owner of the vessel, Operator 1. Operator 1 advised that he and his wife were the only passengers on board when the vessel when it started to take on water. The vessel is a 2000 28FT Donzi Marine (Hull # DNAF8002H900) bearing Maryland Registration 5945 AD.  Operator 1 stated that he launched out of Goose Bay Marina. He navigated south down the Potomac River towards the Route 301 Bridge then turned around and Navigated back north to Chapel Point. They were in the area of Chapel Point when they noticed that the vessel was taking on water. Operator 1 then attempted to get the vessel back to Goose Bay Marina. Once Operator 1 reached Goose Bay, the vessel had taken on too much water. The weight of the water in the vessel stopped it from traveling any farther. They had no choice but to exit the vessel and board a nearby jet ski. Operator 1 advised that neither he nor his wife sustained any injuries while exiting the sinking vessel.  
Operator 1 later attempted to tow the vessel upriver to Port Tobacco Marina but was unsuccessful. He was forced to leave it at Forth Point at Red Maker # 4.    
We arrived to the sunken vessel at approximately 11:45 pm. The vessel was located at approximately N38 Degrees 28'42.6" W77 Degrees 01' 58.3''. The vessel was overturned with stern submerged. The vessel was resting in approximately 6 feet of water north of the red day marker # 4 at Fourth Point. We were unable to determine what may have caused the vessel to sink based on the given circumstance.
On May 17th, 2020 at 12:58 pm Operator 1 called and advised dispatchers that he was able to get the vessel out of the water and on the trailer at the marina.
On May 17th, 2020 at approximately 7:13 pm I spoke with Operator 1 and he explained that he placed the vessel back in the water using a fork lift and he discovered that the scuppers in the live well were defective, causing the vessel to take on water and capsize. Operator 1 estimated that there was approximately $25,000 worth of damage.
All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0014
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River, Williamsport
NearestCityorTown: Williamsport
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 25, 2020 at approximately 1532 hours; we responded to a boating accident on the Potomac River near Williamsport’s Hot Wall and boat ramp. When I arrived on scene, the 14 foot flat bottom jon boat (Black 1973 Starcraft Marine, MD 1798BE, HIN: DEMA5046M73M, Mercury 6 HP 110 Motor) was fully submerged in the water and caught on the Williamsport Hot Wall (See attached photographs). Williamsport Volunteer Fire and EMS were on scene. I was directed to three subjects, the victims of the boating accident.

    I interviewed all three subjects. The first individual, Operator 1 was the operator and owner of the submerged vessel. Operator 1 stated he was floating downstream just south of the Williamsport boat ramp when he suddenly noticed the front of his vessel taking on water and the bow then sharply plunging into the water. Operator 1 then began to swim for shore. A nearby unidentified male kayaker paddled over to Operator 1. They both went over the Williamsport Hot Wall and then were able to swim to shore. Operator 1 was wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. Operator 1 stated he believes he overloaded the vessel, causing it to swamp.

     The second individual, Occupant 1 on the vessel seated in the middle of the vessel. Occupant 1 stated she saw water in the front of the vessel and then suddenly the whole front of the vessel went into the water. Occupant 1 began to swim for shore and yell for help. An unidentified female kayaker paddled over to Occupant 1 and assisted her to shore. Occupant 1 stated she was wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.

     The third individual, Occupant 3 was the front occupant of the vessel. Occupant 3 stated she suddenly noticed water coming into the vessel and then the whole boat sank. She quickly put a life jacket on and began to swim for shore. She began to yell for help. A nearby female kayaker paddled over to her and assisted her to shore.

All subjects were uninjured and refused medical attention from the Williamsport Volunteer Fire and EMS.

     The vessel is currently submerged in the Potomac River at the Williamsport Hot Wall and Operator 1 has been advised to have a company remove the vessel from the river. The total cost of the damage to the vessel and lost equipment is estimated by Operator 1 to be between $2750-$3150. Operator 1 reported these items were in his vessel at the time of the incident and are now missing: 6 Fishing Rods (Est. Value $420), 2 Orange Tackle Boxes with Fishing Gear (Est. Value $100), Trolling Motor unknown make/model (Est. Value $250), Battery Autocraft 12 V (Est. Value $100), Mercury Motor 6 HP 1970's unknown model (Est. Value $300), Gas Tank with 10 Gallons (Est. Value $110), Orange Life Jacket (Est. Value $60), 4 Oars (Est. Value $50), Depth Finder of unknown make/model (Est. Value $250), Snap-On Floodlight (Est. Value $310). Subject estimated the total value of these items at $1950 and the value of his vessel at $800-$1200.

All events occurred in Washington County, Maryland.

 On June 02, 2020 at approximately 1750hrs; I received a call from NRP dispatch informing me that an individual had removed the vessel that was stuck on the dam in the Potomac River known as the "Hotwall". The vessel displayed State of Maryland registration of MD 1798 BE, which matched that of the vessel in this incident. 
     I made contact with the recoverer via cellular phone. He stated he recovered the vessel from the "hotwall". The subject further stated the motor and seats that were in the vessel were lost downstream as they were trying to recover the vessel.
     Via cellular phone, I made contact with Operator 1, the owner of the vessel, informed him his vessel was recovered and gave him the contact info for the recoverer so that they could meet and Operator 1 could recover his vessel. A short time later, I received a phone call from recoverer stating Operator 1 was upset that his motor, trolling motor, and seats were missing and that recoverer was going to leave the vessel on the C&O Canal for Operator 1 to pick up.

    I then received a phone call from Operator 1 stating he believed his motor, trolling motor and seats were stolen.

     An investigation is ongoing at this time to determine if the items were stolen, see NRP-20-00818. Operator 1 arrived at the C&O Canal and recovered his vessel. (See attached photos of the recovered vessel.)

All events did happen and occur in Washington County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0015
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawoman Bay
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/30/2020 at approximately 1540 hours Sgt. and I, OFC. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police were on marked vessel patrol on NRP vessel 765 in the area of the Ocean City/ Atlantic Ocean Inlet in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland. While on patrol, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police advised all underway units of a vessel accident in the Assawoman Bay near the Hammocks that Ocean City Fire Department was responding to. Cpl. stated it was Personal Water Craft with multiple patients in the water. 

Sgt. and I activated our vessel’s emergency blue light and responded to that location along with NRP vessel 858. While en route, Cpl. advised of reports coming in stating the victims were still in the water and were unresponsive. While underway in the Assawoman Bay, both units were flagged down by subjects on a light blue vessel with a PWC directly behind it’s stern. 

Upon arrival, NRP vessel 858 maneuvered to the light blue vessel’s starboard side and Sgt. went aboard that vessel. Sgt. took over vessel operations from me and I climbed aboard the light blue vessel. It was confirmed at that time the light blue vessel had both victims that were in the water in their vessel. Sgt. advised me one of the victims was laying in the back of the vessel and had a “prop strike.” 

A few occupants of the blue vessel were in the back and trying to comfort the injured girl. Sgt. and I agreed that we wouldn’t try to transfer the injured patient to our patrol vessel but instead take command of the light blue vessel and responded to Blue Heron Court to meet Ocean City Fire and EMS. Sgt. took control of the light blue vessel and we started heading towards Ocean City to meet with EMS. The vessel displayed Maryland registration “MD 2848 CT.”  

While underway, I asked some of the occupants to stop what they were doing and to give me some room so I could assess the victim’s injuries. I told one of the male subjects on the vessel that was in the back holding the victim’s head up to get behind her on the deck of the vessel, hold her head still, and support her neck. I did this because I wasn’t sure of the extent of injuries to her head, neck, or spine. The victim was conscious, alert, breathing, and complaining of pain in her left leg. 

The victim’s left leg was wrapped in a towel, which I removed and discovered multiple lacerations, recognizable through my training, knowledge, and experience as definitive lacerations from an outboard motor’s propeller strikes. 

The lacerations started at her upper thigh and continued down the length of her leg to her foot. I observed the victim’s upper thigh was extremely swollen and discolored indicating internal bleeding inside of the leg. There was also copious amounts of blood on the deck of the vessel where the victim was laying. I immediately removed the tourniquet I carry on my duty equipment belt and applied it to the victim’s upper thigh above the highest laceration. 

After applying the tourniquet, I advised DNR communications center of the time it was applied and I reassessed the victim’s leg and saw that the hemorrhaging was slowing down. I was able to identify that there were also multiple broken bones in the victim’s leg and foot due to visual observation and physical assessments. 

I had the victim continue to make conversation with me to prevent her from losing consciousness. The victim was extremely pale and starting to exhibit signs of shock. With the amount of blood loss, broken bones, internal bleeding, and lacerations down to the bone the victim needed medical treatment immediately. 

While en route to Blue Heron Court I attempted to obtain some information from Operator2 on what happened or if he saw anything. Operator2 stated the PWC turned in front of his vessel and he attempted to avoid the collision but was unable to do so. 

I asked Operator2 who was operating the light blue vessel and he stated he was driving it. I asked Operator2 if he owned the vessel and he stated he did. While speaking with Operator2, I detected an overwhelming odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his direction while he spoke. I was approximately 3-4 feet away from Operator2 while he spoke. I also observed Operator2’s eye were bloodshot and glassy. 

After speaking with Operator2, Sgt. advised we were getting close to the bulkhead on Blue Heron Court. I told Operator2 to stay with the victim while I assisted Sgt. with securing the vessel to the bulkhead.  Once the vessel was secured to the bulkhead on Blue Heron Court, Ocean City EMS arrived on scene and I was able to transfer patient care to them. 

Cpl. arrived on scene and stated Maryland State Police Aviation Command was en route to transport the victim to a nearby trauma center. After a few moments of patient care, Ocean City EMS personnel were able to remove the victim from the vessel and transport her via ground unit to the nearby Maryland State Police Aviation Command Helicopter. EMS crews also provided treatment to the juvenile operator of the PWC and transported her to Peninsula Regional Medical Center for treatment for minor injuries. The juvenile’s operator’s father was on location on a different PWC. 

The damaged PWC was towed into the same location on Blue Heron Court by OFC. The registration of the PWC was noted as “MD 9947 DB.”  At that time, I made contact with Operator2 to ascertain the events that happened in a calmer environment, from when we were underway on his vessel. I requested Operator2 provide me with his driver’s license before he disembarked from his vessel. Operator2’s license was located in a waterproof case and he appeared to have slight difficulty finding and getting his driver’s license out of the case. 

Operator2 disembarked his vessel and we stepped away from his vessel and the other occupants of the vessel. I noticed Operator2 wasn’t wearing any footwear so I offered for him to grab his footwear but he declined the offer. While speaking with Operator2 away from the vessel and the other occupants, I detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath and person. Operator2’s eyes were still bloodshot and glassy. 

Operator2 said he was operating his vessel in the Assawoman Bay when he observed a PWC in his direction of travel. Operator2 stated he made a correction in his heading to his port side and the PWC made the same correction to it’s port side. 

Operator2 said after the corrections were made, he thought there was plenty of space between the two vessels to pass each other. Operator2 said the PWC then made a quick turn followed by another quick turn into the travel path of his vessel. 

Operator2 stated he tried to miss striking the PWC but was unable to avoid the collision. Operator2 stated his vessel hit the PWC on it’s port side. The odor of the alcoholic beverage was still present the entire time I was speaking to Operator2.  

I asked Operator2 how many alcoholic drinks he had that day and he stated he had “Six Natural Lights.” I asked Operator2 how long of a time period he had those drinks and he stated “3-4 hours.” I explained to Operator2 that due to my observations and the information obtained during my initial investigation of the vessel accident, I was going to be conducting Standardized Field Sobriety Tests.  

I escorted Operator2 to the roadway on Blue Heron Court where we would conduct the SFSTs. I asked Operator2 all of the pertinent pre-screening questions. Operator2 stated he wasn’t on any prescription medication, he had no medical conditions that would prevent him from standing still, walking a short distancing, or balancing on one leg for a short amount of time. Operator2 stated he had corrective lenses and was currently wearing contact lenses. Operator2 stated he wasn’t blind in either eye. I also asked Operator2 if he was ok and if he needed medical treatment, which he replied n no.


BARDID: MD-2020-0016
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 7200 Ganeys Wharf Rd
NearestCityorTown: Preston
County: Caroline
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/30/2020 at approximately 7:00 PM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to a boating accident at Ganey's Wharf in Preston, MD. The accident was reported to be a single jet ski with a single rider with injuries. I advised DNR communications center that I would have an extended ETA due to being on boat patrol in the Choptank River near Oxford. Sgt. of the same agency arrived on location before I did and conducted interviews and collected witness statements.

Upon my arrival, Sgt. advised me to retrieve NRP vessel 764 and to follow the witnesses a dock behind a private residence. Subject1 was operating the victim’s father’s boat when the incident occurred. When I asked Subject1 about the accident, he stated that the single operator of the jet ski, appeared to have fallen off and didn't seem injured. 

Subject1 stated they were at the beach on the south side of Dover Bridge and Operator was on the jet ski on the north side of the bridge. Subject1 stated the jet ski, which was a 1996 BRP USA HX was built for doing tricks and therefore was very difficult to operate. Subject1 stated they took their boat out to check on Operator and noticed he was conscious but not alert to what was going on. Subject1 stated Operator was not making any sense so they decided to take him back to Ganey's Wharf and call 911 to treat him for his injuries. Operator’s wife also stated they were on the beach on the south side of Dover Bridge and Operator had taken the jet ski north under the bridge and that's where he had fallen off. She stated he was not himself when they pulled him back into the boat and they decided to call 911 and take him back to Ganey's Wharf.

Subject3 operated the boat back to Ganeys Wharf and Subject1 was operating the jet ski back to the private dock when he met some friends at Two Johns Landing, who agreed to take the jet ski back to the private dock for him. Subject1 then joined the remaining friends and rode on their boat back to Ganey's Wharf. Subject1 then stated his friend was operating the jet ski back to the dock when it ran out of gas approximately 1.5 miles away from the dock. I took pictures of the jet ski and observed no blood or damage. The jet ski had taken on water from being towed and was pumped out by Subject1. Subject1 stated the owner of the jet ski, his cousin keeps it at that dock for a few days at a time then trailers back to his residence. After speaking with Subject1 on May 31, 2020, he stated Operator was released from the hospital last night and was back home.

 

All events occurred in Caroline County MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0017
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:41:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 11175 Point Lookout Rd
NearestCityorTown: Scotland
County: Saint Marys
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday May 25, 2020 at approximately 5:40pm I responded for an overturned Personal Water Craft (PWC) with 4 subjects in the water in the Chesapeake Bay off Point Lookout State Park.
I arrived on scene at the Point Lookout State Park Fishing Pier parking lot at approximately 6:10pm and met the Sergeant already on location. Sergeant advised all 4 subjects had been retrieved from the water by the Ridge Fire Department and examined by Emergency Medical Personnel, all refusing treatment with no injuries.  The nose of the PWC, a Kawasaki with Maryland registration MD 8147 DB, could be seen sticking above the water line about half way out the fishing pier to the north side.
I interviewed the owner and operator of the PWC, Operator 1 who stated that while towing passengers on a tube, the tow line became tangled on the propulsion nozzle of the vessel. In efforts to remove the line from the nozzle, the passengers and operator rolled the PWC over to work on it.  When the PWC was rolled back over, they noticed it had taken on too much water and was sinking. All subjects were wearing life jackets and held on the tube and PWC until brought aboard the fire boat.
Statements from the three passengers on the inner tube all corroborated the same events. Operator 1 was given one warning for exceeding the capacity of his PWC and one warning for failing to have a rear facing observer while towing on a PWC. Operator 1 did possess a recent boaters safety education card and the PWC was under current registration. The PWC was not insured.
SeaTow removed the vessel from the water and returned it to Operator 1 at 9:00 pm at the Point Lookout boat ramp and was taken home.
Nothing further to report. All events occurred in Saint Mary's County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0018
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:43:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 3030 Riva Rd
NearestCityorTown: Riva
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 1, 2020, at approximately 2:30 PM I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was advised by Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, that he received a report of a jet-ski accident that had occurred at approximately 2:00 PM on the South River near the Riva Road Bridge and Mike's Crab House located at, 3030 Riva Road Edgewater, Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Ofc. advised that he was going to respond by patrol vehicle.  

     After arriving at AAMC, at approximately 2:45 PM, I interviewed and obtained a written statement from OPERATOR. OPERATOR, she advised that it was her first time on a jet-ski and rented two jet-skis from South River Jet Ski Rentals with her boyfriend. OPERATOR advised that they had received a verbal explanation of all of the rules and regulations for operating a jet ski from their guide, an employee/ jet ski guide for South River Jet Ski Rentals. OPERATOR advised that during their trip on the jet skis that they made their way to the area of the Riva Rd. Bridge. She asked GUIDE if she could go under the bridge. OPERATOR advised that GUIDE said that she could go under the bridge at which point she engaged the throttle and lost control of the vessel. Due to the inexperience of OPERATOR, she hit the concrete structure of the Riva Rd. Bridge, striking one pilling to the south of the main channel at approximate GPS N38*57.366', W076*34.417'. After making contact with the bridge OPERATOR was ejected from the vessel and landed in the water. Following the accident, GUIDE responded to OPERATOR and asked if she was hurt or injured. OPERATOR stated that she only had some left leg pain but was able to get onto the back of GUIDE' jet ski. I cleared from AAMC at approximately 3:30 PM.

   I subsequently responded to South River Jet Ski Rentals, located at 48 South River Rd. At about 3:45 PM, I met with Ofc. to gather further information. While at South River Jet Ski Rentals, pictures were taken of the damaged vessel, which had been transported to Mike's Crab House by GUIDE after AAFD cleared the scene. I also obtained a written statement from GUIDE. GUIDE stated that they had been on the water for about 10-15 minutes prior to the incident. GUIDE stated that she did instruct OPERATOR to stay further away from a few of the piers that were encountered during the trip but did not observe any other issues. GUIDE advised that she told OPERATOR that they could go under the bridge, but instructed OPERATOR to travel at idle through the bridge. GUIDE then started following OPERATOR and checked on boyfriend who just entering the speed zone area of the Riva Road Bridge. GUIDE then observed OPERATOR collide with the Riva Road Bridge and ejecting from the jet ski. GUIDE responded to OPERATOR when it was safe to do so and helped her onto her (GUIDE') jet ski. GUIDE was then able to transport OPERATOR to Mike's Crab House. 

After arriving at the dock of Mike's Crab House, GUIDE notified the owner of South River Jet Ski Rentals of the accident. He subsequently notified the Anne Arundel County Fire Department(AAFD) of the accident and requested they evaluate her condition. AAFD arrived at the scene and OPERATOR was later transported OPERATOR to AAMC for further treatment under the patient's direction.

Charges are pending for negligent operation and violating the United States Coast Guard rules of the road (Rule 8) failure to take action to avoid a collision.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0019
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Isle of Wight Bay
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 31st at approximately 2000 hours Officer was on boat patrol in the Isle of Wight Bay on NRP vessel 858 when he received a report of a PWC accident with injuries at Bay Side Boat Rentals 53rd street Coastal Highway in Ocean City Maryland. 

Upon arriving at Bay side Boat Rentals Officers witnessed an injured PWC rider identified as Victim DOB being placed onto a stretcher by Ocean City EMS.

Officer Interviewed the jet ski guide. Guide informed Officer that his group of rentals were just leaving the entrance from Bay Side Boat Rentals into Isle of Wight Bay when he instructed all the PWC operators to maintain 100 feet of space between each other as they accelerated into the riding area. 

When he instructed the rental PWC riders to begin to accelerate in chronological order out into the designated riding Guide saw the operator of PWC #6 run into the back of PWC #5 with Victim on the back as passenger. Guide had those PWC's return back to Bay Side rentals and called Ocean City EMS. Guide agreed to fill out a witness statement.

Officer then interviewed the operator at fault of the accident who was operating PWC #6. Officer asked what happened and if this was his first time operating a PWC. Operator2 responded that it was his first time. Operator2 stated that he accelerated when instructed to do so by the PWC guide and that when he realized he was going to run into the PWC in front of him he attempted to slow down and that his wake caused him to run into the back of PWC #5 injuring Victim.

 Victim was taken to Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury Maryland for treatment of her injuries. Victim's injuries sustained from the PWC accident include bruised ribs, a bruised arm and swollen knee.

The damage to the PWC's are estimated at $800 for each vessel.
Officer issued one citation and one warning to Operator2.
One citation for exceeding 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel MR 08 18.02.05 $85
One warning for negligent operation of a vessel MR 08 18.35.04
 
ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY MARYLAND.


BARDID: MD-2020-0020
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chesapeake Bay & Tribs-Bay Brg
NearestCityorTown: Deale
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 1st, 2020, at approximately 1217 hours, I received a call from dispatch regarding a boating accident that involved two sailing vessels that occurred the day before on Sunday, May 31st, 2020, at approximately 1630 hours. There were no injuries involved in the accident. Property damage to both vessels was substantial. I made contact with OPERATOR 1, the owner of Vessel #1. We arranged to meet at Herrington Harbor North where both vessels were located and both hail from. 

Vessel 1 Documented Vessel: #941416, Year: 1988, Make: Island Packet, Model: Vessel #1 310, Length: 31', HIN: TDL31242E888

Vessel 2 Documented Vessel: #1192934, Year: 2007, Make: GeminiVessel #2 Catamarans, Model: Gemini 105 MC, Length: 33'6", HIN: PCI00961J607

The vessels were under sail in Herring Bay when the accident occurred at 1630 hours on Sunday, May 31st, 2020. Winds were northwest at approximately 10-15 knots with choppy water conditions. Vessel #1 was on a starboard tack at about 4 knots, headed southwest, with the jib sail blocking view of other traffic in that given direction. The 2 POB aboard vessel #1 were not wearing PFDs, but did have them in possession. Vessel #2 was on a port tack at about 6 knots headed west. The 2 POB aboard vessel #2 were not wearing PFDs, but did have them in possession. At about 100 feet before impact, OPERATOR 1 noticed Vessel #2 approaching. OPERATOR 1 immediately turned sharply to port, but was unable to avoid the collision. OPERATOR 2 stated that he did not see anybody in the area and had been on the lookout for vessels numerous times before the impact. OPERATOR 2 advised by the time he realized that Vessel #1 was headed toward him, he had no time to react. OPERATOR 1 estimated the damage to his vessel to be around $3,000. OPERATOR 2 estimated the damage to his vessel to be upwards of $20,000. They have contacted their insurance agents to get estimates completed.

After obtaining written statements from both vessel owners and documenting the damages done to both vessels, it appears they collided due to their visibility being blocked by the sails of their respective vessels. Both operators have a vast knowledge of boating and handling skills. As a result of failing to have a proper lockout during navigation, I issued both operators a warning for, 08.18.01.04A, Failure to Obey Navigation Rules (Rule 5:  Maintaining a proper lookout). Both operators were cooperative. I explained to both parties that regardless of the situation, they need to confirm that somebody is keeping a lookout in areas that may be considered a blind spot.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0021
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 12203 Coastal Hwy
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday June 6th 2020 at approximately 1930 hours, Officer 1 informed of a boat accident by the DNR Communications with property damage at a rental company. Officer 1 contacted the rental company over the phone and instructed them to not allow the operator to leave until he arrived on scene. Once on scene the officer met with the owner of rental company, informing the officer that the operator of the rental pontoon boat identified as Operator had left the establishment after the owner told Operator 1 police were on the way. The owner completed a voluntary witness statement stating that a witness at a restaurant in Ocean City witnessed the operator of the boat Operator 1 strike the dock in the back canal of the establishment and called the rental company because of their advertisement on the side of the pontoon boat to inform them of what had just occurred. The officer made contact with the restaurant to talk to the manager about possible damage to their dock. The manager stated that there was no damage.
The owner led the officer to where the Pontoon was moored so the Officer could take photos for the report. The owner stated that the damage is estimated at around $2000. The officer gathered the information for the boat accident report.
Operator 1 is charged with violation Navigation Rules. Navigation Rules - Rule 8 - Action to avoid collision
ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY MARYLAND


BARDID: MD-2020-0022
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 53 rd Street Ocean City, MD
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 08, 2020 I Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was on vessel patrol on the Isle Of Wight Bay, Ocean City Worcester County MD.  At approx. 3:28 PM I received a call over my radio for a boating accident with a propeller striking two victims in the area of 53rd Street.  I activated my emergency equipment and started towards 53rd Street.  At approx. 3:33 I arrived on scene at 5307 Coastal Highway, Ocean city, MD 21842 Bayside Boat Rentals .  At that time the victim was being transported to a medevac site to be flown to R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma in Baltimore MD.  The other victim was being seen by Ocean City Fire Department EMS and was later transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC).

    The remaining passengers were still on scene.  The operator of the vessel was identified.  I spoke with all 3 remaining passengers and asked if they needed any first aid and they all declined medical treatment.  I gave the 2 passengers and the operator of the vessel the NRP-425 Voluntary Witness/ Advisement Of Rights form and explained to them the form was completely voluntary and they could choose not to fill out the form.  All 3 agreed, signed and filled out the form, which is included in this report.

    The operator of the vessel Operator stated that he rented a boat for his friends and girlfriend.  He stated his friends and girlfriend were drinking alcohol on the boat.  They saw another vessel in the water, tied up to it and started hanging out together.  While the vessels were tied up together they proceeded to get onto the other vessel.  Operator got back on his vessel, at that time Victim1 and Victim2 jumped into the water.  Victim1 then asked for Operator to help her back onto the vessel.  While pulling her on board he noticed that Victim1 had cut her leg.  Once Victim1 was on the vessel they called 911 for help.

    The passenger stated that they tied the boat up with another vessel with people that they met.  Victim1 and Victim2 jumped off the boat.  The next thing she knew she saw Victim1 screaming and saw the cut on her leg.  She then looked at the other end of the vessel and saw Victim2 had a cut on her foot.  Subject1 said they had jumped off the vessel two other times with no problems.

    The passenger Subject2 stated that he was on the starboard side corner of the vessel in the water.  Victim1 told him that she had cut her leg while she was in the water and was then pulled onto the vessel.  Subject2 could not see her leg but he saw blood.  He did not see Victim2's cut on her foot until she was back on board the vessel.

    The Victim2 met with Cpl. and also wrote a voluntary statement.  Victim2 stated that they rented a vessel from Bayside Rentals.  They left on the vessel around 11:50 AM.  Operator was driving the vessel and they stopped at different areas of the bay approx. 3 to 4 times.  Victim2, Subject2 and Victim1 jumped off the vessel through the side door and went swimming.  She felt her foot hit the prop but didn't realize that the vessel was running.  She then climbed back onto the vessel using the ladder on the stern of the vessel.  Once she was back on the vessel she realized that her foot was bleeding and she then put a shirt on it to control the bleeding.  Victim1 was already on the vessel and she realized that Victim1 was also injured.  Victim1 had a cut on her hip area and upper thigh  on her right side.  Subject1 was helping Victim1 with a towel and keeping pressure on the wound.  Subject2 was on the phone with 911 and Operator started driving back to Bayside rentals which took approx. 10 minutes to get back.  Victim2 also stated that Operator had not consumed any alcohol but everyone else had.  Once they arrived back at Bayside Rentals EMS helped Victim1 first and then Victim2.

    Operator was asked to perform a Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) by Ofc. and Operator agreed to the test.  Operator was then offered a preliminary breath test from Ofc. to which he agreed and then blew into Ofc PBT.  The results indicated .000 grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. Operator was found not to be under the influence.  The vessel was identified was a Sweetwater  Pontoon with Maryland registration 9295 LB and influence of alcohol. marked rental #95.  The vessel had zero damage but did have blood on several places on the vessel.

    Operator was charged with a Natural Resources Citation NR- 08, 18.01.05 B for negligent operation of a vessel

    All events occurred in Worcester County Maryland


BARDID: MD-2020-0023
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake/Beckmans Penin
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6, 2020, at approximately 1603 hours, I Officer First Class and Sergeant, Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to a personal injury vessel accident regarding two victims that were struck by a propeller on Deep Creek Lake near Beckman's Peninsula, Oakland, Garrett County, Maryland. 

The vessel bore Maryland registration of 1694 LB. This vessel was rented by subject1 from the Aquatic Center Inc., 634 Deep Creek Drive, Mchenry and was being operated by Operator at the time of the incident. It was relayed to us from our communications center that the vessel left the scene of the accident.  Upon my arrival, I observed the male and female victim who was later identified as Victim1 and Victim2 located in a vessel at dock along with EMS, Sgt., and various other witnesses. I began to assist EMS and Sgt.. Sgt. applied a tourniquet to Victim2's left leg at 1613 hours due to severe lacerations. I then assisted EMS by retrieving a backboard so that we could transport Victim2 from the transport boat to the ambulance. Victim2 was transported by ambulance to Trooper 5 to be air lifted to Ruby Memorial Hospital. Once transporting Victim2 to the ambulance, I returned to assist EMS with Victim1 and to retrieve more information regarding the accident.

Victim1 stated that he and Victim2 were attempting to get on the tube that was being pulled by their vessel when the rope that was attached to the tube got caught in the prop and pulled them into the prop. Victim1 then stated his friends helped them into the vessel. Once in the vessel, Victim1 said they flagged down another vessel to help because they could not get the rope out of the prop. I asked Victim1 why his friends left and he stated they had to get the boat back to the Aquatic Center.  Victim1 was transported to Ruby Memorial Hospital via ambulance.

The assisting vessel had three individuals. The assisting vessel transferred both Victim1 and Victim2 onto their vessel and took them to dock on Deep Creek Lake. All three witnesses on scene stated they did not see the accident happen they only saw the subjects on the boating waving their hands in the air for help.

Once Sgt. and I cleared the scene of the accident we were assisted by  Maryland State Police in attempt to locate all individuals that were on the vessel at the time of the incident as well as the operator. The operator of the vessel left the scene and returned to their rental house. Operator then left the house and returned the vessel to the Aquatic Center. Once Sgt. and I made contact with all subjects on the vessel we began to question each one of them regarding the accident and collect their personal information. I asked Operator how many alcoholic beverages she had consumed that day and she said, "one mixed drink". 

I then asked Operator why she left the scene and she said, "I wanted to get the boat back to the Aquatic Center so I could then leave and check on my friends that were injured". I asked Operator how the accident occurred, and she said, "they were attempting to get on the tube, I hit the throttle, and the line got stuck in the prop and pulled them into the prop". All of the individuals that were on the vessel that were questioned that day stated that the victims were attempting to get on the tube, the operator began to give the vessel throttle, the rope to the tube got caught in the prop, which resulted in both victims being struck by the prop.
 
I conducted an inspection of the vessel and the rope that was attached to the tube. During that inspection I discovered the rope that was attached to the tube pulling both victims had no damage to it. Through my training, knowledge, and experience this led me to believe that was not how the accident occurred.
 
Operator was issued one citation of negligent operation of a vessel which is attached to this report.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0024
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Herring Creek
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/10/2020, I (Officer First Class) along with Officer First Class responded on NRP vessel 886 to the area of Isle of Wight Bay and Turville/ Herring Creek, for a report of a personal watercraft (pwc) collision. We arrived on scene and were directed by the Jet Ski guides from Paradise Watersports to an injured rider sitting on a PWC holding his left leg. We pulled alongside the green and white SeaDoo PWC displaying MD TMP DL, (Vin # CA YDV22050J920, Due to COVID-19 registration numbers have not been issued yet.) operated by Operator2. Upon arrival we could see that he was bleeding from his left leg and left ankle area with a visible deformity to his left lower leg and ankle. After stabilizing the pwc with the best of our abilities, OFC and I transferred Operator2 to our vessel and transported him back to Paradise Water Sports, located at 12913 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City MD 21842, where Ocean City Fire/ EMS was standing by. In route back I used gauze to wrap his upper calf and tried to stabilize his leg the best I could to keep his ankle and leg from bouncing off the boat deck.

Upon arrival back to Paradise Watersport’s dock I assisted with transferring of Operator2 over to OC EMS where they later transported him to Peninsula Regional Medical Center. At this point in time all the rental parties were returning from their trip and OFC started to collect statements, vessel information, and any other documentation we could get about the accident.

I spoke with the subjects involved. Operator2 stated that he was not really sure what exactly happened and that he was riding along in the riding area and started to turn left to stay inside the course when he was hit on his left side. After that he was in a lot of pain thinking his leg was broken and  was not aware of any other events leading up to the accident.

Talking with Operator1, he stated that he was riding parallel and just behind his friend Operator2 when all of a sudden he noticed Operator2 ski slowing down and turn in front of him but could not stop to avoid the collision. When asked how close they were riding, he stated that they were closer than they should have been. Operator1 was operating a green and white SeaDoo PWC bearing MD TMP DL, (Vin # CA YDV22049J920, Due to COVID-19 registration numbers have not been issued yet).

Speaking with guides, both were able to identify Operator1 as being at fault for causing the collision. Subject1 stated he saw two of the skies from their rental group headed north towards the RT 90 Bridge riding slightly parallel to each other when the ski on the Left, the ski Operator1 was operating, looked like it turned slightly colliding with another ski that Operator2’s was operating. Subject2 stated that he did not see the collision happen but heard the collision. The guides called back to Paradise Watersports to call for NRP.

I was able to determine that Operator1 caused the accident. He received a citation for operating a pwc more than 6 knots within 100' of another vessel, failure to follow navigation rules of the road, and a warning for negligent operation of a vessel. Inexperience was a big factor in the cause of this accident.

Operator2 received medical care at PRMC for a Left lower leg fracture. He was placed in a cast on his Left leg and released on June 11, 2020.

All events occurred in Worcester County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0025
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Herring Creek
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 10, 2020 at approximately 1830 hours I, Officer responded to Paradise Watersports located at 12913 Ocean Gateway to assist with a vessel accident with injuries.  While assisting with the vessel accident I learned that another vessel accident had occurred within the same guided tour.  I learned the other injured subject was an employee of Paradise Watersports had self transported himself to Atlantic General Hospital.  I responded to Atlantic General Hospital and made contact with the victim who stated the following.

    Operator2 stated that on June 10, 2020 at approximately 1810 hours and other guides from Paradise Watersport began to escort several riders, to their riding area.  Operator2 stated that Paradise Watersports riding area is located in the area of Herring Creek and Turville Creek in the area of the Isle Of Wight Bay.  

Operator2 stated that he observed some of the riders in his opinion becoming reckless and driving the jet skis at speed close to one another.  Operator2 observed several of the jet ski riders jumping the wakes of the other riders, and getting within 100 feet of each other.  Operator2 stated that he was able to make contact with one of riders, and had Operator1 stop.  

Operator2 stated that his ski was pointed north and Operator1 was to his east.  Operator2 stated that Operator1's jet ski was pointing west towards him.  Operator2 stated that he told Operator1 to calm down and take it easy, and Operator2 stated it appeared that Operator1 understood.  However Operator2 stated for an unknown reason Operator1 started to accelerate his jet ski directly towards Operator2.  

Operator2 stated the initial distance between him and Operator1 was approximately 30 yards.  Operator2 stated that he was able to pull his leg and most of his body to the opposite side of the jet ski.  However Operator2 could not move his arm in time, and Operator2 arm was struck by the jet ski that Operator1 was operating.  

Operator2 stated that briefly his arm was pinned between his jet ski and the jet ski that Operator1 was operating.  Operator2 stated that he immediately was in pain and observed he was injured.  Operator2 stated that Operator1 rode off and rejoined the group.  

It should be noted that Operator1 a few minutes later was actually struck by another person operating a jet ski in the same guided tour.  Operator2 was able to call back to Paradise Watersports and advise the company he was injured.  

Paradise Watersports sent out a pontoon boat to recover Operator2, who ultimately was transported to Atlantic General Hospital via personal vehicle.  Operator1 was not injured in this collision.  I was able to observe that Operator2 had swelling of his right arm and an abrasion to his right arm.  At the time of the interview the full extent of his injury was unknown.   It should be noted that Operator2 was right handed, and was unable to provide a written statement.  I requested that when Operator2 was aware of the extent of his injury for him to contact me.  On June 11, 2020 I received a phone call from Operator2.  Operator2 stated that nothing was broken in his arm, and he had deep bruising.  However Operator2 stated that his radial artery was crushed as a result of the collision causing the artery to only be able to function at 10 percent.  Operator2 stated that this is why he was unable to move his hand.  Operator2 stated that he had an appointment with his attending doctor to determine of the injury would require surgery, or would resolve itself when the swelling went down.  Operator2 will contact me at a later date with this information.  

    Operator2 stated that he has between 200 and 500 hours operating a jet ski.  Operator2 stated that the boat traffic in the area was moderate and the water was choppy between six inch and one foot chop.  Operator2 stated that he was wearing a life jacket and all the other needed equipment when riding a personal watercraft.  Operator2 stated that he never fell of the ski.  The employees of Paradise Watersports estimated the damage done to the ski that Operator2 was operating to be approximately $1500.00.  

    I was able to speak to Operator1 via phone on June 11, 2020.  It should be noted that Operator1 was hesitant to give a written statement but would talk to me on the phone about the matter.  Operator1 stated that he was in the guided tour that took place on June 10, 2020 at approximately 1800 hours.  Operator1 stated he does recall Operator2 speaking to him about the operation of the jet ski.  However Operator1 stated that a wake began to push him, so he began to accelerate not necessarily towards Operator2.  

Operator1 stated that he attempted to turn away at the last second but could not, and struck the jet ski that Operator2 was operating.  Operator1 stated that he observed that Operator2 was injured so he just rejoined the riding group.  

Operator1 stated that a short time after his collision with Operator2, he was struck by another subject in the same riding group.  Operator1 stated that he had less then 10 hours experience in operating jet skis.  Operator1 stated that he was injured in this collision.   It should be noted that Operator1's jet ski was heavily damaged in the second collision so there was no way to determine what damage if any, that occurred during the collision with Operator2.  

Operator1 stated that he was wearing his life jacket and all the other safety equipment that Paradise Watersports provided him.  Operator1 stated that he was able to remain on the jet ski during the collision.  I was able to meet with Operator1 on June 11, 2020 prior to him returning home.  Operator1 was issued two citations in regard to this collision.  

    All above events occurred in, Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0026
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, June, 11th, 2020 at 1812 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was on marine patrol of Deep Creek Lake on marked patrol vessel NRP 881 when I was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland reference a patient in the emergency room following some type of water sports accident.  DNR Communications and hospital staff were unable to provide any additional details.

I arrived on scene at the hospital at 1844 hours and interviewed the victim.  Victim advised that he had been on a rental boat with friends and decided to tube behind the vessel.  Victim explained that as he tried to jump from the vessel, which was floating and not under power, onto a tube, he fell backwards and struck the back of his head on a pontoon of the vessel.  

Victim volunteered that he had been drinking alcohol and he believed that his alcohol consumption could have contributed to his instability while transferring between the vessel and the tube.  I observed no indicators of impairment while interviewing Victim.  When asked, Victim stated that he was wearing a personal flotation device and that the vessel operator had not consumed any alcohol.  

Victim estimated that his injury had occurred at approximately 1600 hours, but was unsure of his location on the lake at that time.  Victim explained that he returned to a rental house with his friends before developing a headache and calling an ambulance for medical attention.  Garrett County 911 dispatch advised that Victim was transported to the hospital by Ambulance 951.  Victim provided me with an address for the rental house where I could find his friends and the rental vessel.  I cleared the hospital at 1905 hours.

I responded and met with the vessel operator.  Operator confirmed that he had been the designated driver for the day and he led me to a slip to inspect the involved vessel, which I identified as a 2019 Tahoe Cascade 2485QL blue and tan in color displaying MD registration 0598 LB.  I received no returns on that registration, but the vessel displayed valid stickers and I found a registration card onboard valid through December 31st, 2020 that identified it as a rental vessel from Deep Creek Marina.  When I inquired about the location of the accident, Operator advised that he was not very knowledgeable about the lake, but he believed they were close to the dam.

I cleared the incident at 1942 hours.
Follow up communication with Victim on Tuesday, June 16th, 2020 at 1346 hours indicated that he may have suffered a concussion, but he expects to make a full recovery.
All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0027
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Ocean City Commercial Har
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 12, 2020 around 1800hrs. while on patrol in the area of the Ocean City inlet, a call came over the Ocean City fire department radio for a jet ski accident. The call was for a single male with injuries from the accident. I, OFC. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to the commercial harbor to meet with Ocean City EMS and the victim. Once on scene, I meet with victim who had extensive injuries to his scrotum area. He advised, that while riding the jet ski, in the area of Sinepuxent Bay, he tried to ride into a boats wake. While doing so, he went over the handlebars and his midsection was forced into the console. A nearby vessel noticed him in the water and they were able to help take him into the Harbor to meet with EMS personnel.  He was operating a 2018 Yamaha jet ski (Maryland Registration MD 9600 CS). Ocean City EMS described the injury as a full evisceration of his scrotum. injuries required him to be transport to the hospital for medical treatment. 
All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2020-0028
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 428 Kent Narrows Way North
NearestCityorTown: Grasonville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 8th, 2020 at approximately 9:45 PM two officers responded to Safe Harbor Marina (Mears Point Marina, 428 Kent Narrows Way, Grasonville MD Queen Anne’s County) for a large cabin boat struggling to operate while colliding with multiple pilings in the marina. We arrived on the scene at approximately 10:00 PM and observed the vessel (1996 Searay Sundancer, 37ft, white, MD0313BF, HIN # SERF5269A696) being tied up in a boat slip. The owner and operator of the vessel were Operator 1. At the time, a neighboring captain observed the operator having trouble safely operating the vessel back into the marina/slip. Once close enough to the dock, the neighboring captain jumped on Operator 1’s vessel and attempted to instruct Operator 1 on how to operate. The neighboring captain stated Operator 1 was unresponsive to all commands and took over the helm of the vessel and safely docked and secured the vessel in the slip 

We made contact with the neighboring captain and Operator 1 while Operator 1 finished securing the vessel to the dock. I identified the operator, Operator 1, and asked him to exit the vessel to the dock. An officer stood on the dock to ensure a safe exit from the vessel because the drop height from the bow of the vessel to the dock was approximately 4 feet. I remained on the vessel observing Operator 1 climbing down off the boat. We asked Operator 1 if he needed any assistance, he replied no. Once Operator 1 got halfway over the bow of the boat trying to get on the dock, he began to fall and an officer was able to grab and carry Operator 1 safely on the dock. I would like to note that Operator 1 was the only person on the vessel during the incident prior with the neighboring Captain. Once off the boat, I asked Operator 1 to make his way down the dock to the parking lot of the marina. While walking to the parking lot, Officer 2 asked Operator 1 if he has had any alcoholic beverages tonight. He replied no. I then asked if he had anything at all to drink after the neighboring captain took control over his vessel. He replied no. Once in the parking lot, I stood about 2 feet from Operator 1 and asked him what happened. 

Operator 1 stated he was having engine problems and that one of the two engines had failed on him. While speaking with Operator 1, he had a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his persons, especially during our conversation. I told Operator 1 that I could smell a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his persons and breath, and he replied “oh really?” and blew directly into my face. I told him I did not need him to do that and advised him not to do that again especially with the current Covid-19 Pandemic going on. He immediately apologized. I then asked Operator 1 again if he had any alcoholic beverages this evening. He replied yes. 

I then asked what type of alcoholic beverage and how many. He replied 4 Miller Light cans. I then asked at what time he started drinking and when the last alcoholic beverage he had was. He stated that his first beer was around 5:00 PM and his last beer was about one hour ago (approximately 9:00 PM). After seeing the empty bottle of Smirnoff Vodka and the strong odor of alcoholic beverages emanating from his persons, I began to administer a series of field sobriety tests on him at approximately 2220 hours to determine if he was operating his vessel under the influence of alcohol. After the conclusion of the tests and questioning, Operator 1 agreed to blow into a preliminary breath test (PBT). Operator 1 blew a .181 BAC into the PBT. At 2250 hours, I informed Operator 1 that he was under arrest for OWI/OUI.


BARDID: MD-2020-0029
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:59:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Severn River/Weems Creek/Below
NearestCityorTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 11,2020 at 1600 hours I, Officer was notified by Natural Resources Police Communication Center of a vessel accident that occurred on June 10, 2020 in Weems Creek in Annapolis. I made contact with the owner of an 35ft Wauquez Pretorien that was struck. He advised that he was anchored in Weems Creek and his vessel was struck by an 30ft Whitby displaying MD registration 3543BF. 

The owner of the striking sail boat advised that his friend was operating the vessel at the time of impact. No injuries were sustained during the course of this accident. Both parties exchanged insurance information.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County Md.


BARDID: MD-2020-0030
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs/Bay Brg-Cove
NearestCityorTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/14/20 at approximately 1:00 P.M., the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Aberdeen Creek, located off of the South River (Anne Arundel County, MD), for a call regarding a boat accident that occurred on 06/13/20. The accident reportedly occurred at around 2:30 P.M., somewhere between the mouth of the South River and the Bloody Point Lighthouse. Upon arriving at Aberdeen Creek, Officer 1 and I observed a 32' sailboat, white in color, bearing MD registration 5681AR with the name "Fidello" displayed on the stern. The sailboat would later be fully identified as a North American Fiberglass, Douglas model. Officer 1 observed significant fiberglass damage to the port side of the North American, which included significant cracking in the hull. Officer 1 and I then met with the owners of the North American, who would be fully identified as Operator 1 and Passenger 1.

        Operator 1 stated that at around 2:30 P.M. on the afternoon of 06/13/20, he, along with Passenger 1, were traveling full sail, in a south-easterly direction on a port tack, from the mouth of the South River towards the Bloody Point Lighthouse. Operator 1 stated that he was at the helm and Passenger 1 was positioned on the port-side gunwale, next to him. Operator 1 stated that the starboard side gunwale of his North American was almost touching the water, while the port-side gunwale was canted upwards; obstructing his view of any vessels that may have been on his port side. Operator 1 stated that while his North American was on its port tack, he stood up once and checked for vessels on his port side but saw none. Operator 1 stated that not even five minutes after he had stood up to check for vessels on his port side, there was an impact to the mid-ship portion of the port side of his North American. 

Operator 1 then observed the bow of a white, 45' sailboat laid against the port side of his North American. Operator 1 stated that the captain of the 45' sailboat was yelling at him as his vessel fell off to the port side aft of Operator 1's North American. Operator 1 stated that he and Passenger 1 were so shaken up by the accident that they didn't even think about assessing the damage to their North American nor exchanging information with the captain of the white sailboat. 

Operator 1 stated that the captain of the white sailboat never came back to exchange information but rather proceeded in a south-westerly direction towards the West River. Operator 1 stated that he was traveling approximately 5 knots in a south-easterly direction at the time of the accident and the white sailboat was traveling approximately 5-7 knots on a starboard tack in a south-westerly direction. 

Neither Operator 1 nor Passenger 1 could provide registration information nor the name of the white sailboat. Furthermore, neither Operator 1 nor Passenger 1 could provide any information regarding the captain of the vessel or the lady who was accompanying the captain. The only information Operator 1 and Passenger 1 could provide was that the sailboat that struck them was approximately 45' in length, white in color, and that the captain and female passenger were both Caucasian and appeared to be in their midforties. 

Operator 1 stated that neither he nor Passenger 1 sustained any injuries as a result of the accident. Furthermore, Operator 1 stated that he did not observe any apparent injuries to either the captain nor to the female passenger of the white sailboat. It should be noted that Operator 1 could not give a precise location of where the accident took place. Operator 1 believes it was in the middle portion of the Chesapeake Bay between the mouth of the South River and the Bloody Point Lighthouse. 

        Passenger 1 gave a similar account of the events as Operator 1. Passenger 1 stated that she and Operator 1 were sailing from the mouth of the South River towards the Bloody Point Lighthouse, in a south-easterly direction. Passenger 1 stated that they were on a port tack and traveling approximately 5-7 knots. Passenger 1 stated that the North American was heeling significantly to the Starboard side. Passenger 1 stated that she was seated on the port side gunwale facing starboard, therefore she couldn't see any vessels that may have been coming from the port side. Passenger 1 stated that she then, both heard and felt, a large impact, and when she looked up, saw the bow of a white sailboat and realized that there had been a collision. 

Operator 1 stated that the only damage he initially saw right after the accident was some damage to the deck joint on the port side of his North American. Operator 1 stated that he did not see any leaks or cracks in the hull at that point, so he and Passenger 1 decided to continue to the Wye River. Operator 1 stated that once they got to the Wye River, he anchored the North American and inspected below the water line for any damage. Operator 1 discovered cracks in the vessel's fiberglass below the waterline. Operator 1 stated that he was able to temporarily repair the cracks with Marine-Tex. Besides the cracks under the waterline, Operator 1 further discovered that one of the rail stanchions on the port side of the North American was bent while another stanchion on the port side was completely ripped off. Also, one of the lifelines on the port side of the North American was broken. Operator 1 stated that he and Passenger 1 spent the night of 06/13/20 anchored in the Wye River before heading back to Aberdeen Creek on the South River on 06/14/20. 

        Officer 1 inquired as to why they waited so long to contact the Maryland Natural Resources Police. Passenger 1 stated that they were so overwhelmed by the accident and weren't thinking clearly about anything. It should be noted that Operator 1 accepted full responsibility for what happened and stated that per the USCG Navigational Rules and Regulation Handbook, the rules of the road, he was at fault. According to Rule 12 of the U.S. Coast Guard Inland Navigational Rules governing steering and sailing, "When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as to involve risk of collision, one of them shall keep out of the way of the other as follows: when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other." 

        Operator 1 stated that he had his North American hauled out and inspected by Diversion Marine in Annapolis. Diversion Marine estimated that the North American suffered between $7,000-$10,000 in damage to the fiberglass. Operator 1 stated that he is going to sail the North American to M & E Salvage in Cambridge to have it scrapped. 

        The accident resulted in property damage only; no apparent injuries were sustained by either party. At this time, no information is known about the other sailboat other than it was approximately 45' in length and white in color. The whereabouts of the white sailboat remain unknown at this time.
        No charges have been filed. This case is considered closed pending any discoveries to the whereabouts of the white sailboat. 

        All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0031
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 15, 2020, at approximately 2130 hours, I Officer responded for a report of an accident that occurred between Cherry Creek Cove and the 219 Bridge on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, Maryland on June 15 between the of 1730 and 1800 hours.  

I was dispatched to the hospital for a reported boat accident but the victim left prior to my arrival.  I called Victim asking if I could meet her at her residence, and she gave me permission to meet her there.  I explained to Victim that I needed to obtain some information regarding the boat accident and she agreed. I ask Victim who was operating the vessel and how her injuries occurred.  Victim stated that operator was operating the boat and that they hit a wake that made her hit the deck of the boat with her knee.  Operator was also present and also stated that Victim hit the deck of the boat because of a wake they hit.  I asked if Victim went to the hospital right after the incident occurred and she told me that she went home first and then decided to go to the hospital.  Victim stated that her knee was sprained.  Based upon the statements given, I have concluded that this accident was caused by the wake on the water with no negligence.  No citations or warnings were issued to Operator.   
 
All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0032
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/17/20 at approximately 1800 hrs, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resource Police was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center, Oakland, Garrett County, Maryland, for a report of a tubing accident that occurred on 06/17/20 around 1630 hrs in the Main Body of Deep Creek Lake.  Upon arrival at Garrett Regional Medical Center, I made contact with the. Victim's mother was at the hospital with her. I explained to Mother that I needed to obtain some information regarding the boat accident and she agreed.  Mother stated that her daughter and a friend were on the tube when the tube hit a wake from their boat causing Victim to fall off the tube hitting the water.  When Victim hit the water she fractured her humerus. Mother describes the boat was moving in an S pattern causing the wakes.  Based on the statements given, I have concluded that this accident was caused by the wake on the water with no negligence.  No citations or warnings were issued to the operator.    
All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0033
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-06-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1 Somerset Ave, Cambridge
NearestCityorTown: Cambridge
County: Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday June 19, 2020 at approximately 2155 hours, I, OFC with the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to a boat accident with injuries at 1 Somerset Ave, Cambridge MD 21613 (Great Marsh Park).  When I arrived on scene at approximately 2206 hours, Dorchester Fire Department, Cambridge PD, and Dorchester Paramedic were already on scene.  I observed a white male sitting on the rear deck of the ambulance.  I asked him if he was the operator of the vessel, how many people were onboard, what had happened, and how he was doing.  I was able to detect a slight odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his person as he answered my questions.  He told me that he was the operator, he was the only person onboard, and that he was fine.  I noticed Operator was bleeding from his mouth, I asked him to open his mouth and noticed two wounds on his tongue.  He also showed me a wound on his left forearm.

I asked him a second time what had happened, he replied that he was coming back from Bolingbroke and was following two guys back and then next thing he knew he had struck the break wall structure at the Great Marsh boat ramp.  I asked him where the other two men were and he told me they loaded their vessel on a trailer and had already left.  Witnesses at the scene advised me that there was not another vessel in the area and that Operator had in fact come from the direction of the boat ramp located at Franklin Street.  I asked Operator if he had any identification on him and he told me that it was in his wallet which was still on the vessel.

I walked over to the vessel (2012 Allcraft Cayman 17 center console bearing Maryland registration 920CH) which was tied to the bulkhead, to retrieve his wallet and his ID, as well as inspect the damages to the vessel and the bulkhead.  I located Operator's wallet and phone sitting in a pool of water at the stern of the vessel just in front of the transom.  I observed disabling damage to the hull of the vessel.  The point of impact on the vessel appeared to be the port side bow.  The top of the bow had separated from the hull of the vessel exposing the fiberglass, the center console had been detached from the deck of the vessel, the GPS unit was broken from its mounting bracket and hanging by a wire, and the hull has a severe crack extending from the starboard side through the hull to the port side.

I observed fiberglass from the vessel stuck in the piling at the point of impact.  The distance from the point of impact to shore was 19.1 yards as measured with my state issued range finder.  The location is well lit with bright light from street lights in the parking lot, lights on the bulkhead/break wall, as well as two functioning navigational lights at the entrance to the boat ramp.

I also observed two empty cans of Twisted Tea and one shattered bottle of Heineken with the cap still on, on the forward portion of the deck.  I also observed a second empty bottle of Heineken wrapped in a brown paper bag along with four empty single serve bottles of Fireball whiskey in a cooler underneath the seat.  I observed blood in several locations to include: the center console near the throttle, on a storage compartment located at the back left corner of the deck, on the cooler located under the seat, and on the back of the seat.

I walked back over to Operator to give him his phone and his wallet, at that time he handed me his ID out of his wallet.  A Cambridge Police Officer then walked me over to two gentlemen that were fishing and said they saw everything happen.  One of the fishermen told me that when the vessel struck the bulkhead, he heard someone yelling for help.  At that point he ran to his vehicle to retrieve a tow strap, ran over to the boat and threw his tow strap to the operator and helped him tie his boat up.  He then was able to help Operator get onto the pier and stayed with him until help arrived.  Witness1 told me that he was able to detect a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from Operator's breath.  Witness1 also advised me that Operator was operating the vessel without the boat's navigation lights turned on.  I asked Witness1  if he would fill out a NRP-425A (witness stamen) to which he agreed.  That document will be scanned in and attached to this report.

At approximately 2235 hours, Dorchester Paramedic transported Operator to Dorchester General Hospital, hereafter referred to as DGH.  OFC arrived on scene so that I could go to DGH and meet back up with Operator.  SGT and I arrived to DGH at approximately 2246 hours.  At 2258 hours, Operator was read the NRP-482 (advice of rights form) and asked him if he would consent to a blood test to which he agreed and signed the form.  At 2303 hours, Operator's blood sample was taken by a nurse and properly packaged.

Charges are pending the results of the blood test.
 
The weather conditions for the night of Friday June 19, 2020 at the location were:
Air temp: 70 degrees Fahrenheit
Winds: SE at 1mph
Seas: less than 1ft
Water temp: 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Visibility: Good
Light: Dark with artificial lighting from street lights in the parking lot and bulkhead
 
Dorchester Paramedic report number is: 8294.
All events occurred in Dorchester County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0034
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:19:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patapsco River/Dundalk
NearestCityorTown: DunDalk
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, May 25th, 2020 at approximately 1808 I was dispatched to a call for a vessel fire in the vicinity of the Key Bridge on the Patapsco River. Upon arrival to the scene, there was a USCG patrol vessel and two Area 3 vessels out with a white Viking vessel bearing USCG Document # 964241. 

All Persons On Board had been removed and placed on other vessels while wearing PFDs. The vessel was then towed by the USCG to Anchor Bay Marine in Bear Creek, where Baltimore County Fire Department verified that the fire onboard was out.

After making sure that everyone on board the vessel had no injuries, I began interviewing the vessel's owner. He said that there was smoke coming from the engine room when the incident had occurred.

I have attached pictures of the engine room of the vessel to this report.

All events occurred in Baltimore County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0035
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Beckmans Penninsula/Deep Creek
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 15, 2020, at approximately 1330 hours, I Officer responded to Garrett Regional Medical Center, Oakland, Garrett County, Maryland, for a report of a wake boarding accident that occurred south of the Glendale Bridge on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, Maryland. Upon arrival at Garrett Regional Medical Center, I made contact with the victim. Victim's mother was at the hospital with him. I explained to Victim that I needed to obtain some information regarding the boat accident and she agreed. I ask Victim who was operating the vessel and how his injuries occurred. Victim stated that his father was operating the vessel. Victim also stated that when he was attempting to wake board and it was his first time doing so. Victim stated that he was attempting to stand up on the wake board, that it slipped out from underneath his feet, and then struck him across the nose. I asked Victim if he was wearing a PFD and he said, "yes". Victim then told me his mom transported him to the hospital. Mom stated that Hospital staff said Victim had a broken nose and possible concussion. 

All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0036
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tred Avon River-Main Stem
NearestCityorTown: Easton
County: Talbot
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/14/2020, I, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call concerning a subject in Easton Memorial Hospital that was involved in a boating accident. I informed the Duty Officer I would make contact with the subject when I got off of the river, and the subject was finished with the medical attention at the hospital. I called into the hospital for status on Victim. It was reported he was with the doctor attempting to put a tooth back in. He was brought in by his father at 2:44 AM. The nature of the injuries were minor facial trauma to the mouth causing the loss of two front teeth.

   At approximately 6:50 AM, I arrived at Easton Memorial Hospital, and was informed the subject was released to his father. It was reported that Victim was released at 6:19 AM. I proceeded to the Victim residence.

   I met with the father. He stated that Victim was asleep, under medication. Father stated that his son Victim was at a birthday party of a friend Operator. They decided to take the boat out to go for a swim, and on the way back, they ran into a piling. This caused Victim to hit his mouth on the center console hand rail, knocking out his two top front teeth. Father was notified about the incident. This was the location of the birthday party camp out. Father stated it was Operator's Uncle’s place. Father stated all the boys were good boys and he was positive alcohol was not involved. They were just being irresponsible.

Operator’s uncle stated that he was the uncle of Operator. Operator wanted to have a camp out with some friends for his birthday. Operator’s uncle allowed it and stated he walked down to check on them several times, making sure things were all right. Operator’s uncle assured me there was absolutely no alcohol at the camp out. He wasn't aware that the boys took the boat out over night until the next morning. Operator’s uncle said the boat belonged to his sister. Operator’s uncle took me to the river shore where the boys were camping, and to the dock where the boat was. I observed where the vessel hit the piling on the bow, and there was very little damage to the bow. Pictures were taken. The vessel's registration was MD 953 BK, which is a 2000, 23 ft. fiberglass Parker with a 200 HP gas outboard. There were sufficient PFDs onboard and the navigational lights were operable.

   Upon leaving, I was met by one of the young boys and his father. Operator’s father stated he was told I was there, so he brought his son to tell me what happened. I asked the young boy if he was Operator, and he confirmed. He readily handed me his student identification, and boater's safety card (#12492806). I asked Operator to explain the events from that night. He stated he had some friends camp out with him for his birthday, at his uncle's place (pointing to the house behind us). Most left by 10:30 PM, except for  Victim and one other. 

During the night it was decided to meet up with a girl in Oxford to go swimming. He stated around 11:30 PM, they left to go to Oxford. All three individuals were wearing life vests. At around 2:00 AM, they started back to the dock. Operator stated the were just cruising at around 1200 RPMs (approximately 3 knots), listening to music on the radio and talking. He stated they hit the channel marker just before they got to Peach Blossom Creek. 

Occupant1 was laying in the bow floor because he was cold. Occupant2 was standing next to him talking. When they hit the pole, Occupant2 hit his mouth on something on the center console and knocked some teeth out. The hit caused the osprey to fall into the boat and was flopping on Occupant1. They were able to shoo the osprey out of the boat and tend to Occupant2, as his mouth was bleeding. 

Occupant2's father was called to come pick him up. Operator and Occupant1 cleaned the boat up and put things away. I asked who was operating the boat. Operator stated he was. I asked how fast they were really going. He stated is was only 1200 RPMs which was about 3 knots. The damage to the bow showed the vessel was not going fast. I asked how loud was the music. He stated not loud at all, because they could still hold a normal conversation. I asked if they snuck in any beer or other alcohol for the party. He stated they did not. I asked if he had the navigational lights on. He acknowledged he did. I asked what color was the channel marker. He stated he wasn't 100% sure, but he believed it to be green. I asked if it was in the middle of the river. He stated it was and it was just past the right turn headed to Peach Blossom. I informed him it was a green day marker, which didn't require a blinking light. I also explained the signs are reflective and the navigational lights would reflect, causing a seeable glow (if the operator were paying attention). Note: For the record it was Tred Avon River Daybeacon 15. I informed Operator based on his story, I had determined why he ran into the day marker. I asked Operator if he could tell me what he thought caused the accident. He stated that he was distracted by the music and conversation with Occupant2 and wasn't paying attention to avoid hitting the pole until it was too late. I agreed. Operator completed boater's safety in 05/19. Operator’s father stated they have supervised him with his navigational skills, and he does very well. Operator stated that it was irresponsible for him to take the boat out that late and he feels horrible that he injured his best friend. Operator’s father stated they had a long conversation about being responsible and boating decisions. Victim was the only injury from the collision.

   My investigation revealed that the collision with the green daybeacon 15 was caused by operator error by not paying attention to avoid a collision.

   I will follow up with Operator to issue a warning, and allow his parents to handle any disciplinary matters.

   This event occurred in Talbot County, Md.


BARDID: MD-2020-0037
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River, Quantico
NearestCityorTown: Marbury
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 25, 2020, I was on routine patrol In St. Mary's County Maryland.  I received a call for service in reference to a vessel taking on water.
    Natural Resource Police dispatch was notified through Charles County Fire Department that Prince Williams Fire Department had pulled two persons from the water in the area of Cockpit Point, Potomac River(38.55096 -77.25543 ) from an 18 ft vessel bearing Virginia registration 9287 BE.  The subjects later identified as Operator 1 and Passenger 1 had been fishing at the time of the accident.
     Operator 1 reported to me that they left Leesylvania State Park in Virginia at 6:30 am. At approximately 9:30 am. Operator 1 went on to say that the vessel began taking on waves over the gunnel of his vessel due to high winds.  Both persons on board donned personal floatation devices and began to maneuver back to port.  Operator 1 called 911 when the water in the vessel began to deepen. The vessel became overwhelmed with water and sank causing both passengers to enter the water. Both persons stayed with the vessel while waiting for units to arrive.
    Prince William FD responded and retrieved both persons from the water without injury. Medical treatment was refused. PWFD stayed on scene with the vessel (VA 9287 BE) until Seatow could arrive and tow it to shore.  The vessel was towed back to Hampton Landing Marina where it was trailered.  
    All events happened in Charles County.
    This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2020-0039
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 118th Street, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 13, 2020, at 1215 hours I, Cpl. was contacted by our dispatch to respond to Atlantic General Hospital about a PWC Jet Ski accident that occurred at 2400 hours on June 12, 2020.

  I made contact with the operator of the Jet Ski.  Operator1 stated that he was working at, Dead Freddies Island Grill on 105 Street, Ocean City until late on the night of June 12.  Operator1 stated that he did not have a driver's license and always rode the bus home.  Operator1 stated that the buses stop running before he gets off work. 

  Operator1 stated that he used his PWC for his ride home at 2400 hours. Sunset was at 2059 hours and PWC can not be operated  after sunset.   Operator1 stated that he ran into a beach off of 118th Street in Assawoman Bay, Ocean City MD.  Operator1 stated that his ski was not damaged and he drove it to his friend's house.

  Operator1 stated that his ribs had been bothering him from the impact to his chest.  While I was there interviewing him the doctor came in and advised Operator1 that he had 3 broken ribs and a punctured lung and was going be transported to PRMC in the trauma unit.  I advised Operator1 that I would make contact with him in a week to check his condition and to charge.
All events occurred in Worcester County, MD


BARDID: MD-2020-0041
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:44:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 9202 Riverside Dr, Fort Washin
NearestCityorTown: Fort Washington
County: Prince Georges
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/20/2020 at 9:00 am., I received a call for a vessel accident on the Potomac River of Fort Washington, MD.

     I arrived on scene at approximately 10:30 p.m. Prince George's County Police were on scene and were calming the vessel owner and the property owner. The two individuals had been in a conflict over docking the vessel on the property. Prince George's County Police advised they did not believe there were any vessel occupants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We inspected the vessel for information. The vessel was a 1998 27ft Polaris Rinker Fiesta VEE 266, HULL ID: RNK57613K798, with VA registration 5525AS. The vessel was tied to the dock with three lines. The vessel was half submerged and sitting on the hard bottom of the Potomac River. The vessel was tilted on its side due to the lines attached to the pier. The water depth was approximately 3-4 feet.
I then met with Operator 1. Operator 1 completed a voluntary written statement. Operator 1 stated that he was operating the vessel at approximately ten knots towards Washington DC in a North North East direction. Operator 1 stated he didn't hit anything while underway and that his drain plugs and bilge were working. Operator 1 stated that his son went into the cabin and noticed water about one to two feet deep. Operator 1 said he headed to shore as quick as he could. By the time he had arrived to shore, the vessel was becoming swamped and hard to control. When he arrived to the nearest port, Operator 1 was met by the homeowner. Operator 1 stated that Home Owner wouldn't let him dock the boat or get off the boat. Operator 1 told Home Owner that he needed to get his occupants off the boat as soon as possible. Operator 1's vessel had 8 occupants including, his grandmother in her eighties, a pregnant female, and two children under ten. Operator 1 told me that a neighbor came outside to break up the fight between himself and Home Owner. Operator 1 stated that Prince George's County Police had checked him, his passengers, and his vessel for any signs of alcohol or drugs. I asked Operator 1 to count backwards from 69 to 57 and to conduct a check of the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus. Operator 1 showed no signs of impairment.
     After obtaining voluntary witness statements from all parties, Operator 1 was able to leave the scene. Operator 1 said he would return the next day with a tow company to remove the vessel.
     While I was meeting with Operator 1, Off. met with Home Owner. Home Owner completed a voluntary written statement. Home Owner stated that he witnessed a vessel come in at a high speed with a large wake to his dock. The vessel repeatedly hit his dock at a high speed. When Home Owner ran out to help, he tried to help. Operator 1 stated that the operator refused to turn off the vessel engine and kept hitting his dock. Home Owner said that the operator, after securing the vessel, jumped onto the dock and started a fight with him. Home Owner stated he was trying to help the boat as best he could, but the owner kept hitting the dock and pulling away. Home Owner stated that he then called Prince George's County Police Department. After obtaining the written and verbal statements from Home Owner, Officers informed Home Owner that the vessel would remain at his pier until removed by a tow company.
All officers and individuals cleared the scene at approximately 06/21/2020 at 12:52 a.m.
     On 06/21/2020 at approximately 10:00 a.m, Operator 1, The Coast Guard, and a tow company removed the vessel from the pier and towed it to a ramp. Operator 1 regained possession of the vessel and left.

     On 06/24/2020 at approximately 12:00 p.m. I contacted Operator 1 and asked him if he had removed the vessel. He stated the vessel had been removed on 06/21/2020. Operator 1 stated that he was doing the repairs himself. He estimated his labor and supplies cost was currently over $3000. Operator 1 also stated the tow company had charged him $6000 to float and remove the vessel from the water.
    At this time, there are no charges pending and the investigation is completed. I will be submitting a Boat Accident Report to the Coast Guard as this is considered a vessel accident over $2000 in damage
     All incidents occurred in Prince George's County, MD


BARDID: MD-2020-0042
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 102 52nd Street, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 23, 2020 I Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was on vessel patrol on the Isle Of Wight Bay, Ocean City, Worcester County MD.  At approx. 2:30 PM I received a call over my radio for a boating accident involving two jet ski rentals with injuries in the area of 52nd Street.  I activated my emergency equipment and started towards 52nd Street.  At approx. 2:32 PM I arrived on scene at 120 52nd St, Ocean City, MD 21842 Action Watersports.  At that time the victim was being seen by Ocean City Fire Department EMS.  Victim had sustained an injury to her right leg.  There were no signs of any traumatic injury, but due to the amount of pain Victim was in she was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) in Salisbury MD for precautionary measures.  Victim was on jet ski #1 with Maryland registration 9200 LB.

     I spoke with the driver who crashed into Victim.  The driver was Victim's boyfriend.  I asked Operator1 if he needed any medical attention and Operator1 advised that he was ok.  I asked Operator1 if he would fill out a Maryland Natural Resources Voluntary Statement (NRP-425) Operator1 advised that he did not wish to write anything down but he would tell me what happened.  Operator1 was on jet ski #5 with Maryland registration 9202 LB.

    Operator1 advised that he was riding his jet ski and he wanted to say something to Victim.  Operator1 advised that he was traveling at least 10 knots when he was driving to Victim.  Operator1 tried to turn the ski to pull along side Victim but had too much speed and crashed into Victim causing injury to her right leg.  It should be noted that Operator1 advised that he was just told by a Action Watersports guide to stay away at least 100 feet away from other vessels while going above 6 knots.

    Victim was immediately transported back to Action Watersports for her injuries.  Victim was able to get off the ski under her own power and walk at least 8 to 10 steps before complaining of severe pain to her leg and hip area.

    I issued Operator1 three warnings and 1 citation.  The warnings were negligent operation of a vessel, operating a PWC on state water in excess of 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel, failure to obey navigation rules of the road rule 5 failure to maintain a proper lookout.  The citation was for failure to obey navigation rules of the road rule 8 failure to take action to avoid collision.

    All events occurred in Worcester County MD


BARDID: MD-2020-0043
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gunpowder River-Main Stem Midd
NearestCityorTown: Middle River
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/26/2020 at approximately 1023hrs I was dispatched to respond to a boat fire in the Gunpowder River in the area of Oliver Beach. I responded to vessel NRP842 at Dundee Creek Marina and at approximately 1042hrs arrived on scene to find Baltimore County Fire Boat 21 towing a burned out hull just east of the Amtrak bridge between Oliver Point and Iron Point in the Gunpowder River. I made contact with the fire boat and learned that all subjects had been recovered by good Samaritans but they did not know where they were taken. They were towing the vessel to a boat ramp. I then asked DNR communications to make contact with Baltimore County Fire/Police to find out where the subjects were taken and it was learned they were at Mariner Point Park boat ramp in Joppatowne, MD. Another Officer then responded to the park to make contact with the victims. When he arrived at the park he learned that the vessel only had one occupant who was identified as Operator 1. Operator 1 had no injuries and had recently purchased the vessel 3 weeks ago. Operator 1 had put the vessel in the water at the Mariner Point boat ramp and still had his keys so he then drove his truck and empty trailer to the boat ramp at Greenbank Rd to claim his vessel and meet with the tow boat/salvage company that had taken over and was on scene. The vessel was secured to the boat ramp pier. The hot spots were put out by Baltimore County Fire who was on scene waiting for our arrival. I was able to confirm the vessel registration as MD 9501BZ which per COMPASS is a 19 foot Trophy fiberglass motorboat with 115hp outboard motor. The vessel had an expired registration of 12/31/2019.

Operator 1 arrived at the boat ramp at approximately 1205hrs. I attempted to get a formal written statement from him but he was still very shaken up, upset, and stated he was having trouble writing. He relayed verbally that he purchased the vessel approximately 3 weeks ago. Operator 1 stated that the dealer took care of all the registration and title paperwork and that the boat had temporary registration stickers (only the numbers on one side of the vessel were not burned and both sides of the hull had the yearly registration stickers burned away). Operator 1 stated the vessel had some engine problems initially and took it back to the dealer for repairs and they supposedly replaced the "water separator filter" and Operator 1 got his boat back on Tuesday 6/23/2020. Today Operator 1 put the boat in the water at Mariner Point Park in order to go for a cruise, fish, and to test the motor with his friends who were on a different boat. Operator 1 stated they had been motoring and fishing around the Gunpowder River for approximately 2 hours when the engine began to sputter. He stated he turned it off just on the East side of the Amtrak bridge and the two vessels fished for a little while to give the engine time to "settle" before trying to restart the engine. He said the boat had half a tank of gas in it which was last filled up by the dealer. When Operator 1 attempted the restart the engine there was a small explosion and per the witness, and the engine case shot up in the air and immediately the engine caught fire. Operator 1 stated he used his single fire extinguisher but it did not stop the fire. Operator 1 then put his life jacket on and jumped in the water and stated it was very shallow to the point that his lower legs got stuck in the mud. His friend then jumped off his boat and helped to pull Operator 1 to safety back on his vessel nearby. Once the fireboat arrived on scene Operator 1’s friends took Operator 1 back to the Mariner Point boat ramp where they met first responders and another Officer. Operator 1 refused any EMS response.
Once the boat was deemed safe by the fire department, Chesapeake Marine Towing and Salvage was able to pump the hull out and get it back on Operator 1’s trailer and took it to their shop and salvage yard at Middle River Landing. Once the involved vessel was secured to the trailer all units cleared. Since Operator 1 did not have his temporary registration, or the new title, and COMPASS still had the previous owners listed. I therefore called the dealer to confirm the purchase of the boat by Operator 1 and have attached the paperwork they sent to me as proof of purchase and registration. Operator 1 does have boat insurance through GEICO/BOAT US. 
All events occurred in Baltimore County


BARDID: MD-2020-0044
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:47:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 0-0 Skippers Row Gibson Island
NearestCityorTown: Gibson Island
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/26/20 at approximately 8:45 P.M., we were dispatched to a possible hit and run boating accident near Gibson Island on the Magothy River, Anne Arundel County, MD. It was reported that a ski boat vessel had struck a Grady White style fishing vessel and that there were people in the water. 

We arrived on the scene at approximately 9:00 P.M. and met with the complainant in Pasadena, Maryland. The complainant advised that she heard a very loud bang and observed a ski boat vessel strike a Grady White fishing vessel near the Magothy Narrows. There was yelling that took place after as the vessels took off at a high rate of speed. She advised that the vessels appeared to be heading towards Grays Creek. She also observed two individuals in the water that were later retrieved from a blue pontoon boat coming from Gibson Island. We ventured off to Gray’s Creek to meet with the vessel in question for the boat accident.  

Upon arrival, we observed a 22’ white Grady White vessel with a blue canvas top displaying Maryland registration “0964 DA”. The Grady White had severe damage to the stern and swim platform of the vessel. The damage extended into the interior of the vessel as there was exposed wood and fiberglass material of the vessel’s hull. The vessel is registered to Owner 1. We were able to contact Owner 1 via phone call. We asked Owner 1 and his passengers to have him and his party return to the dock in Grays Creek for further investigation. 

A white 19’ Seapro vessel bearing Maryland registration “2087 AZ” with five males approached us at the dock. The operator of the Seapro was Operator 2. We were informed that Operator 2 and another passenger were following Operator 1 and two other passengers on the Grady White out of the Magothy Narrows toward Sillery Bay. The Seapro was following closely behind and had begun to get caught in the wake of the leading Grady White. Operator 2’s weight had shifted with the Seapro as it was now operating at an angle and hard to steer. Operator 2’s passenger reached for the throttle to slow the vessel down before the impact to which was unsuccessful. The bow of the Seapro struck the stern of the Grady White, causing a loud bang and severe damage. No one had suffered injuries as a result of the collision, and no one was ejected from either vessel. Operator 2’s passenger shouted to the Grady White that they needed to bring the boat back to the dock before it sinks. 
I asked Operator 2 if he knew the two individuals that were initially reported to be in the water from the accident, to which they replied they did not know them. Still, they had observed them being towed by another vessel earlier that day. Neither Operator 2 nor Operator 1 was operating their vessels under the influence of alcohol nor did they show signs of such. Operator 2 was issued a warning for failing to provide a proper lookout per the United States Coast Guard rules and regulations. 
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.
This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2020-0045
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 27, 2020, at approximately 1730 hours, I was dispatched to a boat rental company in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland in reference to a boat accident that had previously occurred.
Upon my arrival, I met with a business representative who advised that a rental pontoon boat (identified as a 2020 Sweetwater bearing MD registration 5607LB) had been rented by renter 1 and operated by Operator 1. The boat had been in perfect working order when it was rented.  The representative advised me that the renter had attempted to travel beneath the Route 90 bridge at a location that did not provide adequate clearance for the bimini top on the vessel, and had destroyed the top.  

I spoke with renter and Operator 1 and they both confirmed that is what had happened.  I spoke with 10 other individuals that had been on board the vessel as well.  They were highly uncooperative and made no statements other than derogatory and anti-law-enforcement statements and that, "no one told us we couldn't do that."  Referring to going beneath the bridge without proper clearance.  I attempted to identify the passengers and they were, again, uncooperative.

Rental company provided an estimate of $3075.00 to repair the damage to the vessel and renter paid it in full using a credit card.  All of the above occurred in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0046
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: North Glade Cove/Deep Creek La
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Gerrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2020, at 1344 hours, I, Corporal, was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, Maryland in reference to a person being treated for injuries sustained while boating on Deep Creek Lake on July 1, 2020.  I arrived at the hospital at 1412 hours, and met with Emergency Room personnel who directed me to room 2 where I met with the victim and her husband.

     Husband was able to provide both his and Victim's Drivers licenses, and provided the following account of the events that led to the injury.  Husband stated that he and his family had rented a 2017 Crownline bow rider from Deep Creek Lake Boat Rentals, and had been water skiing in the area of North Glade Cove at approximately 1700 hours on July 1, 2020.  Husband was operating the boat with his 14 year old son serving as the observer.  The vessel was travelling west through North Glade cove, towing Victim behind on a single ski at approximately 20 miles per hour.  In that area, Victim suddenly fell forward as she encountered the wake of another vessel, striking her head on the waters surface.  Victim stated that she went home that night with a headache, and still suffered from that headache in the morning of July 3, 2020.  Husband then transported Victim to GRMC to be checked for a concussion.  Additionally onboard the boat were the children.  

     I cleared the hospital, and arrived at Deep Creek Lake Boat Rentals in McHenry, Maryland to obtain vessel information.  The rental company was unable to provide any information on the vessel, which was still docked at the rental house in the Harvey's Peninsula area.  The rental company had applied for registration through the Department of Natural Resources, and was advised that they may operate the vessel while awaiting registration.  The rental company did not have any of the vessels paperwork at that establishment, but stated that they would retrieve it over the weekend.

     On 7-6-20, I again contacted Deep Creek Lake Boat Rentals, and was provided with the vessels information.

     As a result of my investigation, no charges were filed.

     All these events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0047
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:46:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 29, 2020, at approximately 1930 hours, I (Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) was on patrol in the Ocean City area when I heard the Ocean City Fire Department dispatch EMS to Oceanside Watersports, located at 710 South Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland in reference to injuries from a Personal Watercraft (PWC) accident.  
    
    I responded to that location and met with the owner of the livery establishment.  He advised me that someone had been struck by a PWC while the livery group was underway.  I met with the two individuals who had been on the PWC and were now back at the establishment.  They were identified as Operator2 (Operator) and V2 occupant.  Operator2 had an obvious injury to his head and face area.  He was agitated and verbally aggressive toward staff and EMS personnel on the scene. EMS packaged him for transport to the trauma center at Penninsula Regional Medical Center.  V2 occupant went to the hospital with him.

    The second PWC involved in the accident arrived on location shortly after Operator2 had been transported.  Onboard that PWC were V1 occupant and Operator1.  V1 occupant was complaining of a left upper leg injury.  EMS began attending to him.  I spoke with Operator1 while EMS was treating V1 occupant and she stated that she had been operating their PWC behind the other PWC involved.  She stated that the PWC in front of her had been turning sharply from side to side and that it had caused both occupants to fall off into the water.  She stated that she tried to avoid striking both occupants but was unable to do so, and struck Operator2.  She stated that she and V1 occupant then fell from their PWC and V1 occupant struck his leg.  I also spoke with one of the guides who had been with the group and he stated that Operator2 had been operating the PWC in the manner described, despite being told not to.

    I responded to Penninsula Regional Medical Center to meet with Operator2 and V2 occupant.  I was able to do so and learned that Operator2 would require stitches in his head and face.  In speaking with them Operator2 stated that he had been operating the PWC and and "hit a wave" and that he and V2 occupant had fallen off the PWC and were struck by the PWC traveling behind them.  He again became agitated and wanted to know how to pursue a civil suit against the other operator.  I advised him that he would have to do that through the court system, that we did not handle civil disputes or lawsuits.  He became increasingly agitated and denied any responsibility for the situation.  I provided him with a report number and left the emergency department.  

    Based on the statements from witnesses, both operators are at fault to some degree for this accident.  Operator2, by all accounts other than his own, was operating in a negligent manner and at unsafe speeds given the conditions and the manner in which he was handling the PWC, and Operator1 was unable to take action to avoid a collision.  All parties involved were provided with a report number and my contact information.  It is my recommendation that his investigation be closed.

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


BARDID: MD-2020-0048
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Susquehanna River
NearestCityorTown: Havre De Grace
County: Harford
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday 6/13/2020 at 0700 hours I received a call for a boat accident that occurred on the Susquehanna River. The caller advised there were no injuries just damage to the vessels. I called the complainant and advised him that I had an extended eta of 45 minutes I confirmed with him that I nobody was injured or needed medical attention. He advised me that everyone was ok and both boats were still operational. 

When I arrived on scene at Tide Water marina I spoke to the owners of both vessels. 

When asked what happened Operator 1 immediately took responsibility for the accident stating that he was headed west in the river at around 45 mph he looked up river then down river and changed his course to head towards his fishing spot and when he looked back up after changing course the other vessel was just feet off of his bow. He stated that he never saw the boat until it was too late and there was nothing that he could do to avoid the collision at that point. I explained to him when changing course and traveling at that rate of speed on the water that he needed to keep a better look out for other vessels and he agreed and apologized. I also at this time informed him since he was at fault he would be receiving a citation for fail to obey navigational rules of the road fail to maintain a proper look out. He stated that he understood and again apologized.

I then went over to talk to Operator 2. He stated he was headed south on the river when he noticed Operator 1 vessel travelling at a pretty good rate of speed and he didn't believe that the operator of the vessel saw him so he slowed down to around 25 mph to let the other vessel cross in front of him. He stated that once he slowed down the other vessel changed course and was headed straight for him and the only thing he could do to lessen the impact was turn hard to starboard and power up to flare up the port side of the vessel so Operator 1 didn't run over top of his boat. As he powered up and made the turn the 2 vessels made impact the starboard bow of Mr. Operator 1 vessel struck his vessel mid ship on the port side right where his wife was sitting.
I then interviewed the 2 occupants of Operator 2's boat. Both occupants story matched what both operators told me so I Issued Operator 1 the citation for Fail to obey navigational rules of the road. 

All events occurred in Harford county


BARDID: MD-2020-0049
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Severn River/Browns Cove
NearestCityorTown: Millersville
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 14, 2020, at approximately 1232 PM, I OFC responded for a report of a vessel accident with possible injury in the area of Smith's Marina, Crownsville, MD. When I arrived on scene I made contact with Anne Arundel County Medic 6, who responded to treat the injured subject. Medic 6 informed me the subject had a laceration to her hand and was getting transported to the Baltimore Hand Center in Baltimore, MD. for treatment. 

I located the operator of the vessel and obtained a written statement from him. The operator of the vessel was identified by his Drivers license. He stated they were waiting on the fuel pump when they tied off to the adjacent dock. The vessel was tied off on the bow when the wind picked up and spun the vessels stern around before they could tie it off. 

When the stern of the vessel came around the operator attempted to give it some throttle and when he did, it collided with the bow of a docked vessel. 

When the vessel collided with the bow of the other vessel it shattered the port side front window of the vessel and the glass cut victim’s thumb open. The Marina staff call 911 and reported the accident. I collected information from operator and allowed him to operate the vessel back to its dock in Brewer Creek. At this time I am waiting on an update on the condition of Victim. OFC from Area 5 responded to the Hand Center and obtained a statement from Victim. Both statements along with pictures of the damage to both vessels is attached. I was able to make contact with the second vessel owner by phone. At this time he is out of town but advised he will check on the vessel on June 15, 2020, and inform me if there are any damages to his vessel. As of June 16, 2020, the owner of the struck vessel has not contacted me with report of damages to his vessel.

Anne Arundel County Medic 6 Dispatch call number was 2020-36233

All events Occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0050
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Bridge/Wo
NearestCityorTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 20, 2020 at 1030 hours I, Ofc. was notified by Natural Resources Police Communications Center that a two year old child had sustained a possible head injury while on a vessel. I responded to the Annapolis City Marina and met with the Anne Arundel County Fire Department. They advised that the child was being transported to Anne Arundel County Medical Center (AACMC). I arrived at AACMC and met with the boat operator and he advised me that he, his wife and their two year old son were coming back from Whitehall Bay, going towards Spa Creek in Annapolis. While underway victim tripped while trying to relocate himself on the vessel and hit his head on the step in the rear of the vessel. I spoke with the nurse at AACMC and was advised that he will be OK, and they will monitor him for a few hours due to showing signs of concuss. 

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County Md.


BARDID: MD-2020-0051
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Isle of Wight-Harbor to Rt 90
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/01/2020, I was on routine patrol on NRP vessel 154 in the area of the Ocean City Inlet, Ocean City, MD.  Around 930am we noticed an object floating in the waters that was drifting with the outgoing tide. Further investigation revealed a roughly 5 foot section of piling that was adrift with only about 6 inches exposed above the water. Due to the danger posed and possible hazard of navigation, we secured the piling with a line and towed it back to the commercial harbor boat ramp for public works to dispose of. After safely removing the piling from the water we were approached by one of the boat operators for Towboat US. He stated that he received a call the day prior that a vessel had struck an object in the area of The Thorofare and that the vessel was left in the marsh. After getting confirmation the boat was still in the area we started that way.

Upon arrival to The Thorofare around 10am we noticed a vessel fitting the description bearing Maryland Registration numbers 4944 BM with visible damage to the portside and aft portions of the vessel being towed away. We made contact the owner of the vessel Operator 1 who was on the towing vessel. OPERATOR 1 stated that on June 30, 2020 around 630pm, he and his son were cruising through the Thorofare headed west back towards the Pines when they struck an object that they could not see. He was not sure what it was but stated it was submerged under water and thinks it might have been a piling. He said the weather was perfect, water was flat, and they were doing about 30knots with no visible sign of anything in the water until it was too late. After the impact OPERATOR 1 stated that he got the boat to the marsh area off the end of Golf Course Rd. He contacted Towboat Us and called a friend to come pick him and his son up. Because there were no injuries he did not think that the Natural Resources Police needed to be called and he was more concerned with getting his son to shore and the vessel to the marsh before it sank. OPERATOR 1 did not use Towboat US services but returned in the morning with a neighbor to retrieve his boat and that is the time that NRP arrived.
When the vessel was taken out of the water at Gum Point Road boat ramp, the extent of the damages were visible and he believes that the vessel is a complete loss. Photos were taken of all the damages and vessel was trailered to OPERATOR 1’s community storage lot. OPERATOR 1 contacted Allstate Insurance on June 30th and was provided a claim.
All events occurred in Worcester County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0052
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:51:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Bridge-Wo
NearestCityorTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2nd, 2020 at 0151 hours, I Officer First Class, of The Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call reference a vessel accident south of the Bay Bridge in the area of Green "91" Lighted Bouy Fl G 4s(38 58 59.103N, 076 23 16.547W.) Anne Arundel County Fire Board, United States Coast Guard, and Maryland State Police Trooper 2 had already been dispatched to the scene of the collision. 

Anne Arundel County Fire Boats were  first on the scene, and they located the vessel in question east of Red Lighted Bell Buoy 92 Fl R 4s(38 58 55.803N, 076 23 04.547W). Upon arrival, Anne Arundel Fire Boat 13 encountered a vessel with three occupants, all with reported injuries at the time. The sole vessel involved in the collision had sustained significant disabling damage and appeared to be taking on water. 

Anne Arundel Fire Boat 36 transported one patient with reported neck and back pain to Sandy Point State Park awaiting medics, Sgt and Cpl. both of Maryland Natural Resources Police. The other two subjects on the vessel were transported by Anne Arundel Fire Boat 19. Boat also side towed the disabled vessel to Sandy Point State Park. 

 I arrived on location at Sandy Point State Park at 0227 Hours.

Subject Contact at Sandy Point State Park

Passenger #1
 
"Was lying down on vessel asleep, the vessel hit something, went flying." 

 Vessel

 The vessel towed in was a Sailfish 236 displaying Maryland Vessel Registration “MD 1150 BS.” The vessel had disabling damage to the forward port bow area, which appeared to have hit some type of green object. The vessel has a large hole close to the waterline and an even larger hole close to the top of the bow. The vessel had green paint transfer in the damaged bow area. The operating console of the vessel had been destroyed, and over 20 plus screws had been ripped out of the floor of the vessel. The impact of the vessel with the object appeared to have been at speed. The vessel also appeared to be taking on water. The vessel had large amounts of alcoholic beverage cans thrown about the deck to include miller light cans, fireball mini’s, and small champagne bottles. The vessel is beyond repair and considered totaled. The GPS, a GARMIN GPS MAP 441s, was seized for possible evidence related to the speed, course, and other information factors.

Passenger #2

Subject arrived at Sandy Point at 02:54. Occupant2 stated she possibly had some type of muscular injury but was refusing all medical treatment. Occupant2 stated that they were underway in the area of The Jetty and Red Eyes Dock Bar in Kent Island to watch the fireworks. She stated they drove around listening to music after the fireworks, and she was not driving the boat, nor did she have any boat training. She stated she had a couple of grapefruit crushes throughout the evening. The next thing she knew, the boat crashed, and operator was in the water. She stated she was never thrown in the water. Occupant2 had an odor of alcoholic beverage about her breath. Occupant2 provided a written statement which is attached to this report.

 Operator

 Subject also had aboard their vessel, the operator of the Sailfish. The male later appeared to be the most injured subject of all parties. When getting off, Operator was extremely unstable on his feet and was wobbling while standing. Operator had an odor of alcoholic beverage about his breath, and his eyes were glassy and bloodshot. Operator stated his jaw hurt badly. He also had a laceration to his foot as well as his chin area. Operator stated he had no clue what happened and woke up in the water. Operator stated he had “6-7 beers” and would not ever drive a vessel in that condition. Operator was asked multiple times then who was driving the vessel, and he continued to state he didn’t know. Operator, while, talking had slurred speech and slow responses throughout the whole conversation. Operator was transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center by Anne Arundel Medic #4.
 
Further investigation

 Operator

After Operator and Occupant2 were transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center, I responded to the hospital for further questioning. I spoke with Operator at the hospital and he continued to say he was never driving the vessel. Operator also stated the vessel was owned by his parents, and he normally operates the vessel. Operator appeared to be still intoxicated by the way he was speaking and slurring his words. Operator was read his advice of rights. Operator refused to sign and continued to state he was not driving the vessel, but again did state he had “6-7” beers. Operator was going for a scan of his jaw at the hospital, and I left Operator to speak with Occupant2. 
 
Occupant2

Occupant2 stated they went out for the evening to watch fireworks. Occupant2 stated after they watched the firework they were in the area of Red Eyes Dock Bar. Occupant2 stated he got tired and laid down with his friend Occupant2 in the vessel. Occupant2 stated the next thing he knew he “was flying through the air, and the boat was smashed, I had to crawl under the smashed boat to stop it.” Occupant2 continued to state he heard Operator in the water and threw him a life jacket and helped him back in the vessel. Occupant2 stated he started to have back and neck pain, so he called 911. Occupant2 provided a witness statement which is attached.

 Point of Impact

I cleared the hospital and returned to Sandy Point State Park. I boarded a patrol vessel and responded to the general area where the Sailfish was located. Green Lighted Bouy 91 had a large scrape impact strike and had remaining fiberglass from the Sailfish still lodged on top of the buoy. Pictures are attached to the report in reference.  

 Charges

Based on the above facts from Occupant2 and Occupant2, both stating Operator was driving the vessel. Operator will be charged with the following;

11274 MR, 8.18.01.04: Failure to Obey Navigation Rules (Rules of the Road)

11276 MR, 8.18.01.05 B: Negligent Operation of a Vessel

10435 NR, 8-738.2 (a)(1): Operation of Boat in a Reckless Manner

6 8000 NR, 8-738(a)(1) : OPERATE VESSEL/UNDER INFLUENCE

10432 NR, 8-738 (a)(2): Operation While Impaired by Alcohol

10433 NR, 8-738 (a)(3): Operation While Impaired by any drug, combinations of drugs or combinations of one or more drugs and alcohol

 

All of the above events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0053
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Bridge-Co
NearestCityorTown: Stevensville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, July 5th, 2020, at approximately 1632 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to an incident regarding an injured male subject aboard a vessel that was in the area of Bloody Point Lighthouse, in Queen Annes County. It was reported that the injured subject sustained a head injury and was intermittently losing and regaining consciousness. The approximate GPS coordinates are N 38 degrees 53.730' and W 076 degrees 24.080'. Due to the nature of the injuries, the vessel met City of Annapolis EMS, OFC., and myself at the Annapolis Maritime Museum located at 723 Second Street, Annapolis, MD 21403.

        Upon our arrival, the vessel bearing Maryland registration 8551BZ was docked at the Annapolis Maritime Museum pier with two United States Coast Guard personnel aboard the vessel assisting the individuals. There were 5 individuals aboard the 2011 25' Parker center console at the time of the incident, three of which were reporting they had possible injuries. EMS units were able to help all individuals off the boat to address their injuries and potential need for first aid. 

        After being checked by EMS, two were transported to Anne Arundel County Medical Center for further evaluation. The remaining individuals completed witness statements and were individually interviewed. The witness statements are attached to this report. OFC performed a safety inspection of the vessel. Subject had all necessary safety equipment. Sgt. arrived at the scene and assisted in gathering additional information. He then followed EMS to Anne Arundel Medical Center, where he met with subjects. Victim1 stated that he did not sustain a head injury and never lost consciousness, but did get dizzy and nauseous. He stated that he felt fine once he got to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, but did have right shoulder pain. Sgt. then met with victim2 who refused medical aid from Anne Arundel Medical Center upon her arrival. 

        The conditions at the time of the incident are as follows:
                                Winds: south/southeast 15-20 mph
                                Traffic: light
                                Waves: choppy, 1 to 2 feet
                                Water Temperature: 79 degrees
                                Visibility: Clear
                                
        After interviewing all individuals separately, they all provided the same story. All above listed boat occupants were aboard the vessel, headed back from St. Michael's, MD in route to the residence. Operator explained that they were heading northwest toward Annapolis, having just passed Bloody Point Lighthouse, when a large wave came from the vessel's starboard side, causing the vessel to drop down into the trough of the wave. This caused the occupants to be thrown toward the starboard side of the vessel. Prior to hitting the wave, Operator yelled for everybody to hold on, but he stated he did not anticipate the wave to be so big. 

Operator and subject3 were standing at the time of the impact. They were able to absorb the impact with their legs, resulting in no injuries. Subject1 was located on a bench seat on the transom of the vessel, where he was thrown toward the starboard gunwale, hitting his head and right shoulder. Two others were both sitting on the leaning post at the center of the vessel. They were thrown to the starboard side of the vessel causing neck pain for one and minor arm pain and a cut on the right knee for the other. 

        On Tuesday, July 7th, 2020, I made contact with subject1 to check his condition. He stated he was released from the hospital not long after Sgt. left. They had x-rays done on his neck and shoulder. This resulted in a slightly dislocated collarbone, but no other injuries. He advised he was in good spirits and ready to get back out on the water.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2020-0054
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/04/2020 at approximately 1:03PM, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a capsized pontoon in the area of Holy Cross on Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, Maryland. As I arrived on scene, I witnessed a black pontoon vessel bearing Maryland registration MD3768LB capsized in the water. Local recreational boaters had already responded to help the passengers of the capsized pontoon, extracting everyone on the capsized pontoon from the water. All members were accounted for and put on other vessels when I arrived on the scene. Officer had arrived on the scene and started Garrett EMS to a nearby dock for three injured passengers. A Local fire boat assisted at the accident as well. Photographs were taken at the scene of the accident. The pontoon safely floated to a shallow area of the lake, marked with "Danger" buoys. The upper deck of the pontoon beached itself to the bottom of the lake and was out of the way of recreational boat traffic.

Both NRP vessels took the non injured passengers to a nearby unoccupied dock at Holy Cross. The injured passengers were transported to the same dock on a recreational pontoon by a good Samaritan. Garrett EMS arrived at dock to take the injured passengers to Garrett Regional Medical Center for evaluation. After EMS had transported the injured passengers to Garrett Regional Medical Center, two local marina boats arrived to the tow the capsized pontoon to the Deep Creek Lake State Park boat ramp. I escorted six passengers on vessel NRP 881 back to Deep Creek Marina where they had rented the pontoon. 

I wore my state issued mask for COVID-19 precautions while transporting the passengers to Deep Creek Marina. All passengers were transported safely back to Deep Creek Marina. Officer stayed at the scene to help escort the two local marina boats towing the capsized vessel. Witness statements and information were taken at the marina immediately. Due to information from the hospital, I was directed to stay clear of the passengers I had escorted, and leave the marina immediately for COVID-19 precautions and possible exposure. 

A thorough and immediate investigation couldn't be performed at this time with the passengers and operator that I had taken to the marina. Assistance was needed by Officer and Sgt. for the safe escort of the capsized pontoon to the Deep Creek Lake State Park boat ramp.

OFC., Sgt. and I successfully escorted the two marina tow boats to the Deep Creek Lake State Park boat ramp by keeping recreational boat traffic far away from the tow boats. As all boats arrived to the ramp safely, all NRP patrol vessels were sprayed with disinfectant by the State Fire Marshal for COVID-19 precautions. The capsized vessel was turned right side up again by Deep Creek Marina's fork lift and escorted back on its respective trailer. Photographs were taken at the boat ramp.

Interviews were conducted the following day (07/05/2020) with the operator and a passenger at Deep Creek Marina. Operator stated that no passengers were on the vessel's upper deck while in transit, passengers were equally distributed, and that water had opened the front bow door causing the vessel to flood. Operator stated that Occupant1 had moved to a position to move the throttle lever in an attempt to save the vessel when they noticed the vessel door swing open and the vessel begin to flood. Occupant1 also stated that water had opened the front bow door which started to flood the pontoon. In an attempt to possibly save the pontoon, Occupant1 said he moved to a position where he could move the throttle lever forward increasing the acceleration of the pontoon's engine, which didn't save the boat. Photo copies of witness statements and passenger information collected by marina staff on 07/04/2020 were given to me and have been attached to this report

Also on 07/05/20, the vessel was inspected to determine what possibly could have happened. No mechanical failures were found while visually inspecting the vessel.  No evidence was found to show that any of the three floats of the pontoon could have been flooded with water, which could have led to capsizing. Photos were taken of the pontoon's water line which displayed an equal height on every pontoon float. Body weights for all passengers were obtained via phone call.  The body weights of all passengers alone (not including the two dogs onboard or any gear) exceeded the capacity for vessel MD 3768LB by 270 pounds respectively. The capacity plate states 14 people or 2000 pounds.

Finally on 07/05/20 I learned that one person suffered a minor concussion and neck strain, another suffered a minor concussion and shoulder sprain and yet another suffered a minor concussion.

On 07/06/2020 I, Officer recovered security video evidence from a lake house. The owner of the house was able to give me video evidence of the pontoon traveling south on the lake. After obtaining the video and watching it several times, it displayed the black double decker pontoon traveling at a slow rate of speed (10-12mph) and no passengers on the upper deck of the vessel. While observing the video, its clear I could see the pontoon traveling low to the water and splashing water over the front deck when hitting wakes. The video doesn't capture the capsizing of the pontoon. Unfortunately a large tree blocks this view on camera. I can articulate that this is vessel MD 3768 LB on the video that capsized due to the structure of the pontoon,  black color, upper deck, multiple boats rushing to the scene after it capsized, date and time, and that the pontoon never fully passed behind the tree in the video. Right before vessel MD 3768 LB disappears behind the tree in the video, two vessels, one traveling at a speed of approximately 10-15 mph, and the other at a speed of approximately 20-25mph, created large wakes. These two large wakes contributed to the capsize incident.

Phone numbers were obtained from other witnesses who were on Deep Creek Lake during the accident. I spoke to witnesses who advised he witnessed the pontoon capsize to the starboard side, and that he couldn't see any passengers on the upper deck or tell if the vessel was equally distributed with passenger weight. A passenger stated that the operator had little boating experience. Two occupants also claimed the weight of the passengers was equally distributed throughout the vessel and it rolled starboard when capsizing. All witness statements claim the front bow door swung open and water started to rush inside the boat. 

With all evidence that I have gathered for this incident, I reasonably believe the following is what contributed to the capsizing of MD 3768 LB:  From the security video it is apparent that MD 3768 LB it was traveling north from the  Deep Creek Lake Yacht Club area. The vessel was traveling low in the water due to its over weight capacity which should have been observed before getting underway by the operator. No passenger was on the upper deck of the pontoon while underway. The two passing vessels on the starboard side of MD 3768 LB created large wakes that contributed to the capsizing. When the operator came across the large wakes, the front bow gate was forced open by the water pressure caused by the waves of the passing vessel crashing across the bow, and the rate of speed from the pontoon. Water entered


BARDID: MD-2020-0055
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patuxent River-N of Broomes Is
NearestCityorTown: Prince Frederick
County: Clavert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, 6/27/2020 at 1735 hrs, OFC. and I received a call in the area of Battle Creek, Patuxent River for a person who had jumped off of a boat onto the propeller. While enroute, Calvert Control Center advised that the injured subject was going to be transported to University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore by MSP Trooper. We arrived on scene at 1755 hrs and located the vessel involved, bearing Virginia registration VA 8535 BS, which was unoccupied. Photographs of the vessel were taken at this time.

Several minutes later, a female waded out towards our patrol vessel, indicating that she had been a passenger on the vessel. 

I made contact with Operator, who indicated that he had consumed one beer prior to the accident. At 1846 hrs, I performed the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test on Operator, distinct and sustained nystagmus at maximum deviation was observed in both eyes. Operator indicated that he had previously burned his corneas, and occasionally had issues with his eyes. Although no other indicators of impaired were present, Operator requested to submit to a Preliminary Breath Test. PBT was administered at 1853 hrs, resulting in .000 BAC.

Operator was transported back to his vessel, where a safety equipment inspection was conducted and Operator provided a written statement. Operator was then  released from the scene. 

OFC made contact with the victim at UMMC. Victim refused to provide a statement.

At 2244 hrs, I met with Dickson at the Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad Fire Department, where she provided a written statement. 

Based on the statements obtained, it was determined that the following occurred. Operator, and three others departed Solomons Landings and headed to the sand bar at Battle Creek. Operator was operating his 1990, Searay, 190L, white and yellow in color. The passengers had consumed an unknown amount of alcohol prior to departing on the vessel. Operator stated that he consumed one beer on the way to Battle Creek and the passengers continued to consume alcohol. Operator stated that prior to the accident Victim was noticeably impaired, but not "sloppy drunk".  

They arrived at Battle Creek at approximately 1628 hrs. Due to the number of boats in the area and on the sand bar, there was no room for Operator to beach the boat. He decided to anchor the boat approximately 25 yards from the shore. Operator stated that he trimmed up his outdrive due to the shallow water and was having trouble maneuvering the vessel due to the wakes from high amounts of boat traffic. Subject1 was at the bow of the boat and deployed the anchor. Operator asked Victim to assist with positioning the stern of the boat. Before Operator could turn the ignition off, Victim jumped off the back of the boat, directly onto the propeller. Operator stated that the boat was not moving, but he is unsure if the vessel was in neutral or forward, due to a sloppy shift linkage. 

As a result of contact with the propeller, Victim had lacerations to both legs. Victim's left leg had the most severe injuries. Operator and subject1 are both certified EMTs, and rendered immediate first aid. They applied a pressure dressing to the left leg which was unsuccessful at stopping the bleeding, so a makeshift tourniquet was applied. They contacted 911 and transported Victim to the shoreline with assistance from other people at the sand bar. EMS arrived on scene, began treating Victim and transported him to UMMC.
  
All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0056
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake/McHenry Cove
NearestCityorTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/05/20, at approximately 1700 hrs, the Maryland Natural Resource Police responded to the Deep Creek Marina gas pumps for a boat accident resulting in property damage and no injuries. The gas pumps are located in the McHenry Cove area of Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County, Maryland.  Once on the scene, I spoke with witnesses. They stated that they witnessed a pontoon boat (MD1795LB) waiting in line to get gas, accelerating, and swipe three docked boats.  Witness stated there were other boats in the gas line cutting off the pontoon boat making the operator try to get away from the docks, which in turn made him accelerate and strike the docked boats. The Sergeant spoke with a Deek Creek Lake Marina worker and got information about the boats that were struck. The owners were not at the scene. I spoke with the Operator 1 of the rental pontoon that struck the vessels. Operator 1 stated that while he was waiting in line for gas, waves pushed his vessel closer to the dock. When he tried to steer away he noticed a boat in front of him and a boat behind him not giving him much room to move. As he tried to get out he accelerated causing the stern of his rented vessel to turn into the docked boats striking them.    
All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0057
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sinepuxent Bay/Commercial Harb
NearestCityorTown: Berlin
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/08/2020 at approximately 1430 hours I heard a distress call on VHF radio channel 16 for a vessel accident involving a PWC in the Sinepuxent Bay. I made contact with the subject over the VHF radio to obtain a more exact location and if there were any injuries. The subject, who was later identified as OPERATOR 2 stated they were in front of the duck hunting blind near Frontier Town and no one on his vessel was injured but the subject on the PWC might be injured. We responded to the vessel accident on NRP vessel 154.
Upon arrival, I made contact with the subject on the PWC, who was identified as OPERATOR 1. OPERATOR 1 was on a red and black PWC that was owned by a rental company. I observed heavy structural and fiberglass damage on the bow of the PWC. I asked OPERATOR 1 if he was injured and needed medical attention. OPERATOR 1 stated his left arm hurt him a little but he didn't need medical attention. I asked OPERATOR 1 if he was sure and he stated he was fine. I told OPERATOR 1 I had to go check on the other boat involved and I needed him to stand by until I was finished with them. Sergeant operated our vessel to the other vessel involved. That vessel was identified as a 2018 Sportsman center console with 8 souls on board. The vessel was displaying Delaware registration "DL9745AJ." The registration displayed was later found out to be the old registration to the vessel. The new owner was waiting on his new registration numbers from Delaware. I made contact with OPERATOR 2 and asked him and the other occupants on his vessel if they needed medical attention. OPERATOR 2 and the other occupants all stated they were fine and didn't need medical attention. I asked OPERATOR 2 how the accident occurred and he stated he was taking his friends and family out for a cruise down the Sinepuxent Bay. OPERATOR 2 stated he turned the vessel around and started headed North towards Ocean City when a vessel was approaching them on their starboard side. OPERATOR 2 stated the PWC was also approaching them on their starboard side. OPERATOR 2 said when the vessel passed them, the PWC that OPERATOR 1 was operating was following behind it and got caught in its wake. OPERATOR 2 said once the PWC got caught in the other vessels' wake is when it looked like OPERATOR 1 lost control of the vessel and ran into the starboard side of his vessel. OPERATOR 2 stated he was traveling approximately 7 knots and he wasn't sure how fast the PWC was traveling. I observed the damage on OPERATOR 2's vessel and it appeared to be a gash in the fiberglass approximately a foot to a foot and a half in length and 2 inches in height. An officer took photographs of the damage to the vessel. The damage was above the waterline and the vessel wasn't taking on water. I collected all of the information needed from OPERATOR 2, provided him with the NRP case number, and advised him to contact me if he needed anything. I requested OPERATOR 2 to provide me with an estimate to repair the damages to his vessel soon. OPERATOR 2 cleared from the accident scene and returned to port. Sergeant operated our vessel to OPERATOR 1 and the rental guide from the rental company. I made contact with OPERATOR 1 again and he asked if he could come on board our vessel to take him back into port. I assisted him onto our vessel and had him sit in the bow. An Officer took photographs of the PWC before releasing it to the PWC guide. The guide took possession of the damaged PWC and towed it back to the rental company. While taking OPERATOR 1 back to the rental company, he provided his statement about the incident. OPERATOR 1 stated he had very little experience operating PWCs. OPERATOR 1 stated he was trying to keep up with the other PWC rentals when he was approaching a vessel's stern and the vessel that he struck was on his right side. OPERATOR 1 stated he was behind the vessel and hit one of its waves causing him to lose control and ultimately running into OPERATOR 2's vessel. OPERATOR 1 stated he was going approximately 15 MPH. OPERATOR 1 said he didn't see OPERATOR 2's vessel until he was about to collide with it. OPERATOR 1 kept holding his left wrist and it appeared swollen. I asked OPERATOR 1 if he would get checked out by Ocean City Fire and EMS, which he agreed to.
Upon returning to the rental company, OPERATOR 1 was evaluated by OCFD and he refused treatment. I issued OPERATOR 1 citations for the following:
Failure to obey navigation rules of the road/ rule 7
Failure to obey navigation rules of the road/ rule 5
Two warnings were also issued for PWC speed regulation violations.
I provided OPERATOR 1 the NRP case number and a copy of his citations and told him he was free to leave. I provided the manager of the rental company with the case number and told him to make contact with me shortly with a damage estimate to the PWC.
Cleared without further incident.
On 07/16/2020 I made contact with OPERATOR 2 and he stated the estimate to fix his vessel was approximately $5,000.
On 07/20/2020 at approximately 1300 hours I responded to the rental company in reference to obtain information that I repeatedly requested from involving the above vessel accident. I was finally able to speak with the owner of the business, I advised him I needed the information and have been waiting on his business to provide me with the insurance information and damage estimates. The owner stated the PWC was a total loss and due to it being a used PWC, it would cost approximately $5,000 to replace with another used PWC.
Cleared without further incident.
All the above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0058
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake-State Park Rd
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/08/20, at approximately 1630 hours, the Maryland Natural Resource Police, responded to a rental company for a report of a boat accident resulting in property damage and no injuries.  Once on the scene, I spoke with the rental manager, about the rental boat (MD5107LB) which was being taken out of the water due to the damages sustained in the accident.  The Rental Manager stated that the rental boat was totaled.  Operator 1 stated that he was operating the vessel northbound in the Meadow Mountain Cove of Deep Creek Lake on 07/08/20 at approximately 1520 hours.   The boat was also occupied by five other passengers.  Operator 1 stated that he saw signs that said slow for the State Park Rd. bridge and he went as slow as the boat could go.  He did not realize the height of the bridge.  He saw boats on the other side of the bridge making him think that he could safely travel under the bridge.  They proceeded to go under the bridge causing the metal tower of the boat to strike the underside of the bridge and tear the tower from its mounting locations. Once on the other side, Operator 1 realized he had to go back under the bridge to return to the rental dock. 
Pictures of damage to the rental boat are attached. The total loss in this accident was estimated by the rental staff at $20,000. 
All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0059
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 5307 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 11, 2020 I was on patrol on the Isle Of Wight Bay Ocean City MD.  I received a call from over my agency radio for a boating accident at a rental company.  Once I was on scene I was met by the staff of the rental company, they advised that one of their pontoon rentals was in a single vessel accident.  I met with the operators and responsible party for the vessel.  The primary driver was Operator 1 and the 2nd driver of the vessel was Operator 2.  I asked if anyone on the vessel needed any EMS or medical assistance and everyone declined.

    I observed the vessel and took photos of the damage.  The vessel was identified as a 2018 Godfrey Marine Company pontoon boat with Maryland Registration 3821 LB rental number 23.  The damage was to the port side stern pontoon, the port side stern bimini bracket and top.  I offered the NRP 425 Maryland Natural Resources Police Voluntary Statement / Advisement Of Rights Form.  Both Operator 1 and Operator 2 agreed to fill out the form. Both advised that they were anchored in the Isle Of Wight Bay.  They pulled the anchor up and the boat started to drift towards the Rt 90 bridge.  Operator 2 advised that he tried to maneuver the vessel out of they way of the bridge but the wind and current pushed the boat into the bridge causing damage to the pontoon.  After the vessel struck the bridge they drove the vessel back to the rental company.
    No NR charges were placed at this time.  All events occurred in Worcester County MD


BARDID: MD-2020-0060
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:22:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/18/2020 at approximately 2230hrs, I, Ofc.  with Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center, in Oakland, Maryland for a report of a boating accident involving two young adults.

    When I arrived at Garrett Regional Medical Center I spoke with Operator- the driver and father of one of the victims. Operator and his wife advised me that their son, and his friend, were tubing on Deep Creek Lake South of the Glendale bridge when they hit a wave causing the tube to fold and the two young adults on the outside of the tube collided and smacked heads.

Operator was traveling westbound at approximately 14 miles per hour when the accident occurred. Tuber1  was hit in the lower left side of the back of his head and Tuber2  was hit in the right temple. They were sitting in an upright position on a three person tube. Tuber1 was on the right hand side. Another young adult was in the middle and Tuber2 was on the left. All of them were wearing life-jackets at the time of the incident. Tuber2 was taken to Ruby Memorial shortly after I arrived at the hospital for further treatment for a possible skull fracture. Tuber1 was diagnosed with a minor concussion, and other tuber was not injured. 

On 07/19/20, I contacted Operator and met him and his wife on their dock to gather the vessel information and take pictures of the tube.  Operator is in the process of buying the boat. Boat is registered through PA 8870 DU.While gathering the vessel information, wife informed me that Tuber2, did not have a skull fracture, and that both of the victims were doing better. 

Pictures of the vessel and tube are attached to this report. 

All events occurred in Garrett County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0061
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patuxent River
NearestCityorTown: California
County: Saint Marys
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 28, 2020 I, (Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) responded to a call for a boat accident which had occurred in the area of the Thomas Johnson Bridge on the Patuxent River.

The vessel that was involved in the accident was a 1974 Cigarette, 20 feet in length, Maryland registration of 1677 DC. The owner who was operating the vessel at the time of the accident.

The family was aboard their vessel (MD 1365 CR) near the Thomas Johnson Bridge and witnessed the accident occur. Their statements are attached to this report. On scene they stated that the vessel was traveling at a high rate of speed when it was launched off of a wake rolled in the air and landed upside down. Upon impact the vessel broke apart and sank almost immediately. They further advised that the operator was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.

The witnesses were able to bring Operator1, who they found unconscious floating face down near the site of impact, in to the Solomons public boat ramp for transport by medical personnel. According to the witnesses Operator1 was in and out of consciousness during the short ride to the boat ramp. He was also gagging and throwing up water and mucous. Operator1 was transported to University of Maryland Prince Georges Hospital by Trooper 7 for evaluation and treatment.

The approximate location where the vessel sank (N 38 19.319, W 76 28.323) is South of the Thomas Johnson Bridge in 60 to 70 feet of water. After the accident the area was checked for possible oil or fuel leakage from the wreck. No signs of a sheen or smell of gas was noticed by Natural Resources Police officers on scene.

Investigators who questioned Operator1 at the hospital did not find any evidence that drugs or alcohol played a factor in the accident. No charges pending at this time.    

All events occurred in Saint Mary's County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0062
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawoman Bay/Isle of Wight Ba
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Wocester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday July 5, 2020 the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a rental company for a personal watercraft accident. The rental company is a personal watercraft (PWC) rental company located inside Swordfish basin. While on scene, I spoke with a livery operation guide, who advised that a rental ski was struck by a vessel heading north. The guide said that the vessel was a Boston Whaler, and after hitting the PWC, continued north towards Delaware. The guide later stated, that the vessel in question came back, and left his name and phone number. 
     The damaged rental PWC displayed a Maryland registration number of MD 3833LB, on a Yamaha EX waverunner, white and green in color. The operator of the rental PWC stated that while riding the rental PWC, a vessel came towards him, striking his PWC on his left side. I noticed a small amount of blood on his left arm and I asked if he would like to be seen by EMS. Operator 1 was seen by Ocean City emergency services for minor scrapes to his left arm. Operator 1 refused any medical treatment past EMS first aid. 
     The PWC had several damages to the port side, to include fiberglass damage and the seat bracket had been snapped. All photos of the damages had been added as attachments to this report. While speaking with the owner of the rental company, he advised the company would try and make repairs but the PWC might be a total loss, due to the damages.
I, have not been able to make contact with the Boston Whaler operator by phone. Several attempts have been made by the Maryland Natural Resources Police to contact the operator, to which the other party just hangs up the phone. The Boston Whaler vessel has not been located as of the date of the report.

I will follow up with the rental company to see if any contact has been made between them and the vessel owner/operator. 

All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2020-0063
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawaman Bay
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 07, 2020, at approximately 1704 hours, I responded to a rental company in DE in reference to a Personal Watercraft (PWC) accident that had occurred in the area of the Assowoman Bay at Gray's Creek, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland.  I was met and assisted on scene by the Delaware State Police.  
    I made contact with a representative from the rental company, who advised that two rental PWC's had been involved in a collision in Maryland waters.  I observed the two PWC's in question to be Yamaha PWC's, one bearing Delaware registration 405AN (Vessel 1) and the other bearing Delaware registration 676AR (Vessel 2).  The operator of vessel 1 was identified as Operator 1.  I met with him and his father and asked what had happened.  Operator 1 stated that he had inadvertently struck the rear of vessel 2.  He expressed apologies for the incident and took responsibility.  
    I met with the operator of vessel 2, Operator 2, who provided the same account of the incident.  Both subjects denied any injury.  Wanted checks on all parties were negative.  The rental company advised that he believed the damage to both vessels to total approximately $2500.00.  I provided all parties with my contact information as well as the NRP report number.  
    The accident described above occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0064
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 2774 Hambleton Rd
NearestCityorTown: Riva
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/17/20 at approximately 4:00 P.M., I, OFC of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to a call from DNR Communications for a boat accident involving a juvenile. A 12-year-old boy had his legs cut by a boat propeller while tubing near the Riva Bridge area of the South River, Anne Arundel County, MD. Anne Arundel County Fire Department had transported the juvenile to Anne Arundel Medical Center Emergency Room before my arrival to the scene.

           I arrived at approximately 4:30 P.M. for further investigation on the boat accident. I met with the owner of the vessel, and his son, who was the operator. I was given a summary of the incident from Operator. Operator advised that he and his four cousins had gone out on a 2008 blue and white-colored Chaparral sterndrive pleasure vessel, bearing Maryland Registration “8228 BZ”, to go tubing. Operator was operating the vessel, with a passenger sitting along the vessel's port side and a passenger sitting in the vessel's bow area. Operator’s two cousins were on the tube being towed by the vessel near the Riva Bridge on the South River, MD. 

The victim, had fallen off the tube and Operator had turned around to pick him up. When Operator pulled up to Victim, who was still in the water, he began complaining about the fit of his life jacket and requested a new one. Operator believed he had put the vessel in neutral and went to find a replacement PFD on the boat. Unbeknownst to Operator, the vessel was still in forward gear. Victim, who was at the port side of the vessel in the water, had traveled to the stern side where he was sucked into the vessel's propeller. One of the passengers heard Victim screaming in pain and saying that his legs were cut. Victim then frantically took off his PFD to swim to the vessel. Once onboard the vessel, Operator drove back to the dock.

           From there, Victim was taken to their house to try and stop the bleeding. Eventually, someone called 911 for medical assistance. Anne Arundel County Fire Department Medic 3 arrived at the location to provide medical treatment. Victim’s father had applied a tourniquet to his left leg and wrapped both feet in towels. Medic 3 stopped the bleeding with pressure bandages and transported Victim to Anne Arundel Medical Center Emergency Room.  

           Operator advised that he has been familiar with operating boats most of his life and has a boater safety card. He advised that he didn’t have any alcoholic beverages that day and showed no signs of intoxication. Furthermore, I did not smell any odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath. All safety equipment was on board the vessel after a brief inspection. The water conditions were calm with light traffic at the time of the incident. There was a long trace of blood leading from the Chaparral on the lift at the dock, leading to the house. OFC of the MD NRP, responded to AAMC to meet with Victim and his family.  

    The next day, OFC heard back from Victim's father from AAMC on his son's condition. The father had advised that Victim had all of his wounds thoroughly cleaned and 33 stitches to close the wounds. Victim was later released that evening and is recovering from his injuries. Calls have been attempted to reach out to Operator to negative results for more information about the passengers on the vessel for my report. During my initial interview, accurate personal information could not be gathered from all passengers onboard the vessel at the time.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2020-0065
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Bridge-Co
NearestCityorTown: Chesapeake Beach
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday July 1, 2020 I responded to a distress call for a vessel taking on water in the Chesapeake Bay.
The vessel was a 54 foot Sabre motor yacht, documented name “Delfina” with a blue hull and white cabin area. I arrived on scene in the shipping channel directly out from the Chesapeake Beach area of Calvert County. There were two United States Coast Guard vessels and one Tow Boat U.S. vessel already on scene attempting to pump out the Delfina. The vessel owner/operator OPERATOR 1 was able to launch his dingy (MD 8876 CG) and was nearby at the time of my arrival. On scene he stated that he was traveling southbound from Annapolis and that he had felt an impact somewhere in the area of the Bay outside of the mouth of the Choptank River (see attached statement). OPERATOR 1 had not seen anything on the surface of the water and did not notice taking on any water until a little while after the impact with what he believed was a submerged object of some kind.
The USCG and Tow Boat personnel were unable to pump out the vessel and it continued to sink until only a portion of the bow was visible above water. The Tow Boat vessel (Toe Jam) waited until it seemed that the vessel was no longer taking on water then towed the Delfina into shallower water off of the Chesapeake Beach shoreline. While this process was underway I took OPERATOR 1 on board nrp874 and tied off his dingy to the patrol vessel. I brought both OPERATOR 1 and his dingy in to Breezy Point Marina where we were met by the Sergeant who was going to be taking OPERATOR 1 home. The dingy was secured next to our patrol vessel at Breezy Point Marina.
On the morning of 7/2/2020 I met with OPERATOR 1 who informed me that the Delfina had been raised by Tow Boat US and taken to Herrington Harbor North to be hauled out and placed in dry dock storage. I was able to take pictures of the Delfina at Herrington Harbor which show a missing port side propeller and prop shaft, as well as, fresh scratches along the hull of the vessel (see attached pictures).
The evidence provided supports that OPERATOR 1 did strike a submerged object which possibly removed the shaft and propeller allowing water to flood into the vessel through the shaft hole.
All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0066
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tangier Sound-Main Stem-Va Lin
NearestCityorTown: Wenona
County: Somerset
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/06/20 around 1006hrs the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service from DNR Dispatch regarding the following information:  22 ft capsized vessel in the area of Tangier Sound near Red Buoy "12"  South of Wenona Harbor, 3 people were retrieved from the water and onboard  Good Samaritan vessel, and  everyone is okay with no injuries. I responded to the scene for the incident on NRP vessel 872. 

When I arrived on scene I noticed the following: wind direction was coming from the South, 12-18 mph and the waves were 2-4 ft, weather was clear, and boat traffic was light. I made contact with the Captain of Good Samaritan, and asked him if everyone was accounted for from the capsized vessel and he said yes. I had the capsized vessel owner, Operator 1, and his passengers, put their life jackets on prior to them going from the Good Samaritan boat onto my boat. I asked all three men if they needed any medical attention and they all responded with the answer no. I took all three men into the Wenona Harbor, where their vehicle is and to gather more information about the incident.

Operator 1 advised me the following about what occurred: all 3 men went out on his vessel out of Wenona Harbor, anchored the vessel near the Red "12" buoy in the Tangier Sound, facing North. Operator 1 secured the anchored from the bow of the vessel and they all started fishing. A passenger noticed water coming over the stern and into the boat. Operator 1 went to check the bilge pump switch and noticed the switch was on. Operator 1 stuck his hand under the pump to see if it was working properly, and he realized that it was not. Operator 1 noticed more water was coming into the boat. All three men put on their life jackets and Operator 1 cut the anchor line. The vessel capsized around 0950hrs and all 3 men went into the water, all 3 surfaced, and were waving for near boaters for assistance. A Good Samaritan went to aid them and the vessel was floating upside down in the water heading in the South Direction. All three men stated the same information regarding how the vessel capsized. Operator 1 advised me that he doesn't have insurance for the boat.
I advised Operator 1 that he needs to call commercial assistance to help bring his vessel back to Wenona Harbor. Operator 1 advised me that Tow Boat US out of Crisfield, MD will come and take the boat into Wenona Harbor. Operator 1 left the area to head back to Delaware and will come back later to retrieve the vessel.
 I went back to the scene to take photos and document the coordinates of the floating vessel ( N 38 06.237' W075 58.398' ) to let Tow Boat US know where to respond. Tow Boat US was able to tow the boat into Wenona Harbor; however due to the weather and equipment issues, they were not able to flip the vessel over and put it back onto the trailer. Tow Boat US advised that they will be back down between 24 and 48 HRS to flip the boat right side up and place the boat on the trailer for. Operator 1. I advised Operator 1 and his wife that Tow Boat US will be back down at Wenona Harbor within 24- 48hrs to assist him with his vessel. Operator 1 has all the contact info for Tow Boat US and vice versa. 
All events occurred in Somerset County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0067
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/20/20 at approximately 2118 Hours I Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center for a tubing accident. The victim was released from the medical center before my arrival. I made contact with Victim via phone and responded to her local address.

I asked Victim what happened, she stated she was going over the boat wake on a tube when a wave came, the tube began to roll and she let go.  When Victim hit the water the left side of her head hit the water forcing water in her ear rupturing her ear drum. Victim stopped tubing after falling off the tube. The fall occurring around 1630 hours. She said several hours later her ear still hurt. At approximately 2030 hours Victim was transported to Garrett Regional Medical Center. Victim received medical treatment for her left ear and was released that evening.

 

I asked the operator of the vessel what happened. He stated they were tubing at approximately 15 miles per hour. When he was turning the tubed rolled over the boat wake. Operator stated Victim let go of the tube and fell in the water. Operator stated several hours later Victim requested to have her ear checked for injury, Operator took her to Garrett Regional Medical Center by private vehicle for evaluation.

No charges or warnings issued.

All of the above occurred in Garrett County Maryland.

Request case closure.


BARDID: MD-2020-0068
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Slack Water Boat Ramp
NearestCityorTown: Williamsport
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26, 2020 at approximately 1730 hours; I, Ofc. and Cpl., Maryland Natural Resources Police, were on boat patrol in the Potomac River in the area of the Big Slackwater Boat Ramp when we were flagged down by a vessel displaying State of Pennsylvania registration 9506 BP. The operator of the vessel stated they had an injured occupant aboard. The injured occupant was suffering from a dislocated shoulder. I asked Victim if he needed an ambulance which he stated he did. Cpl. and I told Operator1, the operator of the vessel, to proceed to the boat ramp so that Victim could wait on land for EMS.

     While waiting for the ambulance to arrive Cpl. and I gathered information from the occupants of the vessel and began to inquire how the injury to Victim occurred. Victim stated that he and another occupant were being pulled behind the vessel on a tube when the vessel and tube struck a large wake throwing Victim and Subject1 into the air and off of the tube. With Victim being ejected from the tube and subsequently impacting with the water, he dislocated his left shoulder. The injury was apparent to Victim and he was in a lot of pain while waiting for EMS to arrive. 

     An ambulance from Halfway EMS arrived on-scene to evaluate Victim. (EMS run number 2016056). The paramedic did confirm Victim had a dislocated shoulder. The EMS crew asked Victim if he wanted to go to the hospital with them, but Victim decided he would go on his own. Subject1 drove Victim to an Urgent Care for medical attention. A safety check of the vessel was completed and all required safety equipment was present. No alcohol was involved or onboard the vessel.

All events did happen and occur in Washington County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0069
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:32:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Back River/near Rocky Point St
NearestCityorTown: Essex
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of Vessel #1 was traveling W/B in the Back River from Rocky Point. During travel, Operator 1 advised the he heard a loud noise and then something came off the port side engine area of the PWC.  The PWC was then disabled and started sinking.  The PWC was towed back to Rocky Point Park via Chesapeake Marine.  The owner of the vessel advised that it was possible the vessel struck a submerged object or had a de-laminating recall issue.


BARDID: MD-2020-0070
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:36:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Middle River-Sue Creek
NearestCityorTown: Essex
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday July 6th at approximately 1718 hours, I, Cpl., was contacted by the Natural Resources Police SOD Duty Officer, and requested to respond to the area of Sue Creek in Baltimore County to assist Area 5 Officer with a boat accident with serious injuries.  

While en route I contacted Ofc and she advised me to respond where the boat involved in the accident was secured. Ofc also advised me that the victim had fallen overboard and struck by the boat and prop. Ofc also told me that Victim was on the boat with his two step brothers and the boat was a 12 foot dinghy. 

At approximately 1830 hours, I arrived on scene and began examining and photographing the vessel along with Sgt. and Ofc. The boat was a 12 food West Marine RIB 350 Rigid Hull Inflatable with Maryland Registration 8052 CS with temporary stickers and Hull ID number WMPWN007E717. The motor was a 25 Horsepower (HP) Yamaha outboard with a portable fuel tank. There was capacity sticker which indicated the boat was rated for 4 persons or 1320 pounds and a maximum motor size of 25 HP.   

I observed a black mark on the starboard bow which was consistent with paint transfer. There were also marks on the port bow. Additionally, I manipulated the motor and based on my training knowledge and experience, the steering and tilt were functioning normally. I did not start or run the motor. The prop blade had the paint worn off on all three blades and the edges of all three blades were rough.    During the course of my inspection of the vessel, we had to stop and move to our patrol vehicles due to a dangerous storm that was in the area. After the storm we concluded the examination of the vessel.  During the investigation, I contacted Victim's father for an update on Victim and was told he was going into surgery but was expected to be ok. 

I was advised by Victim' father that Victim had been transported by EMS to Johns Hopkins Children's Hospital in Baltimore.  After completing the examination of the vessel, I went to interview subject1.  Subject1 stated that subject2, who lived across the street, was with him at the time of the incident. I requested Subject1 to have Subject2 come over to be interviewed. After Subject2 arrived, Subject1 told me that he and Subject2 were at Sue Creek when they saw three boys on a dinghy doing "donuts" on the water. Subject1 stated that he saw one of the boys get thrown out and the boat circled around and hit him three times. Subject1 also stated that he saw the two other boys jump out to help the first one, leaving the boat running in circles. Subject1 stated that he and Subject2 were on a dock and another friend was riding his jet ski. Subject1 told me that after the accident, he waved to his friend to return back to the dock and had his friend get off the jet ski. Subject1 and Subject2 then took the jet ski out and rescued Victim and took him back to the dock.  Subject2 told me that when they got to the boys, the water was red with blood. Subject2 also told me that he pulled Victim up on to the jet ski. Subject2 said Victim had cuts from his head down his back, but Victim was conscious and talking to him. When asked, Subject1 completed a written witness statement. Subject2 stated he didn't have his glasses and didn't think he could write with out them. After completing my interview with Subject1 and Subject2, I met with Victim father. Father stated that he had just come from the hospital. Father told me that Victim was going into surgery and his mother was with him. While speaking with Father, Ofc arrived and we advised Father that Ofc would follow up with him the next day. 
All events occurred in Baltimore County.


BARDID: MD-2020-0071
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: North East River
NearestCityorTown: North East
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Starting in gear
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/19/2020 this officer, Ofc. with MD Natural Resources Police, received a call for a report of a boat accident that occurred on 07/18/2020.  The call was from the duty nurse at Union Hospital, Elkton MD.  Upon arrival at Union Hospital I made contact with the injured individual, victim.  Victim explained he had two PWC's that were anchored with friends on the North East River, by Rocky Point Beach.  He and his girlfriend were riding the PWC's.  

At approximately 1030 hours on 07/18/2020 their friends decided to move their anchored boats to deeper water so Victim was getting ready to move his PWC.  Victim's girlfriend was on one of the anchored boats so Victim had his friend move one of the PWC's.  The PWCs were within 10ft of each other with Subject1's PWC pointing at the starboard side of Victim's PWC.  

When Subject1 started his PWC the PWC surged to Victim's PWC.  Subject1 immediately pulled the safety lanyard from his PWC, which shut down power to the PWC, but the momentum of the PWC caused it to strike the starboard side of Victim's PWC.  

Victim's right leg was caught between the two PWC's and caused Victim to sustain a broken bone in his lower right leg.  There was no damage to either PWC.  Victim didn't realize he had broken a bone and continued to relax on the water until 1300 hours when he drove the PWC to Charlestown Boat Ramp where both PWC's were put on their trailer.  Victim and Subject1 were both wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.

It wasn't until 0500 hours on 07/19/2020 that Victim decided to go the ER at Union Hospital, Elkton MD.

After interviewing Victim and Subject1 it was determined that Subject1's PWC suffered a mechanical fault which caused it to accelerate. Subject1 did not touch the throttle on his PWC and only pushed the start button.  Subject1 did not have a boater safety card and since he was only on the PWC briefly and doesn't normally operate boats he received a warning for no boater safety education.

All events occurred in Cecil County.


BARDID: MD-2020-0072
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/20/2020 at approximately 1600 hours I Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer First Class was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center for a personal water craft accident. I contacted Garrett Regional Medical Center staff for further information. The victim arrived at the medical center around 1530 hours and was soon to be released from a mild concussion. I received contact information from the staff members at Garrett Regional Medical Center.

I made contact with Victim. She stated she was on the back of a PWC and her friend was driving in the area of McHenry Cove and the 219 Bridge when they went over a wave and her head hit the back of Operator’s life jacket leaving her dazed and giving her a mild concussion. Victim had no other visible injuries and stated she was feeling better. The incident occurred at approximately 1500 hours.

I asked the Operator what had occurred. Operator stated two boat waves converged and when they went over the waves at about 20 mph the jet ski lurched forward. He felt Victim's head hit the back of his life jacket. They returned to the dock and Operator’s parents transported Victim to Garrett Regional Medical Center. Victim was released from Garrett Regional Medical Center at approximately 1645 hours.

I issued Operator a warning for:
MR 08. 18. 01. 04. (B)6
A person may not operate or give permission to operate a vessel at a speed which would be unsafe under the existing circumstances and conditions. In determining unsafe speed under existing circumstances and conditions, the following factors shall be taken into account: Sea and current conditions.

All events occurred in Garrett County Maryland
Request case closure.


BARDID: MD-2020-0073
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Swordfish Basin, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 25, 2020 around 1925hrs, I, OFC. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to the area of Swordfish Basin for a personal watercraft (PWC) versus pontoon vessel accident. Arriving on scene, I met with the manager of Top Gun watersports, who advised a rental PWC was hit by a pontoon vessel that was traveling through the riding area. Manager advised that the pontoon operator left his name and phone number, but because of the damages the operator wanted to go check the damages on the lift at his residence. The operator identified himself as Operator1. The rental PWC and rider were transported back to Top Gun watersports located in Swordfish Basin in Ocean City, Maryland. 

     Once at Top Gun Watersports, I met with the PWC operator. Operator2 did have an injury to his left leg consisting of a laceration about two inches in length, as a result of the collision with the pontoon vessel. While interviewing Operator2, he stated, he was operating in circular motion (doing donuts) then he came out of the circular motion and made a left turn. It was at this point, that he noticed a pontoon boat was approaching from his left side and the collision occurred. This accident was witnessed by one of Top Gun watersports guides. After witnessing the accident Guide checked on the operator of the PWC and helped to transport him to the companies floating docks located in Swordfish Basin. Once at the business, Ocean City Fire and EMS were notified and responded for the injuries to Operator2's leg. EMS personnel determined that the injuries required more than basic first aid and Operator2 was transported to Atlantic General Hospital for further treatment. 

     The rental PWC was owned by Top Gun watersports, the PWC displayed a Delaware registration number of DL 381 AM, on a 2016 Yamaha waverunner (white in color). The owner of Top Gun watersport and manager, had the PWC removed from the water because of the disabling damages. The PWC sustained a large hole in the portside, just below the handle bars. The damage to the PWC, was such that the PWC was not longer able to be rented to other customers. I took several pictures of the PWC starting at the stern starboard side and moving around to the bow and continuing to the port side stern (pictures are in the attachment section of the report). 

     After leaving Top Gun watersports, I tried to contact the pontoon operator, Operator1 by telephone, around 2030hrs, with no contact being made, I left a voice mail for him to contact the Natural Resources Police communication center. I was able to locate a street address for Operator1. Later that evening, I went to the listed address, and found nobody to be at the residence. The vessel in question was located behind the residence on a lift, and displayed a Maryland registration of MD 1666BM. The registration comes back on a 1995 Godfrey Marine, pontoon boat. The vessel had damage to the starboard front side of the pontoon, and it is consistent with the damages found on the rental PWC. While obtaining the vessel identification numbers, I observed several empty alcoholic beverage beer cans on the deck of the vessel, along with a cooler containing more unopened alcoholic beverage beer cans. I then tried to call again around 2115hrs, with no contact being made. No vehicles were located in the driveway and nobody appeared to be at the residence, prior to me leaving. 

     The next morning around 0350hrs, I received an email from one of the Maryland Natural Resources communication personnel. The email advised that Operator1 tried contacting me, in the morning hours of Sunday July 26, 2020 around 0350hrs. 

      Sunday July 26, 2020 around 2145hrs, I tried calling Operator1, with no contact being made, I left another voicemail. Shortly after calling, I was notified by dispatch to return a call from Operator1. I Finally made contact with Operator1 by telephone, around 2215hrs that evening, and we agreed to meet at his residence around 2300hrs. While at the residence, I confirmed that the person, I was meeting with was Operator1. I asked Operator1 if he would fill out the NRP-425 form (voluntary statement/advisement of rights form), to which he agreed. I asked that he put down the facts pertaining to the accident that occurred the day prior on Isle of Wight Bay, near Swordfish Basin. 

     Once Operator1 finished filling out the NRP-425 form, I asked him about the accident, he advised that while operating out of Swordfish Basin, he continued west towards Ocean Pines area. While headed west, he went through the riding area of Top Gun watersports, and noticed a PWC doing donuts near his pontoon vessel. Once closer to the PWC, he advised the PWC made a quick left turn and went directly towards the front of his pontoon, in a crossing situation. He went on to say, the PWC came from his right (starboard side), and went directly in front of him, just prior to the contact. After the two vessels made contact, he talked with guide Guide and manager Manager about exchanging information. Once information had been quickly exchanged, Operator1 headed back to his residence to put the vessel on the boat lift to inspect for damages. I asked Operator1 if he went anywhere after he returned home, to which he replied "I went to my parents for dinner". I asked Operator1 if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages prior to the accident on the 25th of July, he responded "no, I didn't have any drinks". After finishing my interview, I informed Operator1, I will be following up in a couple days after my accident investigation is completed.

    On July 29, 2020 around 1435hrs, I made contact with v1 occupant who advised that while underway back to Operator1's house, a PWC came out of nowhere and went directly in front of the Operator1's vessel just prior to the two colliding. After the collision, they checked on the operator of the PWC, before continuing back to Operator1's house. I asked occupant, what happened when they arrived at Operator1's house, he stated "operator gave us a ride back to Ocean City". The phone conversation about the accident lasted about ten minutes.

All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2020-0074
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:02:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
n 07/29/2020 at approximately 3:00 pm, I, OFC. of The Maryland Natural Resources Police responded at Garrett Regional Medical Center for a water skiing accident. When I arrived to Garrett Regional Medical Center I met with the water-skier. Victim explained he was water skiing near the end Green Glade Cove behind vessel MD 1836LB and lost his balance due to small wake causing his legs to move in opposite directions. He further explained that his right leg traveled forward and his left leg traveled to the rear of his body performing an unwanted split. Victim was placed back on the rental vessel with the help of the passengers and transported to Garrett Regional Medical Center. Victim was wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest for waterskiing during his accident. 

I also spoke with the vessel's operator, and the wife of Victim at Garrett Regional Medical Center to receive additional information on where the accident happened and what happened to Victim. Garrett Regional Medical Center released Victim with the diagnosis of a muscle strain/slight tear to his upper right leg. I also interviewed the passengers, who relayed the same information. 

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0075
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawoman Bay, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30,2020 I Ofc  of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was on vessel patrol on the Isle Of Wight Bay, Ocean City Worcester County MD.  I received a call over my agency issued radio from Cpl to respond to Top Gun Watersports for boating accident involving 2 personal watercrafts (PWC).  I activated my emergency equipment and started towards Top Gun Watersports.  When I arrived, Ocean City Fire Department was on scene with a injured juvenile who was identified by his mother.  Victim's mother was identified.  I asked if anyone else involved needed any medical assistance and all parties declined.  The juvenile who was struck by the jet ski was riding with his uncle.  Operator2 was operating ski #7 with Delaware registration 380AM.  The operator of the striking vessel ski #12 with Maryland registration 3833LB was identified.

    I gave all three adults the NRP-425 Voluntary Witness/ Advisement Of Rights Form and explained to them the form was completely voluntary and they could choose not to fill out the form.  All 3 adults agreed to fill out and form, which is included in this report.  

    Victim’s mother stated she saw the jet ski her son was on flipped over, with her son and brother in the water.

    Operator2 stated that he was on ski #7 with his nephew.  They were at a complete stop to adjust his nephew's hands on the PWC.  Operator2 looked to his left and observed another PWC heading towards him at a high rate of speed.  The other ski operated by Operator1 was unable to stop and avoid hitting the PWC causing them to fall into the water.

    Operator1 stated that he was riding his ski #12, another PWC was close by.  Operator1 tried to change direction and slow down but was unable to do so striking vessel #7.

    The juvenile was transported to Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) located at 9733 Healthway Dr, Berlin, MD 21811 for his injuries.  Victim was having pain in his left arm and left hip.

    Operator1 was issued 1 citation and 1 warning.  The citation was for failure to obey navigation rules of the road rule #8, action to avoid a collision and the warning was for operating a PWC greater than 6 knots closer than 100 feet of another vessel.

    All events occurred in Worcester County MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0076
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake-Turkey Neck
NearestCityorTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/31/20, at approximately 1615 hours, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resource Police, was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, Maryland in reference to a person involved in a tubing accident while boating on Deep Creek Lake on 07/30/20 around 1500 hours.  I arrived at the hospital at 1640 hours and met with the victim and her mother.  Victim was waiting for the CAT scan results of her neck when I arrived and she provided information on the events that occurred.    

Victim stated she was on a tube with two of her friends.  She said they hit a wake causing all the girls to hit their heads with each other.  Victim said after they hit their heads on the tube they went back to the dock.  She said her head hurt but thought it would go away and none of the other girls sustained any injuries.  The next day her head continued to hurt causing her to go to the hospital to get it checked out.  Victim sustained strained muscles in her neck.  

When I asked Victim where they were on Deep Creek Lake she could not tell me but stated that the operator would know.  I contacted the operator and he stated they were near Turkey Neck on Deep Creek Lake.  He also advised me of the vessel's information. Based on the statements given, I have concluded that this accident was caused by the wake on the water with no negligence.  No citations or warnings were issued to the operator.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0077
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:37:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Middle River/Strawberry Point
NearestCityorTown: Strawberry Point
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday 08/03/2020 at 6:38 pm, Ofc. and I were dispatched for a boating incident. Dispatch advised Baltimore County Fire and Rescue were called to the above address with a docked vessel, and 1 person onboard who was injured due to rough waters and were requesting a NRP officer.

 I made contact with the caller and friend of the victim. Subject1 informed me that her friend was sitting on the seat located towards the bow of the boat, saw a wake coming, advised Victim to hold on, they hit the wake and Victim bounced in the air then back onto the seat, when she landed back on the seat, she hit her back and was in pain. When they docked the vessel, that is when Victim realized she couldn’t get off the vessel and 911 was called. Victim was transported to John Hopkins Bayview.  (see attached witness statement)

Victim’s husband was the operator of the vessel. 

 

All events Occurred in Baltimore County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2020-0078
State: MD
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2020-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lyons Creek from MDT
NearestCityorTown: Dunkirk
County: Prince Georges
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
     On July 12, 2020 at approximately 6:00 pm, while on routine vessel patrol on the Patuxent River, the Maryland Natural Resources Police, witnessed a submerged vessel in the area south of Selby's Landing at Patuxent River Park. 
We made contact with the vessel occupants. The operator and all on board stated they were okay and without injuries. They stated that there was no real damage to the vessel but that it was swamped and run aground. The operator stated they were going to work on towing the vessel back to shore. At this time, officers did not intervene as it was a private matter.
At approximately 8:45 pm, while returning from patrol to the boat dock at Selby's Landing, the vessel was still being removed by a recreational boat. A fire truck and ambulance, called by an anonymous individual were on scene. Operator 1 stated the vessel that was owned by Owner 1 and was a 2004 Malibu Boats Inc Response LXI with Maryland registration MD 1940 BT.  Operator 1, again, stated all individuals that were on the vessel were back to shore and did not have injuries. She said that she was trying to secure the boat for the night as she was unable to return it to land. The vessel was aground and out of navigational waters. The vessel was fully submerged up to the console. Operator 1 said she would be contacting a tow company to remove the vessel in morning.

     When asked how the vessel became submerged and ran aground, Operator 1 stated that she was operating the vessel with six occupants and one individual being towed in a tube. While heading Northward, she stated that when the river widened out, she did a u-turn and proceeded to tow the tube in a southward direction. When she hit the wake from her vessel, going in the opposite direction, the water rushed over the bow of the vessel, and fully swamped the vessel. She stated the vessel was sinking fast and she was unable to return to the dock. The vessel ran aground in shallow water and became fully submerged.
     At this time, I contacted the owner of the vessel. He stated that he had vessel and tow insurance through Progressive insurance. Owner stated that with his knowledge of vessels, that the motor and all electronics were ruined. He was unable to give an estimate during the phone call. He stated that he would be having an insurance adjuster come out to assess the damages and would contact me with a damage estimate.
     On 08/06/2020 at 11:30 am, I contacted the boat owner in regard to the Insurance Adjusters assessment. The owner stated that Progressive Insurance determined the vessel was a total loss. The vessel was determined to have a value of $ 14,000 dollars.
     At this time, no charges will be filed.
     The investigation has been closed.
     All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0079
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:14:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River/Ragged & Piney P
NearestCityorTown: Saint George Island
County: St Marys
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call for service at approximately 1:13pm from Maryland Natural Resources Police Dispatch of a vessel taking on water in the Potomac River. The vessel was reported to be a Grady White center console about 20 feet long, about a mile and a half from an unknown marina and sinking with one person on board.
We were underway on NRP111 from Point Lookout State Park at approximately 1:18pm to begin a search for the vessel. Saint Mary's County Fire and Rescue squads were also under way to assist with locating the vessel in distress. A request was also sent for the Maryland State Police (MSP) Helicopter to help with locating the vessel since its location was still unknown and a large area needed to be searched. At approximately 1:36pm MSP helicopter indicated it had located the vessel and rescue units began to make their way towards the circling Helicopter. The location was on the Potomac River, South of Saint Georges Island and between Saint Mary's River and Smith Creek entrances.
We arrived on scene at 1:44pm with the partially sunken vessel and two fire/rescue boats who already had the operator safely aboard their vessel. With the vessel sinking quickly from the stern, we realized that letting the boat sink entirely was not a desirable outcome and decided to tow it. The boat operator stated he launched from Point Lookout State Park and would not hold us liable for any possible damage incurred by the towing/retrieval. We arrived back at Point Lookout State Park with the boat in tow at 2:54pm and the boat was placed on its trailer and retrieved.
Observation of the boat after it was on the trailer revealed the transom had been cracked on both sides of the engine mounting brackets, causing water to leak in and sink the boat. When interviewing the boat operator, Operator 1, he stated he was at trolling speed when the engine cut out. When he looked back at it, the engine was already partially underwater and the stern of the boat already under a lot of water. He began to use the bilge pump which was unable to keep up, and then called for help over VHF. Operator 1 stated he had purchased the boat the previous day, a 1978 20' Grady White center console. I placed a follow up phone call to Operator 1 on August 3, 2020 inquiring about damage estimates. His response indicated repairs would cost approximately $8,000.00 for transom repairs, electronics and wiring replacement, and overhaul of the outboard engine.
This case is closed.
All events occurred in Saint Mary's County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2020-0080
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: 400 32nd Street, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/06/2020, I was on routine patrol on NRP vessel 154. Around 8:00 pm we received a call from dispatch for a Personal Watercraft (PWC) accident in the area of 32nd street and the Bay.

Upon arrival to the rental company, “The rental company the pwc belonged to,” we were met by the guide and the receptionist. Both were able to advise us on the ski that was involved and who the operator was at the time of the accident. Operator 1, was the operator of a green and black pwc bearing Maryland registration 4448 LB. The pwc had visible damage on the starboard side of the ski with multiple cracks and a hole just above the waterline.  Speaking with Operator 1, he stated that was not paying attention, was going too fast, and could not stop when he had hit a dock. He rolled off the ski at the time of impact and was not injured. This was his first time renting and operating a pwc and could not stop it.

Speaking with the receptionist, she stated that from the beginning Operator 1 seemed off and was not giving his full attention for the written test. He had trouble with the written test but did pass and signed all waivers. While watching from the porch area of the office she could see Operator 1 ski riding too close to the houses and was above 6 knots within 100 ft of the docks. She did not see the accident but saw the damage when the ski was brought back to the dock.
Speaking with the pwc guide for the group, he stated that he did not see the actual impact or accident happen, but he did see Operator 1 riding too close to other skis and riding outside the riding area. He also stated that Operator 1 did not pay attention during his safety brief and that he was joking around and dancing the whole time to the point he had to be warned multiple time to pay attention. The guide was in the process of terminating Operator 1’s trip for not following the instructions to stay inside the riding area and being within 100ft of other vessels and the shore. When he was bringing the skis back to the dock, it was the first time he noticed all the damage to the ski and was advised of any accident at all. Once the vessels were docked OCPD and NRP were contacted.

Upon gathering all statements and speaking to all the subjects involved, Operator 1 admitted to being at fault for the accident. He received a citation for operating a pwc more than 6 knots within 100' of a structure in the water and a citation for failure to obey navigation rules of the road (#8- Failure to take action to avoid a collision.) Inexperience, speed, and inattentiveness were all big factors in this.

All events occurred in Worcester County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2020-0081
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawoman Bay, Ocean City
NearestCityorTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 18th at approximately 1200 hours Maryland Natural Resources Police was on boat patrol in the vicinity of the Route 90 Bridge Isle of Wight Bay Ocean City when he observed a vessel with heavy smoke pouring out of the engine compartment. Officer 1 activated his emergency light and siren and navigated to the vessel in distress. Officer 1 observed 05 persons on board three adults and two children. Officer 1 ordered the owner of the Vessel to have everyone disembark his boat immediately and to get on board the police vessel NRP 832. Operator 1 agreed and 04 members boarded. Operator 1 advised he would like to set the anchor before leaving his vessel to which Officer 1 agreed. The vessel's anchor was set and all five persons were on board NRP 832. The smoke on the vessel in distress appeared to be decreasing. Operator 1 stated that he did have a fire extinguishing suppression system inside his engine compartment. Ocean City Fire department arrived on scene. Stated there was a fire but its out now. All members refused medical treatment. Tow Boat US was called by Operator 1 to have the vessel towed back to there place of residence at 120th street Ocean City.


BARDID: MD-2020-0082
State: MD
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2020-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chester River-Kent Narrows-Nor
NearestCityorTown: Chester
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/02/2020 at approximately 1718 hours I responded to a call regarding a boat accident at Dock Bar located at Kent Narrows, MD.  According to the dispatcher at the Communication Center, there was a physical confrontation between two subjects in relation to the accident.  I arrived on scene by water on patrol vessel 834 at approximately 1723 hours.  Another officer arrived shortly after me along with Queen Anne's County deputies and Maryland State Police. I made contact with the operator of Vessel #1, later identified as Operator 1. Another officer made contact with the operator of Vessel #2.  Both subjects were separated when I arrived on scene.  I acquired Operator 1’s driver's license and I asked him what happened. 

He told me he was moving his boat away from the dock to go directly across Kent Narrows to the marina where the boat is kept. He told me the strong current caused his boat to collide with the other vessel that was secured to the dock. 

He also told me that he did not have much experience as a boat operator and that he just recently purchased his boat.  I asked him if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages at the dock bar and he told me he had two beers. I asked him how long had he been at the bar and he told me about two hours. 

Vessel #1 had a New Jersey registration of 6199 HH and it was a 26 foot Crownline cabin motorboat. Eventually, I discovered that the boat was registered in Maryland via a 60 day temporary registration, bearing numbers 1104 BR. Operator 1 was the operator but not the owner. His girlfriend is the owner.  Vessel #2 was a 27 foot Kryptonite speedboat with twin 300 HP black Mercury outboards. I did not notice any damage initially to either vessel and there were no injuries.
     Upon further investigation there was damage to each vessel. Vessel #1 had a long scratch along the starboard side and two of the through hull fittings were missing.  Vessel #2 revealed a crack in the hull on the corner of the port stern and a few paint chips above the rub rail in the same area. (See attached photos). At this time I have not received damage estimates for either vessel.

     See supplement #1 in relation to OUI/OWI arrest.


